Though magic is prevalent in
the Imperium, access to magic is tightly controlled by the state. Sanctioned magic is used in service to the empire, and may be either arcane or divine in origin. Unsanctioned magic represents the old ways, and is anathema to the tenets of the Imperium.
Arcane Magic
Sanctioned arcane magic is taught at the
Academy of Sion and the
College of Westermount. The Academy focuses on the practical application of magic for the betterment of humanity, while the College focuses on the purely academic.
Divine Magic
The divine might of the
Undying Emperor graces many citizens who work throughout the Imperium. These practitioners may be members of the
Imperial Orders, the
Ascetic Traditions, or even exceptionally zealous members of
the Citadel and
Imperial Legion.
Unsanctioned Magic
Household magic is still quite common in the Imperium. Old folk remedies, good luck spells, and other minor magic is commonplace, though frowned upon by more law-abiding citizens. But those who venture past these simple charms face great peril.
Enforcement of Imperial Law is the jurisdiction of the
Imperial Templar, and any practitioner of unsanctioned magic runs the risk of being reported to the Templar. Penalties can be severe, especially if the magic used involves contacting beings beyond this world (worship of old gods, conjuration, pact magic, etc.) or tampering with life and death through necromancy or blood magic.
Dealing with extreme cases of unsanctioned magic falls into the domain of the
Inquisition. It is the sole duty of the Inquisition to prevent the corruption of humanity by unsanctioned magic and the blood of dead races. Inquisitors seek out and destroy any trace of this
Taint with extreme prejudice. All who know of their existence fear the Inquisition.
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