School of the Crane

This article is an expansion based on a canon element. For canon information on this topic, follow the link to The Witcher Wiki: School of the Crane.

This fan-fiction article, School of the Crane, was written by Witcher190. Please do not edit this fiction without the writer's permission.

“Vigilants over sea and sky, we confront the monsters that hinder the world´s progress.”

―School of the Crane Motto

School of the Crane
School of the Crane Logo / Medallion
General Information
Variation(s)	Crane School
Nickname(s)	Darhs ( Silk Islander Dialect ) Cocors Vatt´gherns ( Nilfgaardian Overseas Provinces )
Type	Witcher School
Organization Information
Predecessor	School of the Griffin School of the Cat
Foundation Year	1380 ( de jure ) 1381 ( de facto )
Status	Extant
Successor	School of the Bat ( splinter faction ) School of the Basan ( splinter faction )
Political Information
Alignment	Neutral ( with some ties to the vicegovernment of the Fabiolan Colonies and the Silk Islands )
Key Personel
Founder(s)	Putnam Pitch Jolanta Dinmarb
Leader(s)	Putnam Pitch ( 1380 - 1381 ) Putnam Pitch and Jolanta Dinmarb ( shared leadership ) [1381 -1500 ] Ucalt "The Vulture" ( 1500 - 1555 ) Stefan "The Crane" ( 1555 -1556 ) Ezeld "The Parrot" ( 1556 - 1666 ) Uzoma "The Alicanto" ( 1666 - 1700 )
Notable member(s)	Putnam Pitch Jolanta Dinmarb Stefan "The Crane" Ezeld "The Parrot" Ucalt "The Vulture" Uzoma "The Alicanto" Math "The Boobrie" Halsey "The Basan"
Area of Activity
Headquarters	Kaer Darh
Location	Sachs Mountains, Hawaiki, Silk Islands
Area(s) served	Western Continent Silk Islands Great Sea Rarely the Old Continent

The School of the Crane is a witcher school that was established after the Second Conjunction by Putnam Pitch, a witcher from the School of the Griffin, and Jolanta Dinmarb, a witcheress who, at the time of the foundation, was the last active member of the defunct School of the Cat. It is located on the island of Hawaiki, situated in the Silk Islands within the Sachs Mountains, neither too far nor too close to the Western Continent. This school was the first to exhibit a distinct specialization in their monster hunting efforts, focusing primarily on combating aquatic and aerial monsters. However, Crane witchers are also adept at fighting other types of monsters, much like their counterparts from other schools, although this is more rare to see since they spend a lot of time protecting the ships that make the route between the new and the Old Continent.

Origins

For more context for some things and references, check out Putnam Pitch's article.

After what happened in 1360, Putnam and Jolanta would remain separated for another 21 years. This was due to a multitude of reasons, with the main one being their work. The high demand for their services as witchers and the scarcity of new ones (since the new generations were still in training) kept them busy traveling from one place to another on paths that would never cross, trying to meet that demand as much as possible. Gradually, they tried to forget each other (something that proved impossible), believing that the red thread that bound their lives was parallel and not destined to cross, except when some mysterious force decided to force it. But both were very wrong, as two decades and one year later, they would finally be together, only separating almost at the end of their lives, after 120 years of marriage, when death claimed one of them before the other.

Being their marriage the water that the School of Crane needed to germinate, but first we need more context on how the idea of the school itself came about and how it became a reality.

Going back quite a long time, the idea of a school of witchers specializing in aquatic and aerial monsters had been on the mind of one of its founders, Putnam Pitch, for a long time. Specifically, since his time in Skellige in 1277, where he faced multiple both aquatic and flying monsters. However, this idea remained just that, a vague thought. The idea resurfaced during Fabio Sachs' expeditions to the Far East and Far North, but similar to Skellige, it remained a persistent yet still vague idea. Finally, it began to take shape after settling in Kerack in 1290, and gained more substance after Fabio Sachs' expedition that discovered the Silk Islands and the Western Continent. However, it only began to have a clear form after his winter in Burov Mylne in 1360, where Adalwulf, through long and deep conversations combined with their usual games of Dice Poker at that time, managed to convince him that he had what it takes to not only lead, but also found a school of witchers. Planting the seed of conviction in Putnam's mind, which would lead to, 20 winters later, the School of the Crane becoming a reality.

Putnam in 1380

During those two decades that followed, Putnam would start refining the details of his idea for the school here and there. Although Adalwulf had largely convinced him, there were still doubts about whether he would be a good leader and teacher beyond sword instruction. Furthermore, while the idea of specialization was present in his mind, there were also doubts about whether it was the right approach, as witchers traditionally did not specialize in specific types of monsters, but rather covered a wide variety of threats. It wouldn't be until the year 1380 that those doubts would dissipate. With the onset of Nordling colonization of the Silk Islands and the Western Continent, reports of ships being sunk by sea monsters while attempting to reach the New World became increasingly common, revealing a significant demand (and moreover, a necessary one for world progress) that no school of witchers had dared to address, at least, properly. It was then that Putnam realized that founding a school of witchers specialized in protecting ships traveling from the Old Continent to the New World was not a bad idea at all, and that his doubts were unfounded.

Making it so that, indeed, that very year, without a second thought, he set off for the New World to carry it out. He didn't do it without first recruiting friends like Charz, Jabolet, and Roth in the process, who were crucial for the start of the school, as well as obtaining certain things that were necessary for it to emerge under proper conditions. Charz would be the sword instructor, as Putnam would be very busy with his duties as grandmaster. Jabolet would take on the role of the mage in charge of carrying out the mutations of the witchers, using as a basis those from the School of the Griffin, of which Putnam had obtained a copy before leaving after making one last visit to Kaer Seren. Roth, on the other hand, would become the first blacksmith (as well as cook) of the school, responsible for designing and crafting items like the medallions and swords that this future witchers would use. Although it was clear that sooner rather than later, they would have to bring in more personnel if they truly wanted to make it work. Something they did, but only once Jolanta joined and truly got things off the ground.

Furthermore, it was an opportune moment, as life was smiling upon the witcher. By that time, the contract he had signed with the Zammorto bank, which limited his ability to withdraw money from his account, had expired. Following this, he gained access to vast wealth, derived not only from the accrued interests in his account, but also from what he had acquired and deposited into the account, such as the wealth he obtained during his time in Zangvebar, for example. This wealth allowed him to fund both the design and the construction of the future fortress.

With Putnam settling and establishing the fortress where the school would be, in Hawaiki, the main of the Silk Islands. And why did he choose this location? Well, it's simple. If he was going to provide the world with witchers who would roam the seas protecting ships between the Old Continent and the Western Continent, the islands were a perfect choice due to their geographical position. Furthermore, aside from that, he believed he had found the perfect place for the fortress while thoroughly reviewing his memories during the long ship journey. This place was where he had lived during the time when Fabio's expedition stayed in the Silk Islands. Nothing more and nothing less than the Sachs Mountains, more specifically, the place where he had once had the house he built with Creti in those four years when, along with the other expedition members, he was forced to survive while repairing their ships.

And is there a clear origin as to why Putnam chose the Crane as the symbol for the school, and not another animal or even monster? Well, in fact, there is. And unlike other origins, such as that of the School of the Griffin, given by their extermination of griffins in the mountains of Kovir, this one is not epic, but rather, one could even say, boring. Simply put, During the extended ship journey to the New World, Putnam found himself reminiscing about one of his past loves, the pirate, Kai Yih. In these quiet moments, his mind drifted to a particular memory of Kai Yih—a memory etched into her skin in the form of a tattoo. On her back, she bore the image of a black crane. As he remembered this tattoo, he also recalled the profound conversation they had about its significance.

Kai Yih had explained that the crane held a deep meaning for her, and she shared how it was a symbol of grace, longevity, and wisdom in many Eastern cultures of The Continent. The crane, with its elegant and majestic presence, was revered as a powerful symbol of life, renewal, and protection. It embodied the qualities of strength, agility, and adaptability, traits that resonated deeply with the mission and values of the school Putnam was envisioning.

Moved by the depth of meaning that the crane held for Kai Yih and its significance in the Eastern cultures of The Continent, Putnam made a heartfelt decision. He chose the crane as the symbol for the school he was building. Little did he know at the time that this seemingly simple choice would not only pay tribute to Kai Yih and the crane's profound symbolic meaning but also perfectly encapsulate the specialization of the school in aquatic and aerial combat. The crane, with its grace and mastery of both water and sky, became an emblem that would forever represent the School of the Crane and its unique mission to protect the world from the threats that roam the waters and the skies.

