View source for Caelistis (3.5e Campaign Setting)/Magic

==Arcane Magic==
'''In Caelistis, Arcane magic is any magic that doesn't rely on the will of the gods.'''  This includes not only Wizards, Sorcerers, and (non-divine) Bards, but also True Namers, Shadowcasters, Warlocks, and any magic that isn't divine.  Originally, Divine Magic was the only magic that existed.  Years after Astaroth gave arcane magic to humanity, and the arcanists were persecuted, there still exists many who practice it.  Some feel it is a right of humanity to not have to rely on gods.  Others feel it is something that should be done purely for a studious reason.  Some still feel that it was given to humanity for a reason, and to abandon it would be to scorn the God of Self.

Sorcerers are often burned at the stake the day they begin to show powers that aren't divine.  While it is difficult to tell at first, it becomes progressively more difficult to hide as their powers grow.  A few hide their abilities and live, but none are known to have actually passed off as a Favored Soul.  At least not yet.  Many wizards believe that Sorcerers are the Favored Souls of Astaroth, and sometimes refer to them as "Selfgifted".  A few believe that if a Sorcerer was allowed to gain enough power, that they would become a host for Astaroth's return to Caelistis, and those that believe that often protect Sorcerers as much as possible.  Because of this, many flock to hidden churches to Astaroth, where the clerics there will help hide them from the world while the train to improve themselves.

Wizards are those who study arcane magic for a number of reasons.  Many do it for power, as it is often easier than becoming a cleric or an archivist and doesn't require time spent around other people.  Some do it for the flexibility.  You can devote yourself to many magical abilities not always available to Divine spellcasters.  Wizards are scholars of supremely forbidden lore.  Their power comes from it, and they often devote themselves to finding anything forbidden in hopes of being able to use it to better themselves.

Warlocks and other alternate casters are public enemies.  Even other spellcasters fear them to some extent.  They have powers that cannot be studied traditionally, and some have powers completely alien.  Wizards study magic that was at some point given by the gods.  But Warlocks have powers that, while being able to be traced back to the gods, is less directly descended and very bizarre in comparison.