Inherited Magical Technique

The Formal and Informal Activation of an Inherited Technique

Magic, like all of creation, is governed by the universal principles of Logic, Reason, and Order. These rules extend to the way magical techniques are activated. The activation of a technique, particularly an Inherited Magical Jutsu, can occur in two primary forms: Formal Activation (FA) and Informal Activation (IA). Formal Activation is the ideal method by which a technique is cast to achieve its maximum potential. This structured form of casting is composed of three key components:

• Incantations:  Spoken or sung words of power that serve as a focal point for the technique. These words are derived from the Logic of the Technique, meaning they carry both symbolic and practical significance. An incantation’s content often reflects the actions, beliefs, and history of the mage’s bloodline, as the magical knowledge is encoded within their mana cells over generations. This means that the "blood remembers," allowing mages to draw on the collective experience of their ancestors.
• Gestures: Physical movements, ranging from intricate hand signs to elaborate body poses, that further align the mage’s body and mind with the technique. These gestures are imprinted upon the mage’s very DNA, forming a physical language that their body uses to interact with their magical power. Over time, the gestures become second nature, enabling the mage to transition seamlessly between different forms of magic while enhancing their overall capabilities.
• Rituals: Ceremonial practices that bind the incantations and gestures together, ensuring that the technique is executed with precision. Rituals play a critical role in the casting process, as they not only enhance the technique but also honor the mage’s cultural and magical heritage. To perform a ritual incorrectly is considered a grave insult to the mage’s household and ancestors, potentially weakening the technique or causing it to fail altogether.

In contrast to Formal Activation, Informal Activation is a more expedient but less effective method of casting a technique. Informal Activation occurs when a mage chooses to forgo one or more elements of the formal process in order to cast a technique more quickly. While this significantly reduces the technique’s overall effectiveness, it provides crucial advantages in high-pressure situations such as combat, where time is a luxury mage often cannot afford.   For example, a battle mage might rely on Informal Activation during combat to cast a technique multiple times with a reduced cooldown period. While a Formal Activation might require a 15-minute recovery time, an Informal Activation could allow the mage to cast the technique 12 to 15 times within the same period, albeit at reduced potency. However, this is akin to removing a cake from the oven before it's fully baked—it may suffice at the moment but lacks the full refinement and power of its formal counterpart.   Mages often develop ways to mitigate the loss of power associated with Informal Activation through various advanced techniques:

• Mastery of the Seven Tubaki Genshin Gates: These seven metaphysical gates regulate the flow of a mage’s magical energy. Normally, they act as limiters to protect the mage from overexertion. By learning to open all seven gates, a mage can access the full extent of their magical power. However, equally important is the ability to close the gates at will, conserving energy for sustained use. A skilled mage understands how to balance the release of power, preventing burnout while maximizing efficiency.
• Obeying Your Dharma: Dharma represents the alignment of one’s actions with their true self and cosmic purpose. When a mage follows their Dharma, they unlock their full potential, drawing upon the deep well of inner strength that lies dormant within. Just as a star shines brightest when it follows its destined path across the cosmos, a mage’s power is magnified when it remains in harmony with its Dharma. This principle applies to both Formal and Informal Casting, as adherence to Dharma enhances both precision and endurance.
• Familiar Summoning: Many mages form a Summoning Contract with a familiar, magical entity that serves as both a companion and a source of power. The contract, often signed in blood, creates a bond between the mage and the familiar, enabling the mage to enhance their spells by drawing upon the familiar’s abilities. Summoning the familiar during combat allows for a synergistic boost to both Formal and Informal Activations, as the familiar’s presence amplifies the mage’s magical output.

All of these can also be used to exponentially increase the power and effectiveness of a Formal Activation as well and any Mage worth their salt should be capable of them as well, but they are especially good at making up for the loss of effectiveness of Informal Casting.