Laboratorium

The Laboratorium sprawls across a vast expanse within Tatharia Capitolina, its grounds exceeding even the fabled Antediluvian Palace in both size and ambition. More than a single structure, it is a compound of countless wings, halls, and towers—each dedicated to the relentless pursuit of knowledge in all its forms. The complex serves as both a public institution and a closely guarded fortress of research, embodying the dual nature of Tatharia’s quest for progress.
At the forefront stands the Librarium, a grand public archive where the common citizen and learned scholar alike may wander among endless shelves of manuscripts, tomes, and scrolls. Here, history and theory are accessible to all, bridging the gap between the Empire’s intellectual elite and its people. Scholars of all disciplines—from alchemists and engineers to rune crafters and natural philosophers—gather under the Librarium's soaring arches, debating theories and unraveling the mysteries of their respective fields.
Beyond the public halls lie the more exclusive chambers, classrooms where the finest minds in the Empire receive advanced education in both arcane and empirical studies. These spaces are reserved for higher learning, where students and seasoned researchers alike gather to refine their craft, passing down the hard-won knowledge of previous generations while exploring new frontiers of understanding. The instruction is rigorous, for the Laboratorium demands not only intellectual excellence but also a respect for the weight of the discoveries that unfold within its walls.
Beneath the surface, however, lies the true heart of the Laboratorium: a network of highly secure subterranean laboratories. These hidden spaces are accessible only to the most trusted researchers, and their very existence is whispered about in the streets of the capital. Here, guarded behind layers of enchantments and mechanical locks, the most dangerous and powerful experiments take place, shielded from the world above. These underground chambers hold the Empire’s most guarded secrets, from volatile arcane artifacts to cutting-edge technologies that could reshape the world if mishandled.
As a whole, the Laboratorium is an intellectual city within a city, home to minds from every walk of life. Its expansive grounds, unmatched in scale, serve as a living testament to Icaghor’s vision of knowledge as the greatest power in the Empire’s arsenal. It is a place where the curious, the cautious, and the bold converge—where the pursuit of wisdom is guided as much by the promise of discovery as by the understanding that some knowledge is too dangerous to be left unchecked.

Purpose / Function

The Laboratorium exists as a cornerstone of Tatharia’s intellectual, magical, and technological advancement. Its primary function is to foster the growth of knowledge across a range of disciplines, providing a sanctuary for scholars, inventors, and those driven by curiosity. The sprawling complex houses libraries teeming with ancient texts, workshops equipped with cutting-edge tools, and chambers where magical energies pulse through the very walls. It is a place of mentorship and innovation, where the Empire’s brightest minds can exchange ideas, challenge conventions, and push the boundaries of understanding. The Laboratorium also serves as a vault of state secrets, where the most sensitive discoveries—both intellectual and arcane—are safeguarded for the Empire’s strategic benefit.
Ethical discourse plays a significant role in the Laboratorium’s culture. Scholars and inventors are encouraged not just to create but to reflect on the consequences of their work, ensuring that the pursuit of knowledge remains tempered by wisdom. As a hub for innovation, the Laboratorium’s influence extends far beyond its walls, impacting the lives of Tatharia’s citizens through the development of new technologies, advancements in healing, and the careful study of arcane forces.

Original Purpose

At the core of the Laboratorium complex lies the Librarium, an ancient institution that predates the larger structure. Established in the aftermath of the Extinguishment of the Stars of Power, the Librarium was humanity’s first public repository of written knowledge and a place of learning in an age where such pursuits had been nearly extinguished. Originally, it served as a sanctuary for the preservation and dissemination of knowledge, safeguarding texts and teachings that had survived the magical decline. In those early days, the Librarium was a bastion against ignorance, a beacon of intellectual light in a darkened world, dedicated to keeping the art of learning alive in a fragile and uncertain Time.

Conflation of Terms

Over the centuries, as the Laboratorium expanded around the original Librarium, the two became deeply intertwined. The Laboratorium’s rapid growth enveloped the smaller Librarium, incorporating its function as part of a larger, multifaceted institution. Among the citizenry, the distinction between the two has gradually faded, and the terms have become nearly synonymous in common usage. Though the Librarium remains a distinct entity within the compound, preserving its original role as a place of public learning, its purpose has been absorbed into the broader scope of the Laboratorium’s objectives. Today, the citizenry speaks of the Laboratorium as both a symbol of learning and a center of innovation, blurring the lines between the ancient sanctuary of knowledge and the modern fortress of discovery.

