From PagodaWiki

Notes/Synopsis of magic in the 2ndShadow-verse. There exists three distinct sources of magical effects in the universe, two of which derive their energy from aetheric energy, or "stardust" as it is frequently called.

Practice

• Mysticism -

Mysticism, or thaumaturgy, is ritual magic, and is probably the most common kind seen. Anyone can theoretically learn the skills of a mystic, but it is a long process that takes years of dedication and training. The actual practice involves the use of codified formulas or rituals, referred to collectively as "charms" or "forms," and utilizing meditative techniques to form these formulas in their subconscious. This will configure the aetheric energy flowing through their souls in a particular way, creating a real-world effect. Typically the activation of such an effect channels a great deal of aetheric energy through the users body all at once - this would normally be very harmful, frequently fatal. This necessitates the use of a "focus," a particular object (a stave, a rod, a ring, an amulet, something like that) that acts as a sort of magical resistor.

• Alchemy/Artifice -

Alchemy utilizes the same charms and forms as Mysticism, but where a mystic intuitively uses these formulas with his own intellect and concentration, an alchemist sets up a repeat-use system duplicating a mystic charm within an inanimate structure designed for it. This is the source of most of the "modern" conveniences found within the major cities of Astra. There are advantages and disadvantages to alchemy - Alchemical tech is more reliable, less dangerous, and easily usable by anyone regardless of training. Once a construct is built, provided it is connected to an aetheric battery, it is typically a simple matter of pulling a lever or pushing a button and the effect will occur, and will continue to occur so long as the battery holds a charge. The disadvantages are obvious - significantly less versatility and a certain lack of oomph: a mystic under stress can push themselves to tremendous feats of magic that could never occur with a construct. Also, alchemy only works with fairly rigid formulas - there are some that are simply to contextual within the users subconscious to allow themselves to be corralled within a physical device.

• Second Shadow -

Certain individuals in Astra are born with a "Second Shadow," which is a single, unique, magical ability. Frequently these manifest as unusual traits or specific abilities that cannot be duplicated by mysticism, but just as frequently they are superficially identical to a mystic charm. They are as wide and varied as the people who carry them, but they have a couple things in common - First of all, they don't seem to draw on aetheric energy, as they do not interact with mystic charms the same way other charms do. An individual can typically use a second shadow ability as frequently as they desire, depending on its nature, but sustained use does tend to drain their stamina. There have been scattered reports of people pushing their abilities too far and dieing as a result. Within their limited scope, however, Second Shadow's can produce what could only otherwise be described as miracles.

Theory

Earth and Sky theory, order and chaos, gross and subtle