Sirr al-Asrar
Title: Sirr al-Asrar (The Secret of Secrets)
Authors: A collaboration of Magi from various Houses
Language: Arabic
Type: Summa
Arts/Skills: Magic Theory, Alchemy, Parma Magica, Magical Engineering
Quality: 14
Max Level (Magic Theory): 8
Max Level (Alchemy): 8
Max Level (Parma Magica): 8
Max Level (Magical Engineering): 8
Description
"Sirr al-Asrar," or "The Secret of Secrets," is a comprehensive and modernized tome created through the collaboration of several esteemed magi from various Houses within the Order of Hermes. The book is a culmination of their collective knowledge and expertise, covering the essential aspects of Magic Theory, Alchemy, Parma Magica, and Magical Engineering. Written in Arabic, it serves as a valuable resource for magi seeking to deepen their understanding of these critical fields.
Appearance
The book is bound in elegant dark blue leather, with intricate gold embossing depicting alchemical symbols, arcane diagrams, and the Hermetic seal. The title, "Sirr al-Asrar," is prominently displayed on the cover in beautifully stylized Arabic calligraphy.
Inside, the pages are made of high-quality vellum, smooth and durable. The text is written in a clear, flowing script, with sections clearly marked and organized for easy navigation. The margins are wide, allowing ample space for annotations and notes. Throughout the book, detailed illustrations, diagrams, and tables are used to enhance the explanations and provide visual aids for complex concepts.
Content and Teaching Quality
The quality of "Sirr al-Asrar" is a testament to the expertise of its authors, who have ensured that the book is both informative and accessible:
- Magic Theory:
- Quality: 14
- Max Level: 8
- This section provides a solid foundation in Magic Theory, including the structure of spells, the nature of vis, and fundamental laboratory techniques. It is designed to help magi understand the principles underlying all magical practices.
- Alchemy:
- Quality: 14
- Max Level: 8
- Covering the basics of alchemical theory and practice, this section includes detailed instructions on the creation of potions, transmutation of materials, and the philosophical aspects of Alchemy. Practical experiments and step-by-step procedures are included to facilitate hands-on learning.
- Parma Magica:
- Quality: 14
- Max Level: 8
- This section delves into the secrets of the Parma Magica, the mystical shield that protects magi from magical attacks. It covers the history, theory, and practical application of Parma, including advanced techniques for strengthening and maintaining the shield.
- Magical Engineering:
- Quality: 14
- Max Level: 8
- Focusing on the construction and enchantment of magical devices, this section provides insights into the principles of magical engineering. It includes detailed blueprints, enchantment procedures, and case studies of famous magical constructs.
Special Warning
Mental Strain Risk:
- For the Magic Theory section, readers who attempt to comprehend the book's advanced concepts without a sufficient level of Magic Theory (minimum level 8) risk significant mental strain. For each level below the required threshold, the reader suffers 3 points of mental damage.
Legacy and Impact
"Sirr al-Asrar" is a modern marvel within the Order of Hermes. Its collaborative creation signifies the unity and shared pursuit of knowledge among magi from different Houses. This tome is considered essential for any serious magus, providing a comprehensive education in critical aspects of Hermetic magic. Copies of "Sirr al-Asrar" are highly valued and often found in the libraries of prominent covenants.
Splitting the Codex for Practicality
Given that the total thickness of the book would be approximately 32 inches (1 inch per level per subject), it would be practical to split "Sirr al-Asrar" into sixteen volumes for easier handling and study. Each volume would be about 2 inches thick, making them both portable and readable.
Volume I: Foundations of Magic Theory
- Thickness: 2 inches
- Content: Introduction to Magic Theory, basic principles, and foundational concepts.
Volume II: Advanced Magic Theory
- Thickness: 2 inches
- Content: Intermediate to advanced Magic Theory, complex spell structures, and laboratory techniques.
Volume III: Basic Alchemical Principles
- Thickness: 2 inches
- Content: Introduction to Alchemy, basic principles, and fundamental experiments.
Volume IV: Advanced Alchemical Practices
- Thickness: 2 inches
- Content: Detailed alchemical processes, transmutation techniques, and philosophical aspects.
Volume V: Introduction to Parma Magica
- Thickness: 2 inches
- Content: History and theory of Parma Magica, basic techniques, and applications.
Volume VI: Advanced Parma Magica Techniques
- Thickness: 2 inches
- Content: Strengthening and maintaining Parma, advanced defensive strategies.
Volume VII: Fundamentals of Magical Engineering
- Thickness: 2 inches
- Content: Basic principles of magical engineering, construction of simple devices.
Volume VIII: Advanced Magical Constructs
- Thickness: 2 inches
- Content: Detailed blueprints, enchantment procedures, and case studies.
Volume IX-XVI: Integrated Study and Practical Applications
- Thickness: 2 inches each
- Content: Comprehensive guides integrating all four subjects, practical exercises, interdisciplinary applications, and advanced case studies.
By dividing the book into sixteen volumes, "Sirr al-Asrar" remains accessible and user-friendly, ensuring that magi can comfortably carry and study this essential text. This structure also allows readers to focus on specific aspects of their studies, facilitating a more organized and effective learning experience.