Alterations

The Laboratorium has been reshaped over the centuries, with each alteration serving distinct functional and symbolic purposes. These transformations mirror the evolving intellectual, magical, and political landscape of Tatharia Capitolina, reflecting the Empire’s ever-growing ambitions.
In its earliest days, the Librarium, around which the Laboratorium later expanded, was a repository for ancient texts and arcane artifacts, with architecture focused on secure vaults and chambers meant to protect knowledge from the ravages of Time and conflict. As Tatharia’s intellectual culture flourished, the institution required more than mere storage; it became a gathering place for scholars, inventors, and mages. This shift necessitated the construction of new wings, including workshops, lecture halls, and laboratories, designed to accommodate the broader pursuits of both science and Magic.
The expansion of the Laboratorium under Icaghor introduced facilities for alchemical and astronomical studies, marking a significant shift from simply hoarding knowledge to actively spreading it. One of the most notable additions during this period was the observatories, particularly those developed by Purandor Tor, Master of Celestial Lore. These observatories not only advanced scientific discovery but also provided a space for the study and experimentation of arcane forces, reflecting the dual purpose of the Laboratorium as a center for both empirical and magical inquiry.
The most dramatic alterations in recent times followed the invention of the Arcane Cannons by Daren Tor, a breakthrough that led to the creation of specialized chambers within the Laboratorium. These chambers, fortified with Aetherite-infused walls, are capable of withstanding the immense energy released by the cannons during experiments. These additions underscore the institution’s growing involvement in Tatharia’s national defense, blending arcane study with military innovation.
Under the reign of Empress Naram-Sin, the compound has seen further fortification. Highly secure subterranean laboratories have been constructed, intended for discreet, state-funded research, often focused on arcane military applications. The increased security reflects both the sensitivity of the knowledge housed within the Laboratorium and its critical role in the Empire's defense strategy.
These alterations serve as a testament to the Laboratorium’s adaptive nature. From its origins as a vault for ancient wisdom to its current incarnation as a hub for cutting-edge research and defense, the complex remains at the heart of Tatharia’s intellectual and technological advancement, evolving alongside the needs and aspirations of the Empire.

Architecture

The architecture of the Laboratorium is a striking blend of ancient craftsmanship and modern innovation, where natural materials and arcane enhancements come together to create a compound that is both functional and awe-inspiring. The majority of the above-ground structures are constructed from sturdy stone and wood, reflecting the traditional Tatharian building techniques. Towering facades, accented with elegant wooden beams, give the compound a timeless, almost monastic feel, yet there is a grandeur in the scale of the buildings. The exteriors are built to last, and their weathered surfaces tell the story of centuries of relentless pursuit of knowledge.
One of the most remarkable features of the compound’s architecture is the extensive use of Glimmerstone—a rare mineral mined from deep within the Onyx Mountains—in the outer walls and key defensive structures. This stone, with its natural reflective and refractive properties, gleams in the sunlight, casting shimmering patterns across the courtyards and halls. Its aesthetic beauty, however, hides a more profound function: when imbued with Magic, Glimmerstone has the ability to reflect or absorb magical energy. This makes it particularly effective against magical assaults, serving as a critical defense against those who might seek to breach the compound using sorcery. The outer walls of the Laboratorium are a glittering yet formidable barrier, shimmering with latent arcane energy when activated, making it difficult for enemies to penetrate.
Beneath the surface, the subterranean facilities tell a different architectural story. These underground chambers are where the most sensitive research is conducted, and they are constructed from materials that are as enigmatic as the experiments they contain. Adamantine, known for its near-indestructibility, reinforces the walls of the Hall of Artifacts, a vault designed to protect some of the most invaluable relics and arcane objects in the Empire. These walls not only serve as a protective measure but also symbolize the impenetrable nature of the Laboratorium’s secrets.
Further underground, Infernal Iron lines the corridors of the Alchemic Wing, where potion-makers and elementalists push the boundaries of their craft. This dark, otherworldly metal, drawn from the Abyss, is impervious to magical corrosion and Elemental degradation, making it an ideal material for the volatile studies conducted there. The oppressive weight of Infernal Iron lends these chambers an eerie, forbidding quality, as though the very walls absorb the dangerous energies they house.
Among the most recent and impressive additions to the complex is the Astral Observatory, a masterpiece of both engineering and arcane design. This towering structure, envisioned by Purandor Tor, is constructed almost entirely from Mithral, a rare metal prized for its lightweight yet resilient nature. Mithral’s unique resonance with Celestial energies makes it the perfect medium for the study of the stars and the heavens beyond. In the observatory, great lenses and intricate mechanisms crafted from this gleaming Silver metal allow scholars to peer into realms far beyond the material world, where cosmic forces interact with the arcane.
Each layer of the Laboratorium, from its wood-and-stone courtyards to the adamantine-reinforced vaults far below, reflects a blend of old-world mastery and cutting-edge arcane craftsmanship. Every material choice, from the reflective Glimmerstone to the nearly indestructible Adamantine, serves both a functional and symbolic purpose. These architectural wonders embody the Empire’s determination to guard its most valuable resources—whether knowledge, artifacts, or innovations—against the ravages of Time, theft, or war.
This living monument of intellect and craft is a testament to Tatharia’s dual commitment to exploration and protection, balancing openness to the unknown with a resolve to safeguard the fruits of its discovery.

