There are many leveling systems in Avaloria but out of all these systems there are two that can be truly counted as the hegemon and, some say, the true path: Mage and Knight Ascendancy System
Let's start with the Magic Ascendancy System them:
A mage will start their journey by first learning about mana, how much they can control it, and mana circles. Only after this will they truly begin their journey. Mage Ascendancy is broken down into a 9-Circle system. Let's start from scratch.
Circle 0 Novice Mage Realm: Getting Started
Step 1: Drawing on Materials
> As a beginner, mages will start by sketching magic circles on enchanted parchment or metal plates. These materials are designed to help mages stabilize and control their mana, making it easier to learn the ropes.
> The materials used help create a controlled environment, ensuring mana doesn't spiral out of control, while mages are still learning.
Step 2: Learning Mana Control
> Initial training will involve exercises like meditation and controlled breathing to help mages get a feel for their mana. Mages will practice drawing simple circles, working on their precision and speed while minimizing energy waste. The goal is to draw a clear and efficient circle without spilling mana all over the place.
Step 3: Passing the Test
Before mages can move up, they'll need to prove they can draw these circles quickly and accurately. They'll be judged on how well they maintain the circle's structure and its functionality. It's not just about speed; mages also need to manage their mana carefully, making sure they don't use more than necessary and how precise they are while doing that.
Circle 1: Adept Realm
When mages can consistently draw circles in under a second, they'll face a test to see if they're ready to advance. This includes both practical scenarios and theoretical knowledge.
Body Integration: If mages pass, they'll start learning how to draw circles on their body, beginning with simpler designs on less sensitive areas.
Mentors will guide mages through this new phase, helping them understand the deeper implications and maintain mana control. (This only happens in the Magic Academy) Experienced mages will guide them as they transition to body circles, ensuring they stay on track. They might use special tools or artifacts to assist with these new challenges, making the learning curve a little smoother.
Now comes the most crucial part
Circles on the Heart: As mages progress, they'll learn to etch multiple magic circles onto their heart. The number and complexity of these circles reflect their skill and control, marking their growth as mages.
First Rotation: Basic Circles
This is the foundation. Each circle needs to be precise, serving a distinct purpose without interfering with the others. Circles are placed as close as possible over the heart, demanding exceptional control to prevent interference.
Determining the Number of Circles: The average mage can fit 10–15 circles on their heart, depending on their control. Exceptional mages might manage 20-25 basic circles, which are rare but not impossible.
Each circle must work in tandem to avoid interference. This requires advanced knowledge and control. All circles must work in harmony, which involves understanding how different types of magic interact closely, which is the reason the academy is considered the sacred place in Avaloria.
Circle 1+: Advanced Techniques (Few Dares to go for it)
There is one step during Circle 1 that ends up categorizing mages. "Rune inscription over the circles." As mages advance, they'll receive specialized training in heart circle etching, focusing on precision, control, and harmonization. The rune mages will learn to draw are simple yet elegant, designed for quick, effective use. Mages will need to master the runic alphabet, understanding the meaning and power of each rune.
Etching Process:
Precision in mana control is key when etching runes or alphabets into circles, as each rune must be perfectly aligned. The runes should maximize the circle's power without causing interference.
Circle 2: Intermediate Realm:
As mages progress, they'll combine basic circles and runes and form one intermediate circle, more powerful and sturdy than 3 basic circles, increasing their magical power and control at each stage.
> Combining 3 basic circles to form one intermediate circle.
> Successfully draw and maintain multiple circles on the heart.
> Begin etching runes over these circles. (Optional)
> Demonstrate the ability to etch multiple new runes/alphabets accurately and strategically.
Circle 3: Advanced Realm:
>Combining 5 intermediate circles to form one advanced circle
> Further increase the number of runes per circle.
> Integrate complex runic combinations for powerful effects. (Optional)
> Maintain perfect mana control to prevent rune.alphabets interference.
Circle 4: Master Realm:
> Combining 7 advanced circles to form one master circle.
> Further increase the number of runes per circle.
> Integrate complex runic combinations for powerful effects. (Optional)
> Maintain perfect mana control to prevent rune interference.
Circle 5: Grandmaster Realm:
> Combining 10 master circles to form one grandmaster circle.
> Further increase the number of runes per circle.
> Integrate complex runic combinations for powerful effects. (Optional)
> Maintain perfect mana control to prevent rune interference.
Circle 6: Archmage Realm:
> Combining 5 grandmaster circles to form one archmage circle.
> Further increase the number of runes per circle.
> Integrate complex runic combinations for powerful effects. (Optional)
>Maintain perfect mana control to prevent rune interference.
Circle 7: Elder Mage Realm.
Circle 8: Elder Arch-mage Realm.
Circle 9: Ascendant Realm.
After the Master realm, there are other conditions that need to be fulfilled before one can ascend. But let's not spoil everything.
As mages advance, they might feel the need to add more circles for extra power. However, this comes at a significant cost.
Adding new circles consumes a large amount of mana and life force, leaving mages weakened. The process is physical and mind-bending, requiring a long recovery period. Each new basic circle added after the first circle realm increases the risk of the entire system collapsing.
Having a basic circle in the presence of an advanced circle will act like an opposite pole of a magnet. You know what will happen if such a thing occurs in such a delicate setup.