The Magic of Kodama

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Magic is a mystical and powerful force known all across the world, it's origins shrouded in legend, it is believed to exist in the souls of all things. Many claim these powers are a gift from Oroborus, granted to all creatures when he first crafted the world. This magical essence is sometimes referred to as Chi, Mana, or simply Spirit. The Sazanami Monks believe that when every being dies, it is reincarnated into a new body, passing on it's soul and magical powers. These powers may or may not manifest depending on the life each person leads. Magic types do not mix successfully; it is unheard of for a person to possess more than one type and not even the Eternal Emperor has been able to break this limit.

ELEMENTAL

Elemental magic is the most common form of magic, and many people are born with a natural aptitude toward a single element. The practitioners of elemental styles are often referred to as "benders," as they manipulate the elements to their will. Elements can only be controlled with a ritualized practice of movements and gestures, often referred to as somatics. Each element differs in it's somatic form, and use of two elemental styles is considered impossible. The somatic form of fire requires tension and quick, sharp movements, while it's opposite, water, requires slow and smooth control. Likewise, airbending requires it's user to be light on his feet and use balanced circular motion, while it's opposite, earth, requires the bender to possess a firmly rooted stance and utilize forceful movement.


ILLUSION

Illusion magic is a deceptive form of magic used to confuse and trick it's viewer into belief. It is a challenging power to master, requiring an intense amount of willpower and mental focus. The most effective illusionists are those with great imaginations and open minds, often making children and Vanara the most apt learners. With the sheer mental power of will and belief, illusionists can create visions and sounds that appear very real to themselves and others. However, these effects can never physically interact with the world around them. It can be difficult for illusionists to separate a fantastical vision from reality, which can result in undesirable effects. Many Illusionists have fallen victim to their own magical effects, losing control of an illusion and leading them to dangerous panic. This power is only effective if the viewers truly believe what they see is real, and can be resisted by a skeptical mind.


SPELL

Spell magic is quite different than other forms of magic in that it must first be learned, only through years of practice and study can it's use be realized. Spell magic, like illusion, is fueled by the willpower and belief of it's practitioner. However, the effects of Spells on the physical world are very real. Unlike other forms of magic, spells require a physical symbol to manifest their power. These effects come in countless variations, but the most common uses are in creating protections and wards, or cursing and binding opponents. Spellcraft is also capable of healing wounds and curing diseases, but resurrection is never possible. The most common form of Spellcraft is the use of scrolls, a practice developed by the Sazanami Monks. These small pieces of paper carry written symbols, and can be placed upon the intended target to create magical effects. Other forms of Spellcraft include the use of things such as bones or hair as symbols, representing aspects of the creature they come from. The usage of Spell magic is exceedingly difficult to master, but has the greatest amount of variety of all forms of magic.


ALTERATION

This form of magic is the most rare, it is the ability to transform one thing into another, whether it be an object, person, or the user. Alteration requires constant physical contact with that which they change. Alteration has a physical limit, however, in that one thing cannot be made to have a greater mass than it began with. Alteration is only capable of temporary effects, which wear off when the user loses his concentration. Practitioners of Alteration are generally not trusted by merchants, who may find themselves duped by false goods and coinage. The origin of Alteration power is unknown, but it is often noticed that it's users have flexible minds and personalities, apt to change on whim.