Witchcraft
From the Lyorn Records of the Dragaeran Empire
Witchcraft is a form of magic most commonly practiced in the East which uses one's own psionic powers, rather than relying on an external source of energy (as in Sorcery).
Witchcraft is almost always accompanied by the use of rituals and incantations designed to guide the witch's mind down the proper path to release this energy in the proper way. These rituals usually include the use of herbs, runic symbols, black or white candles, incense, crystals, and often a personal object of whomever at which the spell is targeted.
A skilled witch will often acquire a familiar to aid in the process of controlling the psionic energies of a spell. This is important since witchcraft is potentially dangerous to practice if the witch becomes distracted and loses control of a spell.
In at least two known examples (Morrolan and Brimford), a witch in training may be sent into the world, renouncing his name, to find both a new name and a Soulmate.
[edit] Common Uses of Witchcraft
- Psionic communication.
- The ability to subtly influence minds, spark ideas, change moods.
- The ability to communicate with and influence animals.
- The ability to divine information from inanimate objects.
- The ability to curse or bless someone's state of health.
- Creation of Potions for various purposes (Love potions, healing potions, etc.)
- Creation of wards, charms, or other magic implements.
- Ability to keep Castle Black floating a mile above the ground.
[edit] How Witchcraft Relates To Other Branches of Magic
Since all the power of a witch originates internally, witchcraft can be more difficult to detect that Sorcery. (Especially among Dragaerans who do not usually practice it). Witchcraft's limitations are notably different from that of sorcery, since all power is sourced within the individual(s). Morrolan explains that the effect of a witch's spell is limited by the psychic power of the witch or witches casting it. In contrast, the complexity of a sorcerer's spell is limited by the mental capacity of the sorcerer casting it -- but the spell's power is virtually unlimited, being supplied by the seas of amorphia and the Orb.
In addition, several witches can combine their energies to make a spell more potent, which is not possible using sorcerous magic. Large covens of witches may engage in truly powerful magics not possible through Sorcery.
The psionic abilities of a witch can be blocked by black Phoenix Stones, rendering witchcraft (and most psionic communication) impossible.
