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“That is absolutely correct! Using humans as a control since they’re the only ones we can consistently Awaken, animals likely don’t display any higher tiered affinities because of the development of traits at those tiers!” Carina explained excitedly. “Of course, that could be completely wrong too! No one has seen anything else than humans with Secondary and Tertiary affinities so it’s all a shot in the dark and if that doesn’t get your blood pumping, I don’t know what will!”
“Arcane magic isn’t an alternative. Connecting with and controlling your affinity is a crucial step to a stable, successful magical career.” Carina tapped her foot as she thought. “Yes, you can cast arcane magic without discovering your affinity but you will find yourself exhausted far more quickly since you are fighting two battles: the first to make your magic comply and then to strip it of all essence of yourself.”
“And, uh, what is Sound then?” Damien piped up from the seat he managed to snag closer to the front. “Cause I’m going to be honest, this is an absolute ton of sh- stuff I’ve never even thought about until today and I really just wanna focus on getting a grip on me before I learn everything else here.”
“Oh, affinity twins!” Carina giggled as she pulled out a thin metal rod. “Mine acts like a Secondary but Sound is classified as a Conditional because it can present as any of them! And you’ll learn plenty about your magic in Affinity Mastery.” She gave a concerned frown at Damien’s blank stare and her wand tapped against her throat before flourished it with a flick of the wrist and put it away, her lips moving silently. Damien beam and flashed her a pair of thumbs up. The professor beamed back at him before turning get attention back to the class.
“Now that we know a little about what magic is and how and why we group it, let’s discuss how it works! Magic is a tricky, fickle thing and the effort to understand it has been enormous. Now, I have to correct myself from earlier. I know I mentioned the Alfonsi model but we’re actually going to cover the Varissean model, aka the Limited Capacity model!” Carina waited for a few moments for people to correct their notes. “Now, the Limited Capacity Model states that all mages draw magic in from their surroundings, store it as magical potential in a limited reserve, and expend it in a fantastic fashion! Well, not that last part but I think it sounds more fun than ‘Casts magic.’ The model states that magic is drawn out of the reserves like water from a faucet and our control determines the rate of flow and a mage’s focus is the cup that makes magic safe and stable!”
“While Robert Varissean’s model from 1809 is certainly one of the easiest and most comprehensive of the four accepted magical models, it misses two major points of magic: Dissonance and Resonance. This is where foci become incredibly important. In fact, they’re literally life saving.” Carine chewed at her lip as she contemplated. “A focus is a tool that allows mages to shape and direct their magic safely. The traits that define two of the magic tiers also make handling those affinities dangerous for a mage, creating a sort of kickback that can have serious and lasting effects on its mage. For this reason, there are two qualities when considering a focus. First, it should be sturdy enough to handle this kickback. Soft metals and fabrics should never compose the core of your focus but I always recommend embellishing. Second, a focus should have an emotional connection to the mage, something that has history and familiarity so the magic is far more willing to accept it as an extension of the mage rather than an object. Failing to take these into consideration may lean into the severe form kickback known as Dissonance.” The screens behind her flickered and each held a different image: The first was a mage missing a hand, another a mage with welts and hives covering her face, the third was a boy with glowing veins, and the last was statue with empty eye sockets and mouth agape.
“Dissonance is a state in which the differences between magic and mage create so much friction, it is impossible to contain. This most often happens when a Secondary or Tertiary mage has no focus while casting a complex spell or when they attempt to cast something outside of their skill level. The resulting friction causes the magic to turn on the mage, ranging from explosive damage to complete transformation.” Carina pointed to the statue. “1913, Andres Demickel. Gravity mage attempting to reverse the gravitational pull on an entire mansion. Full transmutation into stone expect for the eyes. The eyes stayed flesh and witness accounts suggest they could still move until something finally ate them out.” Carina spun around, her grim face shifting back to her smile. “But as long as you know your limits and keep your focus in good condition, you’ll be just fine!”
“The opposite effect is known as Resonance and while it is significantly more beneficial than its opposite, Resonance carries its own complications. Resonance is when magic and mage work in perfect harmony, or Resonate, with one another which allows the mage to supersede their traditional limits and draw on magic directly from the environment. It’s a difficult state to control, often times the state triggering a chain response similar to a vacuum in which magic flows to fill in the gaps but continues flowing as the mage uses it until the mage passes out or is Consumed.” The images behind her changed, a video playing of a water mage pooling all of the rain from a storm above a forest with a bright smile and a laugh before she just vanished. All of the water came crashing down, flooding the forest and the video stopped. “Resonance offers near unlimited power to a mage and that feeling makes stopping a Resonance difficult. As one can expect, the natural connection between Primary and Primary-presenting affinities makes them susceptible to Resonance but all mages can reach it. People who Resonate struggle with the feeling, becoming addicted until finally they try too much, push themselves too far, and their magic Consumes them. Most times, it’s an organ or two. Other times, like what you saw, it is everything.” She shook her head, her smile brightening once again.
“A somber topic but a necessary one. Questions?”
