Arts

The **Art** (技術, *Gijutsu*?) is a vast and diverse field that encompasses a wide range of practices, techniques, and beliefs related to the enactment of supernatural phenomena. The specific names used to refer to The Art vary across different regions and cultural contexts. Magic, Magecraft, Sorcery, Jujutsu, Mófǎ, Sihir, Sahar, and numerous others are all terms used to describe different facets of The Art. These names often carry cultural and historical significance, reflecting the unique traditions and belief systems of the practitioners.

Arts can be applied to various purposes, such as healing, divination, protection, manifestation, and transformation. Different practitioners may specialize in specific areas or develop their own unique styles and approaches to the Arts. Some may focus on ceremonial and ritualistic practices, while others may emphasize intuitive and spontaneous applications. The Arts is not limited by what is commonly perceived as impossible or beyond the reach of human capabilities. It operates within the established rules of the world. The limits of human intellect serve as a boundary for the practitioners, meaning that the effectiveness and scope of the Arts are determined by their knowledge, skill, and understanding.

## Earth

> *Main Page: Sorcery*
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Sorcery refers to all forms of mystical arts that sorcerers and phantasmals can access through the manipulation of their own animus. A person capable of utilizing sorcery is colloquially referred to as a **Sorcerer** (術師, *Jutsushi*?) while those who cannot are called **Non-Sorcerers** (非術師, *Hijutsushi*?)

The dissemination of the Art on Earth is attributed to Raul Lukman's Nine Grimoires, which are nine different forms of information containing instructions on how to perform sorcery. These forms of information can take on physical or digital formats, such as written books, pdf files, binary code, or voice recordings. Regardless of the medium, all grimoires share a common phrase: "operation within the right hand, and perception within the left. Where straight and curved lines collide, the mysteries will open up the way." When someone reads or listens to this phrase, they manifest an Eye of Insight in their left eye and the Grasp of Enigma in their right arm.

### Operation and Perception

Operation and Perception are two essential abilities that sorcerers must possess in order to effectively perform sorcery. These abilities involve the manipulation of animus and the perceptive understanding of its flow and composition.

When activated, the **Grasp of Enigma** (無為手, *Mui Tamete*, lit. "Empty Hands"?) manifests strange patterns and flashes certain colours from the a sorcerer's hand. Its appearance varies between sorcerers, some have flashy designs, some are indistinguishable from their normal hands.

The Grasp of Enigma allows sorcerers to manipulate Animus in various ways. They can shape and direct animus for offensive purposes, increasing the destructive power of their physical attacks. For example, they may enhance their strikes with an infusion of Animus energy, allowing them to deliver devastating blows or projectiles imbued with sorcerous power. Additionally, the Grasp of Enigma grants sorcerers the ability to interact with Animus on a more subtle level. They can utilize their right hand to establish connections with animus constructs created by themselves or others. For instance, a sorcerer may grab hold of an opponent's fireball, which is a manifestation of animus, and redirect it back at their opponent. This demonstrates the sorcerer's ability to manipulate and control animus with precision.

The Grasp of Enigma is similar in composition to the Spirit Gallery, both having circuits that aim to direct Animus. The grasps's circuits however are more rigid,

On the other hand, Perception is associated with the **Eye of Insight** (洞察眼, *Dōsatsugan*, lit. "Keen Eye"?), which is a crucial aspect of a sorcerer's ability to perceive Animus. As is the case with the Grasp of Enigma, the pattern and colour of the eye vary between sorcerers. Initially, the Eye of Insight may activate involuntarily when the sorcerer focuses their attention on a particular person or object. However, with practice and training, sorcerers can develop the ability to consciously activate and deactivate the eye at will.

Once the Eye of Insight is activated, sorcerers gain the ability to perceive the flow of animus within themselves and others. This perception allows them to give Animus a specific color, aiding in the differentiation of Animus based on its composition and source. For example, they can identify the unique Animus signatures of individuals, distinguishing them from clones or detecting irregularities caused by external factors like mental interference. The Eye of Insight also grants the ability to see Animus through certain obstructions, although it may not penetrate all forms of barriers. This heightened perception enables sorcerers to track and analyze the flow of animus, identifying its origin, intensity, and any anomalies that may be present. They can detect disturbances or fluctuations in Animus, providing valuable insights into the intentions, emotions, or actions of others.

