Practice of Magic: Basics, Lesson Two

  • Imperial Theosophy teaches us that our world was born from magicka, the creative force that informs and sustains all life. The sources of magic are the many and diverse heavens beyond the void, collectively known as the Aetherius.

     

    Aetherius, ancestral seat of the Nine Divines and the other original spirits, is the plane of pure magicka. Whereas Oblivion may surround us every night, it is aetherial energy that infuses our daily existence, from highest to lowest, and gives all the races of men, mer, and beast common purpose. Its magic brings the rain to the fields, love to our hearths, and scientific principles to our technological industries. It gives us the very Sun itself. Finally, Aetherius is the home to the Aedra, those cornerstones of the Mundus whose aspects we see in the temple, in lordship, and the high walk of heroes.

     

    Another piece of crap. Aetherius? Ya can shove Aetherius up yer arse. Imperials... He was reading on Magicka and Schools of Magic over the past few days, meeting up with Tolfdir to talk about his discoveries. But still no casting, or at least attempts and that was frustrating. There is no doubt that I can cast. Why they don't give me a chance? He was trying it on his own, trying to replay the moments he managed to cast a spell, but...it was too painful for him to remember. And it wasn't working.

     

    So he was reading. Eating. Sleeping. Shitting… then doing it all over again. He slowly began to understand why everyone at the College were...chubby. Physical excercise or just simple hunger were nearly non-existent in this place. It was almost like if College wasn't part of Tamriel, an eerie place. So between reading, eating, sleeping and shitting, he was doing some excercising to keep his muscles in condition. I might become a mage one day, but that doesn't mean I'll have to roll over my own belly to get somewhere. Just look at Scorch...so fluffy.

     

    Visits to Aetherius occur even less frequently than to Oblivion, for the void is a long expanse and only the stars offer portals for aetherial travel, or the judicious use of magic. The expeditions of the Reman Dynasty and the Sun Birds of Alinor are the most famous attempts in our histories, and it is a cosmic irony that both of them were eventually dissolved for the same reason: the untenable expenditures required to reach magic by magicka. Their only legacy is the Royal Imperial Mananauts of the Elder Council and the great Orrery at Firsthold, whose spheres are made up of genuine celestial minerals gathered by travelers during the Merethic Era.

     

    Ha! Reachin' magic by Magicka. Why not use anti-Magicka? He looked at the ceiling in thought. Anti-Magicka? Something like that surely can't exist. If Magicka is life than the opposite is...death? Un-life? It's like cryin' “NO” to existence itself. Could someone remove himself from existence if he cried his denial loud enough?

     

    He snorted and threw the book on slowly rising pile of discarded books on his bed. He reached for another on his table and looked at the title. Shad Astula Curriculum. He blinked and his tongue slided over the tip of his tusk. What is Shad Astula? Damn, what the tusk is Curriculum? He shook his head and opened the book.

     

    Fledgling Members of the Academy:

     

    Rise and shine! We have another education-filled day ahead of us. Another chance to develop your gifts of mysticism and magicka, leadership and military strategy.

     

    “Haha,” Grulmar laughed out loud. “Stupid propaganda.” He looked at J'zargo sleeping happily in his bed, his whiskers twitching as he was dreaming about ball of thread or something. “Hm, actually, this place could use some propaganda,” he smiled and then grinned. “RISE AND SHINE!” he shouted, expecting J'zargo to fall out of his bed or something, but...the Khajiit just rolled on other side and clicked. As I said. We need more propaganda.



    The first few days of study have flown by, and you have proven worthy of the honor of enrollment at this prestigious Academy. You have not only demonstrated the requisite acumen for your studies, but also confirmed your ability to keep up with the modest tuition payments that keep Shad Astula's welcoming doors open. For these reasons, we are pleased to offer you the opportunity to select your own course of study for the next ten days.

     

    Please choose the introductory course you wish to pursue and properly petition the instructor of that art. For the next ten days, you will diligently work to master one of the following disciplines.

     

    Understand that these designations exist solely for the purposes of teaching. They do not represent any formal schema of organization within the Mages Guild or any similar organization.

     

    This certainly sounds like better system than what I have right now. Just readin' and talkin'. What a bore.

     

    ALTERATION I: This introductory course teaches simple magical methods of physical manipulation, including techniques for strengthening and weakening basic materials.

