Magic Material in Aonaran | World Anvil
BUILD YOUR OWN WORLD Like what you see? Become the Master of your own Universe!

Magic

The Lifeblood of Aonaran

Written by Jenn Riku

In the mystical world of Aonaran, magic intertwines with the fabric of reality, shaping cultures, economies, and landscapes. This article delves into the multifaceted nature of magic, exploring its origins, manifestations, and the intricate laws governing its use. From the environmental impacts of magical practices to the bustling trade of magical goods and the strict regulations ensuring harmony and safety, the narrative unveils the complexity and beauty of Aonaran's magical essence.

Properties

Material Characteristics

Magic is a gaseous substance that is invisible to the naked and untrained eye. However, it can be sensed by nearly everyone as a kind of electricity in the air, which leaves a tingling feeling on the skin when highly concentrated. To those who can see magic, the two different types usually look different. Novan magic is often described as a calm, light-blue mist, while neron magic is a pulsating orange-red torrent. Variation exists with the concentration of magic within an area. In areas with high concentration, the magic will look more saturated and brighter than in areas with lower concentration.
Magic has the ability to permeate nearly everything. Novan and neron magic usually heavily repel one another, making it impossible for them to interact in the natural world. If they are forced to interact, usually one of two things will happen: if the neron magic has the upper hand, they will cancel each other out, and if the novan magic has the upper hand, they will create an explosion at the point of contact.

Geology & Geography

Overall, magic is omnipresent on Aonaran, shaping its landscapes, influencing its inhabitants, and permeating every facet of its existence. While magic itself is not confined to specific locations, certain regions and phenomena on the planet are imbued with heightened concentrations of magical energy, creating unique environments and opportunities for magical exploration

Origin & Source

Magic on Aonaran originates from the core of the planet itself and it is believed that all celestial bodies possess magical properties. The core supplies the planet with two distinct magic types that permeate the world and all its inhabitants. These primordial magic types are described as novan and neron magic. All other magic types descend from these two which are often described to represent the essence of creation and destruction. As the planet evolved, so too did the manifestations of these magical energies, shaping the landscape and inhabitants of Aonaran.

History & Usage

History

Throughout the millennia, the perception and utility of magic have undergone profound shifts, mirroring the evolution of Aonaran's creatures, civilisations and cultures. From the first creatures of Aonaran to modern-day society, magic has played a multifaceted role in shaping the history and destiny of the planet and its inhabitants.
Many scientists have speculated that magic was one of the driving forces behind the merging of the stars Althea and Serkan, which prompted the creation of the planet Aonaran. Ever since then, the planet's creatures have seen some magic influence in their evolution.
The first true event of this is documented with the birth of the Sun Dragons and Moon Amphitheres over 250 million years ago. Two magically charged solar flares transformed four lizards into the first Sun Dragons and two snakes into the first Moon Amphitheres. This was the beginning of dragonkind on Aonaran.
While most of the dragon species evolved mostly naturally, the same does not apply to the humanoid species. Only the humans and dwarves evolved naturally. All other fourteen humanoid species had an influence of magic in their evolution.
Over the time that humanoids existed on Aonaran, magic has been used in various places. In the beginning, the humans used magic on the same level as the animals as a means to survival. But as the intelligence progressed and the species evolved, magic became more and more complex, being used in disciplines such as building, healing and agriculture.

Discovery

Magic has always been part of the planet Aonaran ever since its creation. Thus, it was always a part of life on the planet. The humanoids and creatures of Aonaran use magic as if it were second nature. Magic as a substance was first properly described and documented by the Cilka family during the years of 7.445 - 7.440 of the Human Transformation era.

Everyday use

Animals use their magic mostly for survival. Common uses for animals include finding food and water sources, hunting and foraging, healing minor superficial wounds, fighting and mating displays. Often, predators and males have a higher affinity for neron magic, while prey animals and females are more attuned to novan magic. This can vary depending on the species.
Humanoids use magic in many different ways throughout the day. These uses can range from starting a fire in a fireplace to healing heavy-duty wounds. It heavily depends on a humanoid's profession as well. For example, workers on construction sites will use magic to reinforce a building or check for faults, farmers will help their crops grow and chefs will create excellent dishes with the use of magic.
Finally, there are the different species of humanoids with specific roles in the world. Fairies and nymphs, for instance, will use their nature-themed magic to influence the environments of Aeron and Elentiya.

