JOURNAL OF ATHANASIUS

  PART IV - MAGIC

  The subject of magic and sorcerers is vast, and one could fill many volumes on it. However, for the sake of my readers, I shall endeavor to be concise. The Archons, mighty Giants, are masters of magic—a power that, alongside the loyalty of humans, enabled them to overthrow the Dragon Emperor and drive the Dragons to near extinction three thousand years ago.

  Since that time, the Archons have employed sorcerers in their courts. Yet, understanding the dangers of magic—and recalling that it was such power that allowed them to topple the Dragon Emperor—the wise and sagacious Archons have banned rogue sorcery. Only those trained from childhood in official orders are permitted to practice magic. These orders emphasize discipline and obedience to both the Archons and the Holy Church. The orders encourage sorcerers to bear children strong in magic, though such offspring are raised away from their parents to ensure their loyalty lies solely with the order. Occasionally, children born outside the orders are accepted, but this is rare, as the orders prefer those without familial ties.

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  An exception exists in the realm of Archon Hanying, where the cultivation of Qi—a unique form of magic—by Martial Arts Sects is permitted. This practice is not found in any other realm. However, only Sects officially endorsed by the Imperial Court of Archon Hanying may engage in Qi cultivation. These Sects are granted privileges by the court in return for their assistance in maintaining order in the realm.

  In the rural areas of most Archon realms, children born with magical abilities are often viewed as cursed. Unable to control their powers, they are feared and shunned. The official orders rarely accept such children, and they are frequently regarded as rogue criminals to be dealt with for the safety of the community. The reputation of magic users is further tarnished by rogue sorcerers and witches who, unbound by the ethical constraints of the official orders, often terrorize innocent villagers in their pursuit of power.

  This will suffice for now, though I intend to add further notes on the subject in due course.