History

The first year of the School of the Crane

The fortress, mainly due to the work of dwarven colonists settled on the island who would be hired for its construction, would take little time to be finished, and by the mid of the year 1380, it would be completely prepared and ready to be inhabited. The next step was to find more people to inhabit it (more specifically, those who would be the first Crane adepts) and not only Putnam and his friends.

This would come in the form of Stefan, later known as Stefan "The Crane," who would ultimately become the first adept and witcher originating from this new school. Additionally, he would be the first of the eleven adopted children that Putnam and Jolanta would have. Putnam would meet Stefan during a visit to the capital of Hawaiki, Elmia, which he made in search of animals needed for the school's farm to make it as self-sustainable as possible, depending as little as possible on imports from the various population centers on the island. Specifically, at the port, when a Nilfgaardian slave ship had made a technical stop on the island before continuing its journey to the Nilfgaardian Overseas Provinces ( since, due to new Nilfgaardian laws, they couldn't enslave the natives of their territories in the Western Continent, as they were full-fledged citizens of Nilfgaard as part of the new imperial provinces. But the Nilfgaardian slavers had found a legal loophole that allowed them to import slaves from places like Haakland, or from the slave trade that Nilfgaard had with the Tuyotuki Islands through its colony of Sabana. This wa also the case of how Putnam would meet the last of the first Cranes, and adopted daughter too, Bo). They had taken advantage of the technical stop to showcase the slaves and get rid of those who were weaker or too sick to withstand the work awaiting them in the provinces. Despite everything, it's worth mentioning that, unlike Nordlings servants, Nilfgaardian slaves had a series of guaranteed basic rights, but that's a completely different story.

Putnam would pass by the display, and there he would see him: a frail and sickly boy, around six years old, for whom no sensible person would dare to offer a coin. But something in Putnam's instinct told him that the boy had what it took to be a witcher (and he was not mistaken). Without much hesitation, he bought him, specifically for half a copper coin, a ridiculously low amount, and took him with him.

As time passed, Stefan's initial fear of Putnam gradually gave way to trust and affection. It became evident that Putnam was different from Stefan's former owner, and he proved this through his caring and protective demeanor. Stefan's delicate health became a priority for Putnam, ensuring it didn't deteriorate further and overseeing his overall well-being.

In a remarkably short span, Stefan's feelings towards Putnam transformed into a deep and genuine fondness. He began to regard Putnam not just as a mentor, but as a father figure, addressing him with the term "father." This affectionate gesture profoundly moved Putnam. It stirred something within him, prompting a reevaluation of fatherhood, a role he hadn't seriously considered since Sigurd's passing.

In a heartfelt decision, Putnam took the step to legally adopt Stefan, formalizing their father-son bond. This act set a precedent that would extend to the remaining ten members of what would known as "The First Ones" or the first generation. Though the subsequent generations of Cranes up until the 1500s were not legally adopted, Putnam and Jolanta treated them as their own children, creating a nurturing and familial environment within the School of the Crane. This unspoken yet profound bond forged a legacy of care and mentorship that would shape the school's culture for generations to come.

And you might be wondering, did Putnam recruit more children after adopting Stefan, right? It was a logical step if he wanted to start a school of witchers. It was indeed part of his plans, but due to Stefan's frail health (whom he intended to mutate once the year of training was completed), this plan to acquire more students and truly set the school in motion (as he had only done so de jure) would be delayed. Stefan fell ill again in early 1381, this time with an unknown tropical disease, and Putnam, on his part, wanted to make sure he could properly care for a child and successfully mutate him (even if it was a bit of a gamble, and the odds were not in their favor) before dealing with more.

Unbeknownst to him, this humanitarian gesture by Putnam inadvertently paved the way for the appearance of Jolanta later that same year. With her arrival, she became the co-founder of the school after imbuing it with her ideas, finally setting it in motion for real and not just on paper.

Jolanta joins the school

Only a few months later, on May 11, 1381, which happened to be Putnam's 126th birthday, Jolanta would reappear in both the fortress and the life of the now first Grandmaster of the School of the Crane. Neither of them had any inkling of what this reencounter would bring, but it held the promise of positive changes, not just for them personally but also for the school itself. However, before delving into this, let's provide some context regarding Jolanta's situation.

Her tale is one of heartache and longing, rooted in the belief that she had lost Putnam during the Haaki Invasion, an event that falsely pronounced him clinically deceased. A decade later, in 1360, fate intervened, orchestrating a reunion that would eventually turn passionate between them. Yet, the torrent of emotions unleashed led Jolanta to depart silently the very next day. It was a painful choice, driven by the guilt she bore for having betrayed her partner from that time, a transgression she attributed to Putnam and the intensity of their rekindled connection.

Despite the turmoil, Jolanta persisted in her role as a witcher, unaware that she had unwittingly become the last living member of the School of the Cat. By this time, the remaining members who had resisted Lambert's reforms leading to the emergence of the School of the Lynx had all passed away, leaving only Jolanta as the last of them. While she clung to the hope of reuniting with a fellow member and resurrecting the school, for example, in Stygga once again, the cruel march of time slowly revealed her solitude and the bitter truth that she was the last member of the once School of the Cat, even without explicit confirmation.

The most poignant reminder of her isolation came one day when she received a letter from Lambert, sent from the Western Continent, inviting her to join the Lynxes. This offer weighed heavily on her, reminding her of the years that had passed, the overwhelming loneliness she felt, and the deep longing for her past life in Dyn Marv (so much so that she adopted the caravan's name as her surname, which would eventually be corrupted to Dinmarb due to bureaucratic issues). It may not have been the most comfortable place to live, but it had been her home, and the heart always aches for home, no matter how humble it may be.

And despite her reservations and her lingering talasophobia, which had not abated, Jolanta reluctantly accepted Lambert's offer. She sold her reconstructed house in Novigrad and, with a heavy heart, embarked on a ship headed for the Western Continent to join the Lynxes. Little did she know that life had other plans in store for her, as it would once again reunite her with Putnam, and this time, their reunion would be everlasting.

The steps towards the reunion between the two former lovers and future husband and wife would happen gradually. First, with Jolanta's journey across the Great Sea towards the New World. Second, during the journey, despite her aforementioned thalassophobia, Jolanta had to act as a witcher against sea monsters, thus foreshadowing her destiny as a co-founder of the School of the Crane. Third, through rumors that indirectly mentioned Putnam and talked about his new school. And fourth and last, through verifying these rumors herself, once the ship made its usual technical stop in Hawaiki, and she decided to stay, thinking to satisfy her curiosity and then continue her journey to the Western Continent, unaware that, after that harmless act to satisfy her curiosity, the island would become her new home for many years. She arrived at the still unnamed fortress to inquire about these new witchers, as already mentioned, on Putnam's 126th birthday, more precisely at nightfall. And due to the situation they were going through in the fortress with Stefan and his illness, as if it were a light in the darkness.

Putnam Pitch and Jolanta Dinmarb ( Circa, 1490s )

In fact, Putnam was the one who received her, as when she arrived it was late at night, and he was the only one still awake, having spent entire nights taking care of Stefan. Putnam looked very tired. The reception was not uncomfortable but rather tense, after so many years. Putting it in poetic terms, "the sea had brought her to his shore," and initially, Putnam didn't quite know how to react, as things like the conversation they never had 21 years ago when she left the next day weighed between them. Still, he treated her with the courtesy one extends to a guest, explained everything about the fortress that very night, assigned her a room (a room which, as a curiosity, in the future would be the room of one of his adopted sons, Ezeld), and the next day, about the concept of the school, in addition to introducing her to the people who were part of it at that time. Little did they both know that what would initially seem like staying for a few days would end up becoming being together again, shaping and leading the school together for 119 years, getting married, and overcoming the so-called "bone weddings" barrier.

With their return to being together, thanks, curiously, to Stefan and his illness, they demonstrated to each other, without uttering a word, just how much they loved each other by staying together again in the bad, as on many other occasions, such as in 1281 or 1360. Jolanta, noticing Putnam's tiredness (and according to her, although she didn't believe it herself, as a favor for letting him stay in the fortress for a few days), would join the former Golden Griffin in his sleepless nights, taking care of the one who went from being the "nestling" of the (ex) Griffin to being both of theirs. Surprisingly, Putnam, as stubborn and "I don't need anyone's help" as he was, accepted. Who knows if it was because he missed her company, felt the weight of age (at least mentally), was very tired, or simply because he had changed; the fact is that he accepted. Not without always watching over her well-being and ensuring she didn't overexert herself, which, little by little, began to rekindle the embers of that lost love, turning them back into a bonfire that would burn strongly when the key moment finally arrived after several days. This moment being nothing more and nothing less than Jolanta's risky (and without consulting Putnam, as well as lying to the rest of the staff) decision to make Stefan go through the Trial of the Grasses when she noticed that the disease was about to take him to his death. This would ultimately save the boy, but not without leaving him with green feline eyes due to the illness, similar to Coën from the School of the Griffin in his day after suffering from smallpox.

