Shadow magic and iron have long been believed to have a complex and strained relationship. In many mythologies and folklore, iron is considered a symbol of light and protection, while shadow magic is associated with darkness and secrecy. This contrast between the two has led to various interpretations and beliefs surrounding their interactions. The belief that iron can repel or weaken shadow magic is prevalent in many cultures. Iron weapons, such as swords and knives, are often thought to be effective against shadow creatures or beings. These weapons are often said to disrupt or dispel the magic of shadows, allowing individuals to defend themselves against dark forces.
These weapons are often said to disrupt or dispel the magic of shadows, allowing individuals to defend themselves against dark forces. Furthermore, iron is believed to disrupt the flow of shadow magic, limiting its strength and abilities. It is commonly used in protective charms and spellcraft meant to ward off shadowy entities or prevent their influence.
Shadow magic and iron
Not all "Necromancy" spells are considered EVIL in the IK, likewise there are some spells that while not technically in the School of Necromancy ARE considered the vile work of Necromancers.
BRANDED NECROMANCYPublic use of the following spells quite definately brands on as a Necromancy:
- Blasphemy
- Srushing Despair
- Desecrate
- Nightmare
- Phantasmal Killer
- Phantom Steed
- Power Word Kill
- Trap the Soul
- Unhallow
- Weird
Beyond the spells noted below, all other spells from the School of Necromancy are considered to be sure signs that the spellcaster is a Necromancer.
SPELLS USED FROM THE NECROMANTIC SCHOOLSome spells from the School of Necromancy are put to good use by members of the Order of Illumination and the clerics of Morrow.
- Death Ward
- Disrupt Undead
- Gentle Repose
- Halt Undead
- Mark of Justice
- SPeak with Dead
- Undeath to Death
While their use is generally considered evil, these additional Necromancy spells are not considered to be indicative of True Necromancy.
- Bestow Curse
- Blindness/Deafness
- Cause Fear
- Curse Water
- Fear
- Harm
- Inflict Wounds Spells
- Poison
- Scare
- Symbol of Fear
Channeling and controlling the vile forces of Necromantic magic is extremely taxing. Each spell cast from the following list inflicts 2 Points of Nonlethal Damage per spell level to the caster (Fort SV: DC 15+ spell lvl) to negate. Any spell that heals the caster, rather than just providing temporary hit points, removes a similar amount of nonlethal damage as per the PHB. This rule applies to ALL spellcasters.
- Animate Dead
- Chill Touch
- Circle of Death
- Contagion
- Corspe Binding
- Create Undead
- Death Bullet
- Death Knell
- Destruction
- Energy Drain
- Enervation
- Eyebite
- False Life
- Finger of Death
- Ghoul Touch
- Horrid Wilting
- Magic Jar
- Nightmare
- Phantasmal Killer
- Power Word Kill
- Ray of Enfeeblement
- Slay Living
- Soul Bind
- Trap the Soul
- Vampiric Touch
- Wail of the Banshee
- Weird
TRANSLOCATION MAGICS
One reason these spells are so carefully guarded is that they are dangerous and known to attract unwanted attention. Infernal societies such as the Nonokrion Order are ever looking for ways to manifest on Caen in order to harvest uncollected souls or barter for them from those who are tempted by such power, and it seems teleportation and translocational spells especially attract their attention.
- Dimension Door
- Instant Summons
- Teleport
These spells may be offered by Infernals to tempt unwitting or power-hungry casters
- Greater Teleport
- Teleport Object
- Teleporation Circle
PLANAR MAGICS
Casters of western Immoren have no concept or study of the planes, including anything akin to the Astral or Ethereal planes or the Plane of Shadow. Spells directly manipulating these planes do not exist in the Iron Kingdoms. However, certain spells may theoretically require these concepts, they may still work so long as some other explanation is possible. Shadow magic spells are available to Infernals, especially umbrals, but they are not normally available to casters in western Immoren.
- Astral Projection
- Etheral Jaunt
- Etherealness
- Greater Shadow Conjuration
- Greater Shadow Evocation
- Mage's Magnificent Mansion
- Phase Dorr
- Plane Shift
- Secret Chest
- Shades
- Shadow Conjuration
- Shadow Evocation
- Shadow Walk
Shadow magics do exist, calling on the unholy powers of the realms of the Infernals. However, these spells are closely guarded secrets of the Infernals that have never been allowed to fall into the hands of mortals.