### Magic Format

**Magic Format** (魔術式, *Majutsu Shiki*?) is an advanced form of Animus manipulation in which a sorcerer or phantasmal manipulates their animus to carry out a certain function, resulting in a general or specialized ability. If magical energy is comparable to electricity, magic formats are home appliances that use Animus to fuel them. Animus can be used as a blunt force, or to reinforce the body, but these applications are not considered magic formats. Instead, magic formats flow Animus into them to carry out a specific function, granting the user a special ability based in the Art.

#### Innate Technique

**Innate Techniques** (生得術式, *Shōtoku Jutsushiki*?) are an intrinsic mystic ability engraved into the user when they read a Grimoire. It is not just an arbitrary ability granted by random; they are tied to the individual's nature and personality, complementing their most prominent traits. When a person reads a Grimoire, the information resonates with their inner self, awakening latent abilities and granting them an Innate Technique. This engraving process embeds the technique deep within their being, forging a connection between the sorcerer and the specific aspect of sorcery represented by their technique. Some sorcerers may possess offensive-oriented techniques, others may possess defensive techniques. There are also those with techniques focused on healing, divination, transformation, or manipulation of specific elements.

The uniqueness of each Innate Technique is a testament to the individuality of the sorcerer. It is an expression of their innate nature, personality, and experiences. No two sorcerers possess the exact same Innate Technique, and even if they share similar abilities, the nuances and intricacies of their techniques will differ. In most cases, an individual possesses a single innate technique and that becomes an integral part of their identity as a sorcerer, shaping their approach to magic and influencing the development of their abilities.

Innate Techniques serve as the foundation of a sorcerer's skillset, constituting a significant portion of their abilities. They often become the go-to technique in various situations due to their familiarity and mastery. The sorcerer's innate technique becomes deeply ingrained in their muscle memory and intuition, allowing them to execute it with ease and precision. And because their innate technique is the only form of magic allowed to a sorcerer, they would study and experiment with their technique, seeking ways to optimize its use, and find new applications. They might reinforce the effect with more Animus, reverse the flow of energy, reduce the gestures necessary, or add new ones in hopes they'd find new ways to utilize their one ability. Which leads to most skilled sorcerers having 2-3 Extension Techniques.

##### Extension Technique

While innate techniques themselves cannot be changed or altered, sorcerers can train and refine their skills to push the boundaries of their innate technique's capabilities. By delving deeper into the principles and mechanics of their innate technique, sorcerers can find new ways to manipulate and utilize their Animus, leading to the development of **Extension Techniques** (拡張術式(かくちょぅじゅつしき), *Kakuchō Jutsushiki*?), the natural progression for sorcerers who have extensively explored and mastered their innate technique. These techniques are derived from the foundational principles and abilities of the sorcerer's innate technique, but they offer expanded applications and variations that go beyond the confines of the original technique. They may involve modifications in energy flow, or the incorporation of supplementary conditions. The aim is to maximize the effectiveness and versatility of the innate technique, allowing the sorcerer to adapt to a wider range of situations and confront various challenges with enhanced proficiency.

##### Maximum Technique

Representing the pinnacle of power and mastery within a sorcerer's innate technique are what's called **Maximum Techniques** (極番術式(ごくノのばんじゅつしき), *Gokunoban Jutsushiki*?). These techniques are the ultimate manifestation of a sorcerer's skill, knowledge, and animus manipulation, showcasing the full extent of their abilities and the potential of their innate technique. Maximum Techniques are the most powerful attacks or abilities that a sorcerer can unleash through their innate technique, surpassing all other forms of technique execution within their repertoire. These techniques are characterized by their overwhelming destructive force, intricate execution, and often have unique and devastating effects.

The power and effects of Maximum Techniques can vary greatly depending on the nature of the sorcerer's innate technique. Some Maximum Techniques may unleash devastating elemental attacks capable of obliterating entire landscapes, while others may manipulate time, space, or consciousness itself to bend reality to the sorcerer's will. The specific attributes and characteristics of a sorcerer's innate technique will determine the unique manifestations and capabilities of their Maximum Techniques. It's worth noting that the utilization of Maximum Techniques is often accompanied by a significant drain on the sorcerer's animus reserves. These techniques tap into immense stores of psychic energy and may push the sorcerer to their physical and mental limits. As a result, the use of Maximum Techniques is typically reserved for critical moments or as a last resort when facing formidable adversaries or dire situations.