This pivotal moment, in fact, occurred more specifically when Putnam left the fortress to consult with the local doctors, hoping to gain insights into the various endemic diseases of the islands and some method to help Stefan. In his absence, Jolanta took advantage to perform that risky act, as Putnam would be absent for six days (three going, and three returning), with only one day's difference from when the changes produced by the Trial of the Grasses would generaly take place (that is, one week).

And you can imagine the rest. When Putnam returned to the fortress (unfortunately without any progress) and learned of what Jolanta had done without his permission, his face flushed with contained anger. He sought out the still Cat witcheress, and without a word, silently praying to Freyja for Stefan to survive the day he had still left, he stared at Jolanta with a look that could have melted steel. But she, despite it all, stood her ground (though deep down, she had a strange mix of fear, astonishment, and excitement), aware that she had crossed a dangerous line. What followed was the biggest scolding Jolanta had ever received in her life. Putnam was so furious that, in Roth's exact words, who went to see what was happening, "it seemed like he had been possessed by a demon and had turned into a madman." Few kind words came out of his mouth, and he shouted so much that he even became hoarse. "How dare she," "she was just a guest," "if Stefan were to die, she would never see his face again in her life, and he would banned her forever from entering the fortress" were among the many things Putnam said to her. These were the milder ones; there's no need to delve into the rest.

The dining room of the fortress during the day

It wouldn't be until Stefan stopped waking up and screaming, with Putnam confirming he was still alive and had likely survived that part of the Trial of the Grasses, that the witcher's anger slowly gave way to the unresolved tension between him and Jolanta. This tension transformed into a gaze filled with pent-up emotions. They found themselves at a point of no return, where passion and fury intertwined in a dangerous dance. The tension between them reached its peak on the same night. In the reflection of the flames illuminating the dining room, during a seemingly troubled and silent dinner that appeared to end badly with another outburst from Putnam, their gazes sparked with pent-up emotions, and their breaths synchronized slowly.

It was a casual brush, barely noticeable, when they both reached for the salt to season their food, and it broke the ice. Their hands met by accident as they both reached for the salt shaker. A shiver ran down their spines, and in that moment, the anger and frustration on Putnam's part, and to some extent, the guilt that Jolanta ultimately felt for not having informed Putnam of her intentions with Stefan, gave way to something more intense.

Without uttering a word, Putnam rose from his seat and gently pulled Jolanta closer to him, and their lips met in a passionate yet silent kiss. It was a kiss that spoke of years of complicity, repressed love, and a connection they had never been able to deny completely.

Time seemed to stand still as they lost themselves in that kiss, in the warmth of their bodies drawing closer. It was a moment of catharsis, where they released the built-up tension. They realized that, despite everything, they still felt something for each other, something that had survived time and distance.

Finally, they parted, their gazes now filled with a new complicity. Without the need for words, they had found a way to heal the wounds of the past, from Putnam's 1281 abandonment, through the painful breakup in Vinland, ending with Jolanta's aforementioned abandonment of Putnam in 1360, and moved forward together into an uncertain future. The passion they had shared in that instant reminded them that, although the road would be complicated, they were willing to face it together, united by something stronger than pride or anger: the love they had never stopped feeling for each other.

With that being said, shortly after Stefan successfully completed the Trial of the Grasses, Jolanta made the heartfelt choice to remain by Putnam's side, opting not to join Lambert and the other Lynxes. Her decision was more than well-received by Putnam and the others, including Stefan. In a meaningful gesture, Putnam presented her with a Crane medallion and also bestowed upon her the grandmaster's mantle that she would share with him, signifying their shared commitment as equals on this journey and true partners in every sense. And with this, the School of the Crane was de facto born.

The First Ones ( 1381 - 1383 / 1383 - 1400 )

After Jolanta joined the school and became a grandmaster, they began to discuss, refine, implement, change, and polish ideas that she and Putnam had. On some occasions, both of them would yield to the other's idea, but often, they would reach a middle ground or even come up with a new and better idea after extensive debate. Furthermore, their wedding took place in the summer of that same year. It was an intimate ceremony, held on the beach just ten minutes away from the fortress, following a civil rite. Charz, Jabolet, and Stefan acted as witnesses, with Roth officiating the ceremony.

Only after the wedding would they begin the search for more first students, who, like Stefan, as mentioned before, would also become their adopted children. The next after Stefan would be Math, a two-year-old Nordling, along with a batch of more children after visiting the Elmia Orphanage. Most of these children had lost their parents due to monsters, either on their way to the islands, arriving as shipwrecks, or on the islands themselves. So, it made sense to start there.

In due course, Putnam and Jolanta brokered an accord with the colonial government. It stipulated that children who remained unadopted after a certain period would find refuge within the fortress. This landmark agreement would serve as the precursor to a series of subsequent pacts, encompassing various domains. These included safeguards to shield the Cranes from things like the pogroms suffered by other schools in the past, granting them a degree of legal protection and, if necessary, assistance in defense against potential aggressors (a guarantee never absolute, yet an achievement in its own right).

Following Stefan and Math, Orser and Ucalt would be welcomed. Aged 5 and 3 respectively, Orser hailed from Nordling heritage, while Ucalt was of Silk Islander origin. Their rescue by Putnam and Jolanta unfolded during a voyage through the islands in search of potential students. They had been kidnapped by a pirate ship that had plundered their village along with other children, intending to "gift" them to certain nobles with a disturbing interest in children, in exchange for a large sum of money.

After Orser and Ucalt, at some point in 1382, Ezeld, a one-year-old of Nordling origin, would join the family next. Putnam and Jolanta saved him from being eaten by an orange dragon that had taken his parents, all while they were on their way to investigate rumored ghostly appearances at the mysterious Moai statues of Hawaiki on orders from the vice-governor. This was in exchange for future Crane adepts from local orphans, this time not only from the Elmia Orphanage as they had previously agreed, but also from the private orphanage in the port city of Putnam.

After Stefan, Math, Orser, Ucalt, and Ezeld, the following members would join the family between the remaining of 1382 and 1383:

Acol, 2 years old, of mixed origins, the child of a noble Nordling from New Verden and a native of The Plains, given to Putnam and Jolanta as a reward (instead of the money he promised them) for having freed him from the specter of his wife, which would later be classified as a chocani. Deeran, of Nordling origin and two years old, was saved by Putnam and Jolanta while they were on a contract to deal with an abere and Enu, also of Nordling origin and two years old, was saved by Jolanta from his abusive family, similar to how Pardus of Korath did with hers, meaning, by killing them in the process.

And after this three, Uzoma, of three years old, was the son of a Nordling settler who had become a fisherman and was killed by an adaro. Putnam was, in fact, "hired" by the then-child to find his father, discovering his body, dispatching the monster, and then taking the child with him since he had no other family and couldn't leave him alone. Idowu, of mixed origins, was the son of two merchants: a father who was half Zangvebarian and half Ofieri, and a mother who was half Melukkan and half Nilfgaardian. They were en route to the Zangvebarian Colonies, as Putnam was able to ascertain through his investigation when he found him. Idowu was just six months old at the time, the sole survivor of a shipwreck after their vessel was attacked by a lusca, and finally, Halsey, better known as Bo, was the only girl of that generation (although more would be trained and mutated later, all thanks to advances like those of Nasira). She was the youngest of all the siblings, of unknown origin but likely Tuyotukian, and was just 1 month old. When Putnam found her during his and Jolanta's passage through the Nilfgaardian Overseas Provinces, she was the sole survivor of a massacre carried out by a group of bandits on a slave plantation. Initially, Putnam had considered returning her to the owner of the slave plantation, but the then-baby grew so attached to him that he ultimately decided to keep her.

Along with the children who came with Math, they would amount to a total of about 40. Out of these, only around 10 would survive the Trial of the Grasses. These survivors would also endure the rest of the trials and, as mentioned before, graduate to become the First Ones or the first generation of Cranes.

As time passed, as also previously mentioned, they would become the adopted children of Putnam and Jolanta. The couple grew just as fond of them as they had with Stefan back in the day, eventually legally adopting them. This meant they were raised and trained not only as comrades but practically as biological siblings, even though they were not.

In fact, one could say that the fortress at that time transformed into the home of a large family, with individuals like Roth, who became akin to an uncle figure for the first Cranes. This pattern would repeat in the subsequent generations of Cranes, though perhaps not quite as intensely.

