The ability to perceive the presence of spirits exists among some magions and magic-folk. It is generally hereditary and, like many inherited traits, can differ in its potent between persons and generations, sometimes disappearing altogether only to reappear several generations later.
Magiontology recognizes three levels of spirit perception: Sensitive, Espier and Channeler (from low to high, respectively). It should be noted, however, that the separation into levels is not precise, and that spirit perception is better understood on a scale. The three levels point to the general placing on the scale and help distinguish specific characteristics, but each case can manifest differently. Spirit perception is a rare ability in all its levels, but the higher the level the more rare it becomes.
Sensitive
Sensitives are able to sense the presence spirits in their vicinity, but generally cannot see or hear them. Some Sensitives are also able to sense the presence of magic. Their perception tends to manifest in rather obscure sensations such as the feeling of being watched or that something is present, that prickle that raises the hairs of your nap or arms. Since such sensations are quite common, many Sensitives are unaware of their abilities, and unless they somehow learn to connect these sensations with the presence of spirits or magic, will generally disregard them.
Espier
Espiers can see spirits in their vicinity and can usually communicate with them at some level. It seems that some Espiers can only see the spirit if it wishes to be seen, and so cannot see "lost spirits" (i.e. spirits that have low or no awareness of their conditions). Espiers tend to be more receptive to the visual aspects of spirits than auditory ones. Very few Espiers can clearly hear spirits and hold conversations with them, most can only hear whispering of the spirits' voice and some cannot hear the spirits at all and can only communicate in signs and motions.
Channeler
Channelers are similar to the popular image of mediums. They can see and hear spirits in their vicinity and can communicate with them. Channelers are unique for their ability to form bonds with spirits, which are created when the Channeler allows a spirit to possess their body, a process known as channeling. While the spirit is channeled, it can communicate directly with the living, even non-sensitive ones, using the Channeler's body. The Channeler gets access to all of the spirit's memories and knowledge, and this information will generally remain with the Channeler after the possession ends. Channeling is very taxing for the Channeler, both physically and mentally, but it is usually not dangerous on its own. Channelers are often in more danger from the living, as their perception of the world is very different and is rarely well received. They are very rare to begin with, but the lack of information about them is magnified by the fact that many were ostracized, institutionalized or died at an early age.
Comments