Runecasting

Runecasting is a kind of magic that can be done by inscribing runes and invoking them. Learning to invoke runes can be done fairly easily and all characters can do it, but each runecaster can only hold a certain amount of a runic pattern in their mind at a time - this is known as their runic capacity.

• One runecaster must lead the invocation - they are the prime invoker for that invocation.
• A runecaster can only be the prime invoker for three invocations per event.
• The prime invoker must spend a mana crystal to start the invocation.
• Each invoker who is trained in Runecasting contributes their runic capacity to the invocation. One rune can be used for each point of runic capacity. An untrained character contributes only one point of runic capacity.
• It takes two minutes of appropriate roleplaying to complete an invocation. This often involves reciting the names of the runes, evoking similar concepts to what you’re trying to achieve, or mysterious chanting.
• Runecasting can be done under pressure, but if you stop or are struck by a weapon or call, the invocation is interrupted and must be started from the beginning. No resources are spent until an invocation is completed.
• It must be made clear exactly which runes are being used in the invocation, and in what orientation, by drawing out the runic inscription. This can be done on paper, or pieced together from pre-inscribed runes.
• Runecasting done in the field is much harder because of the less-than-ideal conditions and must be prepared in advance. (If you wish to use runecasting on a linear, please tell the refs in advance which inscription you will be using, or it won’t work.)

Once a rune becomes publicly known, all characters with the Runecasting skill may inscribe patterns with that rune in. There is a standing reward for anyone who brings a new rune to the Archives.

Each rune has a hexagonal bounding area. Reference images of the rune often include the bounding hexagon, but it does not need to be drawn in inscriptions of the rune. Each rune will touch the bounding hexagon in one or more places. A completed runic inscription must have each boundary line connected to another rune. It is a matter of much debate among runecasters whether the rune touches the edges or vertices of the bounding hexagon - characters with the Runecaster trait are encouraged to have a strong opinion on one side of the other of that debate.

Some runes are fairly well-understood, and there is a standard library of runic inscriptions that will work with little fuss. However, much of the art and lore of runecasting has been lost, and discovering new runes and new ways to combine them is a topic of intense interest.

There is a repository of all runic knowledge, kept by the Church of Enso. The Runic Repository is open to all, and any character may know the information in the [Known Runes] page.