“Arcane magic isn’t an alternative. Connecting with and controlling your affinity is a crucial step to a stable, successful magical career.” Carina tapped her foot as she thought. “Yes, you can cast arcane magic without discovering your affinity but you will find yourself exhausted far more quickly since you are fighting two battles: the first to make your magic comply and then to strip it of all essence of yourself.”
“And, uh, what is Sound then?” Damien piped up from the seat he managed to snag closer to the front. “Cause I’m going to be honest, this is an absolute ton of sh- stuff I’ve never even thought about until today and I really just wanna focus on getting a grip on me before I learn everything else here.”
“Oh, affinity twins!” Carina giggled as she pulled out a thin metal rod. “Mine acts like a Secondary but Sound is classified as a Conditional because it can present as any of them! And you’ll learn plenty about your magic in Affinity Mastery.” She gave a concerned frown at Damien’s blank stare and her wand tapped against her throat before flourished it with a flick of the wrist and put it away, her lips moving silently. Damien beam and flashed her a pair of thumbs up. The professor beamed back at him before turning get attention back to the class.
“Now that we know a little about what magic is and how and why we group it, let’s discuss how it works! Magic is a tricky, fickle thing and the effort to understand it has been enormous. Now, I have to correct myself from earlier. I know I mentioned the Alfonsi model but we’re actually going to cover the Varissean model, aka the Limited Capacity model!” Carina waited for a few moments for people to correct their notes. “Now, the Limited Capacity Model states that all mages draw magic in from their surroundings, store it as magical potential in a limited reserve, and expend it in a fantastic fashion! Well, not that last part but I think it sounds more fun than ‘Casts magic.’ The model states that magic is drawn out of the reserves like water from a faucet and our control determines the rate of flow and a mage’s focus is the cup that makes magic safe and stable!”
“While Robert Varissean’s model from 1809 is certainly one of the easiest and most comprehensive of the four accepted magical models, it misses two major points of magic: Dissonance and Resonance. This is where foci become incredibly important. In fact, they’re literally life saving.” Carine chewed at her lip as she contemplated. “A focus is a tool that allows mages to shape and direct their magic safely. The traits that define two of the magic tiers also make handling those affinities dangerous for a mage, creating a sort of kickback that can have serious and lasting effects on its mage. For this reason, there are two qualities when considering a focus. First, it should be sturdy enough to handle this kickback. Soft metals and fabrics should never compose the core of your focus but I always recommend embellishing. Second, a focus should have an emotional connection to the mage, something that has history and familiarity so the magic is far more willing to accept it as an extension of the mage rather than an object. Failing to take these into consideration may lean into the severe form kickback known as Dissonance.” The screens behind her flickered and each held a different image: The first was a mage missing a hand, another a mage with welts and hives covering her face, the third was a boy with glowing veins, and the last was statue with empty eye sockets and mouth agape.
“Dissonance is a state in which the differences between magic and mage create so much friction, it is impossible to contain. This most often happens when a Secondary or Tertiary mage has no focus while casting a complex spell or when they attempt to cast something outside of their skill level. The resulting friction causes the magic to turn on the mage, ranging from explosive damage to complete transformation.” Carina pointed to the statue. “1913, Andres Demickel. Gravity mage attempting to reverse the gravitational pull on an entire mansion. Full transmutation into stone expect for the eyes. The eyes stayed flesh and witness accounts suggest they could still move until something finally ate them out.” Carina spun around, her grim face shifting back to her smile. “But as long as you know your limits and keep your focus in good condition, you’ll be just fine!”
“The opposite effect is known as Resonance and while it is significantly more beneficial than its opposite, Resonance carries its own complications. Resonance is when magic and mage work in perfect harmony, or Resonate, with one another which allows the mage to supersede their traditional limits and draw on magic directly from the environment. It’s a difficult state to control, often times the state triggering a chain response similar to a vacuum in which magic flows to fill in the gaps but continues flowing as the mage uses it until the mage passes out or is Consumed.” The images behind her changed, a video playing of a water mage pooling all of the rain from a storm above a forest with a bright smile and a laugh before she just vanished. All of the water came crashing down, flooding the forest and the video stopped. “Resonance offers near unlimited power to a mage and that feeling makes stopping a Resonance difficult. As one can expect, the natural connection between Primary and Primary-presenting affinities makes them susceptible to Resonance but all mages can reach it. People who Resonate struggle with the feeling, becoming addicted until finally they try too much, push themselves too far, and their magic Consumes them. Most times, it’s an organ or two. Other times, like what you saw, it is everything.” She shook her head, her smile brightening once again.
“A somber topic but a necessary one. Questions?”
“How astute. Yes, Sound and Empathy are both Conditionals and if presenting as Primary affinities, may be used without foci. As with all Primary affinities, they are closely tied to emotional state due to the innate bonding of Primary affinities and may react without prompting as a result.” Hayes explained, sipping from his drink again. “There are also rare cases that a Conditional changes after the Awakening, developing a sudden Dissonance or Resonating perfectly into Primary. I recommend Edith Caine’s “The Conditional Quandary” for further research if you are interested.” Professor Hayes looked around, no other pens popping up for questions, before continuing on.
