Reckoning

Reckoning is the most severe punishment a Hycatha can receive for breaking the Hycathic codes. It involves trapping a Hycatha into an object for eternity. This form of punishment is known to be irreversible and unchangeable, so it is not handed out lightly.

The Ritual

If a Hycatha has harmed or killed a human being with magic, she is tried by the Hycath council, the Oculus. If the Octal (head of the council) deems it fit, she can sentence the Hycatha to be Reckoned.

A Reckoning is ordained by the Oculus and led by the Tricapita, members of the secret Order of Hecate and the only ones with the knowledge to perform a Reckoning. To summon the Tricapita, the Octal puts in a request with the Order through a public announcement. The Order selects three of its members; they are notified by receipt of a ceremonial mask and robe. Once summoned, the members cannot refuse the call. 

The Tricapita will then chant, hold out a chosen object over the condemned Hycatha and trap her inside. From this point on, the object becomes a Reckoning Hold, serving as an eternal prison cell for the Hycatha. The Hycatha retains her consciousness the entire time she is imprisoned in the Hold. 

Reckoning Holds can be powerful but dangerous for those with no experience. By touching one, a person can access the power of the Hycatha trapped inside. However, at this moment the Hycatha can also take control of this person and their actions. Reckoning Holds are not to be mixed up with common Hycath Relics, objects which trap a Hycatha’s power when she dies without a daughter. Hycath Relics do not contain a Hycath’s soul.

see also: Hycathic Artifacts