Cultural Significance and Usage

Many humanoid cultures use magic and have magic permeate their history. The magical origins of the humanoid species on Aonaran deeply embed magic within their culture. Since fourteen out of the sixteen species were created with magic, this foundational aspect shapes their histories, mythologies, and identities Each species' connection to magic is not just a feature of their existence but a core part of their creation myth, influencing how they view the world, their place in it, and their relationship with magic.
Each humanoid species interprets the source and purpose of magic based on its origin and unique characteristics. For species created with novan magic, such as fairies and shifters, the source of magic is often seen as a gift of life and growth, integral to nurturing and healing. Their cultures view magic as a means to promote harmony, creativity, and the flourishing of natural ecosystems.
Conversely, species birthed through neron magic, such as demons and orcs, interpret its source as a fundamental force of change, destruction necessary for new beginnings, and a tool for overcoming obstacles and fostering resilience. Magic's purpose, then, varies significantly across species, reflecting their inherent connection to either novan or neron energies and shaping their societal values, goals, and practices around these fundamental forces.
Cultural attitudes towards novan and neron magic differ greatly across species and societies on Aonaran. Novan magic, associated with creation and growth, is often viewed positively, symbolising life, healing, and prosperity. Societies aligned with novan magic emphasise harmony with nature, creativity, and community. Neron magic, in contrast, represents destruction and change, leading to its perception as a powerful but potentially dangerous force. Cultures connected to neron magic value strength, adaptability, and the ability to overcome adversity, recognising that destruction paves the way for new beginnings and growth.
With the different cultures and their ties to magic come many legends and heroes, who are revered for their aptitude for magic. A few examples include Betsalel, the Demon King of Morana, who single-handedly created the demons. Keres, the Demon Princess of Morana, created the sirens through her immense hatred. The Tree of Life stands as a testament to novan magic's nurturing essence, credited with the creation and protection of fairies. Viltarin Connell is celebrated among shifters as one of the creators and first shifters and the founder of the city of Ylva. Ximena, the fairy queen of Aeron, is a pivotal figure in legends and myths, as she is the creator of the nymphs.
Magic on Aonaran is not just a force but a foundation of existence, interwoven with the very identity of its myriad cultures. Each species, through their unique origins and historical figures, perceives and utilises magic in ways that reflect their deepest values, from creation and nurture to transformation and resilience, making magic a pivotal element in shaping the cultural heritage and societal dynamics of Aonaran.

Industrial Use

Magic is utilised within many different industrial settings, serving as a transformative force that powers innovation and development. Its application ranges from the enhancement of manufacturing processes to the creation of magical goods and services, fundamentally shaping the economic landscape and offering solutions to various societal needs through magical means.
In the industrial scene of Elentiya, magic significantly enhances various sectors, revolutionising production and labour. For instance, in metallurgy, spells meticulously refine ores, distinguishing precious metals with precision. Agriculture benefits from water and soil control, ensuring optimal conditions for crop growth and health. Construction sites see workers using levitation spells for material transport and complex binding enchantments for structural integrity. Craftspeople create tools that self-repair, while transportation relies on elemental magic for efficiency. Safety is paramount, with wards protecting labourers from accidents. Water purification spells support sanitation, material synthesis spells create rare resources, and machinery operates under the guidance of magically specialised workers. All of these examples illustrate magic's pivotal role in driving innovation and sustaining the economy.
The industrial use of magic is a cornerstone of Elentiya's economy, integrating into every facet from agriculture and construction to manufacturing and transportation. This fusion of magic and industry not only elevates efficiency and safety but also spurs innovation, fundamentally transforming the production landscape and shaping the societal and environmental ethos of the realm.