#### Grading

A **Grade** (級, *Kyū*?) refers to the power scaling system that ranks sorcerers ranging from grades one to five, and special grade. It is used to categorize the strength of sorcerers, phantasmals, infused objects and infusion tools. Grades can be measured through the grimoires by reading the final page. The grades are in reverse order, meaning the lower the number, the higher the grade.

 Grade 1
 Grade 2
 Grade 3
 Grade 4
 Grade 5

## Alrum

> *Main Page: Magecraft*
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At the core of a magus's abilities lies the intricate system of **Spirit Gallery** (魂回廊, *Tamashī Kairō*, lit. "Soul Corridor"?). These Spirit Galleries function as a pseudo-nervous system that spreads throughout the human body, defining an individual's qualification as a magus. Although intangible and imperceptible to physical touch, the Spirit Galleries pulsate with currents of energy, forming pathways for the concentration and flow of Animus. Imagine an intricate network of energy lines interconnecting various parts of the body, akin to a complex circuitry system. It is through these Spirit Galleries that Magi gain the ability to control the flow of Animus and generate their thaumaturgy. By skillfully manipulating the currents within their Spirit Galleries, Magi can channel and direct Animus to perform an array of magical feats. Each Magus possesses their own distinct Spirit Galleries, shaping their individual magical abilities and specializations. Mastery over their Spirit Galleries allows Magi to expand and amplify their capacities, enabling them to handle and control larger quantities of Animus. This growth empowers them to execute more intricate and potent spells and rituals, unlocking greater depths of magical prowess.

As Magi gain experience, they can actively expand and refine their Spirit Galleries, reinforcing and strengthening them. Expanding their Galleries increases their capacity to handle larger quantities of Animus and perform more complex and powerful spells. Magi can also temporarily connect their Spirit Galleries with one another, forming temporary networks of shared Animus for collaborative spellcasting and cooperative magic. However, just like the physical body, Spirit Galleries can suffer from disorders that disrupt the flow of Animus and hinder magical abilities. Blockages, imbalances, and excessive leakage of Animus can cause various issues. On the other hand, Magi have also crafted specialized artifacts that interact with the Spirit Galleries. These artifacts enhance the Magus's connection to their Galleries or amplify their magical abilities, acting as conduits for Animus or containing intricate sigils and symbols.

### Hierarchical Classification

There are 7 tiers that are used to classify spells. Spell rankings are typically proportionate to the amount of animus necessary to cast the spell. There are exceptions however, such as with Rehetra and Empara, Raul's art is considered to be of a higher rank despite using basic animus manipulation as the base. A Magi's ranking title is determined by the most advanced spell they could cast; if a magi can cast three Saint-class spells, then they qualify for the title Saint-class Magus, but if they can only perform one Saint-class spell, then officially they can only qualify as Advanced-class.

### Thaumaturgical Foundation

**Thaumaturgical System** (魔術基盤, *Majutsu Kiban*?) is the general term used to refer to the several Schools of Magecraft such as Abjuration, Conjuration, Alchemy, and Divination. Divergences can be found among different Schools, but the fundamental basis is “to convert Magical Energy inside the user’s body to transform the external world”.

The practitioner acts in accord with the system that each School operates under to execute a pre-built program. That “program” is a set of universal rules that interfere with nature once they are enforced. The power that enforces those rules is the Animus of the Magus and the command to do it is made through his Spirit Gallery. The greater the interference, the greater will be the amount of Animus consumed.

### Spellcasting

Spellcasting, also referred to as an Aria, is the initial step in the activation of magecraft within an established school or system. It can be likened to the process of submitting an application, going through acceptance, review, and ultimately receiving an issuance. In spellcasting, the practitioner follows a strict set of protocols and procedures specific to their chosen school of magecraft. These protocols outline the necessary incantations and concentration required to channel and direct animus, the magical energy, to achieve a desired effect. The Aria acts as the verbal component of the spell, often recited in a rhythmic and melodious manner, which serves as a catalyst for the manifestation of magical power.

Similar to the process of submitting an application, spellcasting involves the Magus initiating the flow of animus through their Spirit Galleries, which act as conduits for the magical energy. By following the prescribed steps and adhering to the proper sequence of incantations, the Magus invokes and directs the animus to bring about the desired result. Once the spellcasting process is initiated, the animus is shaped and manipulated according to the specific principles and laws of the chosen school of magecraft. These principles may vary depending on the nature of the magic being performed, such as elemental manipulation, healing, or divination, among others. After the completion of the Aria, the spellcasting enters the acceptance and review phase. This is the point at which the spell takes effect, and its outcome is determined by various factors such as the proficiency of the Magus, the alignment of their Spirit Galleries, and the intensity of their connection to the animus. The result of the spellcasting can range from the successful execution of the desired effect to a partial or failed manifestation, depending on these factors.

