Intonation

Intonation (イントネーション, Intonēshon) is a Caster Magic and a subspecies of Song Magic which specializes in altering and enhancing the physique of the caster. It is a special magic, as the caster has to be born with the affinity to using it. In essence, it cannot be taught, only discovered by the ones who possess it. But in return, it can also be used instinctively by screaming, singing or unleashing it through other kinds of vocal activity, but this depends on the caster.

Description
A peculiar Magic, Intonation relies on the vocal cords of the caster in order to be utilized properly. However, instead of relying on the creation of dangerous shouts which could crush their targets, the cords are used to produce a soft sound instead. While it is initially quite difficult to see how this Magic can even be effective in combat, the dangerous effects start to take place the instant the last tone has escaped the throat of the caster. Covered in a faint glow, the caster's body will instantaneously become a focal point for Eternano nearby. The aura constantly gathers Eternano with little resistance, which basically means the Eternano of the environment, and power up the user. While the user consistently powers up during the course of the next few minutes, the initial power-up grants the caster enough power to easily rival some of the strongest Mages who excel at physical combat. In truth, the activation of Intonation makes the caster ungodly powerful and easily allows them to overpower their opponents in both in terms of close combat and long-distance magical combat. When the caster has reached their maximum potential, which is estimated to be reached in approximately five minutes, their appearance will change even more. While they are to begin with surrounded by a glowing aura, the aura will intensify as the user absorbs more and more Eternano. In this process, the user's body will also become gradually more translucent, as will their clothing. Eventually, their entire being will end up looking like stained glass, although the caster will only be covered in glass of a single color. Bizarrely, anything they carry, including weapons, will achieve this hue. However, despite the fact that it looks relatively frail, the material is sturdy and hard to the touch. In that sense, the crystallization process is not entirely cosmetic, but also practical. However, it is noted that it is still primarily cosmetic, as the user is seldom touched by the opposing force when they enter this mode, due to the sheer power they are often granted. However, it should be noted that the power is also unstable and charging up fully can not only damage the caster afterwards, but also inadvertently deal massive damage to allies and the environment. Due to the fact that the environment's Eternano reservers are sucked dry, it will slowly decay and gradually become a barren wasteland.

Because Intonation is akin to an overdrive, it is treated as a supportive magic instead of a strictly offensive one or a defensive one. This is not necessarily true, however, as Intonation can offer offensive spells to the caster. Regardless, one must take into consideration that the apparent offensive spells are only a product of the caster's augmented energy and physical strength, therefore also not spells per se. Despite this, many casters still choose to regard them as spells and gives these attacks names. In truth, it would be more correct to refer to them as techniques, as these attacks are devised by the caster self. But due to the fact that some incorporate their unique magical power into these techniques, it is not entirely incorrect to refer to them as spells. Due to the fact that the Intonation depends on the users, all Intonations are unique. This applies even right down to the activation of the mode. Certain users flat out scream whenever they enter this mode, while others can sing lovely melodies in order to activate their hidden potential. It should be noted that every caster is required to use their vocal cords to activate the Intonation phase and as such, it can be regarded as an enormous weakness. If they somehow lose their ability to use their voice, even temporarily, the caster will lose their greatest asset in combat. In the end, though, it should not be regarded as a great asset, but rather a last resort, due to the fact that it leaves the caster completely emaciated after using it.

Trivia

 * The concept of this Magic is inspired by Intoner Mode, which is featured in Drag-on Dragoon 3 by the Intoner sisters.