“Understanding the mechanics of magic is a struggle predating the Treaty. Between the personal nature and the complexity of devices needed to quantify the phenomena, spell theorists struggle constantly to discern predictable patterns and behaviors in magic. The information we have governerning the nature of magic is always tentative. New discoveries are made every day. Keeping an open mind is crucial to your success as a mage.” Hayes spoke sternly on the subject, taking the time to meet everyone’s gaze.
“The primary model of magic is the Varissean model, or the Limited Capacity model, developed by Robert Varissean in 1809. This model states that magic is an intrinsic force in nature and those with magical aptitude act as reservoir for this force. Each mage has clearly defined limits to the amount of magical potential they can store and casting magic depletes that until a mage can rest long enough to replenish.” A brief moment of silence stalled the lecture as Hayes flipped the page, allowing people to catch up with their notes. “A mage’s control acts like a faucet, increasing and decreasing their magic’s rate of flow as they draw on the stored energy. The Focus acts like a container, allowing the mage to transport it more efficiently and safely from themselves to their intended goal.”
“As encompassing as this model is, it fails to include two issues: Resonance and Dissonance. Mages use foci to more easily shape their magic and protect them from some of its inherently dangerous backlash. As a result, foci must be incredibly sturdy, made of hard metals, crystal, or wood generally, and must have emotional history with their mages. This will not only reduce the likelihood of a Dissonance state but will keep your focus from exploding in your hand. Magic, regardless of tier, likes emotional pathways so the greater the emotional, preferably positive, connection, the more responsive your magic will grow.” Hayes paused again before continuing.
“The most important reason for a focus is to avoid Dissonance. Dissonance is the friction between mage and magic when the direction the magic wants to go and the direction the mage makes it go are not the same. Since Secondary and Tertiary affinities develop a separation from their mage, this occurs almost always but the effects are negligible and magical backlash is absorbed by the focus. However, a Dissonance state is when that friction drastically spikes and the mage loses control of their magic as a result to horrendous effect.” Professor Hayes sighed at the thought. “Dissonance can result in almost anything occurring, ranging from physical injury to permanent transformation to death. The number one cause of Dissonance is failing to understand one’s own limits and attempting something far outside a mage’s capacity to control. The Limited Capacity Model has nothing for Dissonance because this state ignores the limits of the mage and taps directly into the magic in the immediate area, drawing on far more than what the mage could have ever achieved. During the Blood War, more than one mage weaponized this state against the lycan threat in order to save their homes.”
“On the other hand, Resonance is when magic and mage are in perfect harmony. Like Dissonance, this state allows mages to transcend their normal limits and draw directly on the magic in an area rather from only their own reserves. Primary and Primary-presenting affinities reach Resonance far more easily than any others and is the unfortunate reason why we know so much about it.” He snapped his book shut, tucking his hands behind his back. “Resonance brings two new challenges for mages: Addiction and Consumption. Limitless power is a dangerous thing in a mage, whose will directly affects reality as we interact with it, and mages find solace in that degree of power, escaping their feelings of helplessness in a spring of magical energy. However, exposure to that much magic forcefully expands a mage’s capacity for magic and this process is reflected in a mage’s body. Generally, the kidney disappears first, followed by the liver, and then bones as they dissipate into pure magical energy. Organs lost this way never regrow and magical attempts to stimulate growth fail while the body rejects transplants almost automatically. Resonance can be a powerful tool when used appropriately but often times, its risks fail to outweigh the benefits.” Professor Hayes glanced at his watch.
“Questions before we are dismissed?”
“Understanding the mechanics of magic is a struggle predating the Treaty. Between the personal nature and the complexity of devices needed to quantify the phenomena, spell theorists struggle constantly to discern predictable patterns and behaviors in magic. The information we have governerning the nature of magic is always tentative. New discoveries are made every day. Keeping an open mind is crucial to your success as a mage.” Hayes spoke sternly on the subject, taking the time to meet everyone’s gaze.
“The primary model of magic is the Varissean model, or the Limited Capacity model, developed by Robert Varissean in 1809. This model states that magic is an intrinsic force in nature and those with magical aptitude act as reservoir for this force. Each mage has clearly defined limits to the amount of magical potential they can store and casting magic depletes that until a mage can rest long enough to replenish.” A brief moment of silence stalled the lecture as Hayes flipped the page, allowing people to catch up with their notes. “A mage’s control acts like a faucet, increasing and decreasing their magic’s rate of flow as they draw on the stored energy. The Focus acts like a container, allowing the mage to transport it more efficiently and safely from themselves to their intended goal.”
“As encompassing as this model is, it fails to include two issues: Resonance and Dissonance. Mages use foci to more easily shape their magic and protect them from some of its inherently dangerous backlash. As a result, foci must be incredibly sturdy, made of hard metals, crystal, or wood generally, and must have emotional history with their mages. This will not only reduce the likelihood of a Dissonance state but will keep your focus from exploding in your hand. Magic, regardless of tier, likes emotional pathways so the greater the emotional, preferably positive, connection, the more responsive your magic will grow.” Hayes paused again before continuing.