     

    CONJURATION I: In this introductory course, students learn to summon simple weapons and shields, such as daggers or bucklers. Note that knife fighting and defense are not covered in this class.

     

    Hahaha, bunglers!



    DESTRUCTION I: As a prelude to later studies, students learn the basics of the elemental manipulation of flame and frost. An additional security deposit is required to cover the unlikely event of damage to persons and property.

     

    Huh, I should probably ask if there is rule like this here too.

     

    ILLUSION I: Learn simple manipulation of light and shadow, sound and silence, in this introductory course. Your first project will be to create magical candlelight.

     

    RESTORATION I: This introductory course teaches the basics of the healing arts, as well as the fundamental principles of manipulating life force. The purchase of various small animals may be required, in addition to any other course-required materials.

     

    His eyes went back to Illusion. It was weird, because the book talked about manipulation of light and shadow, but from what he understood about the school, it was a school of mind. Not changing reality by creating light and sounds. Maybe it was different back in the day of Shad Astula? And when was that, actually?

     

    Completion of any of these basic courses will serve as a prerequisite to later studies. A student is free to select a course from ONE of these options. Upon completion of an introductory class, the student is eligible to pursue a second introductory class, if instruction time and class size allows.

     

    The study of the ARCANE ARTS awaits you! No doubt you will prove yourself worthy of the instruction and patronage you are receiving.

     

    Failure to complete a course of study may result in additional tuition charges to cover the cost of taking make-up instruction.

     

    Good luck!

     

    Hmm. It was rather interesting that in Shad Astula they focused on just two schools of magic at first. Was it because some mages can only focus on two schools? Or to make the training easier? He heard about mages who mastered one or two schools and knew plenty about other schools. But he also heard about mages who barely mastered one school with being hardly able to cast spells from other schools. Like Shiny. Well...he at least mastered Restoration, but it makes me wonder what else he knows? Hmm. I certainly wouldn't like to end up with just one School magic. So...limiting…



    He noticed another book with Shad Astula on its cover and reached for it. Proposal: Schools of Magic. That's an interesting title. So let's see…

     

    As a former member of the faculty at the University of Gwylim, I take an interest in matters of practical pedagogy, and I've spent the two seasons reviewing our Mages Guild curricula for the instruction of beginning spellcasters. This body of work has accumulated gradually over several centuries, and as a result it is somewhat haphazard and disorganized.

     

    After casting about for a model upon which to reorganize our teaching texts, I came upon the curriculum of the Shad Astula Academy in Morrrowind, where they teach magic in eight different disciplines. Though the divisions between the disciplines, or "schools" of magic, are rather arbitrary, magic being an entirely mutable art, this classification of spellcasting into schools of magic has the advantage of providing students with a structure for easy comprehension of the basics of wizardry. The proof of its value is the fact that Shad Astula graduates novice mages with a practical grasp of sorcery in half the time of our own introductory program.

     

    For this reason, I propose that we adopt the Shad Astula disciplines, and reorganize the Mages Guild study program into the following schools of magic:

     

    Wait! What the tusk?! he stared at the book and looked around if he was dreaming or something. Others surely must have read the book and yet no one mentioned something big like that to him? There are no schools of magic. Just magic! This clearly proves it. Schools are just...categorization, nothin' more. There is no difference between a fire spell and telekinesis. Both are changin' reality!



    But apparently, there was a reason for this categorization. Shad Astula seemed like one of the most prestigous and effective academies of magic of Second Era, and if that was only because they came up with Schools...it must had some reason.

     

    ALCHEMY: The study of the magical virtues of different forms of matter, their effects, combinations, and recombinations. To include the concoction of potions, elixirs, and magical draughts.

     

    Now that I read more about Magicka, it actually makes sense that Alchemy can recreate so many magickal effects. If everything in this world is charged with magicka, then properly harnessing the properties of plants can create wonders.

     

    ALTERATION: The distortion of local reality through direct imposition of the mage's will. To include spells of paralysis, water breathing, water walking, lock opening, and personal elemental shields such as flame cloaks.

     

    Lock opening? Now that's something I have to learn.

     

    CONJURATION: The summoning and binding of spirits from Oblivion or Aetherius. To include soul trapping, spells that conjure Daedra or other creatures, spells to banish same, summoning of bound weapons and armor, as well as (for classification purposes) the forbidden necromantic arts of reanimation, conjuration, and manipulation of the undead.