Ultimately, the issuance of the spell's effect represents the completion of the spellcasting process. It is the culmination of the Magi's application of their knowledge, skills, and connection to the animus to bring about the desired magical outcome.

#### Incantations

One of the most common forms of spellcasting, Incantations play a significant role in the practice of spellcasting. By reciting a specific set of words, a Magi can trigger the activation of a spell without requiring a direct focus on the flow of animus through their body. This method of casting spells offers a level of convenience and ease, making it a common choice for magicians at all levels of proficiency.

The purpose of an incantation is to serve as an activation trigger for the spell. Instead of actively manipulating the animus within their Spirit Galleries, the Magi relies on the power of the words spoken during the incantation to create the desired magical effect. This allows for a simplified process of spellcasting, as the focus shifts from directly controlling the magical energy to invoking its power through the recitation of specific phrases. However, it's important to note that while incantations provide a straightforward and accessible method of casting spells, they do come with limitations. Due to the fixed nature of the words and phrases used in an incantation, there is a restricted amount of control that the Magi has over the fine-tuning of the magic. The effect of the spell is determined by the predetermined properties and characteristics associated with the specific incantation, which can limit flexibility and customization compared to other methods of spellcasting.

Incantations are often considered a fundamental aspect of spellcasting, used by Magi from their early days as beginners all the way to their mastery of magecraft. They serve as a personal adage for the Magi, helping them transform themselves and efficiently activate and mobilize their Spirit Galleries. While the incantations are directed towards oneself rather than the external world, they play a crucial role in harnessing and directing magical power.

It's worth mentioning that there is a variant of incantations known as Truncated Incantations. In this form, the Magus recites a condensed version of the incantation specific to the magic they are utilizing. Truncated Incantations offer advantages such as reduced cast times and improved flexibility compared to conventional casting methods. The shortened incantations make the casting process more efficient, allowing for quicker spell activation and easier casting of melded magic by minimizing downtime between incantations. Truncated Incantations are typically employed by Magi of Saint-class and above, indicating a higher level of skill and proficiency in spellcasting.

Spells can also be classified accordingly with the length of their incantations:

* **Single-Action** – Instantaneous spells. Requirement for activation is only to pass energy through the Spirit Gallery. Most Mystic Eyes fall under this category.
* **One-Line** – Spells that the incantation is made of a single phrase composed of one word at the very least. A thaumaturgical process very well stabilized and easily activated. Such as using one's family crest.
* **Five-Line** – Spells with incantations made of five phrases.
* **Ten-Count** – Instantaneous Contract. Already considered a simple ritual. The minimum step necessary to activate greater magecraft (spells with power ranked King and above). Consisting of ten phrases or more. A fully trained Magi can perform them in about a minute.

#### Thaumaturgical Array

Thaumaturgical Arrays are a method of spellcasting that involves inscribing intricate patterns using specialized ink or carved designs. These formations act as a conduit for casting spells, allowing animus to be poured into them, which then triggers the predetermined effects of the inscribed spell. While arrays offer the least flexibility among spellcasting methods, once they were done, they could be released as a Single-Action spells by simply passing Animus through them. The time lag between activating the spell and its completion was vanishingly small.

Thaumaturgical Arrays can be created through various means, from drawing designs and arranging certain objects, to using the positions of the stars themselves. Although arrays are often constructed on two-dimensional surfaces, they can also be constructed in three-dimensional space. The size of a Thaumaturgical Array can vary depending on the type and rank of the spell being cast. Workarounds have been devised, such as drawing multiple layers of circles on a single plane, to achieve the desired effects of a single spell. While the advent of shortened incantations led to a decline in the widespread use of Thaumaturgical Arrays, they continue to be the primary means for complex rituals such as Heroic Spirit Conjuration or Pure Spatial Transference.

A circle is the most common shape for an array. It represents the cyclical nature of the world's energies and phenomena, capturing and directing that power towards specific ends. The circle itself serves as a focal point for directing and controlling the flow of power. By tapping into the existing animus within the atmosphere, the circle channels and harnesses that energy to achieve the desired magical effect. Within the circle, specific runes are inscribed, each corresponding to a different form of energy. These runes can vary widely based on the practitioner's studies, texts, and experimentation. They enable the energy within the circle to be released in a manner that aligns with the desired effect of the Magi.

