Maps: The Subcult of Togtuvei

From: Richard_Bourke_at_intersolv.com
Date: Thu, 4 Feb 1999 18:59:39 -0500

   The recent discussion on maps seems to have missed this subcult,    which makes mapping its speciality. Back in RQ2, they taught the    mapmaking skill. This skill was presumably thought of as    anachronistic and never made it into RQ3. As compensation, the    members of the subcult received the "Seek Sun Dome" spirit magic    spell, which with some minor assumptions, can be the base for    accurate mapping, *without* assuming a very high level of    mathematical skills. What I try to do here is show the - magic    heavy, mathematics light - way that a subcult devoted to mapping    might go about making accurate maps, and how that fits into their    mythology. Since I don't have KoS, this description only applies    to followers of Yelmalio. I'm not sure if Togtuvei is worshipped    by Elmal followers.
   Assumptions:

  1. Gloranthan civilized mathematics is at the Euclidian earthly level. They know of certain basic geometrical forms and consider these forms imbued with mystical significance.
  2. An experienced Togtuvei cultist can detect elevation difference to within 10 degrees, as well as direction via his "Seek Sun Dome" spell.
  3. (cult secret) a "Sanctify" spell cast by a Togtuvei worshipping Acolyte or Priest can also act as a reference point for the "Seek Sun Dome" spell.

   Togtuvei mapping procedure.
   The vision of Togtuvei is one of order. His cartography is based on    the Law Rune (the equilateral triangle). The fundamental    correspondence of law and cartography is at the basis of the    mysticism of the subcult.
   A minimum of three Togtuvei Initiates - much larger numbers are    normal in hostile country - form the mapping party. The first step    is to measure and record a straight line in open country of 1600    meters. An initiate stands at either end of this base line and casts    a "Sanctify" spell at a prearranged time. The third initiate stands    roughly equidistant from both at the apex of an equilateral triangle.    By means of many "Seek Sun Dome" spells and a wooden instrument set    to show an exact 60 degree angle, he zeroes in on the exact apex    point, then estimates the gradient from the measuring point to the    other two points of the triangle, and notes the terrain at the    measurement point. The two new lines are of course also 1600 meters    long, and form the new base line for the next measurement. In some    types of terrain, the triangle with sides measuring 1600 meters is    subdivided into four or sixteen constituent triangles, measuring 800    and 400 meters respectively. The resultant measurements form the    basis for the accurate map. The outlines of woods, hills, canyons    etc. are then drawn onto this triangular grid with information    gathered by Vrok Hawk familiars.
   The master map that results never leaves the Sun Dome Temple. Copies    do not reveal the triangular pattern of measurement, but rather always    show the Sun Dome Temple at the map centre, with concentric circles to    allow placing of one's position through use of the "Seek Sun Dome"    spell. Naturally, these copies are intended to be most useful to    Togtuvei Initiates.    

   Scenario Hooks.

  1. If at all possible, Yelmalian Captains like to campaign in a mapped area. This allows them a much greater chance of success in such advanced military manoevres as the night march, or the advance on a broad front, with agreed common meeting point. In anticipation of a future campaign, Yelmalio Initiates have to map the route from Alone to Laca to a width of 5 kilometers. If the party is not predominately Yelmalion, they are hired for protection.
  2. A foul worshipper of Gbaji has stolen the master map of a particular region. Subcult policy is that all outsiders who come into contact with this map are to be executed. The party sees the map by accident and are thus the targets of the Togtuvei assassination squads. These assassination attempts will not be pursued to the bitter end, only one to two attempts. Such thefts have occurred in the past, and some knowledge temples keep Togtuvei maps in their restricted sections. But the assassination policy does serve to keep accurate maps restricted.

   Togtuvei Yellowfeather.
   He is an example of an accidental Hero. A Dara Happan Yelmalio    Priest in the late Dawn Age, Togtuvei was a dangerous, but not deadly    fighter who heroquested in a notably methodical manner. As a young    man he took part in the negotiations that bought Dara Happa into the    Broken Council, met and was impressed by the worldview of the Mostali    Representatives. Years later, he fumbled his role in the Sacred Time    Ceremonies, and became lost in a Wilderness in the Greater Darkness.    His gathering of heavenly support and perspective allowed him not    only to guide himself but also his God home. The rest of his life    was spent in honest cartographic endeavour.    

   Togtuvei Initiates.
   Any Yelmalio Initiate who completes the lesser Togtuvei Quest may    learn the Spirit Magic Spell of "Seek Sun Dome". These are the rank    and file cartographers of the cult.
   Togtuvei Rune-Levels.
   The Light Guide of the respective Sun Dome Temple appoints the chief    Cartographer, who officiates at all subcult events.    Togtuvei Heroes.
   Successful completion of the greater Quest of Togtuvei automatically    qualifies one for this status. For Procedures and benefits see a    later posting.

End of The Glorantha Digest V6 #424

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