Symbol Magic

Written by orphidor

Performing certain gestures with the right intent can channel the magic flowing through the Middle and Higher Realms. The intent and the symbols together are what make the spells happen. One alone doesn't do anything.

Effect

Effects created using this variety of magic fall into two categories: short-term and long-term. Long term effects usually fall under the umbrella of enchantment spells. Short-term effects are usually evocation spells. The creation of magic items and Suktu medical tattoos are common uses of long-term symbol magic.

Side/Secondary Effects

Warped spells where the true effect is similar to the intended effect, yet slightly different, may occur. This can be mildly annoying or entirely devastating, depending on the spell being cast and its power.

Manifestation

As with any time magic is used, the temperature in the immediate area where the spell is being cast may change. With symbol magic, the air generally becomes colder. The customary smell of an oncoming storm is present as well.

Source

While other orders of magic draw from different Realms, symbol magic pulls from the magic flowing through the same Realm the caster is in.

_{Image from Michał Robak}

Material Components

Long-term symbol magic requires the use of some sort of tool to apply the rune. This could include chalk, ink, woodcarver's tools, etc.

Gestures & Ritual

Whether the magical symbols are written in chalk, engraved in metal, or traced by a wand, shaping them in the physical world is an important part of the casting of symbol spells. This may be as simple as tracing a rune or as complicated as embedding one in a mosaic.

Related School

Enchantment/Evocation

Related Element

Arcane

Effect Duration

A few seconds to several years

Effect Casting Time

A few seconds to several hours

Applied Restriction

For long-term spells, when the initiating rune is destroyed, the spell effect ends.