This study was commissioned by the late Sorceress Patronus, peerless supporter of the investigative studies of our age. We give to you: The Phoenix
The Phoenix (Gloria latis) is an example of what can be argued to be the most sublime of creation. Many creatures covered in this compendium may be considered 'Creatures of Magic.' Dragons for example (Majister reptilum), embody what most consider the greatest attributes of magic, and indeed cannot survive without it. Their fire and outright defiance of danger has lead to the ancient saying: 'If it cannot kill a dragon within five minutes, it will not.' (Folk Sayings and Ancient Lore, by Dark Mistress Fenix, 1799). The Basilisk (Serpentium rex) could be considered another contender as 'most magical'; after achieving its physical maturity, only a dragon could hope to vie for mastery. The oft-repeated 'cry of a rooster' is one weakness designed by its creators, but even that becomes a mere annoyance by the time it reaches physical maturity.
G. latis is what we may call an Omega species. Its presence on the List of Dangerous Species is nonexistent, as it is not believed to present a threat to any sentient being (ICW B.S13). Known habitats possess greater protections than that enjoyed by state leaders. It was said during the Prussian-Russian Discussion on protecting the species that, 'It is easier to select an officer than it is to make a Phoenix.' (see: Franco-Russo Wars in the Motherland, by St. Frederick Urnenfriedhof, 1875).
Over the course of nearly two millenia of organized thought, we have yet to fathom the depths of this reclusive species. Ergo, we shall begin with what we know, and continue with extrapolation beyond.
Initial nomenclature takes the history of G. latis to the earliest documents. It has gone by many names, translated as the Bird-of-Heaven (Greek, 1720 BC), Firebird (Slavic, 200 AD), Emperor's-Beloved (China, circa 3500 BC) and Thunderbird (North America, 1700s). Needless to say there are certain variations involved, although none that typically necessitate full differentiation save for the American Thunderbird (Gloria tonitrua).
The key similarity between G. latis and G. tonitrua) lies in their rebirth. Both employ vast sums of energy to regain their youth, but while G. latis is a creature of fire, G. tonitrua is a child of storms. As both share many similarities, this assay will concentrate on the more widespread creature G. latis.
Nothing is known of G. latis reproduction, other than the presence of bi-gendered physiology and the truly dazzling displays members of the opposite sex engender at certain times (Observations d'oiseaux, by Espirit de Corpora, 1903). At rare times a young G. lati is presented to one considered trustworthy, which has allowed certain observations to be made. These younger specimens are observed to avoid 'burning days' (Dies Ignis, in the Old Latin) for half a century while individuals known to be older may undergo such an event at an estimated five year interval.
Considering the behavior of G. latis it can be assumed that the normal protocols of reproduction are in place. Egg-laying patterns have been recorded, with three accounts known in the Indo-Chinese region. In all three instances, the female specimen constructed a nest out of twigs extracted from spicewoods (including cinnamon, nutmeg, fireberry and troll-bane); these twigs averaged eight inches in length, and were woven through a complex lattice reaching two feet in diameter. Two of the three nests were secured within a cave system near air-tight to intrusion (see: Flickering Cave Systems, by Miss Demeanor, 1989). The third example was discovered in the treasury vault of an ancient family (name withheld by request); this vault had not been opened in nearly a century according to the Dwarven Banking Limited, yet the nest showed evidence of multiple occupants and enough eggshell fragments to fill a small container roughly one 'acetabulum' in volume (See: Measurements of the Ages by Par-Xcelonts, 1976).
As a species, G. latis consume a variety of products. Peppers, fruit and insects are considered the majority of its diet. Some quantities of meat are ingested as well, in particular during the growth phase. Extrapolation on this presumes a similar diet for the subspecies observed internationally, with some differences due to locale.
Lifespans are a tricky subject to address, when it comes to G. latis. Certain beliefs place G. latis as immortal, never ending lifespans that regress to hatchling and progress to mature adult in an endless cycle (Circles Upon Circles, by Charles the Oddball, 1978). Other schools of thought trace characteristics of the better-known examples, and appear to find a continuation for up to a millenia, after which behavioral patterns change. Countless other possibilities exist, but these two main concepts are agreed to be of greatest likelihood, on the balance of popular opinion.