The School of the Crane signs off on the Witcher Reformation Act ( 1390 )

“One of the problems that we have, that brought about the downfall of both the order and many schools, Adalwulf, was that we had no guide to conduct for all, no set of moral principles to share despite our differences. The Bears? Pragmatic but lacking empathy, solely focused on efficiency. The Cats? Let's not talk about them; we already know their history. The Wolves? Good people, yes, balanced both as professionals and as individuals, but also lacking a code of conduct. With it, incidents like Berengar's betrayal could have been avoided and the school may have survived. If we want to ensure the future of our guild, in my opinion, I think we should start with that.”

―Putnam to Adalwulf during the latter's visit to Kaer Darh.

After 10 years of training the first Cranes, mostly peaceful with only occasional minor scares, mainly from Ezeld, the year 1390 arrived with a significant event, not only for the Cranes but for the entire witcher guild in general. This event was none other than the visits of Adalwulf of Aedirn, a long-time friend of Putnam, to the different witcher schools on both sides of the world, in order for them to sign the document known as the Witcher's Reformation Act. This document aimed not to restore the old Order but at least to bring more unity to the guild and thus prevent mistakes like those of the extinct Order of Witchers, and the various schools that succeeded the order, which nearly led to their disappearance in the past.

Additionally, it sought to prevent events such as the Cats' betrayal of the Wolves or what the Foxes themselves suffered at the hands of the School of the Rat. Adalwulf began with the schools present on the Old Continent, namely Griffin, Viper, Manticore, and Gyrfalcon. By that same year, he already had his sights set on having those on the Western Continent also sign the act. He started first with the Cranes on the Silk Islands, and concluded with the Lynxes on the Western Continent. Later, he added the School of the Bat once it was founded. However, he couldn't include the School of the Dragon or the School of the Basan in the treaty due to their remote locations in the Far East of the Old Continent.

It's worth mentioning that Adalwulf and Putnam, after Putnam moved and started the School of the Crane, didn't lose contact, but it simply became more sporadic over time. Initially, it was through letters (which took three months to arrive), and later through letters and also through a megascope once amplifiers were installed in the fortress to establish a connection with the Old Continent. However, this too was somewhat sporadic for a simple reason: it depended heavily on the weather. When clouds from the Mad Sea extended beyond that region of the ocean, the connection became too unstable for proper communication.

As an interesting fact, it seemed that the two friends were quite in sync. Despite the distance, and even though Adalwulf had already planned the visit, it was Putnam who came first and encouraged him to come to Kaer Darh in one of the many letters that they usually wrote to each other. They had briefly discussed the act during their megascope meetings, and after much consideration, Putnam felt that it wasn't a bad idea for the Cranes to join. However, he wanted to discuss it in person and perhaps propose some reforms.

It was thanks to Adalwulf's act, among other factors, such as his admiration for figures like Geralt of Rivia and Raven, to name two examples, that Putnam would be inspired to create what would be known as the Codex of the White-Haired, with the help of Jolanta, of course, who provided a necessary touch of pragmatism and realism to counterbalance Putnam's idealism reflected in the initial version. This codex would ultimately serve as a moral guide for the witchers in the Silk Islands and the Western Continent at first (once Putnam managed to get in touch with Lambert and convinced him, albeit reluctantly ), aiming to prevent things like the corruption of the Cats in the past. It would later expand and also be used by the witchers of the Old Continent after being implemented in Adalwulf's act following his visit to the fortress along with his sisters and two more Fox companions.

Adalwulf received the letter warmly, agreeing to meet his friend in person. Together with Ukok, Natka, and the mages Eishe of Vicovaro and Arrah of Verden, they embarked on a journey aboard a ship of The Company to the Silk Islands. Their visit lasted approximately two months, during which the two friends reconnected on a personal level. They engaged in lengthy, almost philosophical discussions about the document, interspersed with various activities such as observing the students' training and fishing. Following Adalwulf's stay at Kaer Darh, Putnam's codex was integrated into the act. Originally designed for his own school and later adopted by the Lynxes after Jolanta suggested to Putnam that he should try to convince Lambert to adopted it, it found a place among the broader witcher community, thanks to Fox. This act marked a significant step towards unity and moral clarity within the guild.

However, it's important to note that the Griffins stood as an exception. Despite their endorsement of Adalwulf's act, they retained their own distinct code. They found the Codex's perceived "excessive pragmatism" to be at odds with their own values and traditions, leading them to preserve their unique way of operating within the guild.

Training of the next five generations of School of the Crane witchers ( 1400 - 1500 )

Shortly after Adalwulf's visit in 1390, more precisely one month later, the first graduation of the school would take place, which would be Stefan's, nicknamed Stefan "The Crane" by his brothers, because he was the first student of the school. He would emerge at the age of 18 into the world as the first witcher from the School of the Crane. On the other hand, his brothers wouldn't finish their training (due to the age difference with Stefan) until the year 1400. It's in this year that the first generation of Crane witchers, as such, would emerge into the world (excluding Stefan, as he was an exceptional case due to his circumstances), joining their older brother in the task of protecting the skies and seas of the world.

After that, Putnam and Jolanta continued to train five more generations of Cranes, eventually with the help of their adopted children as teachers in various fields, as well as previous generations of Cranes who grew up, graduated, and gained experience. They retired from being grandmasters and teaching in 1500, moving to live a relatively peaceful life on the outskirts of the capital of Fabiola, Cherdian, in a house given to Putnam by the vice-governor as a gift during one of the anniversaries of the foundation of Fabiola, since he was the only member still alive from the expedition that discovered the islands and the Western Continent. Putnam focused mainly on painting, with Jolanta as his muse, occasionally taking on contracts to stay sharp, so to speak. Jolanta did the same regarding contracts, but also enjoyed the pleasures of life with her husband. They passed the mantle of grandmaster to Ucalt, who would remain in the position until 1555.

Unfortunately, Roth would not accompany them, as Putnam would retire the dwarf from his work, passing on the mantle of the School of the Crane's blacksmith to his apprentices, and that of the cook to a new worker around 1450, as he believed that, with all he had done, he had already repaid his life debt to him. Thus granting him a more than well-deserved retirement. Roth would pass away shortly after in 1455, at the age of 200. The entire School of the Crane would attend his funeral and mourn his loss.

During this time, many things happened. One of the most notable, as well as tragic due to the large number of victims it claimed, occurred in the year 1410. It was the attack on the main population centers of Fabiola and the Silk Islands by the Higher Vampire tribe known as Ammurun, along with a wide variety of vampires from both classifications. They felt they were losing control over what they considered their "territories" and sought to intimidate and subjugate humans to their will. Some of these vampires were even unknown to humanity until that date. However, in the end, humans managed to repel them. Due to this event reaching the islands, it led the School of the Crane to get involved. One of its members, Math, lost an arm during this time and had to use a prosthetic. This experience later motivated him to establish the School of the Bat in an attempt to find a way to deal with them and prevent something like this from happening again.

As an interesting side note, Putnam also came close to death during this event when he attempted to face what would later be known as a talamaur on his own. However, with the combined efforts of Math, Ezeld, and Jolanta, they managed to save his life at the last moment.

Others worth mentioning, both for their joyousness and their equal interest, included Bo's pairing and subsequent marriage to a diplomat from the Tuyotuki Islands. This would later lead her to establish another school branching off from the Cranes, the School of the Basan, on the other side of the world. However, this school was not solely focused on the Tuyotuki, unlike a certain offshoot School of the Manticore.

There was also the confrontation of Putnam and Jolanta against one of Dagon's sons, the dilemma both Crane parents had to deal with regarding the erumía, the usual pirate attacks to the islands from time to time, the problem with the selamodir, which involved the participation of many members of the school (though not all), and the deception of the tabibal.

Putnam's death ( 1555 )

For more context, visit Putnam Pitch's article.

His death, like Jolanta's, had a significant impact on the school, with a special emphasis on his adopted children. Especially Ezeld, who, after losing both his parents, underwent a considerable change in attitude, and Ucalt, who would end up resigning from the position of grandmaster after Putnam's death because he couldn't handle the responsibilities of the position given how he felt. Without Putnam and Jolanta, he felt very lost, as he would occasionally seek their advice. Stefan then took up the mantle, but he would only last a year in the position for similar reasons. This led, in the end, to Ezeld taking the position by 1556. The difference with Jolanta's death lay in one key point, and that is, while Putnam was alive, he could bring order, despite the pain of losing their adoptive mother. After he died, the chaos that arose from grief erupted, and sooner rather than later, intense discussions began among the siblings about what to do now that dad was gone, as well as where to hold the funeral, whether in Kaer Darh or Kaer Seren, because Putnam, despite no longer being a Griffin, still had a lot of affection for his old school.

It wasn't until Adalwulf received the news of Putnam's death (as he was on the Western Continent, investigating the appearance of Dagon) after passing through Cherdian (since that was, obviously, the talk of the city for a long time), that he, upon going to Kaer Darh, would ultimately bring some order, providing guidance to the disoriented Cranes on what to do.

