Laws of Magic

All magic in one way or another, is powered by the mystical substance known as Source. This includes everything from the alien biology of the fae, to the spectacular powers of the divine, to a street performer using thalmaturgy to cause lights to dance across his hands. However, there are a variety of ways to harness source and use it for spell casting.   First off, there is algorithmic casting. This form of casting is most common among wizards and bards. It involves the use of complex mathematical formula and incantations in order to harness the natural source of the world and form it into complex spells based on the specifics of the formula. Wizards accomplish this through the use transmutation circles and incantations they keep copies of in their wizard spellbooks, while bards use their musical talents and innate 'magical potential' in order to unleash magical effects. It is believed that bards use the same principles as wizards for spell casting, but go about harnessing this power in a completely different way.   Second there is genetically based casting. Some people naturally produce source within their bodies. These people are referred to as Sorcerers. Channeling the raw source their body produces through their body allows them greater flexibility in their spell casting, allowing them powerful meta-magics.   Another form of casting allows for the user to tap into the source lay lines through communion with nature. These casters, druids, rangers, and some paladins, must undergo rigorous training in order to best tap into the source lines. This allows for these casters to draw upon the power of the land itself to fuel their spells and aid them in the crafting of their magics.   Technomancy often uses 'source drives' to power it. Technomancers, fearing the chaotic unpredictable nature of source, instead harness very small amounts of its energy to power machines which can create the spell like effects for them, rather than having to handle the source themselves directly.   External Channeling is a form of magic used by warlocks, clerics, and some paladins. It involves receiving source energy directly from a powerful entity such as a divine, an elemental, or a celestial. This usually requires some sort of deal or an oath to be maintained in order to maintain access to their magical powers.   Consumable casting is a more recent development of the modern world. Alchemists mix source rich plants and chemicals together to make potions that can cause spell like effects. The mutagens of bloodhunters also work on a similar principle. Lastly, there are source junkies who use injections of source in order to temporarily gain similar powers to a sorcerer but at the gradual cost of their health and sanity.