- Greater Shadow Conjuration
- Greater Chadow Evocation
- Shades
- Shadow Conjuration
- Shadow Evocation
- Shadow Walk
The use of conjuration and summoning magics is a rare and oft maligned specialty in western Immoren.Summoning is rarely practiced openly as this art has long been linked with infernalism, and seems to draw unwanted Infernal attention even in cases where the summoner is not attemtpting to contact those fould otherworldly beings. It is widely, and perhaps correctly, believed that the creatures sent in response to monster summonings are special servants of the Devourer. Many of the beasts responding to the more commonly known summonings are strange beasts, wholly unknown throughout the lands of western Immoren, beasts with shapes as strange as some of those commonly associated with the great Wurm himself.
Every time a caster casts:
- Conjuration (Calling)
- Conjuration (Summoning)
- Conjuration (Teleportation)
There is a 5% chance per spell level that an Infernal or the Nonokrion Order (or another Infernal Society) notices the caster. In most cases the Infernal will mark this caster and subject him to continued scrutiny. It may begin to tempt the caster with dream-sendings, offering power, rare spells or other enticements. A caster thus marked will be deteded through use of the Sense Mark feat as if he has cast a 9th Lvl Necromantic Spell.
INFERNAL CONTRACTSOnce contracts are agreed upon, both the Infernal and the caster are bound to abide by the exact wording as if under the influence of a Geas.
Shadow magics do exist, calling on the unholy powers of the realms of the Infernals. However, these spells are closely guarded secrets of the Infernals that have never been allowed to fall into the hands of mortals.
The presence of iron is said to create a barrier between the physical world and the realm of shadows, minimizing the impact of shadow magic. However, it is important to note that not all interpretations of shadow magic and iron are negative. Some believe that iron can enhance or channel the power of shadows, rather than act as a repellent. In these beliefs, iron is seen as a conduit or amplifier for shadow magic, allowing individuals to manipulate and control the shadows to their advantage. The relationship between shadow magic and iron is not limited to just folklore and mythology. In modern literature and fantasy genres, the connection between the two is often explored. It is a popular theme to have characters with abilities in shadow magic struggle against the presence of iron, as it limits or weakens their powers. This conflict adds depth and tension to the storytelling, highlighting the dichotomy between light and darkness, and the struggle for power and control. In conclusion, the relationship between shadow magic and iron is complex and multifaceted. While iron is often seen as a symbol of light and protection, it is also believed to weaken or disrupt shadow magic. However, there are also interpretations that depict iron as a conduit for shadow magic, allowing individuals to harness its powers. Regardless of the belief, the contrast between shadow magic and iron continues to captivate and inspire in various mythologies, folklore, and literary works..
Reviews for "Shadows in Steel: Craftsmanship Meets Magic in Shadow Magic and Iron"
1. Jane - 1/5 stars - I was highly disappointed with "Shadow Magic and Iron". Despite the intriguing premise, the execution fell flat. The characters lacked depth and their motivations were unclear. The plot was confusing and poorly paced, making it difficult to stay engaged. Overall, it felt like a wasted opportunity to explore an interesting world.
2. John - 2/5 stars - Unfortunately, "Shadow Magic and Iron" failed to live up to my expectations. The writing style was bland and lacked any unique voice. The world-building was muddled, with inconsistent rules and details that left me confused. The plot felt aimless and the climax was underwhelming. I was hoping for an exciting read, but it ultimately fell short.
3. Emily - 2/5 stars - I had high hopes for "Shadow Magic and Iron", but sadly, it was a letdown. The characters were one-dimensional and lacked any sort of development. The plot was predictable and offered nothing new to the genre. The pacing was slow, making it difficult to stay engaged. Overall, it just didn't capture my interest and I wouldn't recommend it.
4. David - 1/5 stars - "Shadow Magic and Iron" was a complete disappointment. The writing was lackluster and the dialogue was awkward and forced. The world-building was shallow and lacked any depth. The plot was predictable and offered no surprises. I had high hopes for this book, but it fell far below my expectations. I would not recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating fantasy read.
5. Sarah - 2/5 stars - I had mixed feelings about "Shadow Magic and Iron". While the initial concept was interesting, the execution left much to be desired. The pacing was slow, making it difficult to stay engaged. The characters were forgettable, lacking any real depth or development. The world-building was decent, but lacked the intricate details that would have made it truly immersive. Overall, it was an average read, but not one that stood out in any way.