     

    DESTRUCTION: The splintering of material bonds by the direct application of force, typically elemental in nature. To include damaging spells of flame, frost, shock, and disintegration, as well as magic that drains essence or personal attributes.

     

    ILLUSION: Altering perception in oneself or others. To include spells of light, invisibility, fear, frenzy, and silence, as well as magic that affects morale and obedience.

     

    See? Here. Altering perception in oneself or others. That implies solely a magic of mind. And obedience spells? Hmm. If Brynjolf knew that spell he might actually sell at least one Falmer Blood elixir...

     

    MYSTICISM: The class of spells used to alter the nature of magic itself. To include effects that dispel or absorb both spells and the magicka that feeds them, as well as telekinesis (which fits here as well as anywhere).

     

    RESTORATION: The opposite of destruction, magic that resists damage or restores wholeness by reknitting the damaged material. To include wards, healing, curing of disease and poison, physical fortification, and the turning of undead (a forced purification effect).

     

    THAUMATURGY: Magic that affects the will and personal state of mind. To include spells that calm or charm others, reflection of or resistance to magic, as well as levitation, which involves the personal rejection of gravity.

     

    What the tusk is Thaumaturgy? Personal state of mind….wait! Rejectin' gravity is personal state of mind? Then...I reject gravity! Of course, nothing happened, but it was worth a shot. Will have to ask around someone about levitation spells. It's interesting that beside Galar - who is old Telvanni Wizard - no one here ever mentioned or used spell like that. And by here I mean in Skyrim.

     

    The experienced mage will immediately discern the arbitrary nature of these divisions—indeed, we may eventually find it advisable to combine one or more of these schools, assigning the spells within them to other categories. (Thaumaturgy seems a likely candidate for such amalgamation, and possibly Mysticism, as well.) However, these schools seem to be serving Shad Astula well, so I propose we tentatively adopt them as is, and refine as we go.

     

    Ah yes, Thaumaturgy is Mysticism then. So is it a personal state of mind or an  alteration of the nature of magic? Hm, it's interestin' that what happened to Thaumaturgy eventually happened to Mysticism too. It got absorbed into all other schools of magic and no one ever mentions it. But what was Mysticism? The nature of magic? Altered nature of magic? With spells like spell absorbtion and reflection….it's almost like sayin' “no” to magic. Is Mysticism denial of magic? Nah, that's too crazy, Grulmar.



    He sighed and looked at another book before him and sighed again. Another Shad Astula. This time an Academy Handbook. Terrific.

     

    Welcome to Shad Astula, the Academy of Magic! This is where the most talented mages of the Ebonheart Pact come to learn, share a common origin, and become leaders in the magical community. Your journey begins here.

     

    For many, the journey to master magic is fraught with frustration and difficulty. The training provided here can lead to a life of service and rewarding work, thanks to the availability of the best teachers and teaching methods. The fact of the matter is, while everyone invited to the Academy is selected for their potential for greatness, not all of you will measure up to the task before you. For those unfortunate enough to fail, Shad Astula serves as a safety net, a place to refine one's meager skills without causing harm to oneself or to others.

     

    But you will not fail. You are not one of the unfortunates. You will rise above. You will take your place as a leader in the Ebonheart Pact!

     

    You have already realized that you are different from others who can wield the gift of magicka. Now, prepare to be introduced to a world of power. For you, Shad Astula serves as a place where you can spread your wings. With the help of our staff of master mages, you will not only learn to fly, you will soar!

     

    As one of the chosen of the Academy, the usual restrictions and rules that govern the learning of magic do not apply to you. Those rules exist to ensure the safety of mages who may pose a danger to themselves or to others. We anticipate that the Academy's select students will excel, and we believe you're capable of learning your limits quickly. A few guidelines do apply, however:

     

    More morbid propaganda. Lovely. And guidelines. I love guidelines…

     

    — Do not summon creatures from Oblivion planes, except within designated summoning circles.

    — Magical experimentation on other Academy students is forbidden.

    — Magical experimentation on non-Academy members is discouraged, but use your best judgment.

     

    Ha!

     

    — Magical experimentation on staff is encouraged. Keep them on their guard, and they'll do the same for you.

     

    Hahaha!

     

    — Designation of assistants as "minions" is strictly prohibited, and cultist or cabalist behaviors or organizations will be dealt with swiftly and harshly. Save your megalomania for after graduation.

