Water Magic

"Life and water are irreversibly linked. Nothing can survive without it, it's intricately woven into our cycles of life; in our blood, in the environment, in the weather. So before you disparage its power, consider how dangerous someone with absolute control over that water could be." - Doctor Bartholomaus Steiner
Water Magic, also known as Hydromancy, is the manipulation of water and liquids. It is a branch of Elemental Magic, and is one of the Five Disciplines of the Mage.
=== Overview ===
Water magic is quite a common branch of magic, especially among seafaring civilisations. Water mages can manipulate the flow of water, redirect it, and move it. Early in human civilisation, water mages were helpful in irrigation works, and sailing. In a combat situation, water magic is defensively useful, and can knock foes off their feet, but may not be as outwardly dangerous as other elements. However, there are some few water mages who can focus water into fine blades, which can cut through steel.
Water is the most adaptable of the elements, it is always able to find the path of least resistance, and can change its path to fit. However, it is also considered to be the one of the most unpredictable of the elements, going from tranquil waters to raging waves in moments. Water magic users usually reflect this, being very receptive to change, and going with the flow. However, they are often considered fickle, and sometimes unreliable. The strongest water magic users can adapt to any situation.
Water is adjacent to Earth and Air. Like Earth, it is tangible and orderly, and like Air it is mobile and flowing. Water is completely opposite to Fire.
=== Water Magic Users ===
Anybody can learn Water magic through study and determination, though those who are already naturally adaptable will usually find this easier. Studying water magic is an exercise in finding the easiest, most efficient route towards the end goal, much like how the river finds its way to the sea. This isn't necessarily quick. A Water mage must understand the flow of water, and understand how much energy is required to pull it off-course. They must intuitively understand the tides, and the movement of waves. Those who learn magic through study are called Mages.
Water Sorcerers are born with the innate ability to manipulate water. They are usually considered not too dangerous, unless this magic develops into one of the more dangerous sub-branches.
There are entities in the world who may grant the ability to use water magic as part of a pact, such as powerful elementals, ancient water dragons, or the dark creatures which lurk in the depths. Humans who enter such pacts are called Warlocks.
=== Limitations ===
The use of Water magic is limited by the availability of water, or other water-based liquids. If there is none nearby, then a water mage is powerless. Some water mages are able to condense water from the air, but this requires there to be enough moisture.
=== Sub-Branches of Water ===
Ice Magic
Swamp Magic
=== Related Magic ===
Blood Magic