“The most important reason for a focus is to avoid Dissonance. Dissonance is the friction between mage and magic when the direction the magic wants to go and the direction the mage makes it go are not the same. Since Secondary and Tertiary affinities develop a separation from their mage, this occurs almost always but the effects are negligible and magical backlash is absorbed by the focus. However, a Dissonance state is when that friction drastically spikes and the mage loses control of their magic as a result to horrendous effect.” Professor Hayes sighed at the thought. “Dissonance can result in almost anything occurring, ranging from physical injury to permanent transformation to death. The number one cause of Dissonance is failing to understand one’s own limits and attempting something far outside a mage’s capacity to control. The Limited Capacity Model has nothing for Dissonance because this state ignores the limits of the mage and taps directly into the magic in the immediate area, drawing on far more than what the mage could have ever achieved. During the Blood War, more than one mage weaponized this state against the lycan threat in order to save their homes.”
“On the other hand, Resonance is when magic and mage are in perfect harmony. Like Dissonance, this state allows mages to transcend their normal limits and draw directly on the magic in an area rather from only their own reserves. Primary and Primary-presenting affinities reach Resonance far more easily than any others and is the unfortunate reason why we know so much about it.” He snapped his book shut, tucking his hands behind his back. “Resonance brings two new challenges for mages: Addiction and Consumption. Limitless power is a dangerous thing in a mage, whose will directly affects reality as we interact with it, and mages find solace in that degree of power, escaping their feelings of helplessness in a spring of magical energy. However, exposure to that much magic forcefully expands a mage’s capacity for magic and this process is reflected in a mage’s body. Generally, the kidney disappears first, followed by the liver, and then bones as they dissipate into pure magical energy. Organs lost this way never regrow and magical attempts to stimulate growth fail while the body rejects transplants almost automatically. Resonance can be a powerful tool when used appropriately but often times, its risks fail to outweigh the benefits.” Professor Hayes glanced at his watch.
“Questions before we are dismissed?”
“Starting off with a million dollar question and a touch of the macabre.” Manuel laughed. “I’ll continue in just a moment on how magic works. Unfortunately, however, we are uncertain why vampires cannot use magic. Originally it was believed that because vampires technically died, no longer dependant on involuntary respiratory or circulatory functions, but the advent of the purebloods forced us to reconsider the idea. It was decided that organism works better because vampires are not considered living organisms like mortals since they have lost, or never had, much of the identifying biological requirements of an organism. Unfortunately, it is forbidden for vampiric nature to be studied so we are left with only untested hypotheses.”
“Absolutely. Earth contains ones such as Metal and Gravity, Water contains Poison and Torrent, Fire contains Lava and Combustion, and Air contains Cloud and Divination. As for difficulties,” Manuel sighed and rubbed at his chin thoughtfully. “There are too many difficulties with the Tertiary affinities to simply list solutions. I’d be here all night describing them but stay after class for a moment and we’ll discuss your situation in particular.”
“As for the question about mage death, I believe it will mostly answer itself but we’ll revisit at the end just in case. In 1809, Richard Varrisean developed the Limited Capacity model, also known as the Varrisean model, and is the primary model among the magical function theories. Varrisean stated that magic exists in the natural world and all living organisms have the potential to connect with it but only some do. Those that do connect, or Awaken as we now call it, draw magical potential from around them and store a finite amount inside themselves. Once a mage has filled their reserves, the mage may expend this potential in the form of magic and thus the process begins anew.” The screens behind him flickered again and a flow chart popped up on screen, depicting the outline of a body holding a wand with arrows depicting the flow of magic. “A mage manages the faucet to these reserves with their control, allowing the appropriate amount of magic to be applied through the vessel that is the focus for safe and efficient handling.”
“As comprehensive as this model is however, it fails to describe three areas of spell casting. The first is relatively small, just the difference between Primaries casting verses Secondaries and Tertiaries. Primaries do not need a focus because of the close nature of their bonds where as Secondaries and Tertiaries suffer without them.” The screens behind him flickered and each held a different image: The first was a mage missing a hand, another a mage with welts and hives covering her face, the third was a boy with glowing veins, and the last was statue with empty eye sockets and mouth agape. “The other two issues, Dissonance and Resonance, are far more severe. Dissonance occurs when the mage and magic are at odds and the resulting friction generates enough magical backlash that it overwhelms the mage’s control. The images above me are only a few examples of Dissonance, the left two mild versions and the right two extreme versions. In those, everything but the man’s eyes were turned to stone and the boy’s blood was turned entirely into firefly luciferin and luciferase.”
