Sæcular Power

The Sæcular Power is a non‑mathic authority recognized by avout as external to the maths. It is described as tolerating and sometimes protecting the maths, though avout note that such protection has not always been consistent. The text to date does not describe its structure, leadership, or laws.

First mentioned

The term arises during a conversation in the New Library when Fraa Orolo interviews an artisan from outside the walls amid preparations surrounding Apert. The reference frames how the maths relate to the world extramuros and why they are “tolerated and protected.”

Role and function (as understood so far)

• Stands outside the mathic orders and Discipline (i.e., part of the non‑mathic world).
• Regarded by avout as an external protector of the maths—yet avout explicitly acknowledge periods when protection lapsed.
• No details have been given about its organization, representatives, jurisdiction, or legal instruments.

Perception, rumors, and claims

• Orolo contrasts mathic realities with extramuros misconceptions—for example, rumors that the maths hoard treasure or that the Millenarians can transmute metals. These are presented as outside talk rather than confirmed facts.
• Orolo also notes a recurring pattern “every few hundred years” of charlatans making a claim on Sæcular Power by invoking an alleged association with the mathic world. Such claims are described as fraudulent. In the same discussion, the Warden of Heaven is mentioned by the artisan as a body that claims connection to the concent and pronounces on heresy; Orolo treats this as part of the charlatan pattern and warns that some types can be dangerous.

Relationships

• Mathic world: Acknowledged by avout as an external protector of mathic communities and practices, though not consistently.
• Extramuros society: Belongs to the secular sphere outside the walls; specifics of its interaction with other authorities are not yet given.

Current status

Active as a recognized secular authority in the world outside the maths; further particulars have not yet been revealed.