Shape Shift

Effect

Shape shifting spells are a huge variety of different spells, with an even wider array of effects. While some classify certain boons from the gods as shape shifting magic, many boons are often held individually per the god they come from. Regardless of origin, shape shifting spells allow the user to change their body in some form, independently of Illusion magic.

Side/Secondary Effects

All shapeshifting magic takes enormous amounts of energy to perform and maintain. Whole body transformations require the most energy per change, and oftentimes will deplete the aura of mortals entirely rapidly, forcing transformation back to their normal form within a few hours. If a transformation is held longer, the spell will begin to use other forms of energy to sustain itself. If done improperly, the spell may utilize body heat or tissues as a form of energy, but can be channeled to use body fat in a controlled manner to sustain use.
Most with the ability to shape shift will excel in particular forms and struggle to maintain others, generally struggling with forms that are much further removed from their sense of self or natural biology. Struggling with a transformation requires greater focus in order to maintain a stable form as well as a greater energy expenditure to change back. It is not uncommon for individuals with little or poor training to be unable to take their normal form without assistance if their aura has been depleted.



In Omnia and Mages, shape shifting comes much easier than other mortal races and can be done for longer safely, though both can still suffer similar side effects. Omnia and Mages both tend to utilize body fat and tissue for transformations more readily than other groups, with lesser affect on their physical health unless rapidly transforming repeatedly.

Manifestation

All shape shifting spells cause the body to morph and change, often with either a specific desired effect by the caster. In the process of shape shifting, the caster can feel their body twist and change, and are extremely vulnerable to damage until the change is complete. Once fully transformed, the caster takes on properties of how they have changed themself.

Effect Duration

Sustained

Effect Casting Time

2-10 seconds

Range

Self cast

Level

Trained

Applied Restriction

As shape shifting is potentially dangerous to the caster, all users of it must be trained under international magic use laws in order to prevent injury. Use of shape shifting to take on the appearance of another person is forbidden, and in most regions felony impersonation.
Shapeshifting for use in film and theater is heavily regulated by actor's guilds to prevent injury, with most unions stipulating that actors must not be made to be in a transformation longer than a half hour, and no more than 4 transformations per day.