“The Dissonance effect is what developed the standard rules for most foci. With Secondary and Tertiary affinities, there is always a small amount of negative feedback but it is negligible, the focus neutralizes the blow. However, Dissonance is a far larger feedback loop and usually destroys the focus in question. Secondary and Tertiary, and likewise presenting Conditionals, are all at risk for developing Dissonance but it isn’t incredibly common. In order for Dissonance to occur, the mage in question must either be attempting something without the necessary focus or have started something far outside their skill range.” Manuel smiled reassuringly at some of the pale faces in the lecture. “Like I said, Dissonance isn’t common. Focus guidelines have been developed since the discovery and classification of the effect to help prevent it. First, a focus should be made of a hard metal, wood, or crystal. Stone doesn’t particularly care for moving magic normally and fabric and soft metals, like gold, will break down beneath even the simplest spell. Second, a mage should have an emotional attachment to the focus. The emotional history will help the magic travel through and reduce the friction between mage and magic since the magic will recognize the mage in the material.”
“I see a few Primary affinities looking a bit relieved. It’s true. Dissonance has never occured with a Primary or Primary-presenting affinity. The mage and magic are practically one in these affinities, which is why they can cast without foci. These affinities suffer no feedback and so are safe handling their magic directly. But they are not without their dangers.” The images behind him changed, a video playing of a water mage pooling all of the rain from a storm above a forest with a bright smile and a laugh before she just vanished. All of the water came crashing down, flooding the forest and the video stopped. “Resonance is the opposite side of the coin and traditionally affects Primary and Primary-presenting affinities. During Resonance, the magic and its mage work in perfect tandem and trigger a chain reaction in which the magical energy is replaced as quickly as it is used, effectively removing the Limited Capacity model’s focal point. Mages under the effects of Resonance command the most raw power with none of the finesse we instill. Arguably, a mage can never be more power than themselves in Resonance but that much magical energy begins to degrade the physical form. Those addicted to the state, mostly Primaries but a few cases of Secondary and Tertiary affinities have been reported, find themselves disappearing; a kidney, a liver, entire bones, until finally, they cease to exist. Foci can help prevent this, adding a degree of separation between mage and magic, and so can maintaining control over your magic.”
“These are terrifying but as long as you focus on your mastery classes and maintain your focus, you will be able to avoid these disastrous ends. Have your questions been answered?” Manuel addressed the room and looked back up at Salem.
“Absolutely. Earth contains ones such as Metal and Gravity, Water contains Poison and Torrent, Fire contains Lava and Combustion, and Air contains Cloud and Divination. As for difficulties,” Manuel sighed and rubbed at his chin thoughtfully. “There are too many difficulties with the Tertiary affinities to simply list solutions. I’d be here all night describing them but stay after class for a moment and we’ll discuss your situation in particular.”
“As for the question about mage death, I believe it will mostly answer itself but we’ll revisit at the end just in case. In 1809, Richard Varrisean developed the Limited Capacity model, also known as the Varrisean model, and is the primary model among the magical function theories. Varrisean stated that magic exists in the natural world and all living organisms have the potential to connect with it but only some do. Those that do connect, or Awaken as we now call it, draw magical potential from around them and store a finite amount inside themselves. Once a mage has filled their reserves, the mage may expend this potential in the form of magic and thus the process begins anew.” The screens behind him flickered again and a flow chart popped up on screen, depicting the outline of a body holding a wand with arrows depicting the flow of magic. “A mage manages the faucet to these reserves with their control, allowing the appropriate amount of magic to be applied through the vessel that is the focus for safe and efficient handling.”
“As comprehensive as this model is however, it fails to describe three areas of spell casting. The first is relatively small, just the difference between Primaries casting verses Secondaries and Tertiaries. Primaries do not need a focus because of the close nature of their bonds where as Secondaries and Tertiaries suffer without them.” The screens behind him flickered and each held a different image: The first was a mage missing a hand, another a mage with welts and hives covering her face, the third was a boy with glowing veins, and the last was statue with empty eye sockets and mouth agape. “The other two issues, Dissonance and Resonance, are far more severe. Dissonance occurs when the mage and magic are at odds and the resulting friction generates enough magical backlash that it overwhelms the mage’s control. The images above me are only a few examples of Dissonance, the left two mild versions and the right two extreme versions. In those, everything but the man’s eyes were turned to stone and the boy’s blood was turned entirely into firefly luciferin and luciferase.”
“The Dissonance effect is what developed the standard rules for most foci. With Secondary and Tertiary affinities, there is always a small amount of negative feedback but it is negligible, the focus neutralizes the blow. However, Dissonance is a far larger feedback loop and usually destroys the focus in question. Secondary and Tertiary, and likewise presenting Conditionals, are all at risk for developing Dissonance but it isn’t incredibly common. In order for Dissonance to occur, the mage in question must either be attempting something without the necessary focus or have started something far outside their skill range.” Manuel smiled reassuringly at some of the pale faces in the lecture. “Like I said, Dissonance isn’t common. Focus guidelines have been developed since the discovery and classification of the effect to help prevent it. First, a focus should be made of a hard metal, wood, or crystal. Stone doesn’t particularly care for moving magic normally and fabric and soft metals, like gold, will break down beneath even the simplest spell. Second, a mage should have an emotional attachment to the focus. The emotional history will help the magic travel through and reduce the friction between mage and magic since the magic will recognize the mage in the material.”
