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Chapter 11: Magic
Chapter 11: Magic
What exactly is magic? How does it function?
Most characters believe that magic exists, but
are unaware of magical theories and practices. Stemming
from ignorance or misconceptions, uncertainty
with magic may cause characters to react negatively
to casters. Reactions may range from avoidance or
scorn to banishment or murder. Generally, characters
react unfavorably to sorcerers, have indifference
or awe-inspired respect for mages and druids, and
react differently to hierophants depending on the
god worshipped. Magical theory will only be explained
biefly here, avoiding detail.
The Fifth Element
An ancient philosopher 1 posited that 4 elements
are the basis of all matter: air, earth, fire, and
water (for more information, see the Chemistry skill
in Chap. 8: Skills). Soon thereafter, a philosopher 2
added the fifth element -- ether.
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Possibly weightless, ether is small enough
that it has never been observed with the eye. It is
distinct from the other elements. Nonetheless,
scholars of the arcane have predicted successfully
how ether acts and interacts both with and among
the elements. Of interest to many hierophants, the
spirit is also considered to be subsumed by ether.
The 5 elements are often represented by a
pentagram. Pentagrams are worn usually with a
single point facing upward, symbolizing the power
of the mind, as ether or spirit, working creatively
with matter. When worn upside down, the pentagram
symbolizes the power of the mind hidden
within matter. A caster is a character who attempts
to manipulate the fifth element, and through it, usually
the other elements as well.
Although the elements may combine in infinite
combinations and proportions, following is
an illustration to elucidate the most common mixtures.
1. Empedocles of Agrigentum (490 - 430 B.C.E.) first asserted the 4-element model of nature.
2. Aristotle added the 5 th element. For more information, see the References section at the end of this book.