[@Achronum] A good question, but one that requires a complex answer. Spellcasting can take a variety of forms on Ea, but most of those are what Photepi Sorcerers would refer to dismissively as "witchcraft." Incantations, summoning circles, sacrifices, that sort of thing.

What differentiates Sorcery as our characters understand it is that it uses similar theoretical components, but they exist solely within the Sorcerer's mind. Sorcerers use their will and focus to direct and transmute aetheric energy, and so for them, "spells" resemble formulas or programs that they must perform mentally in order to manifest magical power. This requires considerable mental and physical discipline, somewhat akin to one who practices Yoga as part of their religion. However, these are the basic tenets of Sorcery. You need to be able to do this competently in order to even be [i]considered for induction[/i] into the Cults of Heka.

The practices and research that more experienced and powerful Sorcerers engage in are more complex. They frequently study the effect that external influences have on spellcasting; the interplay of the cosmos, Ea, and the Aether. They train vigorously to be able to draw and control more energy from the Aether without overwhelming themselves. They condition their senses to gain more insight into the tides and tempests of the Aether, and what can be learned from their patterns. Larger and more complex spellcraft requires the tools of "witchcraft," but in much more sophisticated forms. Glyphs are designed as aetheric conduits or focusing tools, and can be large and ornate enough to have entire buildings as part of their geometric structure. Incantations are most often used as a means of coordinating the spellcasting efforts of multiple Sorcerers pooling their power for a group ritual. Sacrifices... are the domain of Demonologists, and so are not the concern of bright young Novitiates such as yourselves.