Refinement

Magic, being a gaseous substance even at near frigid temperatures and high pressure, has proven extremely difficult to refine and concentrate into liquid or even solid form. Many have tried, few have succeeded and even fewer have been able to replicate it, but over the years with knowledge and intelligence growing, both novan and neron magic have been brought into liquid and solid forms, unlocking a new level of magical power.
The liquefaction of magic represents a pinnacle of alchemical and arcane research, a process that transforms gaseous magical essence into a liquid state. This liquid magic, often referred to as "Arcane Nectar," is highly potent and versatile, used in a variety of applications from potent elixirs and powerful enchantments to fuel for magical machinery. The process of liquefying magic involves capturing the gaseous essence in a containment field, then using a combination of pressure, ambient magical frequencies, and catalytic substances derived from magically resonant materials. The method requires precision and understanding of the delicate balance of magical forces, making it a closely guarded secret among the most skilled alchemists and mages.
Another method that solidifies magical energy is called "Crystallisation," where magic is condensed into crystals, significantly amplifying its potency. Magical crystals are highly versatile. They can be used as power sources for magical artefacts, enhancing their abilities or providing the energy needed to activate them. Enchanters and smiths embed these crystals into weapons, armour, and jewellery, granting them extraordinary powers such as elemental resistance, increased strength, or healing capabilities. However, the process requires not only technical skill and knowledge but also a deep understanding of the magical forces at play. Missteps can lead to unstable crystals that might release their stored magic unpredictably or even explode.
The transformation of magic into liquid and solid forms through advanced processes represents a significant achievement in Aonaran, unlocking unprecedented magical power for various applications, yet requiring immense skill and care to avoid dangerous instabilities.

Manufacturing & Products

Magical manufacturing harnesses the inherent powers of novan and neron magic to create products and materials that embody magical properties. This unique blend of alchemy and craftsmanship allows for the production of goods that surpass the capabilities of traditional manufacturing, offering enhanced qualities such as self-repair, elemental resistance, or augmented performance. The integration of magic into the manufacturing process not only revolutionises product development but also opens up new markets and possibilities for innovation within the realm's economy.
Some examples of such products manufactured with magic include self-heating cauldrons that revolutionise the culinary arts, maintaining perfect temperatures without the need for fire. Magically fortified armour offers unmatched protection to its wearers, light as silk but impenetrable as the thickest steel, each piece bespoke to its bearer's needs. Parchments resistant to fire and water ensure that knowledge and secrets, once inscribed, endure through ages, safeguarding the wisdom of scholars and the whispers of spies alike.
The advent of invisibility cloaks and silent boots opens new avenues for stealth and espionage, cherished by scouts and thieves for whom shadow and silence are allies. Healing potions, crafted from rare ingredients and potent magic, offer cures to ailments that bewilder even the most knowledgeable healers, making them a precious commodity across the lands. Enhanced seeds for agriculture, imbued with novan magic, promise bountiful harvests even in the most barren soils, blessing farmers with crops that defy natural limitations.
Teleportation scrolls and portals become the cornerstone of transport, connecting distant corners of Aonaran with a mere whisper of magic, transforming commerce and diplomacy in unforeseen ways. Protective amulets against curses provide a shield against the darker aspects of magic, offering solace and security in a world where neron energies lurk. Crystal balls for communication shatter the barriers of distance, enabling instant visual and auditory exchange across vast expanses, weaving a network of connections that binds the diverse cultures of Aonaran.
Together, these magical innovations not only elevate the quality of life for all inhabitants but also weave a rich tapestry of magic and mystery, where the mundane melds with the marvellous, reflecting a society deeply entwined with the arcane.

Byproducts & Sideproducts

In the refinement and application of magic, the processes generate a range of byproducts and side products, some with their unique properties and potential uses, while others pose challenges due to their unintended or hazardous nature. Some examples are magical residue, arcane sludge, elemental fragments and magical echoes.
The refinement of magic, especially during crystallisation or liquefaction, often leaves behind a residue of less concentrated magical essence. This residue, while not as potent as the primary product, can still be harnessed for lower-grade enchantments or educational purposes, offering a practical way to utilise what would otherwise be waste.
The combination of magical and non-magical materials during industrial processes can result in arcane sludge. This sludge, if not properly disposed of or recycled, can leach into the ground, affecting local flora and fauna. However, with careful treatment, it can be transformed into a rich fertiliser for magical crops or used in the creation of protective barriers.
During elemental magic manipulations, tiny and even microscopic fragments of elemental essence might crystallise into physical forms. These fragments can be incredibly valuable and used in crafting items that require a specific elemental affinity. However, uncontrolled accumulation of these fragments can lead to environmental imbalances or hazards, such as unexpected fires from fire elemental fragments or flooding from water elemental fragments.
High-intensity magic can leave behind echoes—residual magical vibrations that persist in an area. These echoes can subtly influence mood, health, or even the local weather, depending on the type of magic used. While difficult to harness due to their ephemeral nature, magical echoes can serve as historical markers or be studied for insights into ancient magical practices.
Addressing the generation of byproducts and side products in magical manufacturing and refining processes is essential, not only to mitigate potential environmental or health impacts but also to discover innovative uses for these materials, further integrating magic into the fabric of Aonaran's economy and daily life.

