The Magic of Ayrelon: Wizardry

Of all the types of magic on Ayrelon, Wizardry is one of the few that can be learned through study and persistence. Channeling is learned through study and devotion to a host which provides the power for spells. Wizardry requires far more study, as there is no host entity to provide assistance in casting spells.

Many who seek to cast spells have no natural affinity to do so. They are not born attuned to a source of power, so Sorcery is beyond their reach. They are not born with an attachment to the magical weaves and the ley lines which comprise it, which puts Leywalking beyond their grasp.

In fact, the functions and forms that differentiate the various types of casting from one another are unknown to most of the inhabitants of Ayrelon. Many see terms such as Sorcerer, Mage or Wizard as generic terms that ultimately point to the same thing; someone who can cast spells.

The truth of the matter is that a Wizard is a distinct style of caster; one that forces themselves to become what they are through the sheer force of their will, exhaustive study and persistence in the face of repeated failures.

It is often unclear where a Wizard’s power comes from. Their casting is performed through the use of spells, scrolls, runes, sigils, words of power and tomes. The creators of these implements discover patterns, or formula, for extracting power from a myriad of sources and focusing it toward a desired outcome. Their findings are documented so that others may learn and advance their own skills. Often this discovery and documentation is performed in an effort to seek fame, or fortune.

The act of casting spells through Wizardry is an exacting process that requires precise memorization and execution. Any mistake in memorization or execution means failure. Success in Wizardry relies heavily upon ones own belief, or faith… something that is very difficult to overcome and master.

Casting spells using Wizardry is not instantaneous, nor spur-of-the-moment. Each time a spell is memorized, the powers needed for the spell draw into the body of the caster and are stored for a time. When they later choose to expel those energies, they must perform the required actions and will the power to leave them. Afterward, the spell must be memorized anew before it can be cast again.

This storage of powers is limiting. Some Wizards find it more difficult to learn, memorize and store spells relating to Fire, or Ice. Others find the powers of Life and Death impossible to control. Further, a Wizard must be capable of holding the power required for a spell, or multiple spells.

Advancement in Wizardry involves continuous study and constantly pushing ones self to attempt more powerful spells. Mastery is never attained by most, typically requiring several human lifetimes to attain.

What types of Casters are there?

Note: These types are not exclusive to Wizardry, but are most commonly embraced by Wizards as a descriptive title indicating their area of expertise.

Conjurer

One who specializes in using magic to bring inanimate objects into existence. A Conjurer might use a spell to materialize a sword out of thin air, or create a sphere of glass. These powers do not extend to living things.

Summoner

One who specializes in using magic to bring forth magical constructs or living things from other planes of existence.

Illusionist

One who specializes in tricks of the mind. Their spells can be as simple as causing others to see a different color of hair on their head, and can extend to creating entire scenes before several viewers. Extreme practitioners of this art may even learn to implant thoughts in the heads of their victims.

Enchanter

One who specializes in imbuing things with magical effects. Enchantments can be placed on living things or objects for a time. With great effort and the right materials, some enchantments can even be made permanent.

Thaumaturgist

One who specializes in transformation of matter from one state or shape to another. Casters who study these spells might transform stone into wood, or iron into steel. Masters of this art can even transform the physical body of a being, perhaps changing a human into an elf.

Necromancer

One who specializes in the manipulation of the forces of life and death. While such studies can be used for the creation of the undead, they may also be used to heal the living. The necromantic arts extend to all aspects of life and death. Kingdoms often employ Necromancers to heal their armies, fighting alongside Priests and Clerics. Though they can perform the same duties, the term Healer is often reserved for divine Channelers.

Watcher / Seer / Oracle

One who specializes in divination and prophecy.