Defenses

The Laboratorium is a fortress as much as it is a center for knowledge, its defenses a layered testament to the profound secrets housed within its walls. Both physical and magical safeguards converge to form a nearly impenetrable barrier, ensuring that the compound remains secure from outside threats.

• Guardian Patrols

  Lady Protector Darice Tor commands an elite cadre of guards, handpicked for their loyalty, skill, and expertise. These sentinels are equipped with enchanted armor and weapons, enhancing their ability to detect and neutralize threats. They patrol the vast corridors and arcane chambers with a diligence that leaves no room for error, constantly on alert for any sign of intrusion.



• Constructs of the Hall of Artifacts

  Within the Hall of Artifacts, mechanical constructs designed by Daren Tor stand watch. These constructs, precise and powerful, are programmed to detect any unauthorized presence and act swiftly to neutralize potential threats. Silent and vigilant, they provide an additional layer of security for the most valuable relics and arcane objects stored within.



• Arcane Cannons

  Along the perimeter of the Laboratorium, the imposing Arcane Cannons serve as both a deterrent and a source of speculation. These weapons, a marvel of both arcane and mechanical engineering, are capable of unleashing powerful bursts of magical energy. Though never fired, their mere presence suggests a devastating potential, their secrets known only to a select few.



• Alarms and Wards

  Invisible but ever-present, a network of magical alarms and wards permeates the compound, woven into its very structure. These ethereal defenses remain dormant until triggered by unauthorized magical activity or physical breach. Should an intruder attempt to bypass the physical defenses, these spells provide the final line of defense, alerting the guardians to any threat.

Together, these defenses make the Laboratorium a stronghold unlike any other. It is not merely a sanctuary for scholars and inventors, but a fortified vault of knowledge that the Empire of Tatharia will protect at any cost.

History

The Laboratorium complex in Tatharia Capitolina stands as a venerable institution, its storied existence intricately woven into the very fabric of the Tatharian Empire. Its origins are deeply rooted in an older structure known as the Librarium, which holds the distinction of being humanity's first publicly accessible place of learning and repository of written knowledge since the Extinguishment of the Stars of Power. This pivotal era marked a precarious Time when the arcane arts and intellectual pursuits teetered on the brink of extinction, threatened by the pervasive decline in magical and scholarly endeavors. It was within this context of desperation and hope that the Librarium was established, serving as a sanctuary dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of knowledge amidst a world striving to recover from its tumultuous past.

Founding and Early Development

The Librarium was conceived as a bastion against the erosion of intellectual and magical heritage. In an age where arcane practices were being systematically suppressed and scholarly activities were dwindling, the Librarium emerged as a beacon of enlightenment. It was meticulously designed to safeguard ancient texts, arcane artifacts, and the accumulated wisdom of generations. The initial architectural focus emphasized security and preservation, featuring robust vaults and well-guarded chambers to protect invaluable resources from potential threats and the ravages of time.
As Tatharian society gradually stabilized and began to rekindle its intellectual and magical pursuits, the need for a more expansive institution became apparent. This necessity catalyzed the transformation of the Librarium into the Laboratorium, a comprehensive complex dedicated not only to the preservation of knowledge but also to its active advancement. The Laboratorium expanded around the Librarium, encompassing a broader spectrum of intellectual, magical, and technological endeavors. This significant growth led to the conflation of the terms "Laboratorium" and "Librarium" within the public Consciousness, rendering them virtually synonymous among the citizenry.

