Spells are the primary expressions of magical power. Each spell is a structured effect defined by its Practice, Attunement, and Risk Class Tags.
Spell RC Advancement Costs
| RC Upgrade | XP Cost |
|---|---|
| RC-0 → RC-1 | 2 XP |
| RC-1 → RC-2 | 3 XP |
| RC-2 → RC-3 | 4 XP |
| RC-3 → RC-4 | 5 XP |
Casting Spells
When you cast a spell, you choose how much power to put into it by selecting which Tags to use.
Important: RC-0 Tags Cost 0 Stress
Using only RC-0 Tags costs 0 Stress. These are your mundane, reflexive uses of magic (lighting a cigarette, sensing a draft, steadying your hand).
As soon as you add an RC-1 Tag (or higher) to the stack, the spell begins to tax your Stress track. Each RC-1+ Tag costs 1 Stress.
Example: Casting Ignite (RC-0) is free. Casting Ignite + Burn (RC-1) costs 1 Stress.
- Choose Tags: Select which unlocked Tags to use (limited by current phase's RC cap).
- Table Approval: The table confirms the Tags apply to your intent.
- Gain Dice Power: Add +1 Dice Power per approved Tag.
- Pay Cost: Take Stress equal to the number of RC-1+ Tags used—OR spend a matching Arcana Asso or Seal to cast for free.
Spell Tag Pattern
Each spell's 5 Tags follow an escalation pattern from minor utility to legendary power:
- RC-0 (Cantrip): Minor, utility, safe
- RC-1 (Standard): Combat-viable, reliable
- RC-2 (Dangerous): Significant, costly
- RC-3 (Severe): Major, reality-straining
- RC-4 (Catastrophic): Legendary, world-scarring