Loricas
The Loricas are a group of powerful sorcerers and sorceresses of House Dougal that craft the armor of the House.
Overview
Taking their name from the word for "breastplate," the Loricas are masters of the Art of Primal and work to forge the cantrips of this and other Arts into powerful chimera and treasures. Armor made by them can make a warrior capable of resisting gross amounts of damage.
The Loricas are not suspected of direct intrigue against the house but their suspected ties to House Eiluned sorcerers in the Crystal Circle (and possibly the Shadow Court) give the heads of the House pause. Because Crystal Circle members are adept at Dream-Craft, it is believed some of the Loricas also lead Donovan's Hinterland Initiative.
Loricas also seek to re-create the forging of Anweyth, the first steel sword. This work, called a nonpareil, always involves the death of the changeling attempting it. All Loricas undertake this creation adventure but many die without results. Even the greatest Loricas do not have Dougal's heart or vision. While the House doesn't condone this practice, they all respect its sacrifice secretly. Many believe that Caliburn, High King David's sword, is a nonpareil crafted by a nameless smith. Others claim King Meilge's mask is also a nonpareil, possibly crafted by a member of Cranad's Legion hiding in the Kingdom of Willows. Whatever form a nonpareil takes, it is always an item of great beauty and awe-inspiring power.