Expansion and Diversification

The evolution of the Laboratorium was marked by a series of deliberate expansions and structural augmentations, each serving distinct functional and symbolic purposes. In its nascent stages as a comprehensive institution, the Laboratorium retained its role as a repository for ancient texts and arcane artifacts. The architecture was characterized by secure vaults and fortified chambers, ensuring that the most precious knowledge remained protected. However, as the Empire's intellectual and magical landscape evolved, so too did the Laboratorium, necessitating the construction of additional wings dedicated to various disciplines.
Under the visionary leadership of Icaghor, a legendary figure who transitioned from an adventurous explorer to a sagacious monarch, the Laboratorium underwent significant enhancements. Icaghor recognized the imperative of fostering a structured environment for healing and knowledge, leading to the establishment of the first formal order of healers within the Laboratorium. His patronage extended beyond mere support; Icaghor infused the institution with his own wealth and strategic foresight, laying the groundwork for what would become a cornerstone of the Empire’s intellectual and magical prowess.
As the Laboratorium expanded, it embraced a multitude of disciplines. The construction of new workshops, laboratories, and lecture halls facilitated the burgeoning activities of scholars and inventors. This period also saw the inclusion of alchemical and astronomical studies, broadening the scope of research and innovation. Purandor Tor, the esteemed Master of Celestial Lore, spearheaded the development of state-of-the-art observatories within the complex. These observatories not only advanced scientific understanding but also provided dedicated spaces for arcane experimentation, embodying the dual pursuit of empirical and magical knowledge.

Architectural Evolution and Symbolism

The architectural evolution of the Laboratorium reflects the Empire’s enduring commitment to intellectual and magical advancement. The compound is predominantly constructed from stone and wood, materials chosen for their durability and traditional significance in Tatharian construction. The use of Glimmerstone, a rare mineral with natural reflective and refractive properties mined from the deep recesses of the Onyx Mountains, adorns the building facades. This stone is employed extensively in the outer walls and key defensive structures, imbuing the complex with both aesthetic grandeur and functional resilience. When enchanted, Glimmerstone can reflect or absorb specific types of magical energy, rendering the Laboratorium highly resistant to magical assaults and ensuring its impregnable nature against arcane invasions.
Beneath the surface, the subterranean facilities present a stark contrast, characterized by a more mysterious and arcane composition. These underground chambers incorporate materials such as Adamantine, Infernal Iron, and Glimmerstone in novel forms. The Hall of Artifacts is fortified with adamantine walls, providing near-indestructible protection for the Empire’s most priceless relics and arcane objects. The Alchemic Wing, dedicated to the study of potion-making and Elemental manipulation, is constructed from infernal iron sourced from the Abyss, granting it resistance to magical corrosion and elemental degradation. These materials not only serve practical defensive purposes but also symbolize the complex’s role as a guardian of both knowledge and innovation.
The Astral Observatory, one of the most recent and illustrious additions, exemplifies the harmonious blend of engineering and arcane craftsmanship. Crafted from Mithral, a rare and precious metal revered for its lightweight yet resilient properties, the observatory resonates with celestial energies essential for the study of the heavens. Designed by Purandor Tor, the Astral Observatory features intricate lenses and mechanisms that facilitate the exploration of cosmic phenomena, further cementing the Laboratorium’s reputation as a hub of advanced research and discovery.

Technological and Arcane Defenses

The Laboratorium’s defenses are a sophisticated amalgamation of ancient craftsmanship and cutting-edge innovation, designed to protect the vast troves of knowledge and the Empire’s strategic assets. Lady Protector Darice Tor oversees a cadre of elite guards renowned for their loyalty and prowess. These guards, equipped with enchanted armor and weapons, patrol the complex with unwavering vigilance, ensuring that no threat goes undetected.
Within the Hall of Artifacts, mechanical constructs conceived by Daren Tor serve as formidable sentinels. These constructs are engineered with intricate designs and potent magical enhancements, programmed to identify and neutralize unauthorized intrusions with ruthless efficiency. Their silent presence is both a deterrent and a safeguard, preserving the sanctity of the most valuable relics housed within.
Encircling the perimeter of the Laboratorium are the enigmatic Arcane Cannons, marvels of both arcane and mechanical engineering. These formidable weapons are capable of unleashing devastating bursts of magical energy, though they remain untested in combat. Their mere presence is a powerful deterrent, shrouded in mystery and subject to myriad rumors among the citizenry. The true capabilities of the Arcane Cannons are known only to a select few, adding an additional layer of secrecy and protection to the complex.
Invisible yet omnipresent, a network of magical alarms and wards permeates the Laboratorium’s structure. These ethereal defenses are seamlessly integrated into the very fabric of the compound, activating in response to unauthorized magical activity or physical breaches. They serve as the final line of defense, ensuring that any attempt to infiltrate the Laboratorium is swiftly detected and countered.

