Doctrine Scribe
"We do not write merely what was spoken — we write what was meant."
The Doctrine Scribe is a rare and revered profession tasked with recording, interpreting, and safeguarding the spiritual and philosophical doctrines of the Codex Exilia. They are more than mere scribes — they are custodians of meaning, translators of silence, and witnesses to the unspoken. When the Magisters Arcanii or the High Conjurants debate the shape of law or doctrine, a Doctrine Scribe listens — and writes the words that will shape Imperium and Rift alike.
Career
Qualifications
Becoming a Doctrine Scribe requires at least fifteen years of service as an apprentice scholar within the Scholae Arcanii, a flawless memory for recitation, and the ability to comprehend and interpret arcane metaphysics. A candidate must also pass the Vigil of Meaning, where they transcribe a Tribunal debate without magical aid — then defend their record against all three High Conjurants.
Career Progression
Doctrine Scribes begin as Lexscribes, tasked with copying minor statutes and witnessing public hearings. Those who prove capable ascend to Silent Witnesses, permitted into more sensitive debates and rituals. At the peak of the profession is the rank of Codex Chronicler, who inscribes additions directly into the Codex Exilia itself — a sacred trust held by only one or two living scribes at a time.
Payment & Reimbursement
Though modest in coin compared to merchants or senators, Doctrine Scribes are richly compensated in prestige, housing within the Riftwatch Quarter, and guaranteed protection by the Custodians of the Veil. Their stipend includes access to private libraries and a personal ritual chamber.
Other Benefits
Apart from financial stipend, they gain access to otherwise forbidden sections of the Codex, invitations to doctrinal hearings, and social esteem akin to minor nobility. Among the Arcanii, they are seen as almost untouchable — their role too sacred to be trifled with.
Perception
Purpose
They serve as record-keepers of the philosophical soul of the Imperium — ensuring that law, ritual, and meaning are preserved not just as words but as truth. They act as mediators between doctrine and history, memory and law.
Social Status
They are regarded with a mix of respect and unease. Their work is too important to dismiss, but their silence and proximity to power make them unnerving to the uninitiated. In the Riftwatch Quarter they are treated almost as minor clergy.
Demographics
Less than 0.01% of the population could even qualify; fewer than two dozen serve actively at any time.
Operations
Tools
- Obsidian quills engraved with Rift glyphs.
- Doctrine Ink, mixed with dust from the Tears of Tharaxis.
- Sigil-sealed tablets and Codex vellum.
- Memory rings that assist with recording.
Materials
Primarily Codex vellum, doctrine ink, Riftglass tablets, and containment seals for storing forbidden passages.
Workplace
The Scriptorium of Meaning within the Basilica Arcanii — a quiet, vaulted chamber with air heavy from ritual incense, walls lined with Codex annexes, and desks carved from Riftstone. Every surface hums faintly with containment wards, and the scent of parchment, ink, and faint Riftlight permeates the air.
Provided Services
- Recording of Tribunal and Conjurant debates.
- Interpretation of doctrinal disputes.
- Preparation of public doctrine proclamations.
- Inscription of sanctioned amendments into the Codex Exilia.
Dangers & Hazards
Listening too closely to the High Conjurants’ debates has been known to induce psychic strain. Several scribes have vanished into silence themselves, unable to speak or write again after misinterpreting a forbidden clause.
Fully legal but strictly regulated. Only Arcanii-sanctioned scribes may practice within the Riftwatch Quarter; unauthorized copying of Codex material is a serious crime.
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