Greetings, everyone!
Since the beginning of my journey, arcane magic has always intrigued me not only with its practical domain but also how it flows through Azeroth and shapes the entire universe.
This writing compiles my observations and reflections on arcane magic, its origin, properties, and applications. May these words serve as a guide for those seeking knowledge and a warning for those who handle magic carelessly.
By Étel
I would also like to thank my great friend Testament, for translating these writings and allowing me to overcome language barriers.
CHAPTER 1: ORIGIN OF THE UNIVERSE
Most of what we know about the origin of the universe comes from the book World of Warcraft: Chronicle Volume 1.
According to this book, in the beginning, there was only Light, a primordial force expanding like an infinite ocean throughout existence. However, as it expanded, gaps without its presence began to exist, giving rise to a second opposing primordial force: Shadow.
The Shadow grew rapidly and began to move against the Light. The increasing tension between these two forces triggered a series of explosions that gave birth to the physical universe, known as the Great Dark Beyond.
These explosions scattered fragments of Light throughout the Great Dark Beyond, bringing life to the newly formed planets. The more unstable energies resulted in the creation of the Twisting Nether, an astral dimension outside the Great Dark Beyond.
Additionally, these explosions also generated four other cosmic forces: Order, Disorder, Life, and Death. Together, these six forces became the fundamental pillars of existence, each governing an aspect of the universe.
The Possible Seventh Force
During our journey through the Shadowlands, records were discovered in Tazavesh, written by the broker Firim, which offered a different perspective on the origin and structure of the universe, providing us with more information beyond the narrative of World of Warcraft: Chronicle Volume 1.
Initially, Firim theorized the existence of two primordial forces. However, as he delved deeper into his studies, he noticed a pattern suggesting a balance among six distinct forces, possibly indicating the existence of a seventh, whose nature remained uncertain and could merely be a consequence of cosmic geometry.
Firim also stated that these forces existed in perpetual conflict until an event of imbalance occurred. At that moment, enigmatic entities—referred to as "They “came and shaped the chaos, establishing a pattern that allowed the universe to exist as we know it.
The “two forces” mentioned by Firim are likely Light and Shadow, as we know they were responsible for all creation. From them emerged Order, Disorder, Life, and Death, each opposing the others to the point of reaching a cosmic-scale imbalance. It was probably at this moment that the First Ones came and organized everything, giving rise to a pattern according to which the physical universe was able to prosper.
Furthermore, in Korthia, still within the Shadowlands, we encountered and assisted a new faction called the Archivists’ Codex, who dedicated their lives to researching relics scattered throughout the Shadowlands. One of these relics was a statuette that, when looted, was whispered to the player until it was delivered. One of these whispers said: “… The seventh covets what the six hold. The fulcrum wavers. All will be undone…”
If this whisper holds truth, it may be that this seventh force not only exists but is also on the verge of being unleashed, threatening the stability of the very universe.
What is Canonical?
What we consider canonical up to our journey through Korthia is the existence of Light and Shadow as the first forces, from which the others emerged, as described in World of Warcraft: Chronicle Volume 1. The organization of these forces by the First Ones allowed the universe to follow a stable flow, a concept presented during our journey through the Shadowlands.
However, the possible existence of a seventh force remains uncertain and is based only on fragments of knowledge scattered throughout the Shadowlands. Whether such a force truly exists and what its role in the cosmic structure is still open to speculation and study.
CHAPTER 2: ARCANE MAGIC
Each cosmic force possesses its own domain, with its manifestation in the physical universe occurring distinctly. In the case of Order, this manifestation occurs through arcane magic, which is a direct reflection of the universe’s organized structure. Therefore, the Arcane is more than just a simple energy; it is the force that maintains cosmic balance, connecting the chaos of creation to the pattern of existence.
Unlike other forms of magic, arcane magic is not rooted in external forces or divine entities. It reflects the laws that govern the universe, an essential power that permeates all of creation. In its essence, arcane magic is the fundamental energy of Order, a structuring force that, when manipulated, allows the user to alter, shape, and reorganize physical reality.
This magic is inherently volatile. Its control requires not only a deep understanding of its laws but also rigorous discipline. Arcane magic is not limited to simple conjurations; it interacts with the very structure of the cosmic fabric. According to Bink, a gnome mage from Ironforge, mages “control the thread that interweaves our world.” What she describes is the direct connection between arcane magic and physical reality, with arcane magic not only existing within the universe but also being responsible for shaping and sustaining the order of worlds.