In basic magecraft, the runes often take the form of triangles, with different arrangements representing the classical elements of water, earth, fire, or air. However, Thaumaturgical Arrays can incorporate various polygons built from different triangles to create more complex patterns. For instance, the hexagram, composed of six intersecting triangles, is a commonly used base rune as it represents all four classical elements simultaneously. Additionally, esoteric runes such as astrological symbols, symbolic images, and lines of text are prevalent, each representing specific functions for the released energy.

Though circles remain the prominent formation, it isn't uncommon for magi to have full body tattoos of thaumaturgical arrays, as the human body's shape provides a natural canvas for these intricate designs. By having the array tattooed on their bodies, magi can maintain a constant connection with the energy and symbolism embedded within the array, enhancing their spellcasting abilities. Unlike circles that represent the cyclical flow of energy, arrays may incorporate non-repetitive or non-circular patterns. This unique characteristic of thaumaturgical arrays can amplify the collection of animus (life force) and the conversion of elements, particularly when dealing with Nature Transformation. Examples of this can be seen in arrays such as those found on Surya Suthurnam's right arm or in the form of a circle in the Grand Arcanum.

#### Direct Magical Energy Operation

Direct Magical Energy Operation is a theoretical form of animus manipulation that offers a unique approach to spellcasting. Unlike traditional methods such as incantations or magic circles, this technique relies on the Magi's ability to directly control and shape their animus without the need for external aids or preparations. Direct Operation represents a paradigm shift in the field of magecraft, offering a revolutionary approach to spellcasting that bypasses traditional methods and opens up new possibilities for magical manipulation. This theoretical spellcasting method, though yet to be achieved by any known individual, holds immense potential for the advancement of animus control and the expansion of magical abilities. The core principle behind Direct Magical Energy Operation lies in the caster's ability to harness their own animus and shape it directly through the power of their imagination. By bypassing the need for incantations or external tools like magic circles, the Magi becomes a conduit for raw magical energy, allowing them to mold and manipulate it with greater freedom and precision.

The process of Direct Magical Energy Operation begins with the Magi visualizing the desired shape of the spell they wish to cast. Through their strong imaginative power, they can mentally sculpt the animus into the specific form and structure required for the intended magical effect. This step requires a deep understanding of the underlying principles and mechanics of magic, as well as a profound connection to the animus within themselves. Once the shape of the spell is established, the Magi has the opportunity to infuse additional power into it. This step allows for adjustments in the size, intensity, and potency of the spell, providing the Magi with the ability to adapt their magic to different situations and targets. The Magi can draw upon their own reserves of animus or tap into external sources of energy to enhance the spell's effectiveness. Furthermore, the velocity of the spell can be finely tuned during the process. By controlling the speed at which the spell travels, the Magi can determine the timing and impact of its effects. This level of control over velocity opens up possibilities for precision targeting, rapid deployment, or even delayed activation, depending on the Magi's intentions and strategic considerations. Finally, once the spell is fully formed and refined in the Magi's mind, they release it from their hand, allowing it to manifest in the physical world. The act of releasing the spell represents the culmination of the caster's mental calculations and manipulation of animus, channeling their focused intent into a tangible magical effect.

While Direct Magical Energy Operation remains a theoretical concept, its potential implications are vast. If a Magi were to unlock the secrets of this technique, it could revolutionize the field of magecraft, unlocking new levels of magical prowess and unleashing a wave of innovation and creativity in spellcasting. It holds the promise of pushing the boundaries of what is currently believed to be possible, enabling magi to achieve feats previously unimaginable and reshape the understanding of magic itself.

## Trivia

* Sorcery requires only that the sorcerer to distort reality through their own will, while Magecraft requires the belief upon a subject, preparations, ingredients, and other rituals to derive their magic. Due to this, magi can wield several different types of magic, while sorcerers can have only one power. Due to the differing rules that magi and sorcerers follow, this may be the reason why a practitioner of one method cannot use the other method, lest they injure themselves, assuming that these differing laws change the "circuitry" of the body.
* The images used for this page was from *Mahoutsukai no Yoru*, *Boruto*, and *Gachiakuta*.
* The Art of Earth takes inspiration from *Jujutsu Kaisen's* Jujutsu, whilst the Art of Alrum mostly takes inspiration from the Magecraft in *Fate/Stay Night*.