Hazards

Magical spellcasting and manufacturing come with their own detrimental risks, not only to the body and mind of the user but also to the environment, fauna and flora. Here are a few of the hazards and what they cause.
Magical Drain is the most common and deadliest hazard associated with casting magical spells. The overuse and expenditure of magic can lead to physical pains as the Arcane Reservoir tries to refill itself. What usually is a slight tingle on the skin then becomes full-blown cramps that, in extreme cases, can even lead to death. This drain can also affect magical items and magically enhanced constructs. If these are drained of their magical properties, they lose their effects and in the case of buildings, can even be caused to collapse.
Magical Overload is the direct opposite of magical drain and is less common, but equally as dangerous. It is caused by over-absorbing magical energy to the point where the Arcane Reservoir within the body explodes. It can be caused by a genetic mutation or intentional absorption that is not stopped in time.
Novan and neron magic do not interact in nature due to them repelling one another. However, in spellcasting and manufacturing, both types often come closer than they usually would. Should they interact with one another, then one of two things will happen: Either, they will cancel each other out or there will be an explosion proportionate to the amount that got into contact.
Arcane sludge contamination can happen if the arcane sludge that is produced as a byproduct in some manufacturing processes isn't properly disposed of or recycled. It seeps into the environment and poisons fauna and flora, causing a purplish eye, fur, leaf or bark colour, diarrhoea, vomiting, and if left untreated, death.
Environmental imbalances are often a result of excessive accumulation of microscopic elemental fragments in the environment. Depending on the type of element, this can cause a multitude of disasters such as wildfires, floods, earthquakes, landslides, blizzards, etc.
Magical echoes are a rarer occurrence compared to most hazards, but one of the more serious. These residual vibrations can be caused by powerful magic incidents, such as a battle or an intense interaction between novan and neron magic. Undetectable with humanoid hearing, these vibrations are often only felt, causing disturbances in brain waves and muscle functions. In addition, these vibrations can cause localised weather patterns to go awry.
Runaway enchantments signify a loss of control over magical items. It causes unintended behaviours, such as a protective enchantment on a building attacking everything or a sword that rusts as soon as it's confronted with water. Results can be widespread chaos or harm
Unstable Magical Constructs can occur due to flawed creation processes, resulting in instability. Effects include malfunction or disintegration. Potential results are injury or property damage.
Resource Depletion is caused by overharvesting magical materials. This often leads to scarcity and loss of magical potency. The long-term damage can be the potential collapse of magical ecosystems.
The practice of magic in Aonaran entails inherent risks, from personal harm due to overuse or misuse, to widespread environmental and ecological disturbances. These dangers highlight the delicate balance required in harnessing magical energies, emphasizing the need for responsible management and usage to prevent adverse effects on both individuals and nature.

