Basic Magic (Redux)

Magic
Magic is a force that exists in many worlds, and it has been used for good as well as evil. It can be wielded by anyone with the proper training or magical ability. In some cases, however, people use magic to harm others. Many cultures have developed ways of dealing with magic users who abuse their powers. These methods range from simple exile (in which the magic user is banished from the society) to more extreme measures such as execution or enslavement.

In most cases, people are born with innate abilities—the power to cast spells or communicate with spirits is often hereditary. People without these gifts must receive special instruction before they will learn how to use magic. The kind of spell someone can cast depends on his or her specific talents. Some sorcerers are masters at controlling fire; others are accomplished healers. Some are great war wizards, while others can make small objects levitate. Some can create new plants and animals, or transform people into other creatures. There is no one way to use magic, so most sorcerers possess a wide variety of skills. As an example, a sorcerer named Gretchen is able to perform many different kinds of magic: she can control water and earth, call forth spirits, and even grant wishes.

All magic requires a certain amount of concentration. A person must be willing to commit himself to a task with all his heart in order to succeed. Some people find this hard to do because of what happens when they concentrate. They may see visions or hear voices or feel strange sensations. This is part of the process of using magic. Most sorcerers learn to ignore these distractions.