The Power of Arcane Magic
As the personification of Order, arcane magic is responsible for structuring physical reality. This means it can be used to manipulate everything that is physical and even to control other forms of magic.
Fire and frost specializations are examples of using arcane magic to control other forms of magic. Additionally, demon hunters use arcane runes on their bodies to contain the corruption caused by fel magic, showing that arcane magic can also be used to contain the power of another magic, even that which is opposite to it.
In its pure state, arcane magic has a white and violet coloration. However, when used to control other magics, it assumes the characteristics and appearance of those magics.
Its versatility is so great that it is seemingly only limited by the imagination of its user.
Sources of Power
Arcane magic can be drawn from two forms: externally and internally.
External sources are those found throughout the physical universe, with the main ones being the Ley Lines, which are channels of pure magic that run through planets like blood vessels, transporting arcane magic instead of blood.
The internal source of arcane magic is known as mana, which is present in all beings that inhabit the physical universe.
Mages
The primary practitioners of arcane magic are mages, specialists in the mastery of this unstable magic.
Their training involves not only the use of magic but also the rigorous control necessary to prevent its instability from getting out of hand.
Mages manipulate arcane energy to cast spells that can deal damage, control time, and alter the environment.
They are known for their intelligence and discipline, as wielding arcane magic requires a deep understanding of its principles and a strong will to maintain control over its volatile nature.
In the world of Azeroth, mages are often found in prestigious academies and towers, where they study and refine their craft.
They play crucial roles in various events, serving as advisors, scholars, and powerful allies in the face of threats to the realm.
Their mastery over arcane magic makes them formidable opponents and invaluable assets in the ongoing struggles that shape the history of Azeroth.
CHAPTER 3: THE SCHOOLS OF ARCANE MAGIC
In the magical city of Dalaran, the Kirin Tor, an elite council of powerful wizards, governs the nation with wisdom and authority. Their primary objective is the study and advancement of arcane magic, ensuring that knowledge is preserved and passed down through generations. The Kirin Tor is led by the Council of Six, a group of esteemed leaders who guide the direction of magical research and policy.
One of the most renowned members of the Kirin Tor is Archmage Ansirem Runeweaver, who authored a series of books detailing the various schools of arcane magic. These texts are part of the “Literate in the Arcane Arts” achievement and provide valuable insights into the different magical disciplines.
Abjuration
Abjuration is the study of protective magic and one of the most important schools for a young mage to study. The most generalized abjuration spell is the mana shield, a spell that transmutes raw mana into a barrier that protects the caster from attacks. Properly executed, this spell can protect the mage against even the most formidable of attacks - but the mana shield is very difficult for a novice to master. It often takes a mage months of practice to even conjure a simple mana shield, and thus, more basic alternatives exist.
A series of elemental armor spells were invented to aid the traveling mage in the unfortunate case that he or she might be attacked. These spells require far less raw energy to cast then a mana shield and are more easily maintained over time, but lack the raw potency of the mana shield. Rather than stopping an attack completely, a frost armor spell might simply decrease the effectiveness of the assault. The more advanced armor spells grant other benefits - for example, the potent mage armor spell actually assists the caster in regaining magical power more easily.
Practitioners of the arcane arts are often ambitious, and we frequently find ourselves in situations where magic may slip just slightly beyond our control. It is for this reason that the ward spells exist. Ward spells are quick, potent incantations to protect the caster against a form of elemental damage - damage which is often caused by the caster attempting one of the other schools of magic. This is why studying abjuration early is so imperative.
One of the most renowned practitioners of Abjuration magic is Prince Kael’thas Sunstrider. While the prince is quite formidable in all schools of magic, Kael’thas has created a variation of Mana Shield that is practically unsurpassed in among the residents of Dalaran. Also notable is the Arcanist Doan, who has perfected a spell that combines Evocation and Abjuration to shield himself for a short time while preparing a powerfull area-of-effect spell. This Detonate spell provides Doan with a degree of near invulnerability for a precious few seconds, but few mages have the capacity to cast it safely.