In the end, a middle ground was reached, with neither side prevailing. Putnam's body received the Crane funeral rite, becoming the second to do so after Jolanta, and his heart was removed, split in half, and cremated. Half of the ashes were scattered in the cemetery of Kaer Seren, next to Keldar's grave, and the other half on the beach by his house in Cherdian, where Jolanta and he had spent so much time in their final years together. Adalwulf and Ezeld respectively took on this task.

Location

Kaer Darh

The School of the Crane is situated in the fortress known as Kaer Darh, a name derived from the Elder Speech dialect of the Silk Islands, meaning "Home of the Birds." This fortress is designed in an architectural style akin to structures found in territories like Vicovaro, showcasing influences from Nordling colonial and Dwarven war architecture due to the constructors. Nestled in the Sachs Mountains, renowned for their diverse avian population, the fortress draws its name from the abundance of bird species in the surroundings. Located along the coastline of Hawaiki Island, it stands near the mouth of the Tangaroa River.

Kaer Darh is positioned approximately three days' journey by horse from the main population centers of the island. It lies about a day and a half's travel from Mount Iska, the source of the Tangaroa River. This river is famed for its monsters, other predators, and the presence of friendly pink dolphins. The School of the Crane employs this river for a trial equivalent to the Trial of the Mountains in other schools. Among Crane Witchers, this trial is named the "Trial of Turbulence," requiring adept navigational boat skills through the river's turbulent waters while fending off attacks from primarily aquatic and occasionally aerial monsters and creatures from the surrounding jungle as the candidates make their way back to the fortress.

The fortress is also conveniently positioned a two-day journey from the eastern port city of Putnam. Serving as a regional port between Hawaiki and the surrounding islands, Putnam's tranquil waters contribute to its importance.

The beach at night

A mere 10-minute stroll from the school brings one to its beach, a versatile space utilized for an array of purposes, ranging from training exercises to solemn funeral rites when circumstances warrant. This beach also boasts a small harbor and a diminutive lighthouse constructed in the style of the Kerack lighthouse. While rarely employed, these additions serve as precautionary measures, ready to guide and aid lost ships should the need arise, thereby mitigating potential accidents.

Due to the School of the Crane's fortress being three days away from the main population centers on the island of Hawaiki, it has its own farm and orchard, which provide basic sustenance for its inhabitants, including meat, vegetables, fruits, and legumes. Fish is directly sourced from the beach, using various fishing methods. The remaining food is supplemented with non-perishable items purchased in the aforementioned population centers, including goods from the Old Continent and the Western Continent that are not found in the climate of the Silk Islands. All of this is made possible thanks to the ships that stop in Hawaiki while traveling to one of the two aforementioned main destinations.

The main source of protein obtained from the farm is thanks to the dodos that are raised there, both for their meat and their eggs. Although there are also some Biathian pigs (specifically from Ketu Rahu) acquired through the Nilfgaardian ships that also make stops in Hawaiki en route to the Nilfgaardian Overseas Provinces located in the Western Continent.

As for the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and legumes, it is not uncommon for Crane adepts (and Crane witchers when they return to the fortress) to eat things such as coconuts, blue bananas, dragon fruits, melon pears, starfruit, okra, squash, callaloo, sweet potatoes, beans, corn, and cassava. They also have access to other foods (both fruits and vegetables) that are found in both parts of the world.

In addition to that, they have a section of the orchard transformed into a greenhouse dedicated to growing the herbs necessary for the various witcher potions.

The monsoon season in Hawaiki

Situated in a tropical climate, the School of the Crane benefits from the absence of the conventional winter period when monsters take refuge, and they have to wait for the arrival of spring. Yet, a parallel challenge emerges on the islands – the monsoon season, which presents a distinctive set of circumstances. This phenomenon is particularly important for those Crane Witchers who specialize in eradicating rivers or flying monsters, as opposed to those who exclusively fight in the seas.

Spanning from November to March, the monsoon season is a formidable force. As torrential rains and flooding become prevalent, arriving on the island and subsequently navigating the environment of Hawaiki to reach Kaer Darh becomes intricate and demanding. Given these adversities, many opt to commence their return to the fortress just before the onset of the monsoon season. This strategic decision is motivated by the awareness that returning during this time could pose challenges due to the inclement weather conditions.

As a result, a substantial portion of Crane Witchers typically complete their journey back to the fortress no later than early November. This timing allows them to evade the more intense phase of the monsoon season, ensuring a safer and more manageable return to the stronghold.

Characteristics

The Cranes prove to be the best remedy for the monsters of the air and the sea that can be encountered on the long routes between Cherdian and Novigrad. Due to this, they have developed a series of unique characteristics that differentiate them from other witchers, which are as follows:

Trials

The School of the Crane has trials similar to those of other witcher schools, with the exception of three. These are their equivalents of the Trial of the Mountains, known as the Trial of Turbulence; their graduation trial, which resembles the one the School of the Griffin once had, and involves either reciting the Crane's Bestiary from memory or going after an Orange Dragon egg and bringing it back to the fortress (most opt for the former due to the danger of the latter, notable exceptions being individuals like Ezeld from back in the day); and their Trial of the Dreams, which is practically the same as in other schools, but in this case, the unique mutations possessed by the witchers of this school are also applied.

Training

The training of the School of the Crane could be accurately described as a comprehensive preparation to excel under diverse adverse weather conditions, with a particular emphasis on conquering challenges posed by "wind and tide." This training amalgamates various elements from the schools that contributed to its formation.

Some examples of this include training in etiquette from the Griffins (necessary, for instance, to know how to deal with bourgeoisie or aristocracy, especially in situations like negotiating a better contract to protect the ship they're about to board). Another example is the balance training from the second iteration of the School of the Cat, which involves walking a tightrope blindfolded, while the rope gets higher as they progress in their mastery of balance. This aspect of their training not only tests their physical agility but also nurtures the concentration and mental dexterity required to face uncertainty calmly.

This set of skills developed during their training, coupled with the unique combat style cultivated by the school, produces graduates who are true masters of adaptability and resilience. In extreme situations such as a storm at sea, these individuals can maintain balance, both literally and metaphorically, as they boldly and skillfully confront imminent threats. The result is highly competent witchers who embody the very essence of the School of the Crane: perseverance, versatility, and mastery in the most challenging conditions. Interestingly, if one delves into the history of its two founders, these are characteristics that define both of them quite well.

Combat Style

The sword combat style of the School of the Crane originates from the fighting technique of the extinct School of the Cat, known as Addan Aenye. This stands as one of Jolanta's significant contributions in shaping the school's identity. While Putnam conceptualized the idea, provided the necessary funds, and oversaw the construction of the fortress, Jolanta's involvement was pivotal; without her, the school would not have evolved into what it has become.

This foundational style, upon which the Crane's sword combat approach was meticulously developed, places paramount emphasis on swiftness and precision over brute striking power. It showcased its superiority in unpredictable terrains, such as ships or semi-aquatic environments like swamps and mangroves, where executing powerful movements posed heightened challenges. The added resistance of water, for instance, posed distinct obstacles for the Crane witcher that couldn't be overcome with a slower sword fighting style.

Furthermore, when faced with aerial monsters and lacking a crossbow or pistol (which emerged in the 18th century), a precisely targeted, lethal strike to a critical area took precedence over a slower but potentially more brutal attack that could falter. This was essential since the latter strategy could provoke the monster to retaliate, thus exposing the fighter to heightened danger.

In the subsequent stages, additional combat styles imported from Zerrikania via Charz, the first fencing instructor of the school, were skillfully integrated. Moreover, Putnam's extended winter tenure at the School of the Fox as a fencing tutor, during which he avidly absorbed some knowledge from the Fox witchers, left an indelible imprint. Indirect influences from the combat style of the School of the Griffin also played a contributory role. As Putnam unlearned his prior combat style and gradually assimilated the new one, inadvertent amalgamation of certain techniques from his old school occurred. These final embellishments ultimately defined the Crane's distinctive sword fighting methodology.

Once painstakingly refined and perfected, this combat style acquired its appellation: "An Dannsa Nan Vangves," which translates from Elder Speech to "The Dance of Storms." It encapsulates a combat doctrine firmly centered around speed, precision, and the adeptness to maintain accuracy against multiple adversaries, should circumstances demand.

When it comes to adapting to different weaponry and excelling in close-quarters combat, Crane witchers employ a distinct and innovative martial art style called Gaoth (meaning "wind" in Silk Islander Dialect) that skillfully integrates principles from Basilian Wrestling, in which Jolanta exhibited prowess, and the Mau Rakau, a martial discipline Putnam acquired during his early sojourn in Hawaiki from the Silk Islanders. This fusion of techniques and philosophies has yielded an exceptional and highly effective combat approach.

