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====== Magic & Spellcasting ======
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Spellcasting in Volaire is immersive, powerful, and theatrical. Whether you’re wielding elemental force or subtle enchantments, this guide will walk you through how magic works in-game—from preparation to packet delivery.

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===== 📖 Daily Preparation =====

All spellcasters must **prepare their spells each day**.

  * Spell preparation requires **one hour of roleplay** at each event reset.
  * You must have a **spellbook**—a physical representation of your character’s magical knowledge.
  * Spells are **not just words**—the verbal is only the **trigger** for much longer incantations studied earlier.
  * Failure to complete your preparation means you **cannot cast spells** until you do.

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===== 📚 Spellbooks & Specialization =====

  * New casters begin with **Generalist spells**, levels 1–6.
  * To cast 7th level or higher, you must:
    - Find an in-game teacher
    - Pay 5 silver × spell level to copy each spell

**Specialization unlocks powerful advanced spells**, but is tied to roleplay, discovery, and character progression.

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===== ✋ How to Cast a Spell =====

Casting requires **three components**:
  1. **Verbal Incantation** – Must be loud and clear
  2. **Spellpacket** – Soft, beanbag projectile
  3. **Throw within 3 seconds** of finishing the incantation

If you hesitate, mumble, or miss the packet:
  * The spell is **flubbed** and expended with no effect

If the spell hits:
  * The target must respond appropriately—unless they resist it

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===== 🧱 Spell Types =====

**Elemental & Standard Damage Spells**
  * Act like weapon strikes: damage follows Armor → HP

**Direct Body Spells**
  * Bypass armor entirely and hit HP directly (e.g., Cause Wounds, Slumber)

**Activated Spells**
  * Require player to say “Activate” to trigger
  * Others (like spell shields) **auto-trigger** when conditions are met

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===== 🧪 Magical Components =====

Some higher-level spells (especially levels 11–12) require:
  * Specific **material components**
  * Components must be **tagged and shown** when casting
  * These are **consumed** upon use
  * Players often discover needed components through exploration or roleplay

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===== ⏳ Spell Durations =====

^ Type           ^ Description                                                                 ^
| **Instant**    | Takes effect immediately and ends (e.g., damage, disarm)                   |
| **Timed**      | Duration varies by spell (ask a marshal or refer to the spell card)        |
| **One Event**  | Lasts until event ends or until expended/dispelled                         |
| **Sight-Based**| Active as long as you can see the target and maintain focus                |

If unsure, always **ask the caster or staff**.

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===== 🧠 Spell Interactions =====

If your spell seems to fail, it could be due to:
  * **“Resist”** – The target has magical resistance to your effect
  * **“Flash: [Spell Name]”** – The spell hit a **Spell Shield** and was absorbed
  * **“No Effect”** – The creature is immune or unaffected by that type of spell

If you’re unsure, you may ask:
  * “OOP—Did that spell land?”

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===== 🎭 Spellcasting Etiquette =====

  * Always throw gently and accurately—**never aim to bruise**
  * Practice throwing to avoid wild or unsafe casts
  * Dramatic casting enhances immersion—**make magic look magical**
  * Use a bandolier or pouch for easy packet access

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===== 🧙 Higher Magic & Rituals =====

Beyond standard spellcasting lies:
  * [[operations:public:interactive_rulebook:core:ritual_magic|Ritual Magic]] – Complex, powerful, and requiring time, components, and prepared space
  * Levels **10–12** – Require special components and deep roleplay effort

Higher-level magic is meant to feel **rare, hard-earned, and game-altering**.

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===== Related Sections =====
  * [[operations:public:interactive_rulebook:core:combat|Combat Rules]]
  * [[operations:public:interactive_rulebook:core:conditions_and_effects|Status Effects]]
  * [[operations:public:interactive_rulebook:core:death_and_recovery|Death & Recovery]]
  * [[operations:public:interactive_rulebook:core:ritual_magic|Ritual Magic]]
  * [[operations:public:interactive_rulebook:core:spell_column|Building a Spell Column]]

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**Volaire LARP** – //Every word of power is a promise, and a price.//
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