Vrac̆, Thaddeus

Human (magic-folk), 1215-1287

Thaddeus Vrac̆¹ was a 13th century alchemist, herbalist and apothecary specializing Silvidae magions. He was a gifted illustrator, and left detailed depictions of many of his study subjects.
Even though he specialized in plant-life, one of Thaddeus Vrac̆'s best known discoveries relates to the Mixturidae Līmāx funginus. The Līmāx funginus can cause quickened decay, Thaddeus found that the mucus produced by its slug-like foot can slow the decay significantly. The mucus was found to be useful for the reduction and prevention of fungal decay in general, and became an important ingredient in the Vrac̆ inventory. Thaddeus ascribed the inspiration for studying the Līmāx funginus to his daughter, Milagros (1241-1319), then only a child. At 14, Milagros already joined her father's research, together they continued the study of the Līmāx funginus, and numerous other magions.

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¹ The Vrac̆ are a renowned witch line specializing in healing magic, particularly in the form of potions and salves. It should be noted that at this point in history, surnames were not generally used, and "Vrac̆" was more of a profession descriptive than a name. The word vrac̆ comes from Proto-Slavic and was associated with healing, both magical and mundane, depending on the language (for example, it originated the contemporary Russian word врач, pronounced vrach, like the name, that is used for doctor, therapist, vet, medic, physician etc.). Thus "Thaddeus Vrac̆" would essentially mean "healer Thaddeus" or "Dr. Thaddeus". In certain areas, where the family became known, its members came to be refered to as "the Vrac̆", and later on it was indeed adopted by the family as their surname. Therefore, while not entirly accurate historically, the 'surname, given name' convention has been kept for early members of this line for filing and finding convenience.

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Magic-Folk

Līmāx funginus