Mystic Disciplines and Aspects

Magic is divided along certain paths, called Aspects, that define the power's source and special effect. There are many aspects, though some are more common then others. While some of the more ancient have a wider scope then those in dominant use today, most are quite narrow in focus.

The mortal aspects encompass magic relating to life, death, nature, souls and spirits.

• Ethereal Aspect: The manipulation of soul and life energies. (Vita)
• Mortal Aspect: The control over spirits of the dead and death energies. (Mortis)
• Natural Aspect: The ability to draw from the forces of nature. (Natura)
• Primal Aspect: A primordial aspect, this includes conversing with the spirits of the dead and living animals, as well as spirit-walking and physical enhancement. (Spiritus, Animus)

The elemental aspects encompass magic drawn directly from the elemental realms, as well as where these realms encroach upon the mortal world.

• Fire Aspect: Power over fire and flame. (Flamma)
• Earth Aspect: Power over earth and stone. (Terra)
• Water Aspect: Power over water. (Aqua)
• Air Aspect: Power over air. (Aeris)

The spectral aspects tap energies of light and darkness. These are typically associated with, but not exclusive to, beings native to those realms.

• Celestial Aspect: The ability to manipulate the energies inherent in light of all forms. This includes the sunlight, starlight and moonlight. It also encompasses illusions. (Lumin)
• Shadow Aspect: The ability to manipulate the energies inherent in darkness and shadow, where darkness intersects with light. (Umbra)

The discipline of Sorcery enables its practitioners to conjure demons from the sub-worlds. It involves spells of binding and control, and requires knowledge of the being's true name. Such creatures are extremely beguiling but tend to be treacherous and deceitful. Anyone, unfortunately, can learn this discipline, and many pay the ultimate price.

This discipline applies to any magic used in the construction of mystical items, regardless if the item is expendable, temporary or permanent. Any being can learn this discipline although some specific implementations are race restricted.

• Alchemy is used to combine material components into a variety of expendable potions, powders, dusts, and salves. This is more then just the simple combination of substances however, as the alchemist must imbue and bind the concoction with mystical force to preserve its potency.
• Lesser Enchantment pertains to the ability to temporarily imbue an existing mundane item (or beings) with spell effects. These are transient, fade with time and can be dispelled. Examples of this discipline include Duergar Runes and Baylari Blood Marks.
• Greater Enchantment is the process of permanently infusing physical items with mystical power. This is a sophisticated and time consuming process that requires many rare and expensive materials.