Research Institute of Magic and National Tradition of the Zem

The Empire has set aside an entire astral archipelago for the Arisen. It was here that the secret of astral energetics – the mana – was first uncovered, sparking the construction of the Empire’s inaugural astral ship. At the heart of the archipelago stands the ancient Tep Pyramid, a relic that still safeguards countless Sparks — remnants of the Zem race that perished millennia ago. However, gaining entry into RI MANATAZEM is no trivial matter; only those in possession of a special pass may cross its threshold.

Departments of RI MANATAZEM

1. Department of Dreadful Portents (DP)

Tasked with identifying and analyzing supernatural omens, DP is a department that considers itself vital to the Empire’s safety—but few others share that opinion. Despite their meticulous research into astral disturbances, prophetic visions, and eerie coincidences, the rest of RI MANATAZEM often dismisses their work as little more than superstition wrapped in academic pretense. The scholars of DP are acutely aware of this disrespect.

Frustrated by the lack of recognition, the department is fiercely defensive of its findings and takes every opportunity to prove its worth. Whenever a disaster aligns with one of their past warnings — no matter how vaguely worded — they are quick to remind everyone that they told you so. While most departments mock their "overactive imagination," there are those who whisper that DP has been right far too often to be ignored. Whether their research is genuine foresight or desperate validation remains a subject of much debate.

2. Department of Astral Discoveries (AD)

Tasked with transforming arcane theory into tangible progress, the Department of Astral Discoveries pioneers the practical applications of the mana. It was in these laboratories that the Empire’s first astral ship began to take shape. Researchers bridge the gap between mystical abstraction and engineering innovation, developing devices and constructs that harness miraculous mana.

3. Department of Fundamentals of Tep's Arcane Doctrine (FoTAD)

Serving as the ideological and scholarly backbone of RI MANATAZEM, this department is charged with preserving, expanding and safely utilizing the ancient lore of Tep’s arcane teachings.

4. Department of Anima Secundum Strages (ASS)

Exploring the liminal space between mortality and the beyond, this department delves into the mysteries of Sparks. Much of their research focuses on the Sparks safeguarded within the Tep Pyramid — echoes of Zem individuals long departed. Through experiments that balance on the edge of necromancy and divine ritual, the scholars here seek to unlock secrets of the afterlife, the nature of existence, and the potential for resurrection or transformation.

This Department is also responsible for the cataloging and calculation of Sparks within Tep’s Pyramid, and oversees their proper distribution into corresponding vessels. This department also handles the retrieval of “stray” Sparks. Once recovered, these Sparks are placed into stasis until an appropriate body can be found.

5. Department of Technical and Provisional Supply (TaPS)

TaPS manages the logistical and practical necessities of the Institute. Charged with equipping each allod’s research facilities with cutting-edge technical apparatus and ensuring a steady flow of provisions, its role is crucial.