Necromancy
Necromancy is the study of magic involving the dead. It is highly illegal and should be avoided at all costs. I discuss necromancy here only because it is our obligation to have a basic understanding of the magic employed by our enemies - and make no mistake, any practitioner of necromancy is your enemy. Necromancers and their followers are the enemies of all living things. Their influence must be avoided at all costs.
Necromantic magic has many functions beyond simply raising the dead. Masters of this tainted field of magic can conjure festering diseases, harness the shadows into bolts of incendiary energy, and chill the living with the power of death. Necromancy can also be used to reconstruct the flesh of undead creatures, allowing them to function again even after the foul monsters have been destroyed.
The former archmage Kel’Thuzad is perhaps the most notable example of a modern necromancer. He greatly contributed to the initial spread of the Scourge and the fall of Lordaeron. Now, Kel’Thuzad reigns as a lich from the floating citadel of Naxxramas. His ongoing existence poses an imminent threat to us all.
Enchanting
Enchantment is the process of imbuing an object - or person - with magical power. Some enchantments are temporary, while others can offer permanent benefits. Enchanting can be difficult to learn, but it is one of the most potentially lucrative forms of magic to study. I highly encourage the study of enchanting, as it is one of the studies of magic that is least likely to culminate in my own destruction.
Disenchanting is the process of dispelling or removing magic. The dispel magic spell is among the most important in a mage’s arsenal, as it can potentially reverse the catastrophic effects of a misfired spell. It is also possible to permanently disenchant a magical item. This produces a unique form of crystallized mana that can be used in the process of imbuing another item with magical abilities. While this can get expensive, it is often one of the best ways for a young mage to study the enchanting process.
While he has already previously been mentioned for his skill in abjuration, Prince Kael’thas Sunstrider is also considered one of the foremost masters of enchanting in our time. He has not only mastered the creation of potent magical weapons, but the prince has also learned to manipulate these objects remotely, allowing them to fight on their own. This can quickly allow the prince to fight as if he was defended by several skilled guardians even when he is completely by himself. A potent defense, indeed.
Conjuration
Conjuration is the study of summoning - both creatures and objects. Ever really, really wanted a fresh drink of spring water when you’re in the middle of nowhere? Conjuration, my friend, is the answer. There is nothing more enjoyable for a mage than creating a fresh slice of bread or a glass of water. Just ask any of us!
More formidable specialists in conjuration can summon several glasses of water at once, or perhaps even a tankard. A few daring wizards have occasionally attempted to summon water without remembering the glass - and thus, the art of summoning water elementals was born. Water elementals are a wizard’s best friend. (Felhounds are not, in fact, friendly at all.) A summoned elemental is a formidable ally in combat, a great listener, and they even taste great!
There are several wizards who have chosen to follow the refreshing path of conjuration. Captain Balinda Stonehearth is a fine example of a mage who has chosen to adapt conjuration magic for battle. Perhaps the most famous conjuror of our time, however, was the beloved Archmage Nielas Aran. Aran was not only noted for being able to summon several elementals at once, he also perfected a recipe for conjuring sparkling cider. It should be noted that Nileas Aran was no simple jester. That’s what magic is all about.
Divination
Divination is the school of magic dedicated to gathering information. Powerful divinations can allow the mage to see targets from a great distance, or even view what may normally be invisible. One of the most common uses of divination magic is scrying, which is the art of seeing something that may be far away - perhaps even on another plane of existence.
I’d like to take this time to remind my apprentices that scrying pools are not a toy. They are absolutely not to be used for displaying students of the opposite sex on a pay per view basis. Consider this your last warning.
The legendary archmage known as Medivh is perhaps the greatest known master of divination. His potent spells allowed him to peer into the world of Draenor from our Home in Azeroth - and perhaps even beyond. We can only speculate at the true depths of the power that Medivh once held.
Illusion
Illusion is the art of deceiving reality itself. The mists of illusion can make a mage invisible or inaudible to the world or twist the image of a location into something entirely different. Illusion can be used for disguise or manipulation, but beware, spells to counteract illusions exist in the divination school. It is not viable to base your entire career on illusionary magic.
Contrary to popular belief, illusions are far more than mere parlor tricks. The spell of invisibility is among the most integral in a battle mage’s repertoire, as you will often find yourself in dangerous situations and in need of a quick method for a strategic retreat. Illusions can also be used to deceive your opponents into thinking that you are elsewhere, or even trick your enemies into fighting each other. This is no easy task, but the accomplished illusionist can turn allies into enemies - and his or her own enemies into allies.