“I see a few Primary affinities looking a bit relieved. It’s true. Dissonance has never occured with a Primary or Primary-presenting affinity. The mage and magic are practically one in these affinities, which is why they can cast without foci. These affinities suffer no feedback and so are safe handling their magic directly. But they are not without their dangers.” The images behind him changed, a video playing of a water mage pooling all of the rain from a storm above a forest with a bright smile and a laugh before she just vanished. All of the water came crashing down, flooding the forest and the video stopped. “Resonance is the opposite side of the coin and traditionally affects Primary and Primary-presenting affinities. During Resonance, the magic and its mage work in perfect tandem and trigger a chain reaction in which the magical energy is replaced as quickly as it is used, effectively removing the Limited Capacity model’s focal point. Mages under the effects of Resonance command the most raw power with none of the finesse we instill. Arguably, a mage can never be more power than themselves in Resonance but that much magical energy begins to degrade the physical form. Those addicted to the state, mostly Primaries but a few cases of Secondary and Tertiary affinities have been reported, find themselves disappearing; a kidney, a liver, entire bones, until finally, they cease to exist. Foci can help prevent this, adding a degree of separation between mage and magic, and so can maintaining control over your magic.”
“These are terrifying but as long as you focus on your mastery classes and maintain your focus, you will be able to avoid these disastrous ends. Have your questions been answered?” Manuel addressed the room and looked back up at Salem.
Vampires
“Ah, youth.” Dame Patel chuckled at the pair’s interaction. She curtsied neatly to Amaris first, putting the actor’s question on the back burner for the time being. “To a degree, mortals will always resent their new masters if they grew up among other mortals. They often adjust poorly to sudden changes in their lifestyle and time should always be given for them to see we know best. Like a child who resents their parents when the parents take away the child’s favorite toy, mortals rail against our decisions for a while as they adjust. It falls to us to accept that with the grace and dignity our status grants us.”
“Particularly resilient mages may require hard limitations and a clear punishment and reward system for disregarding the aforementioned boundaries. This manner works best to cultivate dependance and instill manners in a mage who struggles to accept their new position. These limits, rewards, and punishments should be clear and well defined, sat down and discussed, and if possible written by the mage so they have easy reference. This reduces confusion or misunderstandings which will lead to additional frustration in our pets and they already have plenty of stressors, no need to add more during this confusing time in their lives. Poor things.” Dame Patel sighed at the thought. “While using a rewards and punishment system, there are a few ways to introduce your mage to them. I always recommend using positive reinforcement rather than negative. Give treats, days off, and other things your pet enjoys, special foods or candies, but make sure they do not have access to those on the regular. If a mage has access to your treats without you, they lose their effectiveness very quickly. Some vampires find removing most of a mage’s previously expected independence, stripping them of their private quarters for example, and then rewarding them with these over time is an effective method. It is not my favorite but it has worked historically, serving as a reminder that their lives are in our capable hands now.”
“If this is a method you choose to employ, discuss it in detail. Tell them firmly but accept their feedback. Punishment severity should match the rewards they may earn but should also be fair and easily connected to the violation. In all of this, communication is key. Discuss why these will help, explain where you see the mage being after they successfully complete their training. Mortals do not work well without clear, defined orders and expectations and they will more quickly learn to appreciate your efforts if they are aware of the results you are trying to achieve and feel like they have an active role in the proceedings.” Dame Patel smiled sweetly at her mage, petting him gently as she spoke. “Remember, focus first on developing pride for an accomplishment over frustration at a failure.”
“And what a perfect time to transition! Our little ones are such social creatures, thriving better when they have a flock to frolic with. They come home with smiles and stories, and what warms the heart more than a happy pet at home?” Dame Patel chuckled fondly. “Mages, with their talent for self destructive tendencies, must have their circles carefully curated and groomed before they are allowed to branch out on their own. It is important to surround your mage with individuals who will benefit your mage rather than benefit from them.”
“While considering how to best allow our little ones to interact, we must first consider their temperament. An extroverted mage will find themselves doing best in regular group situations, finding energy and meaning in their place in a social hierarchy. These mages are often the worst at establishing long term, meaningful relationships and I highly recommend letting them start their own groups and then culling their social circle, much like trimming unwanted branches and leaves off a growing tree.” Dame Patel clicked her tongue thoughtfully for a moment. “On the other hand, these mages may get wrapped up in the social situations and it will be important that you as their caretaker ensure they are resting appropriately, taking breaks before the poor darlings exhaust themselves or exhaust others.”
“Introverted mages are an entirely different breed, requiring precise time management. Introverted mages are often more work but in the end, generally shine more brilliantly when with those whose company they enjoy. It is imperative to remember that introverted mages are far more resistant to growing their social circles, easily succumbing to social exhaustion, but this is still a critical component to their mental well being. Do not let them seclude themselves away. No matter how they feel about it in the beginning, all mortals are social creatures and they will suffer if left without a flock.” She smiled at the room, starting to pace. “In either situation, communication and constant observation are critical to successful social placement. Discussing potential friends and mates and observing those individuals will make deciding who to allow your pet to interact with a far easier task. Make sure to pay special attention to those your mage doesn’t mention―they always try to hide someone―because those may be the most destructive influences on your mage.”
