~ Definition of Magick ~

Magick by definition is the manipulation of nature to the will of the caster. This is far removed from the prayers of priests, who seek the will of their dieties in ther entreaties.

Care must be taken, therefore, the new mage does not abuse magick in ways which will not only effect others but herself. Karma appears to be a steadfast a law as that of basic physics in all realities: for every reaction there is an equal and opposite reaction. This is often multiplyed on the mystic many times over.

See this as a constant. If you cast for the benefit of others, your lot will improve. If you cast for their detriment without just cause and sound reasoning expect much misery!

~ Requirements of Spells ~

There are four basic means by which a spell may be cast. While only one may be necessary any combination might be used in those more complex or requiring greater preparation. These are:

1. Mental: It may be said thought is required of any spell. While I would refrain from such debate at this time, here it is used as the only means of casting. Among the natural wizards this is one of the few needed spell requirements.

2. Verbal: Many a fell spell is activated simply by the speaking of a word of power. This is why so many mages are gagged when captured.

3. Physical: A facial expression or bodily gesture may constitute the expulsion of a spell's power. This is why so many mages are bound when captured.

4. Material: From an elemental grain to large, complex mechanisms, many spells require the us of some physical elements for their operations. If you visit other realms you may see great machines powered by means beyond our grasp and still be astounded by the power of our own to create the illusion of such.

~ Schools of Magick ~

While a 'school' of magick may readily be seen as an enclosed system with set rules for casting certain types of spells, this is a very limited view. The term school may be better thought of by its more common definition. People go to school to learn and may return later to teach and develop new knowledge. Even the neophyte brings with him a fresh perspective which may bring about advancements as well!

It therefore may be said there are as many schools of magick as there are users! With our individual distinctions, as diverse and uncountable as souls in the universe, this may seem self evident!

To provide an example here, let us take each requirement of magic and see just a sampling of the schools of magick which rely greatly upon them:

1. Mental: Astral, Protection, Psychic, Invocation, Natural, etc.
2. Verbal: Illusion, Chaos, Healing, Evocation, Enchantment, etc.
3. Physical: Gaurdian, Bardic, Ceremonial, Alteration, Wild, etc.
4, Material: Conjuration, Militant, Elemental, Necromancy, Divination, etc

In our course of study, spells and their crafting will be presented by level with little concern as to the more advanced from each schools. These will come separately as you master the basics and chose the paths of your personal interests and callings.

A word of advice for all new to the arts: PATIENCE! You are embarking on what will become a life-long journey should you ascribe to these studies. Every wizened, withered wizard of countless age will readily tell ye he is still learning!

~ Spell Level ~

As with any serious study, the ability of the student is dependent upon his knowledge and capabilities of the basics then later more advanced principles. It is therefore important to understand fundamental concepts before one may build upon these to engage in more powerful mageries.

Spells on Platea are learned on a level system. In general, before one may advance in early levels he must first have twice the spell capabilities of a former.

Not that he need know this may spells but be able to cast several in rapid sequence. The first spells you attempt to cast will leave you disoriented and weakened. They will probably fall far short of their intended intensity, may not work at all or demonstrate wildly unexpected results!

We will focus some time on first level spells that are relativley safe for the novice. Please note, in any correct writing of a spell in our tomes, it will begin with a name followed in parenthesis its level; the abbreviations M, V, P and/or C (for 'material compoments') then the name of the school or schools it is most attributed to.

The next line lists Components, Area/Type of Effect, Casting Time and Duration

Then follows a brief description of the spell, how it is cast and any notes the crafter deems appropriate. Here is your first example and sample spell to learn and practice:

Confusion (1; MV; Chaos, Charm, Wild)
Com:None A/T:Earshot CT:10-30 sec. Dur:Variable
The caster simply asks a nonsensical question. "If are it when get is for?" is a possible casting. Repeat as needed, being very sincere as in your confounding querry.