An Ancient Tradition
For longer than recorded history, magic has been an integral part of Tessam. Old inscriptions, spells and enchantments can still be discovered in ruins that far predate The Cataclysm. However, very few of these still retain any magical energy. Recreating them is also a futile effort, as it appears the very foundations of magic were changed with the death of the old world.
Divided in Four
Among scholars, magic itself is loosely organized in four different traditions: Arcane, divine, occult and primal.
Arcane Magic
Known as the magic “anyone” can learn through study, arcane magic is mainly wielded by wizards. It requires no innate talent, though one has to be fortunate enough to not only find a learned wizard, but one willing to take on an apprentice.
Divine Magic
While anyone is theoretically able to have divine magic bestowed unto them by a deity or patron, very few are able to devote themselves with to such a being with the totality they require. Religious followers elevated to the ranks of these clerics are the most trusted agents of their faiths and often end up travelling the world spreading the word of their god through minor miracles.
Occult Magic
Many think that occult magic is simply a catch-all term for magic falling outside of other traditions. They aren’t entirely wrong. This tradition is based on harnessing unexplainable forces in the universe that lie just beyond mortal perception. Those devoting themselves to this tradition often become bards, using esoteric and ancient texts or stories to pierce the veil and carefully control what leaks though.
Primal Magic
The ability to shape primal magic usually requires some innate connection to nature. For most, this is present from birth but it is not impossible to learn. Druids using this magic usually hold themselves outside of society, but rarely refuse helping travellers in need.
A Rare Talent
Wandering through any small town in Tessam it is unlikely to find more than one person there capable of any spellcasting, if even that. Because of this, spellcasters are rarely able to remain incognito once they show their abilities. In larger cities, there will more likely be some established mages, maybe even a small cohort who will learn of the newcomer quickly and often make contact. In the small towns, everyone will learn of them and want to seek their services. It could be for something as simple as a bad crop or some repairs needing fixing, to sending a message across the world or speaking to a dead loved one.
Instead of welcoming the magician, some towns might also have had unfortunate run-ins with mages previously. Here, mages are shunned and will be chased away as soon as their proficiency is discovered. Similarly, some religious cults might be distrustful of practitioners from other faiths, just as the aforementioned guilds might frown upon potential competition.
Regardless of how they are met, it is near impossible for known spellcasters to travel incognito. This again also just forces more mages to hesitate before offering their services, instead favouring the uncomplicated and quick travel afforded them by stealth.