“Actually, the mortals have a quaint analogy for extroversion and introversion. They liken these states to an battery―Albert was a dear and explained what a battery was―in which extroverts recharge during their socialization and expend additional energy while alone whereas the introvert is the exact opposite. It is important to learn the signs your pet exhibits and adjust their social times accordingly.”
“There are three major criteria you should consider while grooming your pet’s social circles. First, do they motivate and support your little one? These social circles are small support groups for your pet and it is imperative none of them are draining and belittling your mortal. Second, do they make your pet happy? If the individual makes your pet miserable, it will poison the entire group and effectively force you to remove your pet from it and start fresh. Finally, does your pet benefit their group? Mortals thrive when they are useful and needed and if your little one isn’t thriving, it may be they need to cultivate new skills to find their place in the flock once again.”
“Particularly resilient mages may require hard limitations and a clear punishment and reward system for disregarding the aforementioned boundaries. This manner works best to cultivate dependance and instill manners in a mage who struggles to accept their new position. These limits, rewards, and punishments should be clear and well defined, sat down and discussed, and if possible written by the mage so they have easy reference. This reduces confusion or misunderstandings which will lead to additional frustration in our pets and they already have plenty of stressors, no need to add more during this confusing time in their lives. Poor things.” Dame Patel sighed at the thought. “While using a rewards and punishment system, there are a few ways to introduce your mage to them. I always recommend using positive reinforcement rather than negative. Give treats, days off, and other things your pet enjoys, special foods or candies, but make sure they do not have access to those on the regular. If a mage has access to your treats without you, they lose their effectiveness very quickly. Some vampires find removing most of a mage’s previously expected independence, stripping them of their private quarters for example, and then rewarding them with these over time is an effective method. It is not my favorite but it has worked historically, serving as a reminder that their lives are in our capable hands now.”
“If this is a method you choose to employ, discuss it in detail. Tell them firmly but accept their feedback. Punishment severity should match the rewards they may earn but should also be fair and easily connected to the violation. In all of this, communication is key. Discuss why these will help, explain where you see the mage being after they successfully complete their training. Mortals do not work well without clear, defined orders and expectations and they will more quickly learn to appreciate your efforts if they are aware of the results you are trying to achieve and feel like they have an active role in the proceedings.” Dame Patel smiled sweetly at her mage, petting him gently as she spoke. “Remember, focus first on developing pride for an accomplishment over frustration at a failure.”
“And what a perfect time to transition! Our little ones are such social creatures, thriving better when they have a flock to frolic with. They come home with smiles and stories, and what warms the heart more than a happy pet at home?” Dame Patel chuckled fondly. “Mages, with their talent for self destructive tendencies, must have their circles carefully curated and groomed before they are allowed to branch out on their own. It is important to surround your mage with individuals who will benefit your mage rather than benefit from them.”
“While considering how to best allow our little ones to interact, we must first consider their temperament. An extroverted mage will find themselves doing best in regular group situations, finding energy and meaning in their place in a social hierarchy. These mages are often the worst at establishing long term, meaningful relationships and I highly recommend letting them start their own groups and then culling their social circle, much like trimming unwanted branches and leaves off a growing tree.” Dame Patel clicked her tongue thoughtfully for a moment. “On the other hand, these mages may get wrapped up in the social situations and it will be important that you as their caretaker ensure they are resting appropriately, taking breaks before the poor darlings exhaust themselves or exhaust others.”
“Introverted mages are an entirely different breed, requiring precise time management. Introverted mages are often more work but in the end, generally shine more brilliantly when with those whose company they enjoy. It is imperative to remember that introverted mages are far more resistant to growing their social circles, easily succumbing to social exhaustion, but this is still a critical component to their mental well being. Do not let them seclude themselves away. No matter how they feel about it in the beginning, all mortals are social creatures and they will suffer if left without a flock.” She smiled at the room, starting to pace. “In either situation, communication and constant observation are critical to successful social placement. Discussing potential friends and mates and observing those individuals will make deciding who to allow your pet to interact with a far easier task. Make sure to pay special attention to those your mage doesn’t mention―they always try to hide someone―because those may be the most destructive influences on your mage.”
“Actually, the mortals have a quaint analogy for extroversion and introversion. They liken these states to an battery―Albert was a dear and explained what a battery was―in which extroverts recharge during their socialization and expend additional energy while alone whereas the introvert is the exact opposite. It is important to learn the signs your pet exhibits and adjust their social times accordingly.”
“There are three major criteria you should consider while grooming your pet’s social circles. First, do they motivate and support your little one? These social circles are small support groups for your pet and it is imperative none of them are draining and belittling your mortal. Second, do they make your pet happy? If the individual makes your pet miserable, it will poison the entire group and effectively force you to remove your pet from it and start fresh. Finally, does your pet benefit their group? Mortals thrive when they are useful and needed and if your little one isn’t thriving, it may be they need to cultivate new skills to find their place in the flock once again.”
