Extract Professor Sallen Explains Spells to His Mentee at the Scentian Academy of Thaumaturgy.

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"The voice is a vocalist's instrument, and the microphone is what carries that voice, makes it heard. The same is true for magi: mana is a mage's instrument, and the spell is what brings that instrument to life, more than simply a type of energy."

That’s what the Principal told me when I was his mentee, years ago. At the time, it didn’t make much sense to me either and judging by that look on your face, I see it hasn’t improved with age. But don’t worry. I’ll break it down for you.

So, let’s start simple. What are spells?

Spells, my dear student, are thaumaturgical constructs made out of spellrunes. You’ve done your homework on spellrunes, I hope? Good. These constructs are used to create magical effects, and they save us from the hassle of performing rituals or assembling large magical formations every single time.

Now, you’ve probably got some preconceived ideas about spells. Let me clear those up. Spells aren’t just weapons of mass destruction wielded by magi to annihilate their enemies. Sure, they can be, but the vast majority are far more practical. For example, light spells. I guarantee you, there are thousands of spells just for creating light. I don’t know why magi keep inventing new ones, but they do.

Now, let’s move on to how spells are categorized. Spells are classified into six tiers, from 0 to 6, based on their complexity and power.

TIER 0

Tier 0 spells aren’t technically considered "spells." It refers to Mana Shaping—the manipulation of mana without using spellrunes, constructs, or formations. Every mage worth their salt knows how to shape mana to some extent.

Don’t underestimate it, though. Mana shaping is the foundation of spellcraft, and when mastered to the highest level, it becomes one of the most powerful tools imaginable. The Fourth Sage has notoriously mastered mana shaping to the degree that he can create entirely unique spells on the fly, tailor-made to the specific situation.

But don’t get ahead of yourself, alright? As much as I hate to crush your dreams. But as your mentor, I find it important to note that only the exceptionally gifted—like the Sage or the Principal—can reach those heights. And you still have a long way to go before that. So focus on your basics for now.

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TIERS 1-3

These tiers encompass the vast majority of spells, especially the ones you’ll use regularly.

They are single-element spells with rather rudimentary or simple effects, with each tier getting progressively more complex and powerful than the last.

* Tier 1 spells are simple, single-element spells—basic but essential.

* Tier 2 builds on that foundation, offering refined and more effective variations.

* Tier 3, the highest of the "basic" spells, includes some of the most iconic and well-known spells in history, like the infamous Fireball spell.

Despite their simplicity compared to higher tiers, these spells are incredibly versatile. There’s a saying among magi: “If you can think of it, someone’s made a spell for it.” That’s thanks to Tier 1-3 spells. They form the backbone of any mage’s – yes, even Archmages – repertoire.

TIER 4

Now we’re entering more advanced territory.

Tier 4 spells involve either multiple elements or multiple matrices. In simple terms, they’re more complex, multi-elemental spells with combined or layered effects. Most Dimensionalism spells fall into this category.

Let me warn you: this is the tier where mana cost starts becoming a real issue. Some Tier 4 spells require so much mana that a mage with below-average reserves might never be able to cast them, no matter how skilled they are.

Personally, this is my limit, as Tier 4 is the highest tier most magi—including myself—will ever reach.

TIER 5

These are reserved almost entirely for the elite of magi and involve the manipulation of willpower.

These spells can also be multi-elemental and multi-matrix, though that isn’t always the case.

These spells do tend to be more sophisticated and potent than Tier 4 spells, as they’re crafted and wielded by the most skilled of magi.

Very few magi ever cast Tier 5 spells. If you’re lucky, you might see one in action someday. But for now, don’t worry about them too much—you’ve got plenty of work to do before we get there.

TIER 6

Finally, the pinnacle: Mystic Spells.

These spells are unique to the field of Mysticism, which combines mana and aura to create effects greater than either could achieve alone. Tier 6 spells are incredibly rare, even among the best of the best. The Principal himself is one of the few people alive who can cast them. So, consider yourself fortunate you've met him, as people capable of using Mystic Spells are legends in their own right.

So, those are the six tiers of spells. Any questions? No? Good.

Now, for your homework: I want you to review everything you know about mana shaping and practice it daily. It’s fundamental, and I expect you to master it before we move on. Understood? Excellent. Let’s get to work.