Inscription in the Steel Realms

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The approach and means by which a spell formulae is learned and used is known as the Methodology of the magus. Inscription is one such methodology. Translating formulae between methodologies is expensive and time consuming. In many cases, occult institutions hire sages and scribes to do most of the work, so that their time is freed up to pursue their goals. Like most Methodologies, its activities use expensive supplies which are conducive to occult power.

Using Inscribed Sources (Spell Books and Scrolls)

Finding a spell book or scroll can greatly enhance the knowledge of any magus who uses the Inscription Methodology. Transcribing found inscriptions of power requires that the book or scroll the copy is destined for is appropriately prepared.

Cost for Transcribing [Only]: half a Cost Portion per level of the spell.

Learning Spell Formulae

Time: For each spell, it must be studied for a # Short Rests Equal to 2 x the spell level (min. 1) and a full cost portion per spell level.

Understanding: The chance to understand the spell and be able to use it is equal to DC 10 + Spell Casting Modifier, minus the level of the spell. If the scrivener can actually cast the level of the spell, they get Advantage on their check. If they fail, they must wait another level to attempt it again.

Scrolls

Protection Scrolls: These contain an Embodiment ritual fetish. The spell is tied up into it, and all the caster must do is speak a few words of power and break the [typically wax] seal of the fetish.

Spell Scrolls: for those whose methodology is Scrivener work as pages in a spell book.

Embodiment

Embodiment takes blood and essence of magic-using sentient creatures.
Each spell must have its own embodiment for it to be affixed on an inscribed source so that it may be cast from its source. Without such, the inscribed materials are just something to be copied for study. Most of the magi of the Steel Realms do this, so that if they are desperate, the spell can be cast directly from the source. Invoking this causes the knowledge associated with it in its source to be burned away with magical flame (though it will destroy nothing else). Casting or learning requires either of these approaches to trigger the Embodiment. Spell formulae sources without Embodiments can only be studied, and take 3 x the spell level in time.

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