The former archmage Jandace Barov - may her soul rest in peace - was an excellent example of a talented illusionist. In life, she developed a spell that displayed several images of her body that were nearly indistinguishable from her real form. These images duplicated her actions from different locations, making it nearly impossible for her enemies to find her. It was almost infallible. Which brings me to another lesson - almost is simply not good enough.
Transmutation
Transmutation is among the most popular and useful of all of the schools, allowing a mage to manipulate time and space. Perhaps the most iconic Transmutation spell is Polymorph, which allows a mage to turn something - or someone - into something else. Fortunately for many of my students, the effects are not permanent. I’ve seen more than one unwary apprentice turned into a sheep, pig, or worse - don’t even ask what “worse” means.
The second most famous use for transmutation magic is teleportation. The most basic teleportation spell is blink, and it remains among the most useful. Blink can be used to quickly escape a foe - or save a mage who has accidentally fallen off a cliff. Do not attempt to use blink to escape falling to your death unless absolutely necessary. This is the kind of trick you can only fail once.
Make absolutely certain you know your destination before attempting to teleport. There’s a reason we have very specific spells to teleport to certain locations - attempts to cast a teleportation “on the fly” often result in one very dead mage inside a wall, chair, or another mage. And I don’t mean in a fun way.
Spells that manipulate time also fall into this category. The ever-popular slow fall spell is an excellent alternative to falling to your death (and much more reliable than Blink at this function). More advanced practitioners of the arcane arts can also learn a spell that slows the movements of their enemies. I’ve heard rumors of a spell that increases movement speed as well, but I’ve never seen it in practice.
Lady Jaina Proudmoore is a skilled practitioner of transmutation magic. She has developed a powerful variation of the popular mass-teleport spell that is capable of moving a significant percentage of her army with minimal effort. This spell helps make her extremely unpredictable on the battlefield.
CHAPTER 4: EFFECTS OF ARCANE MAGIC ON ITS USERS
Arcane magic, when used in large quantities, causes various effects on the bodies and minds of its users. These effects can be temporary or permanent, depending on the manner of exposure, the intensity of the energy, and the nature of the being affected.
From the acquisition of extraordinary powers to the complete degradation of the physical body, the impacts of Arcane magic have been widely documented in the history of Azeroth and beyond.
Nearly Immortality and Physical Transformation
When a creature is exposed to a powerful and continuous source of arcane magic, its body may undergo significant changes, including a drastic increase in longevity, reaching a near-immortality state.
Night elves are one of the most notable examples of this phenomenon. Their proximity to the Well of Eternity resulted in a physiological transformation that granted them virtually immortal existence. The arcane energy of the Well permeated their essences, drastically slowing their aging and granting them a unique connection with magic.
High elves, descendants of the night elves who founded Quel’Thalas, established a bond with a new arcane source: the Sunwell. However, this continuous exposure resulted in an unexpected side effect: a state of magical dependency.
After the destruction of Well, these elves suffered from intense withdrawal, ranging from agonizing pain to permanent mental and physical damage. Only those who were already weakened succumbed, but deprivation forced the survivors to find new sources of magic, leading many to adopt questionable practices such as stealing arcane energy from other creatures.
Containment Magic
Arcane magic can also be used as a means of containment.
The demon hunters are an example of this. To control the fel energy they consume, they inscribe their bodies with arcane runes. These inscriptions act as a containment mechanism, allowing the user to wield fel energy without being entirely consumed by its corruption.
This process demonstrates that Arcane magic can serve as a stabilizer, restraining destructive forces within safe limits.
Mutation and Disfigurement
In some cases, uncontrolled exposure to arcane magic can cause extreme mutations or even bodily disintegration.
When Draenor was shattered by the numerous portals opened by Ner’zhul, resulting in the creation of Outland, the intense arcane radiation on the planet had profound effects on its creatures. One of the most striking examples was the black eggs left by Deathwing. Arcane energies altered these eggs, giving rise to ethereal dragons, whose physical composition became essentially magical, lacking a traditional physical body.
