Ascarna (as-scar-nah)
For most mortal creatures, they are not born with magic within them as part of who or what they are. But they may cast magic through outward manipulation of The Magic Thread. But threads can snap back, lacerate or even cause break skin when used the right (or wrong) way with the right force.
That is to say, magic casting can cause Ascarna; magically caused markings, scars or alterations to the body. The type of marking and it's presentation (usually through colour) is determined by the specific spell and it's nature.
Magic when used to kill a creature will nearly always leave Ascarna on its remains, allowing someone will the right knowledge to trace the cause of death.
A temporary form of Ascarna can form between a caster and target when using magic that binds the two together, although will fade should the spell end or break.
The exception of course being the rule that applies to all spells: repeated use within a short time of any spell will begin to leave Ascarna of the living caster. The more powerful the spell, the less use and time required. The mark can become 'permanent' for as long as the spell is repeatedly use while present and equally can fade if the spell is not used long enough.
So be aware when over using your magic to charm or see into the minds of others, those with the knowledge will see the signs and be wary of you.
IDENTIFICATION
There is a very general guide for determining at least the damage or nature related to the spell. There are always exceptions but any magic user trained well in the basics of safety will know at least how to estimate by colour:
- WHITE + crackling vein markings = Lightning
- SILVER = Divination
- ORANGE + burns = Fire
- PALE YELLOW = Light, radiant and divine
- ACIDIC GREEN = Acid
- DEEP GREEN = Nature based
- AQUAMARINE + bruising = Force
- PALE BLUE + frost damage = Cold and Ice
- GUNMETAL BLUE + Cracks around the ears = Thunder/sound
- DARK PURPLE + necrosis = Necrotic
- PURPLE = Poison
- VIOLET = Psychic
- GREYS = Enchantment
Causes
In a phrase: Magic casting
- When a spell is the cause of a creature's death
- If a spell links two creatures together they may have temporary Ascarna to show their connection
- When a spell is repeatedly cast by a user in a short amount of time, this can be as temporary as their use. Should they stop and give it time between uses the mark can fade. If use is repeated, it will remain.
Symptoms
A semi-magical marking on a creature's body. This can range from an alteration in colouring, a marking or an actual scar. All of which are referred to as Ascarna. Magically caused but these markings are not magical themselves.
Treatment
- If dead, it cannot be removed
- For something living, a bonding based spell will disappear once the spell breaks or ends
- For repeated spell use, the mark will fade over time with no repeated spell use
Affected Groups
- Magic casters
- Murder victims of magic
Prevention
For basic spell usage, ensure a recovery time in between repeated casting, the more powerful the spell the longer the time
Cultural Reception
The general public are aware of the idea that magic users can create their own scars and an odd scar on a body may be related to magic. The specific identification of spell related is lost on anyone with no magic training. In other words Ascarna are met with caution to distrust, especially for the more conspicuous and unique.
For example an alteration to eye colour may be mistaken for odd heritage rather than Ascarna whereas green facial markings will stand out as purposeful.
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