Topic: Maleficium

The Sola Busca deck's cosmology is described as "wholly malefic," focusing on specific planets and fixed stars used for attack sorcery, or maleficium. Adams argues that this tradition is superior to popular grimoires like the Key of Solomon, tracing its origins directly to the Byzantine imperial elite. This "learned sorcery" represents a sophisticated stream of magic that merged with Italian elite culture following the fall of Byzantium.

The Sola Busca deck contains specific references to Kaput Algol, considered the most malefic fixed star in the sky. In the context of astral magic, fixed stars are used to "fix" a malefic intention in place, ensuring its prolonged influence. This celestial alignment is part of a "dark brew" of energies intended to exert pervasive control over others.

The deck's cosmology is identified as malefic, focusing on specific stars and planets used for attack sorcery known as maleficium. These practices reflect the ruthless nature of Renaissance elite families, who utilized both diplomacy and poisonous sorcery to maintain power. The tradition depicted in the cards is considered superior to common grimoires like the Key of Solomon, tracing its lineage back to Orphism and the Neoplatonists.