What is known is that when G. latis grows old, it seeks out a secure location and waits. At an unknown signal it expends a great deal of energy, vaporizing its immediate surroundings. This fire is impervious to observation techniques; no known method is capable of penetrating the fire shield, which leaves the activities behind said flames to our imagination. Afterwards the once-majestic creature has become a hatchling, to grow into a mature adult once more in a burst of development common only to high-grade creatures of Four-X and above.
(Editor's Note: this is possibly a defense mechanism. Who would approach a nest knowing the occupant could sublimate steel upon its death? )
Movement of G. latis is mainly two forms of travel: flight, and a form of apparition. As a bird, the power of flight is an obvious conclusion. Due to powers yet misunderstood, G. latis may lift incredible burdens whilst in flight. The heaviest weight every carried is recorded as the Karuppu kal kōṭṭai (Castle of Black Stone) in Thailand. This edifice was a literal stronghold held by then Dark Wizard Ger'amee against the forces of the Dark Bun'nies. The phoenix in question, known as Harmony became irate at the situation, and wrested the main keep away from both parties, throwing it down in pieces. Since that day large birds in general are revered by the descendants of both families.
Apparition is the far more famous method, however. Only specialized shields or runic defenses may obstruct the path of a G. latis (see: Teleportation Matrices and Natural Events by Prof. Sinister, 2010). The companions of G. latis are able to travel vast distances in an eyeblink, equaling champion apparition masters. Under normal circumstances this would lead to a classification of XX or greater, but the inherent Light nature of G. latis, and its rarity, prevent such a thing.
National economics can be greatly affected by the rise and fall in G. latis fortunes. The best known example can be seen in the Baltic regions, where the gross national incomes attributed to G. latis may be observed in excess of twenty percent. This, and additional reasons has granted the G. latis outstanding protections among international legislation. As an example, the Baltic Federation holds theft of Phonenix products on par with treason; punitive actions in this regard include corporal and extreme financial aspects (see: Jacoban Politics in the Baltic Federation by Prince Albus of Cons, 1952).
Eggshells are collected from rare locations such as the famed Rezervări de rezervă Firebird in the District of Romania, rare ingredients valued for their potency in various potions. As of this printing (June 2019) a single drachm cost fifteen galleons, aged seven years. Fresh quantities cost exponentially more than that, with a single drachm valued upwards of ten times that. If prepared aright, pure shell may even be used to store vast quantities of energy (see: Holy Hand Grenade, by Sir Python, 1975).
Continuing with this fiduciary approach, feathers from G. latis are considered effective cores for magical applications. Wands, staves, high-quality etching implements and focii all may utilize feathers. However, they are of considerably greater availability than eggshells and of greater durability, reducing cost overall (Wandlore by Ollivander Sr. 1643). The North American variant may sometimes be seen in the use of 'war bonnets' where G. Tonitrua feathers are placed in a wide array over the wizard's head, where it aids control of magic in a fashion similar to the druidic paint rituals.
Finally, we consider Phoenix Tears. In ages past it was believed this substance composeda central ingredient to the lost ambrosia, food of the ancient Greek pantheon. Even by the high standards of society it is considered a miracle substance. Legends abound in their healing prowess, and the number of anecdotes concerning individuals attesting to such strength is staggering. A simple search of the Alexandrian Medical Wing's library reveals over three thousand tomes dedicated to the history, usage, or collection of Phoenix Tears. This author has personally witnessed the curative powers of Phoenix Tears during the Dragon Pox epidemic of the 1980s. As all know a victim of the Pox will regain health in a few days, unless already under duress. Then that same quality which allows the easily-fought disease becomes an agent of its hosts destruction, feeding ever more gradual quantities of life into the disease. Application of Phoenix Tears resolves all manner of infections and diseases; it will not repair broken bones or fully ameliorate mental illnesses, but including the Tears in potions and salves enhances their effectiveness to nigh miraculous proportions (Dealing out Healing, by Sachun Feathered Mink, 1890).
(Note: usage of phoenix organs other than feathers is counted among the Anathema Prohibitions of 535 AD; as such, information is forbidden from public dissemination [ICW B. SI829])
Above and beyond the financial aspect of G. latis is the morale aspect.
