 |
Lara was a Sage (Aen Saevherne), [who were] something like the highest, elite circle of elven mages. It's not certain whether it was genetics, training, or some unknown rituals, that determined being a Sage. This matter is yet unexplained. |  | |
| - Dynastic descriptions: Lara Dorren aep Shiadhal | |||
Avallac'h
Aen Saevherne are elves who, in addition to possessing magic skills, also possess a vast knowledge of many subjects, most notably the genealogy of elder blood. The sages also exhibit prophetic or oracular powers. Over the years people simplified the term, referring to them instead as "sages" or "elven mages", but this is not entirely accurate. Francesca Findabair, who sat in the Chapter, was an elf and a mage but not one of the Aen Saevherne.
For many, they are more legend than fact. Few, even among the elves, can boast of close contact with the Aen Saevherne.
Quick Answers
What is the significance of the term 'Aen Saevherne' in elven culture?
In elven culture, 'Aen Saevherne' signifies more than 'elven sorcerer'. It translates to 'sages', representing a distinct caste within elven sorcerers. The Aen Saevherne are known for their profound knowledge of magic and their understanding of other worlds, time, and space, earning them great respect and an air of mystery among their peers.
Provided by: Fandom
What distinguishes an Aen Saevherne from a regular elven mage?
The term Aen Saevherne, or 'sage', denotes a unique caste within elven sorcerers, distinguished by their profound knowledge of magic, time, space, and alternate realms. Their capabilities exceed those of typical elven mages, as they command all aspects of magic and scholarship. Their ability to perceive past, present, and future with equal ease earns them immense respect among the most potent sorcerers.
Provided by: Fandom
What kind of knowledge do Aen Saevherne possess that sets them apart?
Aen Saevherne, often simplified as 'elven sorcerer' or 'sage', signifies a deeper knowledge. They command magic, understand other worlds, time, and space, and possess vast knowledge on many subjects, including the genealogy of elder blood. They also exhibit prophetic or oracular powers. They form a separate, mysterious caste among elven sorcerers.
Provided by: Fandom
Do Aen Saevherne possess prophetic or oracular powers?
Indeed, the Aen Saevherne, frequently termed as 'sages', do exhibit prophetic and oracular abilities. Their expertise extends to magic, other realms, time, and space, and they have a profound understanding of elder blood genealogy. Despite their title's simplification over time, they represent a distinct caste among elven sorcerers, earning immense respect and remaining enigmatic to their kin.
Provided by: Fandom
Why is Francesca Findabair not considered an Aen Saevherne despite being an elf and a mage?
Francesca Findabair is not an Aen Saevherne due to the specific attributes of this group. Aen Saevherne are elven sages with extensive knowledge, especially in elder blood genealogy, and possess prophetic abilities. Francesca, an Aen Seidhe archmistress and elven ruler, lacks these specific characteristics.
Provided by: Fandom
Known Aen Saevherne[]
The World of the Witcher[]
There is a quote from The Magic of the Elder Folk by Geoffrey Monck where he is describing this group:
Despite popular opinion, the term Aen Saevherne is not simply the equivalent of 'elven sorcerer', but has a much deeper meaning. The closest possible translation would be 'sages'. Indeed, if rumor is to be believed, the Aen Saevherne command not only an impressive knowledge of magic, but also -as implausible as it seems- a comprehension of other worlds, time, and space. These Sages form a separate caste among elven sorcerers, mysterious even to their brethren and greatly respected by all, including the most powerful among them.
pg. 90, The World of the Witcher
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt[]
Elven Sages entry[]
- Many think "Aen Saevherne" - meaning Sage - is simply the Elder Speech term for sorcerer. Yet, to equate a Sage with a common practitioner of magic is akin to considering a newly-drafted private, hay sticking out of his breeches, a witcher's equal simply because both wield swords.
- A Sage wields magic, true, and does so with greater skill than even the most accomplished human mages. The great renown and regard in which they are held, however, comes not from this skill but from the other, truly rare abilities they possess.
- Nothing is a secret for an elven sage. They see both past and future as easily as the present. They have mastery over all the arcana of magic as well as every domain of scholarship. They are the only ones who understand the nature and operation of the so-called Elder Blood and the gene of Lara Dorren - and they guard this knowledge jealously.
- How numerous are the Elven Sages? In all my life I have met only one, Ida Emean of the Blue Mountains. She might possibly be the last representative of this mysterious caste. It is true I have encountered mention of a male elf who might also belong to it, but as of this writing I have been unable to confirm this.