Magic Lore
This overview is meant to give some out-of-character understanding of the state of magic within the world of Origins of Sin, Sincadere. The canon story for magic is ultimately how it affects the world around us in-character, on a micro and macro scale, and isn't used to limit or hinder any individual's roleplay. Instead, it is used as a writing prompt meant to enhance world building and enrich story lines, as well as provide a chance for character development. There won't be a strict "you cannot use this system of magic", but rather, the outcome could contribute to an over-arching theme of destruction.
How does Magic affect the world of Sincadere?
Out-of-Character Knowledge:
When mana is used as fuel to power magic, a by-product, or residue, is left behind that acts much like radiation does in the real world. The consequences of this by-product building up can have devastating impact on the world over time. Often, the catastrophes can lead to wide-spread change for the territories and continents as a whole.
Overall In-Character theme:
The nature of 'magic' is a long debated focal point for many of Sincadere's inhabitants within the In-Character setting. Historically, magic had been seen as the catalyst for major catastrophes that are well-documented by the major territories. How the kingdoms interpret the use of magic and how that leads to these catastrophes can differ somewhat from each other in terms of what the true cause of it is.
Three schools of thought:
Helheim
Helheim's history with magic is that of a love-hate relationship. As the native human's last standing capital city, it has endured the two great catastrophes brought on by the destructive affects of magic. There are lines that one should not cross when delving into the mysterious arts; magic should not be used frivolously. If it is necessary to bring about a desired result, then it is best to filter the negative affects through the fusion of magic and technology: Magitech.
Cabbala Amartia
Cabbala's opinion on magic is mostly formed by the institutionalized education system prevelent within its society. The prevailing theory is that all magic is the same, neither good or bad, light or dark. Magical discovery should not be limited by any one individual or government as the threat of catastrophe is in the lack of knowing how to use and control magic. Because of this, the use of magics that are traditionally seen as taboo, or 'evil' by the surface world, flourishes in the underground cavernous city that often put Cabbala at odds with its neighboring territories.
Territorial Sources of Power:
Magitech
Magitech is the fusion of magic and technology that is used as a 'filter' of sorts to counter the negative affects of using too much raw magic. With the use of enchantments and magical components much of the spell work and mana can be stored and used to power such devices. However, like many novel ideas, they often backfire or fail to work as intended.
Crystal of Power
The Crystal of Power is a quasi-sentient, parasitic Arcanite that feeds off of magical and life energy. Maintained by the Cabbala College of Obscure Arts, it is a delicate balance of give and take that make accessing its power dangerous to anyone not attuned. There is no gain without risk.