The song of the G. latis can only be described as angelic. Its dulcet tones encapsulate the mightiest aspect of the pipe organ while bringing to mind the sweet melodies heard from the violin. Its song pierces to the heart of every ear that listens, and can even reach the deaf. This unique gift is as much above legilimency as the Delian Sacred Groves are more than a bare patch of earth. Dark creatures, the true beasts that love pain and suffering feel great pain while in its presence. The cause behind this phenomenon has been studied in great depth (see: Song of the Cebu and Other Misunderstood Creatures, by Cal Iente, 1992 and Phoenix Song and the Soul, by Kipling et al, 1723), yet we are no closer now than we were five centuries ago.
To this end we must resort to scholarly-based supposition. It is obvious that G. latis lacks predatory traits; its talons lack sharpened hooks like the raptorial genus, and its bill shares characteristics of the fruit-eating families. Therefore it is not through some form of ancestral predation that causes this effect. However, if thought in reverse, this could be a defensive mechanism.
When resting, G. latis remains vulnerable to the same assaults any other avian endures. Carnivores of any type are designed to overwhelm their prey, whether by the stealth attacks common to the Shadow Leopard (Felis quietam) or the drawn-out pack behavior exhibited by the Piranha Beetles (Cibum comedentis). Any creature caught by predators will invoke ululations common to their species; G. latis will give a cry so terrifying to most predatory creatures (which includes the majority of Dark Creatures) that it will induce such a reaction as to gain a brief moment of time in which to act. Given their capacity for specialized Apparition, and healing capabilities, this usually means life and longevity for the bird in question.
Speculation aside, this power of song has made as much or even greater impact than the more physical benefits thus far discussed. A werewolf's howl may induce terror in their general vicinity, a fear which may be eliminated with the presence of a Phoenix Song. Dementors (Osculum mortis) are the natural opponent of G. latis, as creatures subsisting on soulphagy and magic itself for sustenance (see: Secrets of the Dark, by Majister Pantalones de Inteligente, 1789). While no known method may destroy O. mortis, it can be conjectured that the two species may be inverted representations of each other, or natural predators.
Controversial as it was, the 1821 experiment conducted by [REDACTED] introducing O. mortis to a G. latis colony granted an impressive amount of information. For example [REDACTED], which itself proves Divination indeed causes [REDACTED]. Details are (Editor's Note: Further information is removed from publication.)
This leads to the relative intelligence of G. latis. Companions to the species are firmly convinced of near-sentient qualities, although definitive proof is lacking. Determining loyalty can be the result of sub-level legilimency, similar to how thestrals (Pegasi formidulosus) incorporate their invisibility. Their geographic memories are superb, to say the least, but even the common Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) is able to recall up to 100,000 distinct locations. Involving magic, which itself responds to intent and desire in ways no wizard can properly interpret, and the elevation of near-sentience can be assured (see: Intelligence Tests for Kneazles, by Paparac Writenberg, 1976 and Measurements of Non-Human Intellects: A Treatise Including the Mer, Centaurs, Goblins and Dwarves by Scrivner Pensive Skepsis 1992).
Any discussion of G. latis cannot be complete without at least a brief overview of Familiars. There are over five thousand individuals attributed to having a phoenix as a chosen companion. No single true companion may be actually chosen, barring unique circumstances (see: Companions and Familiars, by Serrah Yash-Oh, 1792), but the selectiveness of G. latis is formidable in the extreme.
In the traditions of the Indo-Tamili Authority, a Phoenix has stayed in existence as a familiar for some five centuries (Dancing Blade, by Grand Poobah Sigurdia, 2010). This small kingdom has accomplished such a feat through a mixture of Seer and cold logic. When multiple proven Seers give the same prophecy, namely that of the imminent demise of the current Sultan, the entire nation is canvased for young adults between the ages of 16 to 25. Each member is brought to the palace and presented to Aḻakāṉa, the phoenix-in-residence. Whichever individual is responded to first becomes the new Sultan, in a remarkable display of egalitarian thought. Regretably, previous engagements or contracts are considered void following the Familiar binding, and is also considered a reason against the full sentience of G. latis in general.
In closing, we wish to thank our Patron, without whom much of this work would exist. Her generosity and willingness to donate to the great cause of furthering investigative works in this realm shall never be forgotten. We also wish to thank the members of this august society, and our Founder.
With Best Wishes,
Charles Levinhand, General Scrivner, Temporal Master, Wielder of the Flames of Manor, and Still-Wishing-For-A-Chocolate-Frog-Card.