Modern Alterations and Current Role

The Laboratorium has continuously adapted to meet the evolving needs of the Tatharian Empire. The most recent alterations, undertaken under the reign of Empress Naram-Sin, have significantly enhanced the complex’s defensive and research capabilities. Empress Naram-Sin commissioned the construction of highly secure subterranean laboratories, intended for discreet, state-funded research initiatives. These underground facilities are meticulously fortified, providing a secluded environment for sensitive projects that require utmost secrecy and protection.
These modern renovations not only serve functional purposes but also symbolize a new era of Tatharian ingenuity and resilience. The integration of advanced technologies with arcane craftsmanship underscores the Laboratorium’s pivotal role in national defense and technological innovation. The Astral Observatory, the Alchemic Wing, and the Hall of Artifacts collectively represent the Empire’s commitment to balancing the pursuit of knowledge with the imperative of safeguarding its most treasured assets.

Legacy and Enduring Significance

From its humble beginnings as the Librarium to its current incarnation as the Laboratorium, the complex has evolved into a multifaceted institution that embodies the intellectual and magical spirit of the Tatharian Empire. It serves as a hub for mentorship, ethical discourse, and innovation, fostering an environment where scholars, inventors, and mages can collaborate and push the boundaries of understanding. The Laboratorium’s expansive compound, larger than the renowned Antediluvian Palace Grounds, is home to the public Librarium, advanced research laboratories, and specialized facilities that cater to a diverse array of disciplines.
The Laboratorium’s enduring legacy is a testament to the Empire’s dedication to the advancement of knowledge and the preservation of its cultural heritage. It stands as a living monument to the vision of its founders and the successive generations that have built upon their foundations. As both a sanctuary of learning and a fortified stronghold, the Laboratorium remains at the heart of Tatharia’s intellectual and magical endeavors, ensuring that the Empire continues to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Tourism

"As I wandered through the labyrinthine corridors of the Laboratorium, my senses tingled with the intoxicating aroma of ancient tomes and the electric hum of arcane energies. Ah, what secrets might lie within these hallowed halls, I wondered. But alas, my cosmic curiosity was met with the cold steel of Tatharian bureaucracy. 'Citizens only,' they said, barring me from certain chambers as if knowledge had a nationality. It made me ponder—could the mysteries concealed within these walls be as captivating as the enigmatic beauty that lies beneath the Lady of Pain's mask? Ah, Rolara, you tease me so." — a traveler

Tourism in the Laboratorium is a unique phenomenon, given the institution's dual role as a sanctuary of knowledge and a repository of state secrets. While the Laboratorium is primarily an academic and research institution, it also attracts a specific subset of tourists who are keen on intellectual and magical pursuits.

Demographics of Tourists

The tourists who visit the Laboratorium are often scholars, arcane enthusiasts, and intellectual adventurers. They come from various parts of Tatharia Capitolina and even from distant lands, drawn by the institution's reputation as a hub of innovation and wisdom.

Points of Interest

1. Libraries and Archives: Many tourists are eager to visit the extensive libraries, hoping to glimpse ancient texts and rare manuscripts.


2. Workshops and Laboratories: Inventors and researchers are particularly interested in the state-of-the-art workshops that are open for guided tours.


3. Celestial Observatory: The observatory, home to the famed "Celestial Lens," is a must-visit for those interested in astronomy and Celestial Magic.


4. Historical Exhibits: The Laboratorium also houses several exhibits that showcase its rich history, including artifacts and portraits of renowned scholars like Purandor Tor and Aberran.

Accommodations

Given the sensitive nature of some of the research conducted in the Laboratorium, tourists are generally not allowed to stay within the complex. However, there are several inns and guest houses in close proximity, some of which offer special packages for Laboratorium visitors. These accommodations often have scholarly themes, providing an intellectually stimulating environment for their guests.

Restrictions and Guidelines

1. Security Measures: All tourists are subject to a thorough background check before being granted access to specific areas within the Laboratorium.


2. Guided Tours: To maintain the integrity and confidentiality of ongoing research, tourists are usually only allowed on guided tours.


3. Limited Access: Areas that house state secrets or sensitive research are off-limits to tourists.

Tourism in the Laboratorium is not conventional but caters to a niche audience of intellectuals and arcane enthusiasts. It offers a unique blend of academic enrichment and cultural experience, making it a fascinating, albeit restricted, tourist destination.

Table of Contents

Founding Date

1320

Alternative Names

Thalorium's Den

Type

University / Educational complex

Parent Location

Scholar's Way

Included Locations

• Librarium

Related Professions

• Artificer

Owning Organization

Tatharian Empire

Characters in Location

• Professor Voss