The Hightowers were the most mysterious of the Four Grand Dukedoms.
Unlike the other three, Brightwater, Ravenscroft and Astranova, they preferred to keep entirely to themselves.
Their house almost felt as though it did not exist even while it very much did.
Perhaps that was why people often said the same thing about them.
They are there even when you do not see them.
Another reason for such whispers was the type of magic House Hightower specialized in.
They were masters of curses, divination and strange obscure magics most people found unsettling.
Within the Empire they were considered the foremost authority when it came to paranormal phenomena and ancient shamanic arts.
Some theorized they deliberately isolated themselves because they were secretly experimenting with forbidden magic.
No one ever proved such theories.
Mostly because anyone reckless enough to say such things publicly ended up dead.
It served as a simple reminder.
They were still a Great House.
