Terrescian Magic

A force known as "magic" exists on Terresce. Whether or not it is true magic, no one knows. But what people do know is its ability to heal, build, power, and devastate.

Magic exists in two core types: arcane and deep.

Arcane
Arcane magic is to magic as the French tongue is to language: Romantic, flowing, and influential. Arcane magic can be described as the use of external magical power; a magical energy which can be crafted and written onto the world.

The manipulation of elements, such as the flow of the wind, the cracking of the earth, and the sparking and control over great flame are all facets of arcane magic. Also under the arcane umbrella are magics such as transmutation, telekinesis, and blasts of raw, plasmatic energy.

Deep
Otherwise known as “corruption magic”, deep magic is less common than its arcane cousin, and influences the world in an entirely different way: deep magic comes from within the caster or their target rather than from the world around them as with arcane magic.

Deep magic includes effects both on the caster - such as enhancements to physical ability or self-transformations - as well as effects inflicted on a target - such as weakness or mental vulnerability. Not limited to creatures, deep magic users can force effects on inanimate objects as well: Cracking locks, hardening armour, and shattering arrows midair are all effective applications of deep magic.

Corruption
Deep magic has many strengths, but also many drawbacks. The extended casting of powerful deep magic often causes a form of magical whiplash which changes or “corrupts” the user or those around them.

In order to be corrupted, a being must either use or be exposed to deep magic for an extended period of time. This can be in the form of casting spells actively, or activating a passive spell and allowing it to manifest over time. Corruption can even be afflicted through the unknowing activation of a deep magic curse.

Those afflicted with corruption become what is known as ‘corrupted’. Corrupted can be identified by an obvious dark and solid section of skin, much like metal armour, growing on the surface of their body. This corruption often covers and entire arm or leg, and acts as the focal point for the exertion of their corrupted energy.

Corrupted Energy
Corrupted are cursed in that they have been deformed and become weaker in some aspects, but they are also gifted. Corrupted energy is imbued in the corrupted section of the body of a corrupted person, and can be exerted in spectacular ways. Some corrupted have energy which manifests in physical strength, smashing through enemies with a rock-hard fist. Others are able to craft more powerful spells and blast them from a corrupted mouth in an eruption of raw energy. These effects are varied and often difficult to control

While the benefits granted by corrupted energy are great, the drawbacks are greater. Corrupted energy preys upon the weaknesses of the corrupted, sapping the physical strength of the weak or dulling the magical energy of those less magically inclined.