Post by Leif on Aug 23, 2010 16:11:35 GMT -8
Within creation, there are two realms. The realm physical, the one we inhabit, and the realm spiritual, to which everything else belongs. These realms are linked, and the shadows they cast on each other alter the reality in each, creating the substance we call ether, of which the soul is made, and of which magic is constructed.
The soul is the artifice bestowed upon all of humanity by the god of truth, Ris, which allows us to create magic, and gives us passage into the afterlife. It is shaped by the devotion of the individual and his temperament. Those who pray before a god have their soul altered, and they become closer to their chosen deity, becoming more powerful in magics related to the god, and drawn to its afterlife. The truly devout will take on the mental characteristics of their god, becoming a reflection of it upon the world.
As an artifice of magic, the soul functions as a pathway in which ether passes into the mind to be shaped, and exits in the form of magic. The ability to use magic is determined by strength of willpower, and its implementation by the personality of the individual. A madman will produce magic that is as incomprehensible as he is; a simpleton will create magic as simple as he is.
To use magic, one must create a focus, whether physical or mental, on which to shape the magic around. It could be a word of power, saying “combust” to set something aflame, or it could be an object associated with the divine. The most powerful foci are the physical objects which are designed to extend the pathway created by the soul, allowing for more ether to flow into the mind, and those words of power which most suit the temperament of the individual and the intent with which they are said.
A physical focus can also shape magic rather than strengthen it. These artifacts will always perform the exact same action, such as a staff firing lightning, or a pendant sending someone into the spirit world. The art of making them is lost, but those that do remain allow a mage to use magic with very little effort. Certain artifacts don’t even require someone learned in magic to make use of.
The soul is the artifice bestowed upon all of humanity by the god of truth, Ris, which allows us to create magic, and gives us passage into the afterlife. It is shaped by the devotion of the individual and his temperament. Those who pray before a god have their soul altered, and they become closer to their chosen deity, becoming more powerful in magics related to the god, and drawn to its afterlife. The truly devout will take on the mental characteristics of their god, becoming a reflection of it upon the world.
As an artifice of magic, the soul functions as a pathway in which ether passes into the mind to be shaped, and exits in the form of magic. The ability to use magic is determined by strength of willpower, and its implementation by the personality of the individual. A madman will produce magic that is as incomprehensible as he is; a simpleton will create magic as simple as he is.
To use magic, one must create a focus, whether physical or mental, on which to shape the magic around. It could be a word of power, saying “combust” to set something aflame, or it could be an object associated with the divine. The most powerful foci are the physical objects which are designed to extend the pathway created by the soul, allowing for more ether to flow into the mind, and those words of power which most suit the temperament of the individual and the intent with which they are said.
A physical focus can also shape magic rather than strengthen it. These artifacts will always perform the exact same action, such as a staff firing lightning, or a pendant sending someone into the spirit world. The art of making them is lost, but those that do remain allow a mage to use magic with very little effort. Certain artifacts don’t even require someone learned in magic to make use of.
- Student Magi Handbook