The Catacombs

A dank, dark space built of stone and bone. It leaves the soul feeling overwhelmed and stricken with fear. Those who enter must persevere against all things dead.

The catacombs have been around for centuries, connected to the School of Nightshade and Supreme Witch Elaera Nightwood. Those brave enough to enter the catacombs have seen darkness at its core, unafraid to see what new horrors await them. Without the guidance of the Supreme Witch, the catacombs are dangerous and forbidden to be accessed by those still in training.
Witches and warlocks in their third year of training at the School of Nightshade can participate in the "coming of age" ceremony to become full witches and warlocks, but they must be approved by the Supreme Witch to attend. This ceremony is held once a year on October 31st at the witching hour when magick is at its strongest.

Purpose / Function

For as long as anyone can remember, the catacombs have been a source of magickal energy that allows a young witch or warlock to reach their full potential and access their strongest magickal spells hidden deep within them. In order for them to undergo this change, they must first pass a test that exposes their kindness, adaptability, cunning, and dexterity. Without the proper authority, the witch or warlock cannot perform the test, which can only be performed by the Supreme Witch.

Architecture

The catacombs are designed like any other catacombs around the world -- stone, bones, and dirt with graves hidden throughout. In the case of these catacombs, the catacombs are filled with the undead that can be found on all the dangerous paths.

Defenses

There are many pathways within the catacombs, both dangerous and safe for those to travel in. The safe paths are left unmarked unless the proper spell is cast by the Supreme Witch. This is to prevent any trespassers from not only graverobbing but also to keep them from accessing the all-powerful magick from within.
All the dangerous paths are completely unmarked and filled with the undead, such as zombies and skeletons. These beings can be located anywhere in the catacombs. One of the most dangerous spots to run into the undead is hidden within the graves, ready to pop out and strike at the unsuspecting person.

Type

Catacomb

Owner

Elaera Nightwood

Ruling/Owning Rank

Supreme Witch / Warlock

Owning Organization

School of Nightshade

Related Tradition (Primary)

• Magi Coming of Age