Myrrdin Wynn Emrys
Myrrdin Wynn Emrys (* 476 in Carmarthen, † unknown), more commonly known as Merlin or Merlin Ambrosius, is a legendary figure associated with Arthurian legend, specifically with the story of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. He is depicted as a powerful magician, advisor, and mentor to Arthur. Despite the legend surrounding him, Merlin was a real historical figure and remains one of the most famous Magi to this date.
Personality
Merlin was known to be fiercely independent, and was said to have a somewhat mercurial temperament. He was often seen as aloof or mysterious, and was known to have a deep connection to the natural world. He was said to be able to communicate with animals and plants, and was known to have a particular affinity for birds.
Apperance
The only existing descriptions of Myrrdin that exist are from his time as a teacher at Anlárdraíochta, at the age of 65 and after. His hair was already grey, he kept a well-kempt beard, had lively brown eyes and often a sly smile on his lips. Although his standing would allowed him otherwise, he preferred to dress in simple robes, usually in shades of brown. He was often described as exuding an air of power and energy.
Life
Myrrdin was born in Carmarthen, a town in the southwestern part of Wales, into the Wynn family, a family of druids who were experts in the use of magic and divination. He was given the birthname Myrrdin. He later received his druid name, Emrys, when he was initiated into the druid traditions.
From an early age, he showed a remarkable aptitude for the arcane arts, and was quickly identified as a potential prodigy. He was was mentored by some of the most renowned wizards of his time, such as his mother, Adhan Wynn, who trained him in the art of prophecy, the druid Blaise, who educated him in natural magic and divination, the enchanter Ninnius, and the sorceress Niniane, more commonly known as Lady of the Lake.
Merlin quickly gained a reputation as a prodigious student, and was known for his prodigious intellect and insatiable thirst for knowledge. He was particularly skilled in divination, and was known to have a powerful gift for prophecy. It was said that he could see the future with unparalleled clarity, and that he was able to predict the outcome of any battle or conflict with uncanny accuracy.
As he grew older, Merlin began to take on an increasingly prominent role in the political affairs of his time. He became a trusted advisor to many of the kings and princes of the era, and his counsel was said to have been instrumental in shaping the course of history.
In 541, Merlin was the driving force behind the founding of the world's first school of magic.
As time passed, Merlin began to withdraw from the public eye, and there are many legends that describe his mysterious disappearance. Some say that he was murdered by Morgan le Fay, while others suggest that he retreated to a remote corner of the world, where he lived out his days in solitude.
Whatever the truth of Merlin's fate may be, there can be no doubt that he was one of the most remarkable and influential figures of his time. His legacy lives on to this day, and he remains an inspiration to countless wizards and scholars who seek to follow in his footsteps.
Founding of Anlárdraíochta
Merlin was a fierce advocate for equal treatment when it came to magic training. Having witnessed himself how devastating untrained magic talent can be to the Magus and their surroundings, he believed everybody with magic talent should receive at least a basic training in how to control their powers. He gathered other Magi around him, convinced them of his idea and together they founded the first official school of magic in the world, named Anlárdraíochta, translating to "center of magic" in Irish. The word was also used to describe a magic nexus. The school was located in Connemara, Ireland.
Rivalry with Morgain la Fée
Morgain la Fée was Myrrdin's most famous rival. The witch was his equal in power but had very different views due to her upbringing. There are countless stories about the two clashing against each other, even fighting each other on occasion. However, both shared a deep respect for each other's talents. Myrrdin demonstrated this by recruiting Morgan as a teacher for Anlárdraíochta. He likely believed he might be able to control her to a degree when she was under his constant watch, while she figured she might go along with it and make sure the "old fool" did not "try to teach the Art to every mangy squirrel who crosses his path".
Wand
Merlin's wand took the form of a majestic wooden staff that stood taller as tall as himself. The wood was a rich brown color, with deep grooves and knots that seem to form intricate patterns along the length of the staff. It was made from oak wood with powdered horn of a dragon baked into it. The top of the staff was adorned with a polished amethyst gemstone, which glowsed with a soft purple light when Merlin cast spells. The staff was also adorned with small silver and gold charms, which jingle softly as Merlin moves it. As a master wizard, Merlin's staff was not only a symbol of his power but also a testament to his many achievements in the wizarding world.
Trivia
- Myrrdin is believed to have invented several spells, one of which being Ensis Luxor, which is believed to be the origin of the legend of Excalibur.
- Some believe Myrrdin was a Visvalker. Since Morgain is also often presumed to have been a Visvalker, this would have been the only time in history when two Visvalkers were alive at the same time, something many people believe to be impossible.
- The banquet hall of the Greannmhar School of Magick is named Merlin Hall.
- While the Knights of the Round Table are a myth, Myrrdin established a "round table" with his fellow teachers, where each had an equal say when it cames to matters concerning the school.
- Two groups are still searching for artifacts related to Myrrdin, primarily his staff. The Order of Merlin, who wish to find the staff to have it as a symbol for Myrrdin's virtues, and the Heirs of Merlin, who desire it as they believe it to be theirs by birthright.