Environmental Impact

The environmental impacts of magic are profound and multifaceted. From the Demon Continent Morana to the Dragon Continent Aeron, the delicate balance of ecosystems is at risk due to magic for a multitude of reasons.
Overharvesting magic on Morana threatens its unique magical fauna and flora due to their reliance on a steady magical flow, risking the near extinction of some species. On Aeron, home to dragons born from magic, overharvesting could devastate dragon populations as they depend on the continent's rich magical environment for survival. Both scenarios highlight the delicate balance between magic use and ecosystem sustainability, underscoring the need for responsible magical resource management to prevent ecological collapse.
Pollution from magic, such as arcane sludge, elemental fragments, and magical echoes, significantly impacts Aonaran's environment. Arcane sludge can poison ecosystems, turning areas and inhabitants purple and killing wildlife and plant life. Making fertiliser through detoxification from arcane sludge serves as a way to recycle this otherwise highly poisonous material. Elemental fragments may cause natural disasters if unmanaged but can be repurposed or safely disintegrated. Magical echoes, harder to mitigate, remain a persistent issue.
The Dead Ocean, Mortea, stands as Aonaran's most significant environmental disaster suspected to be caused by magic. Its once-thriving waters are now lifeless and life-threatening, a stark reminder of the destructive potential of magic. This catastrophic event highlights the urgent need for sustainable magic usage to prevent similar ecological tragedies in the future.
The environmental impact of magic underscores the delicate balance between harnessing magical energies and preserving natural ecosystems. Sustainable management and responsible practices are crucial to mitigate pollution, protect unique species, and prevent catastrophic environmental disasters linked to magic.

Distribution

Trade & Market

While magic itself is not directly traded, its manifestations through wizard guilds' services and magical items form the backbone of magical commerce. The market for magic is diverse, valuing items and services based on their magical content, complexity, and the risks involved in their creation or execution. With trade hubs ranging from wizard guilds to black markets, the magical trade is vibrant but fraught with the challenge of illegal dealings and the ethical implications of trading in magical creatures.
Legal variants of magical trade in Aonaran involve the sale of services by wizard guilds and the distribution of magical items, such as artefacts and charms, through reputable channels like universities and monasteries. These transactions are regulated based on the complexity, magical intensity, and utility of the items or services offered, ensuring that trade practices meet established ethical and safety standards. The legal trade framework aims to safeguard both practitioners and consumers, maintaining a balanced and fair marketplace for magical goods and services.
On the flip side, the illegal aspects of magical trade in Aonaran involve the black market and unauthorised wizard guilds dealing in counterfeit or dangerous magical items and services. This includes everything from malfunctioning magical artefacts to illicit services such as assassinations. The presence of such unlawful activities poses significant risks, not only to the unsuspecting consumers but also to the social and moral fabric of Aonaran, highlighting the ongoing battle between regulation and exploitation within the realm of magical commerce.
The magical trade in Aonaran encompasses both legal, governed by ethical and safety standards, and illegal realms, operating widely outside these regulations. The dichotomy underscores the broader challenge of managing magical commerce within a framework that ensures the welfare and security of all Aonaran's inhabitants.

Storage

Magic can be stored in many ways.
First and foremost, all creatures of Aonaran possess some form of Arcane Reservoir, an internal organ that stores magical energy within the body. The skin possesses specialised pores that absorb magical energy from the air. This is a passive and continuous process that occurs as naturally as breathing. The absorbed magical energy is transported throughout the body by Magical Veins or a derivative thereof into the Arcane Reservoir of the creature. There, it is stored until it is expended. The Arcane Reservoir can expand with continuous use and training.
Arcane Reservoirs take on different forms depending on species. The majority of humanoids and animals have a regular Arcane Reservoir. Meanwhile, demons and ghouls possess an organ called the Infernal Core, that provides them with storage for magical energy. Elves, due to their history, have an Ancient's Core. Fairies received a Nature Nexus from the Tree of Life and banshees had their Nature Nexus removed, leaving them with a remnant, dubbed the Corrupted Nexus, as magical storage. Having been blessed by the fairies, nymphs have an Ocean's Heart and sirens, having been created by the Demon Princess Keres, possess an Abyssal Core for magical storage.

