Void Attendants
A void attendant conducting a complex stellar binding ritual while suspended in the void between worlds
Void attendants are specialized mortal servants who have undergone extensive magical and physical transformation to serve cosmic liches throughout their vast stellar domains. These enigmatic beings occupy a unique position in the cosmic hierarchy, acting as intermediaries between their immortal masters and the material realm while wielding considerable power derived from their proximity to void energies.
Origins and Transformation
The process of becoming a void attendant involves a complex series of rituals and transformative procedures known as the Attendant's Metamorphosis. Unlike the complete dissolution required for stellar ascension, this process preserves much of the subject's original form while fundamentally altering their relationship with space, time, and void energies. The transformation typically begins with extensive exposure to carefully controlled amounts of Voidure Black, followed by a series of binding rituals that permanently link the attendant's life force to their master's void-thread network.
During the metamorphosis, candidates must undergo severe physical and psychological changes that allow them to survive in the harsh conditions of deep space. Their bodies are gradually infused with void essence, while their minds are expanded to accommodate the vast cosmic awareness necessary for their duties. The Department of Chromatic Containment has documented numerous failed transformations, noting that only about one in a thousand candidates survives the complete process.
Abilities and Characteristics
Successful void attendants possess a range of supernatural abilities that set them apart from ordinary mortals. Their most notable power is the ability to traverse vast distances through what scholars term void-walking, a specialized form of teleportation that allows them to step through the fabric of space itself. This ability is made possible by their altered physiology and their connection to their master's void-thread network.
A void attendant channeling and redirecting stellar energy through their enhanced connection to the void
Void attendants also demonstrate remarkable control over void energies, though their powers are more limited and focused than those of their cosmic lich masters. They can manipulate thaumic flux on a local scale, create temporary void chambers, and serve as conduits for their master's more powerful abilities. Their enhanced understanding of void magic allows them to perform complex rituals and maintain the various magical constructs that constitute their master's domain.
Duties and Responsibilities
The primary function of void attendants is to serve as extensions of their master's will throughout their vast territories. They oversee the maintenance of stellar anchors, manage lesser servants such as stellar specters, and conduct important rituals that maintain the stability of their master's realm. Many void attendants also serve as diplomats, representing their masters in dealings with other cosmic entities and mortal institutions.
One of their most crucial responsibilities involves the manipulation and management of Voidure Black deposits throughout their master's domain. Their unique resistance to void energies makes them ideal handlers for this dangerous substance, and they often oversee its collection, refinement, and application in various magical processes. The Meridian Institute of Chromatic Sciences has documented numerous instances of void attendants using Voidure Black in complex astronomical rituals.
Hierarchy and Organization
Within the court of a cosmic lich, void attendants are organized into a complex hierarchy based on their abilities, experience, and specific duties. The most powerful among them hold the title of Void Archivists, responsible for maintaining their master's vast knowledge repositories and overseeing the training of new attendants. Below them are various specialized ranks, each focused on specific aspects of maintaining their master's domain.
The relationship between void attendants serving different cosmic liches is complex and often reflects the political dynamics between their masters. While open conflict between void attendants is rare, they frequently engage in subtle competition and intrigue, particularly in regions where different cosmic lich territories overlap.
Cultural Impact and Studies
The existence of void attendants has significantly influenced magical research and theory, particularly in the fields of void consciousness studies and entropy manipulation. Their unique state of being provides valuable insights into the nature of void energy and its effects on living beings. The Guild of Systematic Thaumaturgy maintains extensive records of void attendant activities and abilities, using this information to advance understanding of cosmic magical principles.
Academic interest in void attendants has led to the establishment of several specialized research programs, including the Void Servant Analysis Initiative at the Meridian Institute. These studies have contributed significantly to current understanding of void energy manipulation and its applications in various fields of magical science.
Training and Selection
The process of selecting and training potential void attendants is rigorous and highly selective. Candidates are typically chosen from among the most gifted practitioners of void magic and must demonstrate exceptional mental resilience and magical aptitude. The training period, which can last decades, includes extensive study of void theory, practical application of void magic, and gradual exposure to increasingly powerful void energies.
The International Council of Chromatic Control maintains strict oversight of void attendant training programs, as failed transformations can result in dangerous anomalies and potential breaches in reality. All legitimate training must be conducted under the direct supervision of existing void attendants and with the explicit approval of a cosmic lich.
See Also
References
- Codex of Void Servant Protocols
- Grimoire of Impossible Pigments
- Archives of the Department of Chromatic Containment
- Treatise on Void Consciousness and Transformation