This syncretic martial art proves invaluable, endowing Crane witchers with a versatile skill set that allows them to navigate and prevail in various unarmed combat scenarios, even against multiple opponents. The inherent agility and strategic prowess woven into the martial art enable them to seamlessly respond to complex and rapidly evolving situations, ensuring their effectiveness on the battlefield.

What sets this martial art apart is its capacity to empower Crane witchers in the use of diverse non-sword weapons. Unlike other styles that may require a protracted period of adaptation to wield unfamiliar weapons, this syncretic approach streamlines the learning process. With an inherent understanding of principles like balance, leverage, and timing, Crane witchers can proficiently wield a range of non-sword weapons. Whether it's a staff, a dagger, or even improvised objects, their expertise is readily transferable, granting them a significant advantage in combat versatility.

Armor

The Crane witchers' combat specialization, which focuses on aquatic and aerial monsters, profoundly influences their approach to protective attire. Unlike other witcher schools that rely heavily on traditional armor, the Cranes adopt a different strategy. They forgot the weight and encumbrance of conventional armor in favor of a lighter, more flexible form of protection, often choosing the comfort and freedom of common clothing. Their attire is distinguished by specialized footwear, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards, along with numerous belts, hauberks, and various pouches and holsters for weapons.

This preference for practicality and mobility over bulkier defensive gear, like the one use by the School of the Griffin or the gear worn by the extinct School of the Bear, underscores the pragmatic mindset of the Cranes. Their chosen "armor" takes the form of a uniform, uniting them under a recognizable visual identity. However, this uniform isn't merely a matter of aesthetics; it serves to distinguish their ranks within the school's hierarchy.

The subtleties within their uniform lie in the varied colors and patterns adorning their attire. These distinctive markings signify their individual ranks and roles within the school. From the Crane adept striving to graduate as a witcher to the seasoned master witcher with many years on The Path behind them, each Crane witcher's uniform acts as a visual representation of their journey, accomplishments, and expertise. Typically (though not always), brighter colors are used by novices or individuals of lower rank, such as freshly graduated witchers. Conversely, darker colors are worn by individuals like master witchers. As previously mentioned, colors are also utilized to designate various roles within the school. The combination of specific colors is what sets one apart from another; for example, the grandmaster's uniform is usually a combination of gray and white or dark blue-green.

Crossbow

Due to their battles against aerial monsters, witchers from the School of the Crane have added a crossbow to their arsenal of combat tools. Yet, their specialization has led them to embrace a distinct approach compared to their counterparts from other witcher schools. Rather than settling for any run-of-the-mill crossbow, these witchers use a crossbow of their own design, inspired by the renowned Zerrikanian Repeating Crossbow used many times by one of their founders.

Diverging from the traditional Nordling crossbows, which demand a pause for reloading after each shot, the Crane School's crossbow, similar to the one it is inspired by, allows the user—in this case, Crane witchers—to unleash a rapid succession of arrows without the burden of constant reloading. The crossbow retains its deadly efficacy until the quiver is emptied, enabling witchers to rain down a barrage of projectiles upon their adversaries in quick succession. Such a tactical advantage proves invaluable, especially when combating the agile and elusive airborne foes that frequently cross the paths of these witchers.

As a curiosity, it should be noted that during the first two generations of the School of the Crane, some witchers, such as Ucalt and Constant, disobeyed the advice of Putnam and Jolanta and began using bows in their equipment. They argued that the Crane's crossbow was too complicated to handle in combat and took too much time when facing flying monsters. They believed that using a bow and arrows would save them time, even though it was a more primitive option, and this led to the spread of the use of this weapon as a trend among the school's members. However, this trend did not last long because, as it was evident, using a bow and arrows against aerial monsters was quite inefficient compared to the Crane's crossbow. So, sooner rather than later, they went back to using the crossbow.

However, with the arrival of the 18th century, winds of change swept across the realm of weaponry. The allure of early firearms seized the attention of weapon crafters, other warriors, and Crane witchers alike, prompting the gradual relegation of the Zerrikanian Repeating Crossbow to the annals of antiquity. As emerging firearms technology promised increased firepower and versatility against flying monsters for the Crane witchers, the once-revered crossbow began to fade from the School of the Crane combat repertoire.

Swords

Crane Steel Sword

Crane Silver Sword

Crafted and meticulously designed by Roth, the first blacksmith of the School of the Crane, the Silver and Steel Crane swords stand as a testament to ingenuity and craftsmanship of the highest order. Every facet of their creation bears the mark of Roth's skill and dedication, resulting in weapons that are nothing short of remarkable.

However, these swords are far more than mere products of their craft. They are the embodiment of a carefully orchestrated design that serves a dual purpose. Not content with being simply tools, these swords have been expertly fashioned to thrive in the face of formidable challenges. Their first role is to withstand the tremendous pressures that accompany great water depths, an essential trait for a Crane witcher on many occasions. Beyond this, a second purpose emerges – to excel in the daunting task of subduing aquatic monstrosities that lurk beneath the waves. This impressive functionality springs from the integration of two novel silver and steel alloys, setting them apart from the conventional alloys employed in the crafting of witcher swords across other schools. These innovative alloys impart a harmonious blend of lightweight agility that allows for swift underwater movements, akin to those on land, and unyielding strength that grants resistance to the aforementioned pressure. This delicate balance sets them apart. Additionally, it's worth noting that the formation of oxide on these swords takes a certain amount of time, contributing to their unique characteristics.

Signs

Much like any witcher, the members of the School of the Crane also utilize Signs, and thanks to their heritage from the School of the Griffin, they extensively employ Signs in their work. What sets them apart from other witchers is not only which Signs they use, but also how they use them, their possession of a unique Sign, and their utilization of alternative forms of certain Signs.

For example, the witchers of the School of the Crane have a distinct Sign called "Reverte," developed by one of their founders, Putnam Pitch. This Sign functions in reverse to Aard, enabling them to draw targets or objects closer to themselves. This capability can be employed to eliminate escaping targets or retrieve lost objects, such as a sword flung during combat or tossed at an adversary—an occurrence frequently encountered when battling aerial monsters.

Contrastingly, they exhibit less inclination towards employing Igni, while favoring the Hatri Sign to instill fear in monsters. Additionally, they possess a variation of Supirre, akin to the version pioneered by the witcher of the School of the Viper, known as Warrit. This variation empowers them to engage in a type of echolocation that aids them in tracking their adversaries, proving particularly beneficial in marine or aquatic environments where the conventional method of trailing a monster becomes markedly challenging. This latter version of Supirre was also utilized and improved by their sister school, the School of the Bat.

Inherited from the School of the Griffin, they frequently harness several Signs that were once exclusive to this school before the establishment of the School of the Crane. Notable among these are Volun, employed in their case to make aerial monsters fall through the lightning bolt it produces, and Vintyr, in their case utilized to bewilder, immobilize, or eliminate aquatic monsters by chilling or freezing the water surrounding them. This versatile Sign also finds use in hindering the movements of aerial monsters when they are grounded.

Potions & Bombs

Regarding the utilization of bombs and potions, notable disparities are scarce, particularly concerning potions, when comparing a Crane witcher to their professional peers hailing from the various witcher schools. The defining factor that truly distinguishes the Crane witchers lies in their unique mutations, which empower them to more effectively exploit the outcomes of specific elixirs, with the most notable case being the use of Killer Whale and its variants.

In matters such as the use of bombs in combat, a significant differentiation becomes apparent, especially concerning the array of ordnance they deploy against aquatic monstrosities. These specialized bombs are meticulously crafted to confront the distinct challenges presented by deep-sea monsters and other predatorial creatures, thus highlighting the Crane witchers' exceptional expertise in dealing with these aquatic adversaries. Their proficiency extends beyond mere combat; the Crane witchers demonstrate a refined understanding of the underwater environment, resulting in bombs that possess an extended range and heightened efficacy within aquatic settings but are comparatively weaker on land. These bombs were created by Zendrir Aschenlich, a gnome inventor, friend of Roth, who was able to join the school thanks to the dwarf's recommendation once it officially started. Zendrir would be also, the inventor of the protective suit that Cranes use in the High Seas.

Chain device

School of the Crane chain device

Another fundamental part of the Crane's equipment is its chain device. This allows them to store the silver chain used by witchers against different monsters in a more compact space rather than carrying it gathered up, relieving the weight, something crucial due to the terrains they combat in. Additionally, it enables them to throw it with greater speed, which is very useful for using it as a climbing tool, whether on terrain or against large monsters, both flying and aquatic, to prevent them from escaping or to confront them directly.