     

    Oh, I certainly will! Hahahaha!



    — Students who have not passed the Emotional Control and Mental Stability Exam (ECMSE) are forbidden from sharing a room.

    — Magical dueling is strictly prohibited, except under a staff Battlemage's supervision.

     

    Alright, I've got to admit. I didn't have such a good mental laugh in very long time...hahaha.

     

    You will soon receive an appointment with the Headmaster, who will have more to say about Shad Astula and your status as a member of the Academy. In the meantime, feel free to explore the campus and introduce yourself to your fellow students. Some will become your peers, others your underlings, and a very select few your betters. Learn them well.

     

    Welcome to Shad Astula. Spread your wings and soar! We expect much of you. Do not disappoint us.

     

    Sure, sure. I'll try not to disappoint ya. Buggers.

     

    He raised from his chair and strechted his arms. His back was sore from all that sitting and leaning over books, so he decided it was a good time to stretch his legs too. He still had some time before another session with Tolfdir, so doing something other than reading certainly sounded good. Maybe I could go see Tiny. He's still rather frustrated at me I didn't bring any...hot merchandise, but it's not my problem the winter shut Winterhold off from the rest of the world, right?

     

    He walked out of his room and bumped into someone.

     

    “Sorry, sorry,” Brelyna Maryon blurted out as she was gathering her books from the ground.

     

    “Just watch where ya are goin', Mess,” he murmured and was about to leave, but then he turned around to her again and helped her pick up the books. “What's the hurry anyway?”

     

    She smiled at him with anxiousness. “I'm going to test a new spell I've been working on. It's quite advanced you know. I bet it will make me famous or something.”

     

    “Yeah, sure,” he scratched his head. “Good luck with-” he began and then shut his mouth. Is there somethin' better to do anyway? “Ah, tusk it. It's not like I have better things to do. Ya need help?”

     

    She jumped and then composed herself. “Of course, I would be glad for any help,” she nodded. “Come on, then.”

     

    “Where are we goin'?” he asked as she grabbed his wrist and pulled him away from his room. Then she stopped on the other side of Magicka spring in the middle of the hall and Grulmar frowned. “Here? Then what were ya doin' near my roo-”

     

    “Just stand still!” she ordered him and then she reached out for Magicka and casted a spell at him. What? He felt tingling over his body, but that was it. “Eh...is that all? That's what was supposed to do it? Tickle?”

     

    She looked at him with concern. "Oh dear. That wasn't supposed to happen."

     

    “What wasn't supposed to happen?” Grulmar asked in a high pitched voice as he started to panic.

     

    "Do you... do you feel all right? You look very, umm, green."

     

    “Are ya kiddin' me? I'm an Orc!”

     

    She pointed at his face. “But your...tusks and teeth are green too. And...eyes. Also tongue-”

     

    He sprinted towards a mirror and when he saw himself he shouted. “I'll kill ya, Mess!”

     

    Sources used in this lesson: The Magic of Aetherius, Shad Astula Curriculum, Proposal: Schools of Magic, Shad Astula Academy Handbook

     

     

Comments

5 Comments   |   A-Pocky-Hah! and 11 others like this.
  • Caladran
    Caladran   ·  March 12, 2017
    "Another Shad Astula" - Love to read Grulmar's thoughts while he reads. ^^
  • Sotek
    Sotek   ·  January 11, 2017
    This is becoming close to a @Magician's Guide to all things Magical'. You're doing such a wonderful job on this Karver; don't be surprised to see applications of this in other members stories. I for one will be delving into your work here.
  • The Sunflower Manual
    The Sunflower Manual   ·  January 9, 2017
    Ah. Just realised I repeated exactly what you wrote in this chapter about alchemy in the earlier chapter. That was awkward.
  • The Long-Chapper
    The Long-Chapper   ·  January 2, 2017
    Great work, Karver. I think this series is going to clarify a lot of things with regard to magic. And hahaha, somebody had to do Brelyna's experiment. :D
    • Paws
      Paws
      The Long-Chapper
      The Long-Chapper
      The Long-Chapper
      Great work, Karver. I think this series is going to clarify a lot of things with regard to magic. And hahaha, somebody had to do Brelyna's experiment. :D
        ·  January 2, 2017
      That or send us all down rabbit holes. The Mad Hatter is good company, at least. And has great taste in hats.