Law & Regulation

At first, the laws surrounding magic were different from region to region. While the demons of Morana had already banned murder by magical means after the end of the Age of Abandonment, the humanoids of Elentiya would only describe this law in the early stages of modern society when it became problematic due to an increase in assassinations and murders. An overarching governing body of magic was formed during this time by the first-ever ruler of Elentiya, Queen Ayhan of Miliani. She called the thirteen leaders of the strongest wizard guild in each country to form the Arcane Council which quickly formulated a collection of magical laws and would oversee and enact these.
In these laws, the very first states that magic is a birthright and cannot be taken away by any means. This law forms the basis for the rest of the collection.
Ethical Use Guidelines form one of the cornerstones of the Arcane Council's magical laws, emphasising the moral application of magic. These guidelines serve to ensure that all magical practices are conducted with respect for life, autonomy, and the preservation of natural and magical environments. They particularly highlight the importance of treating magical creatures with dignity and ensuring their well-being, reflecting a deep commitment to ethical considerations in the realm of magic.
Public Safety Measures in the Arcane Council's laws are designed to protect the public and the environment from potential harm caused by the use of magic. These measures include restrictions on casting spells in populated areas without proper authorisation, guidelines to prevent environmental degradation from magical activities, and protocols for the safe handling and disposal of magical substances. Ensuring the well-being of citizens and the preservation of natural habitats are central to these regulations, highlighting the balance between leveraging magical abilities and maintaining public safety.
Heritage and Conservation laws protect the ancient magical heritage, including sites, artefacts, and knowledge, ensuring they are preserved for future generations. These laws prohibit the destruction or unauthorised alteration of historical magical locations and artefacts, mandating that any discovery of magical significance is reported to the Arcane Council for assessment and conservation. This legal framework underscores the importance of maintaining a connection to the past and safeguarding the rich magical legacy of Aonaran for educational and cultural enrichment.
Licensing and Registration laws mandate that all magic practitioners selling their services in Aonaran must be officially licensed and registered with the Arcane Council. This ensures that those who wield magic are properly educated and trained, capable of practising their craft responsibly. The system not only helps in maintaining high standards within the magical community but also aids in accountability, making it easier to trace any misuse of magic back to its source, thereby promoting a safer and more regulated magical environment.
Trade Regulations specifically oversee the exchange of magical goods and services, including detailed rules on the import and export of magical items. These laws are designed to ensure that all magical trade is conducted fairly and safely, preventing the spread of dangerous or unethically sourced magical artefacts. Additionally, they aim to support a stable economy by setting standards for quality and authenticity, thus protecting both consumers and legitimate traders in the magical marketplace.
Research and Development laws govern the exploration and creation of new magical practices or technologies, ensuring that such endeavours are conducted with safety and ethical considerations in mind. These regulations support innovation within the magical community while safeguarding against reckless experiments that could pose risks to society or the environment. This framework fosters a culture of responsible advancement, balancing the pursuit of magical knowledge and innovation with the well-being of Aonaran and its inhabitants.
Controlled Substances laws delineate which magical materials or energies are restricted due to their potency or potential for misuse. This categorisation ensures that particularly powerful or dangerous magical elements are only accessed and used by those with the requisite skills and permissions, thereby preventing accidents or nefarious activities. By regulating access to these substances, the Arcane Council aims to maintain public safety and the integrity of magical practices across the realm.
Prohibited Practices laws identify specific types of magic or spells that are outlawed by the Arcane Council, particularly those deemed too dangerous or ethically questionable. This includes magic that can manipulate free will, cause irreversible harm, or disrupt the balance of nature. These regulations are in place to protect individuals and the environment from the darker aspects of magical power, ensuring that magic serves the greater good and upholds the moral and ethical standards of society.
Enforcement and Penalty laws detail the consequences for those found in violation of Aonaran's magical regulations, ensuring accountability and deterrence. Penalties range from fines and community service to imprisonment for severe breaches. These measures are essential for upholding the legal and ethical standards of magical practice, protecting the community from harm, and maintaining the integrity of the magical ecosystem.
All laws are made with the basic humanoid right of magic in mind. For a more detailed law collection, see the Laws of Magic by the Arcane Council.
Type
Metaphysical
Rarity
Abundant
Odor
Different for everyone and dependant on the type.
Taste
Tingly on the tongue, taste differs from person to person.
Color
Invisible to the naked eye in its gaseous state. Novan magic in its refined form is light-blue, while neron magic is orange-red.
Common State
Gaseous
Related Locations

Comments

Please Login in order to comment!
Apr 7, 2024 22:25 by Icarus Crow

Congratulations on your participation in the Magic March challenge, and thank you so much for your entry! Here's your shiny badge!

by sunnybirdboi via Canva
[ img : 5379806 ]

Check out my unofficial challenge for UOMarch, Magic March! ~ Icarus