Unique Mutations

“Oh, the gills? Do not worry my friend, they will disappear within a day or two”

―Jabolet to Putnam during his process of acquiring the new mutations.

The School of the Crane found itself compelled to develop a unique series of mutations compared to other witcher schools. This was essential to ensure the most effective execution of their specializations. These mutations were meticulously crafted by Jabolet, the mage of the school. His intense interest in the subject of mutations, coupled with his close friendship with one of the founders, Putnam Pitch, whom he had become acquainted with during Fabio Sachs' expedition to the Far North, led him to join the school and drove the development process.

This knowledge was carefully passed down to future generations of Crane witchers, ensuring its preservation in the face of potential misfortune. As an added safeguard, bronze copies detailing the mutation process and these crucial new mutations, indispensable for the work of witchers trained in this unique school, were created and securely buried in a concealed location.

The novel mutations were aimed at addressing fundamental yet critical aspects: enhancing the survival capabilities of Crane witchers in aquatic environments and against airborne monsters. In the realm of aerial combat, the Crane witchers were bestowed with two distinctive abilities intricately linked to their purpose. One entailed heightened speed, enabling them to move 12 times faster than an average human and 2% faster than an average witcher. This mutation was specifically devised for scenarios such as losing their mount due to a monster's attack, allowing them to reach their target and kill it, if it was fleeing, or escape themselves if needed. The second adaptation involved a more efficient utilization of oxygen, a trait that extended to underwater scenarios as well. This enhancement rendered potions like Killer Whale, including their improved variants such as Superior Killer Whale, significantly more potent for Crane witchers compared to their counterparts.

Conversely, the aquatic mutations, though numerous in comparison to the others, can be concisely summarized. They grant enhanced resistance to water pressure when submerged, heightened resilience to cold (delaying the onset of hypothermia), and superior underwater visibility. While other witchers can perceive underwater environments, their telescopic vision is restricted underwater, limiting their ability to detect distant predator threats. The Crane witchers are exempt from this constraint, ensuring a higher survival rate in oceanic environments. This adaptation was inspired by a tribe of one of the Silk Islands that Jabolet studied during his time living with them, and they possessed the characteristic of clear underwater vision due to a natural mutation.

Lastly, two additional mutations were introduced. One conferred thermal vision upon consuming the Anglerfish potion (universally regarded as the most unpleasant-tasting potion by Crane witchers). This adaptation proved valuable when confronting sea monsters (and also useful against airborne monsters) at night. By avoiding the use of their version of the Supirre Sign in that scenario, which might awaken the monster, the Crane witchers could mitigate the risk of a confrontation or a more challenging battle with an extremely alert and prepared monster. The other mutation endowed them with enhanced flexibility beyond the capabilities of the average witcher, something that helped them face monsters with heightened adaptability and agility, providing an advantage in many situations, but especially in underwater combat where their mobility could be more restricted.

These final mutations were devised as Jabolet perfected the others and scrutinized the remnants salvaged by Putnam from the ill-fated School of the Siren during Fabio's expedition to the Far North. Additionally, Nasira's studies and advancements, along with the recovered knowledge from the School of the Cat by Jolanta, contributed to the refinement of these necessary innovations for the Crane witchers.

As a consequence of this, later among the mages and natural philosophers within the scientific community, these witchers would receive a unique taxonomic classification distinct from that of the average witcher. This classification effectively labeled them as a distinct subspecies, both post-human and among witchers, marking the second occurrence of such differentiation. While witchers were known as Homo Venator (hunter man), they would be recognized as Homo Venator Oceanus (hunter man of the ocean).

The first to undergo these mutations would be the founders of the school themselves, followed by Stefan (who received them after a basic mutation). However, it was Ezeld who became the first to receive them in the manner that would later become standard, and also showcased a high tolerance during the process. This tolerance allowed for further applications of new mutations, which gave him his distinctive purple and red cat eyes.

Although the vast majority of cases were successful and didn't result in more than the usual effects for a witcher, there were instances that weren't as fortunate. One such case involved a witcher from the second generation of the Cranes, named Ezra of Mills, or Ezra "The Woodpecker". Due to a series of errors in the unique Crane mutations acquisition process, he ended up going insane, attacking Silk Islanders, and forming a cult. Originally exiled, Ezeld had to kill him to prevent further havoc and to safeguard the school's reputation from being tarnished.

Customs & Traditions

The customs and traditions of the School of the Crane witchers, akin to those of every witcher school, are distinctive to their identity. These practices have been shaped by a diverse array of influences, including their geographical location, specialized skills, cultural heritage, and more.

Beyond the solemn funeral rites reserved for such occasions, there are additional intriguing customs worth noting. Endearingly referred to as "the first flight" by veteran Crane witchers, this ritual involves young initiates leaping from a modest cliff situated along the beach beside Kaer Darh. Under the vigilant gaze of the grandmaster, these novices jump into the water and swim back. The act itself is not particularly perilous; rather, it serves as a symbolic rite of passage for these burgeoning witchers. It signifies their transition into the journey of becoming full-fledged witchers, compelling them to conquer their fears to effectively fulfill their responsibilities. Typically, this initiation is reserved for recently arrived initiates who are already proficient swimmers. In cases where swimming skills are lacking, swimming lessons are usually provided before the ritual, ensuring a well-rounded introduction before progressing to other facets of their training.

Another unique and captivating tradition that sets the School of the Crane apart, differentiating it from the practices of other witcher schools is their naming conventions. Rather than adopting the geographical conventions after their graduation found in nicknames like the famous "of Rivia," used by a certain legendary witcher from the now-extinct School of the Wolf, members of the Crane School embrace bird-themed nicknames that underscore their distinct identity.

This intriguing tradition finds its origins in two compelling reasons. Firstly, it's intricately connected to the geographical location of the school fortress, Kaer Darh which as already said, nestles amidst a diverse array of bird species. The fortress itself, prior to its naming was unnamed for a long time, earned its title from the Silk Islanders, when the colonial autorities, inquiring about the whereabouts of the newly established witcher school asked them and the islanders referred to the Crane fortress as Kaer Darh, which translates from their dialect as the "Home of the Birds." This nomenclature was born out of the prevalent presence of birds in the vicinity of the fortress, with some even making appearances within its confines. Notably, the Crane Witchers went a step further by thoughtfully erecting feeders and water sources to cater to these avian companions with the pass of time.

The second reason for this tradition's emergence harks back to the initial generation of Crane Witchers during their training. During their well-deserved rest periods, they amused themselves by observing the behavior of the birds around them when this creatures visites the fortress. Their conversations would often take on a playful tone, comparing each other to specific birds. Lively banters like "you chatter so much like a parrot" or "your laughter echoes like a seagull" became the norm. As time progressed, these jests, initially meant in good humor, began to take root as integral elements of the School of the Crane's ethos.

What commenced as an inside joke within the first generation of Crane witchers seamlessly traversed into the second generation and beyond, evolving into a tradition. These bird-themed nicknames metamorphosed from mere jests into intricate representations of each witcher's personality, and other unique attributes. An intriguing departure from other schools, the nicknames at the School of the Crane are not self-selected upon graduation. Instead, they are thoughtfully bestowed by one's peers from the same generation. This twist adds a layer of camaraderie and shared experience, as each witcher receives a nickname that encapsulates their essence seeing by the others. While some may initially harbor reservations about the nickname assigned to them, they are bound by the tradition to accept it, fostering a sense of humility and unity among the Crane Witchers.

One that could be considered more "religious/spiritual," influenced by the travels, spirituality, and contact with the isolated School of the Dragon of one of its founders, Putnam Pitch, is the one called the "Flight of the Lanterns." As the sun sets on the night before a major undertaking, such as a particularly dangerous monster hunt, for example, Crane witchers partake in the "Flight of the Lanterns." In this ritual, the Crane witcher crafts and releases a flying lantern into the night sky. These lanterns are believed to carry the hopes and intentions of the witcher, illuminating their path and bringing good luck to them to overcome their next challenge. It is also used as a moment of reflection, shared purpose, and a reminder that they are part of a legacy that extends beyond themselves.

Yet another observance holds a more stylistic nature. Alongside the insights shared about armor, Crane witchers often sport a small braid throughout their training journey until their graduation. Upon successful completion of their training and attainment of full witcher status, this braid is ceremoniously severed and cast into the sea. This act symbolizes their readiness to confront the myriad horrors that lie beyond, fully equipped and prepared. For those who undertake the rigorous Trial of the Sword, the braid is frequently severed by their mentor or the grandmaster, embodying the recognition that despite initial doubts about the student's readiness, their growth and competence have since been affirmed.

