Magic of the Realms
The Foundations of Magic
In the Between Realms Universe, magic is a sacred and perilous art, rooted in the Angelic Runes, a reality-altering system bestowed upon the angels long ago to bend the fabric of existence in defense of the realms against cosmic threats. These ancient symbols are not mere tools but keys to creation itself, capable of reshaping reality when wielded with precision. To activate a Rune, a caster must channel their Physic Energy—an internal reservoir of power tied to their physical and mental state—while holding a clear mental picture of the Rune’s intended effect, a dual demand that tests both body and mind; if the image is too vivid or rambling, the magic can spiral out of control, unleashing unforeseen or dangerous effects that may harm the caster or those around them. Physic Energy reserves vary widely among individuals, making magic a deeply personal endeavor: some are born with vast potential, while others must dedicate years to honing their reserves through relentless training. This, combined with the need for a precise mental image, means that mastery of magic hinges on raw talent and unyielding dedication, a craft where the devoted soar and the reckless crumble, their dreams of power undone by the unforgiving nature of the Runes.
The Role of Mediums in Magic
The material through which a Rune’s energy is channeled—known as the medium—plays a critical role in the cost of casting magic, as each material’s physical conductivity affects how efficiently Physic Energy flows. High-energy mediums, such as those once part of a living animal (like bone or leather) or volcanic rock, are naturally conductive, allowing the energy to flow with ease and reducing the caster’s energy expenditure; a Fire Rune etched into volcanic rock might summon flames with half the effort of a less conductive material. Conversely, low-energy mediums like marble or dirt resist the flow of energy, demanding significantly more Physic Energy to achieve the same effect—a Water Rune scratched into dirt may require double the focus and energy compared to one drawn on a whalebone tablet. Casters must choose their mediums wisely, balancing availability with efficiency, as the wrong choice can drain them mid-battle or weaken their spell at a critical moment.
Physical Magic Generation
Physical Magic Generation encompasses the direct casting of spells, where a Rune’s power is unleashed in the moment to create immediate, tangible effects. Spells like a blazing fireball, a surging water ball, or the gentle touch of direct healing fall under this category, each requiring the caster to channel their Physic Energy through a Rune while maintaining a clear mental image of the desired outcome. The energy cost varies based on the spell’s complexity and the medium used—summoning a fireball through a bone-carved with a Fire Rune might be swift and efficient, but healing a grievous wound with a Heal Rune on marble could exhaust even a seasoned caster. These spells demand intense focus, as any lapse in concentration risks the magic going wild, turning a controlled water ball into a flooding torrent or a healing touch into a painful surge.
Magical Artifacts
Magical Artifacts are preset items imbued with a specific magical effect, crafted by skilled casters to harness a Rune’s power without the need for on-the-spot casting. These artifacts, such as communication scrolls, teleportation slabs, and flare generators, are designed for reliability, their Runes permanently etched into high-conductivity mediums like animal bone or hide to minimize energy loss. A communication scroll, for instance, allows instant messaging across distances with a mere touch and scribble of words, while a teleportation slab can whisk its user to the partnered slab—though its creation demands concentration and precision. Flare generators emit bursts of light or fire to signal or light up the night, their effects pre-programmed by the crafter. While artifacts reduce the need for a caster’s immediate focus, their creation is a taxing process, and their effects are fixed, offering less flexibility than Physical Magic Generation but providing invaluable tools for those unprepared or unable to cast in the heat of the moment.
Known Magical Runes
Below is a catalog of the known Runes in the Between Realms Universe, each with its unique properties, applications, and challenges. As the universe grows, new Runes and applications may be discovered by those brave enough to experiment—or foolish enough to tamper with forces beyond their control.
Fire Rune:
Air Rune:
Water Rune:
Heal Rune:
Stone Rune:
Purify Rune:
Transport Rune:
Communication
Rune:
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