Provener

Provener is a named hour observed inside the math. It is announced by the chimes of the great clock and coincides with the duty of winding that clock.

First noted context

During a conversation in the New Library between Fraa Orolo and Artisan Flec, the clock began chiming Provener and an avout excused himself to go wind the clock. The visitor asked to see “Provener” and to record it with a speelycaptor. Permission to view was granted with conditions: stand where instructed and follow the Discipline, with arrangements deferred to the Ita and warnings issued under the authority of the Warden Regulant.

Additional context

In the Cloister garden, Provener’s approach is read off the clock’s dial; when it arrives, the winding team departs immediately to perform their duty. The narrator and Fraa Lio serve on this team.

Observance and practice

• The great clock announces Provener with audible chimes.
• Clock‑winding at this hour is handled by a small team of avout; examples show four fraas comprising the team.
• Bell‑ringing is carried out by eight suurs during changes, which can run for long periods and demand unbroken concentration.
• Visitors may be allowed to witness Provener, but only from designated places and under guidance.

Discipline and access

The Warden Regulant enforces the Discipline around timekeeping and visitor conduct. Neglecting clock duties can result in penance (for example, Fraa Lio was assigned herb‑bed weeding after missing a winding duty). Device use by visitors requires explicit approval and must follow instructions from officials such as the Ita.

Status

Provener functions as a recurring time marker shaping routine and duties such as clock maintenance.