Broom Galleons

Skyborne Wonders of Witchcraft and Ingenuity

"From a young age, I was enthralled by our world's disdain for limits and rules, a realm where no ambition is too grand. The evolution of these flying vessels, crafted from mere wood and metal, mirrors the relentless defiance of natural laws and boundaries of witchcraft itself, doesn't it? It's a saga of centuries, characterized by resilience and sheer stubbornness. Despite my own natural gifts of flight, I can't help but admire the tenacity that birthed the Broom Galleon, this symbol of progress and unyielding determination."

— From: "A Comprehensive Guide to Morvathia's Mysteries" by Salama the Dragonwitch

The Broom Galleon is one of Morvathia's most recognisable icons of innovation and craftsmanship - a creation of House Siegmund and their renowned arcane construction company, Golem Tech Ind. These vessels, approximately twice the size of an average horse carriage, are capable of lifting off and soaring through the skies, making them a truly impressive feat of magical engineering.
Initially reserved for the military, political elite, and government officials, Broom Galleons were a rare sight. However, a breakthrough in production methods at Golem Tech Ind. revolutionized its availability. Despite becoming more accessible, the Broom Galleon's capacity to carry only a few passengers still positions it as a somewhat exclusive means of travel, primarily utilized by the well-to-do and influential figures of Morvathia for inter-city journeys.
Despite their exclusivity, Broom Galleons have become an integral part of the larger cities of Morvathia. Their elegant design and the quiet hum of their magical propulsion are recognized by all, as they glide between the spires and towers of urban landscapes. Thanks to Golem Tech Ind.'s ingenuity and the artistry of House Siegmund, Broom Galleons continue to evolve, becoming more integrated into the fabric of Morvathian life, while still retaining their allure as a symbol of wealth and advancement.

History of the Broom Galleon

The history of the Broom Galleon is as much a tale of ambition and innovation as it is of the hope and dreams of many people. Named after the legendary Brumehild Siegmund, a witch of the Siegmund lineage and a pioneering figure in arcane engineering, the Broom Galleon traces its origins back to a time of fervent magical exploration. Known affectionately as "Broomie" for her relentless pursuit to create a flying vehicle, Brumehild's early prototypes laid the groundwork for what would become a defining symbol of Morvathian progress.
Despite her many attempts, Brumehild's vehicles were marred by fleeting flight times and unruly controls. Yet, her nickname endured, becoming synonymous with her flying contraptions, and by extension, the later successful model — the Broom Galleon. It was her indomitable spirit and innovative designs that inspired the engineers of House Siegmund to continue her work, eventually achieving the breakthrough that had eluded Brumehild herself.
In the year 1502 A.S., the first functioning Broom Galleon was presented to the awe-struck members of Morvathia's ruling houses, marking a monumental moment nearly two decades before the Siegmunds ascended to the council of the Thirteen as a minor house. This revolutionary creation not only secured the Siegmunds a place among the political elite but also heralded their rise as a powerhouse of innovation and influence.
Witchqueen Euridir Carathorn, the then-ruling monarch, recognized the potential of the Siegmund family's work, envisioning a future where magical technology, like the Broom Galleon, would be accessible to all in Morvathia. While some saw the works of the Siegmunds as a mere tool for power and prestige, the Witchqueen foresaw its capacity to democratize magic, ushering in a new era of prosperity and connection among the realms.
Despite its auspicious beginnings, the Broom Galleon remains a luxury beyond the reach of the common folk even 150 years later. Yet, the legacy of Brumehild's dream and Witchqueen Carathorn's vision did not wane completely.
Today, the sophisticated magic that once lifted the first Broom Galleons into the air is being adapted and expanded upon. House Siegmund, in collaboration with the Varlori of Cauldron City, is at the forefront of developing new airships. These vessels are envisioned as the future of mass transportation, finally fulfilling the long-cherished dream of uniting the realms through accessible arcane travel. In this way, the Broom Galleon is a part of a long legacy, promising to bring the skies within everyone's reach.

Architecture of a Witch's Ship

An average Broom Galleon is approximately 8 meters in length, 4 meters wide, and 4 meters high, these vessels boast ample space for 5-6 passengers, allowing for comfortable travel through the air. Crafted primarily from wickroot, a highly priced material known for its affinity with magical energies, the Galleon's frame is both lightweight and incredibly durable.
The design of a Broom Galleon is reminiscent of a small, seafaring boat with a curved bow and a fishtail-like stern, yet its function is wholly aerial. The majority of the deck is dedicated to the passenger cabin, surrounded by glass panels on each side, allowing travelers to gaze upon the world below. Inside, the cabin is lined with luxurious woods and fabrics, their colors and patterns shifting with the time of day. Storage spaces are seamlessly integrated into the cabin's layout, and many galleons feature additional amenities like tables or bars, reflecting the personal tastes of their owners.
Each Broom Galleon is as unique as its owner, reflecting individual preferences in its aesthetic and design. While some opt for a classic, understated elegance, others choose to make bolder statements with their galleons, incorporating vivid colors and ornate decorations. However, regardless of their outward appearance, all Broom Galleons share an inherent majesty and sense of wonder, embodying the spirit of Morvathian craftsmanship and the potential of magical travel.

The Mind and Mechanism

At the very heart of a Broom Galleon's operation is its helm, distinguished by the so-called "golem brain," a small, orb nestled at the forefront in a specialized pedestal. This arcane device is not just the control center of the vessel but its soul, facilitating a unique and intimate connection between the pilot and the galleon. Pilots engage with the golem brain through focused intent, guiding the vessel's movements as if the galleon were an extension of their own body. This symbiosis of mind, magic, and material is a hallmark of Siegmund's design, allowing for fluid and precise navigation through the skies.
Propulsion of the Broom Galleon is achieved through a combination of House Siegmund's specialty in animating inorganic material and powerful levitation spells, particularly utilizing the unique properties of expensive wickroot wood. This method is reminiscent of ancient golem crafting, where an inanimate object is infused with life and purpose through magic. The Broom Galleon, much like a golem, becomes a moving, "living" entity under the command of its pilot, with the golem brain acting as the focal point of its animated consciousness. Disconnected from it's host, a golem brain will continue to follow the last given command to a fault.
Typically, this consciousness is rudimentary, akin to an animal's instincts, devoid of desires or personal needs. It's crafted specifically for navigation and operation of the Broom Galleon, adhering to the pilot's commands while maintaining the vessel's complex functions. However, the magical nature of this animation means that the golem brain is subject to deterioration. The minds of these constructs age rapidly, requiring the golem brain to be replaced every few months to ensure the Broom Galleon remains operational and safe for travel.

Creation Date
1502 A.S.
Manufacturer
Golem Tech Ind.
Owning Organization
The Thirteen, The Court of the Chalice, The Morvathian Coven
Passenger Capacity
5-6 people
Dimensions
On average 8 meters in length, 4 meters in width, and 4 meters in height
Price
100 to 200 Batzen in Vesperan Coinage