Blog

Mana’s Gentle Glow

“It is important for mages to understand the substance from which all spells are sculpted: Mana. No matter what color we are best attuned to, we are nothing without this essential energy that flows around and through us every moment of every day. For this lesson, we will forego the casting, and focus primarily on gathering this fundamental building block of all that we do. As mages, it is our duty to use this gift to the best of our abilities. Hone our skills to a razor’s edge, that we best utilize this resource that sustains us.” – Rabrandt “Enigma” Cyanis

Even now, Edmund could still hear the voice of his professor ringing in his head as he and his fellow students practiced in the training fields. While the wolfkin could lecture away if permitted, he always understood that, especially in a field as individualized and personal as magic, practical application and field practice were necessities. It was part of how he garnered the respect of his students.

And as he held the ephemeral, gently glowing substance in his hands, the tigerkin started to comprehend why his professor had impressed the lesson so strongly. Even before enrolling at the Magistrum, he had been no stranger to the powerful effects of magic, particularly his own. Bullies and thugs had learned to fear a blast of lightning or wind as much as they did a blow from his fists, but this was different.

To think, the same energy that went into every one of his outbursts could be so… warm, so gentle. It had a profound impact on the young man, as he would go on to hone and refine his skills.

This lovely little piece from Marsel-Defender back in September of 2021 was the perfect excuse to delve into Enigma and Edmund’s relationship as instructor and student.

I’ve always been someone who learns better from practical application than from listening to lectures. When thinking about the kind of classes I would want to see in my fictional school, I couldn’t fathom any lesson that didn’t incorporate a significant amount of training and technical instruction.

It is one thing to be told something is possible, and quite another to see it and do it yourself. Seeing mana built up in his hands, Edmund would understand that.