Lastly, in a manner akin to Fox witchers, when a Crane witcher completes their training and earns the privilege to wield their distinctive silver sword, a ceremony known as the "Blade-Binding" is conducted. During this solemn ritual, the witcher's sword is ritually "cleansed" and "purified" by fire, water, and herbs. The grandmaster then presents the sword to the witcher, who pledges their dedication to their craft and to always act with justice. The sword handle is then inscribed with the witcher's name, and to the blade is added a phrase, written in runes, that representing them. This ceremony marks the ultimate step in their formal training and firmly solidifies their commitment to the school and his values.

Range

Although it's rare to see a Crane witcher on land because they have plenty of work protecting ships from sea monsters (and flying monsters like nixas, especially when approaching the coasts) between both continents, it's not impossible. You can come across one of them on the Silk Islands and the Western Continent, primarily dealing with flying threats, as well as threats from rivers, swamps, lakes and other bodies of water. Very rarely, you might find them on the Old Continent, beyond coastal cities. There are only a few cases of them inland. But if it does happen, they have been seen mainly in the inland seas of the Old Continent, such as the inland sea of Gemmeria, or the Great Lake, to name two examples.

Extra

On certain occasions, the strategy employed by a Crane witcher is contingent upon the depth at which the sea monster's lair lies and the specific nature of the monster itself. In such cases, the Crane witcher takes on the task of meticulously preparing a substantial length of rope. One end of this rope is securely fastened to the mast of a sturdy vessel, ensuring a firm connection, while the opposite end is meticulously affixed to a well-fitted protective suit. This suit serves as an encompassing shield, enveloping their entire physique with the exception of their hands, feet, and head.

Following these preparations, the Crane witcher usually consumes the Killer Whale potion, which grants them the ability to remain submerged for extended periods without the need to breathe. Empowered by this elixir, they proceed to hurl themselves into the water, ready to engage in combat with the monstrous adversary that awaits beneath the waves.

As an interesting fact, originally, the first-generation Crane witchers used a complete diving suit. However, later on, they abandoned this practice, leaving the aforementioned parts—feet, hands, and head—exposed after suggesting it to Putnam and Jolanta. This change became the standard from the second generation onwards. For example, Putnam agreed swiftly after recalling the proto-diving suit he had used during his journey to the Tuyotuki Islands and how he had nearly drowned in it.

As the centuries unfolded after its inception in the 18th century, the Crane school underwent a transformative evolution. In response to the ever-evolving landscape of monster encounters, the Crane witchers augmented their arsenal by incorporating early prototypes of firearms. These pioneering additions represented a significant shift in their monster-fighting methodology, showcasing the school's proactive approach in adopting innovative technologies to enhance their effectiveness against a myriad of formidable foes.

Known members

For more information, check the article about Kaer Darh or the individual articles about each member of the school.

Founders and first personnel

• Putnam Pitch
• Jolanta Dinmarb
• Charz
• Jabolet
• Roth

Mages

• Jabolet
• Ipo Kekoa ^{( also a healer )}
• Kupe

Blacksmiths

• Roth ^{( also cook )}
• Dialcu Inna
• Karle Inna
• Iava Inna

Inventors

• Zendrir Aschenlich
• Ihenga Aschenlich

Farmers

• Wahrlich Family ^{( also cooks along with Roth )}

Librarians

• Nuakea ^{( also a healer prior and along with Ipo )}

First generation of Crane Witchers ( 1380 / 81 - 1400 )

• Stefan "The Crane"
• Ezeld "The Parrot"
• Acol "The I'iwi"
• Deeran "The Hoa"
• Enu "The Flamingo"
• Idowu "The Benu"
• Math "The Boobrie"
• Orser "The Robin"
• Ucalt "The Vulture"
• Uzoma "The Alicanto"
• Halsey "The Basan"

Second generation of Crane Witchers ( 1400 - 1420 )

• Abel "The Fulmar"
• Asa "The Penguin"
• Constant "The Albatross"
• Eli "The Gannet"
• Ezra "The Woodpecker"
• Ivan "The Blue Chaffinch"
• Giles "The Gull"
• Jothan "The Petrel"
• Nokomis "The Liderc"
• Seo-a " The Hummingbird"
• Tayo "The Hoopoe"
• Uncas "The Anzu"
• Wovoka "The Ruc"
• Zadock "The Kakapo"

Third generation of Crane Witchers ( 1420 - 1440 )

• Amiel "The Goldfinch"
• Charlotte "The Red Crane"
• Noreen "The Rail"
• Judikael "The Anianiau"
• Kaelig "The Kiwikiu"
• Ku "The Puffin"
• Sif "The Kiwi"
• Thira "The Kākāwahie"

Fourth generation of Crane Witchers ( 1440 - 1460 )

• Arris "The Egret"
• Mira "The White Dove"
• Ilya "The Siskin"
• Purnella "The Waimanu"
• Rurik "The Cardinal"
• Sefen "The Heron"
• Viädan "The Limpkin"

Fifth generation of Crane Witchers ( 1460 - 1480 )

• Erin "The Blackbird"
• Iggy "The Demoiselle Crane"
• Nysandra "The Aitvara"

Sixth generation of Crane Witchers ( 1480 - 1500 )

• Elante "The White Irbis"
• Bojmir "The Serin"
• Runa "The Akepa"
• Siggs "The Seriema"

Exiled

• Ezra "The Woodpecker"

Affiliated

• Adalwulf of Aedirn
• Anika Masir
• Arrah of Verden
• Eishe of Vicovaro
• Markos of Verden
• Natka
• Ukok

Notes

• Ipo Kekoa would be a sorceress of Silk Islander origin that would be trained by Jabolet and Kupe would be the student of Ipo later on.
• The Wahrlich Family would be a halfling family.
• Ihenga Aschenlich would be a half - gnome and half- Silk Islander character.
• Feel free to expand the lore of the characters shown in red if you wish. The only thing I ask, is that you respect the lore presented in the page, and the one about the Western Continent and the Silk Islands.

See also

• School of the Crane Bestiary
• Fabiola
• Western Continent
• Silk Islands

Trivia

• From the second generation on, some members of the school are direct references / tribute to Crane OCs created by the community. In the arts credits section you will find links to their social media to support or follow them in the case that their art is posted in the gallery.
  • Ku "The Puffin" by u/Carlotauro
  • Rurik "The Cardinal" by u/Awibee
  • Ivan "The Blue Chaffinch" by u/Oreo365
  • Erin "The Blackbird" by u/Barefoot_Emily
  • Elante "The White Irbis" by u/Dramatic-Homework-99
  • Sif "The Kiwi" by DesertPersephone
  • Mira "The White Dove" by Colin
  • Purnella "The Waimanu" by Pristinepastel
  • Charlotte "The Red Crane" by Daniel Ellis
  • Arris "The Egret" by Kya
  • Iggy "The Demoiselle Crane" by Rhett Larsen
  • Siggs "The Seriema" by Maliveth Art
  • Bojmir "The Serin" by Szkin
  • Ilya "The Siskin" by Morikron
  • Kaelig "The Kiwikiu" by Amako
  • Judikael "The Anianiau" by Amako
  • Runa "The Akepa" by Sweatyandupsety
  • Nysandra "The Aitvara" by Gigasails
• The Mau Rakau is a real martial art from New Zealand.
• The Basilian Wrestling is inspired by the Canarian Wrestling.
• Like many Fabiolans, the Cranes have their bodies decorated with tattoos.
• Ezra of Mills is a reference to the actor Ezra Miller and all its controversies that occurred in Hawaii.
• Idowu is indirect reference to the Spanish actor Tak Skylar who is also of mixed origins.
• Kupe is a reference to the legendary polinesian explorer of the same name.
• Ihenga Aschenlich is a reference to a polinesian explorer of the same name.
• Nuakea is a reference to a hawaiian chiefess and also a hawaiian goddess.

Art credits

• Book! Crane Medallion _{( comissioned by Witcher190 )} by Pukieart
• Game version of the School of the Crane Medallion _{( comissioned by Witcher190 )} by Vermanart
• Seo-a " The Hummingbird" by Lalaartastic
• Zadock "The Kakapo" _{( comissioned by Witcher190 )} by Vermanart
• Noreen "The Rail" by at-Natalie
• Amiel "The Goldfinch" by Martina Scafa
• Enu "The Flamingo" Art by Mattybeach
• Sefen "The Heron" by SolonArts
• Thira "The Kākāwahie" by Gerva Pérez
• Viädan "The Limpkin" by Ofteasandcolor

Gallery

Zadock "The Kakapo"

Seo-a " The Hummingbird"

Game version of the School of the Crane Medallion

Book! Crane Medallion

Noreen "The Rail"

Amiel "The Goldfinch"

Enu "The Flamingo" ( Circa, 1660s )

Sefen "The Heron"

Thira "The Kākāwahie"

Viädan "The Limpkin"