“Wrong.” Ms. Talney moved wickedly quick and the metal met Jory’s hand in the blink of an eye. “If you will recall, your blood was completely drained from your body and your breathing stopped entirely. Clinically, you were dead and now you are not, thus undead by the definition of the word. However, you are correct partially. Although the cells are still technically functioning, vampiric cell mitosis and mortal cell mitosis are incredibly dissimilar. The true cause of aging is unknown; however, mortal genetic codes degreade and mutate as they divide, leading to flaws and failures that gradually become more and more visibly apparent. Vampiric mitosis is perfect, in that every part of the original cell is duplicated without failure. Because of this, a turned vampire’s body will always retain the same issues it had in mortal life. A poor healed broken nose from a mortal life? A vampire will always have it. A limp from a mortal life? A vampire will always have it. Missing limb from a mortal life? A vampire can never regenerate it.” The vampire moved back to the front of the room, writing on the board as she spoke.
“It is also different because vampires do not naturally generate scar tissue. For example, in mortal connective tissue, a tear results in scarring dependant on the severity of damage. The replaced collagen, the primary structural protein of connective tissue, suffers different structural patterns. Where the collagen in normal, undamaged connective tissue is a random basketweave, the new scar tissue’s collagen is cross linked and in a singular direction. Vampiric regeneration perfectly mimics that which was before, and while it can not fix scar tissue existing before the Embrace, it will never develop new scar tissue.” Ms. Tinley finished writing, turning back around and staring at Jory. “The short of it is no, you no longer have that luxury.”
“Ms. Tinley? If vampire cells die immediately, how do we know all this?” Hilda spoke up timidly, nervously adjusting the moon pin in her hair before slipping her hands under the desk. Ms. Tinley turned her attention to the girl and stopped next to the desk, staring at her for a few moments before turning away. The girl let out a shaky breath as quietly as she could, slipping her hand in her pants pocket and fiddling with something.
“That is the correct question. How do you study cellular activity in something that turns to dust the second it is removed and when it is mostly illegal to experiment on vampires predating the Treaty?” Ms. Tinley returned to the front of the class. “You are no longer mortals. You will be beset on all sides by bored, tired, and frustrated immortal beings looking for any advantage they may gain over their enemies or for a brief moment of amusement in a long, unbroken chain of boredom. The inherent trust and naivety must be abandoned and you must learn to always question where the information came from, always question how in came to be, and always question who is providing it and why.”
“In this instance, we know about vampiric regeneration because in 1233 a Houseless Lord committed hundreds of turnings in the name of science. He tortured and studied these new vampires as much as he could and turned them out into the sun once he was done with them. He provided a vast majority of the documentation and observations that would later be compared to mortal biology and develop a comprehensive look at vampiric biology. Experimentation on vampires of any age was strictly forbidden even before the Treaty formally established the law.” Tinley began pacing the room again, eyes sweeping over the class. “Thankfully, the five Noble Houses obliterated the Lord and his entire bloodline after consfisctating his work.” She glanced at the grandfather clock on the back wall.
“Final questions on vampiric regeneration?”
“It is also different because vampires do not naturally generate scar tissue. For example, in mortal connective tissue, a tear results in scarring dependant on the severity of damage. The replaced collagen, the primary structural protein of connective tissue, suffers different structural patterns. Where the collagen in normal, undamaged connective tissue is a random basketweave, the new scar tissue’s collagen is cross linked and in a singular direction. Vampiric regeneration perfectly mimics that which was before, and while it can not fix scar tissue existing before the Embrace, it will never develop new scar tissue.” Ms. Tinley finished writing, turning back around and staring at Jory. “The short of it is no, you no longer have that luxury.”
“Ms. Tinley? If vampire cells die immediately, how do we know all this?” Hilda spoke up timidly, nervously adjusting the moon pin in her hair before slipping her hands under the desk. Ms. Tinley turned her attention to the girl and stopped next to the desk, staring at her for a few moments before turning away. The girl let out a shaky breath as quietly as she could, slipping her hand in her pants pocket and fiddling with something.
“That is the correct question. How do you study cellular activity in something that turns to dust the second it is removed and when it is mostly illegal to experiment on vampires predating the Treaty?” Ms. Tinley returned to the front of the class. “You are no longer mortals. You will be beset on all sides by bored, tired, and frustrated immortal beings looking for any advantage they may gain over their enemies or for a brief moment of amusement in a long, unbroken chain of boredom. The inherent trust and naivety must be abandoned and you must learn to always question where the information came from, always question how in came to be, and always question who is providing it and why.”
“In this instance, we know about vampiric regeneration because in 1233 a Houseless Lord committed hundreds of turnings in the name of science. He tortured and studied these new vampires as much as he could and turned them out into the sun once he was done with them. He provided a vast majority of the documentation and observations that would later be compared to mortal biology and develop a comprehensive look at vampiric biology. Experimentation on vampires of any age was strictly forbidden even before the Treaty formally established the law.” Tinley began pacing the room again, eyes sweeping over the class. “Thankfully, the five Noble Houses obliterated the Lord and his entire bloodline after consfisctating his work.” She glanced at the grandfather clock on the back wall.
“Final questions on vampiric regeneration?”