Another extreme example occurred with the ethereals, the race originating from the planet K’aresh. When Dimensius, the Devourer, opened numerous portals around the planet, the mix of arcane and shadow energy caused a devastating reaction. Waves of energy shattered the physical bodies of the inhabitants of K’aresh, but their souls were infused with enough energy to persist in the physical world. To avoid complete dissipation, these beings began to surround themselves with enchanted bands that held their essence together, transforming them into the ethereals we know today.
Instant Destruction and Magical Residue
The sudden and intense release of arcane magic can result in catastrophic effects and widespread destruction.
When Theramore was destroyed by a mana bomb, the arcane explosion was so intense that, for a brief moment, the bodies of the victims glowed purple before completely disintegrating. Those who were further from the center of the explosion were petrified, but their frozen form disintegrated idust at the slightest touch.
Jaina Proudmoore, who survived only thanks to Rhonin’s intervention, was permanently altered by the arcane radiation. As a consequence, almost all of her hair turned white.
The effects of arcane magic on beings, therefore, vary widely, from empowerment and near-immortality to destruction and disfigurement. The nature of arcane magic as a fundamental force in the universe makes it a powerful tool, but also a dangerous one, especially when manipulated carelessly. Its influence can be found in countless magical phenomena, showing that its impact goes far beyond merely casting spells. It is a fundamental force that can shape the fate of individuals, races, and even entire worlds.
CHAPTER 5: THE FOUR LAWS OF MANIPULATION OF ARCANE MAGIC
This information was found in a letter that the mage trainer would give to human mages during their initial missions in North Village. As the training of mages advanced, this letter is no longer available. However, its content still seems to hold and deserves to be studied.
There is a set of rules to be followed by those who choose to become mages. Here, we will outline the restrictions we must always keep in mind when manipulating arcane magic. The following texts are literal transcriptions.
Magic is Powerful
Arcane magic holds immense power, but it is also highly unstable. Therefore, the mage must be aware that they possess a source of power that is both abundant and dangerous. If handled recklessly, tragedies are certain to occur.
Magic Corrupts
Arcane magic corrupts the soul of its user, filling them with pride and arrogance. It also corrupts the body, causing it to age more quickly and accelerating any diseases the individual may have.
Magic Addicts
Arcane magic corrupts the soul of its user, filling them with pride and arrogance. It also corrupts the body, causing it to age more quickly and accelerating any diseases the individual may have.
Magic Attracts
Arcane magic attracts creatures from the Ethereal Spiral, both good and evil. Notable events to mention include the invasions of the Burning Legion on the planet. Therefore, great care must be taken when manipulating such magic.
The Possible Fifth Law of Sympathy
In addition to the four previous rules, there are some writings by Medivh, found in his book about the Last Guardian, that mention a possible fifth law: the Law of Sympathy. This law states that when someone uses an object, part of their own magical energy becomes connected to it. The connection intensifies the more the object is used, making the mage even more powerful when in contact with it.
We know that arcane magic corrupts the body and mind of its user, and that it also leads to addiction over time. However, as the previous information prescribes, such addiction and corruption will only occur if the individual manipulates the Arcane constantly, in its pure form, recklessly, and in large quantities.
CHAPTER 6: CONCLUSION
Arcane magic, as a manifestation of Order, contains within its very essence the structure necessary for the conjuration and materialization of spells. Unlike other forms of magic that require intermediaries or spiritual or divine bonds, the Arcane responds directly to the intellect and willpower of its user, making it an extremely versatile and accessible tool, but also dangerous.
Its influence extends beyond the known limits of time and space, allowing for extraordinary feats. As suggested by the whispers of the Aluneth staff, a skilled mage could even open portals to other worlds, surpassing the barriers of conventional reality.
However, this power does not come without a cost. The reckless use of arcane magic can lead to an overwhelming addiction, making the mage dependent on its influence. Furthermore, the more powerful the spells are, the greater the demand for energy and concentration, which is why there are many mages, but few truly exceptional ones.
Mastering arcane magic is not just a matter of talent, but of discipline, study, and control. Those who understand its nature and respect its limitations can achieve great feats, while those who use it irresponsibly often find themselves in ruin.
Finally, I thank all those who have accompanied me in this writing about arcane magic and its influence on the universe. May this knowledge serve as a guide for scholars of the arcane arts and for those seeking to understand it in all its depth.
