Magic in Brunaria

Why pay for a mage with 10 years of study, when I can teach 15 peasants to shoot in an afternoon, or buy a machine in an hour?

Magic isn't what it used to be in Brunaria. The rising sophistication and accessibility of ballistics and machinery have reduced the appeal and utility of magic. It is still understood, however, that a powerful wizard or cleric is among one of the most formidable beings in Brunaria.

Sources of Magic

Innate Gifts

Some are still born with innate magical gifts, such as sorcerers. They are identified quickly and often pressed into formal magical education or military service.

The Arcane Arts

Schools exist to further certain arcane arts, such as wizardry. These schools are expensive and exclusive.

The Old Gods

The ways of the old gods are still strong in certain remote regions of the world, including most of Gratora.
The tribes of the Argonian Flats and Ald'oui Badlands speak to spirit and animal guardians. Many of Einhemmr, Yirus, and Croland strongly believe in their own pantheons, calling for power in many ways.

The New Way

Within the last 200 years, a new religion has established supremacy. The Way has become the religion of choice for the powerful northern nations of Eodrand. Clerics and Paladins surge with power as they spread the holy word into the west.
While the old ways are tolerated and respected by many, particularly zealous followers of the Way see it as their duty to either convert new followers or show them the folly of their ways.

Magical Regulations

Magic is somewhat regulated in various parts of the world, in particular major cities.
Minor conveniences and tricks, such as mending broken items, lighting dark rooms and the like are considered trivial tasks. These spells can be cast without fear or alarm.
Destructive magics are considered very dangerous and require authorization in many jurisdictions. Stiff penalties are associated with unauthorized use of destructive magics.
Teleportation and planar travel are considered a security risk and carry similar penalties if misused. There are, however, various short-term and long-term authorizations that can be obtained, due to the magic's utility.