Necromancy

Necromancy is the branch of magic dealing with advanced manipulation of Lifestream energy. It is not viewed as inherently evil; however, the laundry-list of accompanying crimes that are associated with it (such as murder, grave-robbing, desecration and insurrection) have caused it to be frowned upon and heavily regulated in most civilized societies. Most often, it is usually seen in a religious context where undead are created as guardians for holy sites and tombs by ordained officials.

The creation of intelligent undead such as ghouls, vampires or wights is always seen as a crime, as such creatures are actively malevolent and harmful to society. Similarly, reanimating the corpse of a humanoid without permission from them (obtained prior to death) or their family is seen as a gross violation of rights and akin to slavery or kidnapping.

Obtenebreus
Centered on the attribute of Courage. A shadow mage recognizes the lifeless cold void that lies between and beyond worlds, and channels it through his own being. In doing so he must confront his own mortality – his power is defined by how long he can stare at the void before turning away. Paradoxically, the rituals of shadow magi often involve light sources, such as candles and lanterns, plus careful shadowplay with the obtenebromancer’s hands.

Sanctum
Centered on the attribute of Courage. Ghosts manifest where souls cannot let go, and can be tenacious and difficult opponents. A Ghost Caller learns the mysteries of their twilight world, and commands them through the paraphernalia of his art – chains, ferryman coins, bones and grave dirt.

Sarcos
Centered on the attribute of Dexterity. Sarcomancers work with corpses and commonly see themselves as artisans of flesh rather than mere magi. Though magic undoubtedly plays a part in providing the animating force their tools are those of a craftsman – thread, needle, staple and saw. Most Sarcomancy effects, unlike the spells of other spheres, are extended processes taking minutes to hours rather than seconds or moments. A type of ghost is the einherjar, warrior spirits.

Thanatos
Centered on the attribute of Resilience. Thanatos is death energy – the opposite force of orgone that eventually causes the death of all living things. While Orgone is invoked through dance, Thanatos is drawn to stillness. Thanatomancers will self administer poisons and neurotoxins that stop their own hearts for a few seconds, and can transiently paralyse their limbs. The tougher a Thanatomancer is, the more he can take, and the stronger his magic becomes.

Way of the Shadow
Centered on the attribute of Courage.