Way of the Shadow

Way of the Shadow (しよう乃影, Shiyō no Kage) is the art of combat using Darkness Magic in a manner similar to employing methods of martial arts in tune with spellcasting. This is mostly fit for Wizards who have studiously taught themselves to hone their bodies to the peak of capability and employ spells with a near secondhand nature. Masters of this form of Caster Type magic can possibly employ spells without uttering a word or even moving at all. The more learned one is within these arts makes them a more capable and versatile Mage both physically and mentally.

Origin
During its inception, those who used Darkness Magic have often fell prey to those of either a higher caliber or far stronger in physique when facing them in the open. Thus, after generations of only the lowest or most desperate users in the Darkness Magic arts, a rare breed of Wizards came about to start employing physical discipline similar to how the Non-Mage mercenary guild have been notably reputed for. From the monks who seek higher wisdom in the province of the Pergrandine Kingdom along its more obscure borders to the Sword Schools of Seven and then the originators of this field of magic, the Mage Circle of Joya.

In a time of war where both subtlety and preservation was necessary, this new and admittedly small band of Wizards began to teach many prospective students these arts while training in secret. When Joya was finally placed in the unintentional crossairs of a border conflict wishing to use its natural resources and strategic placement, the Circle of Joya emerged and gave a staunch warning. When the armies continued to march across their borders they were met with a terrifying sight. Mages descended upon them like wraiths in the night, utterly frightening them into fleeing when no viable means of repelling their charge was used. Two armies were routed and Joya gained a placement within the Magic Council centuries down the road to retaining a much more neutral yet hospitable placement while all look on them with fear and respect of equal measure.

Since the aversion to The Extinction of Magic, more and more Might Magick as it has been coined has been emerging over the last two centuries. Among the most learned or most proficient has always been learners came from Way of the Shadow and no one could deny their versatile efficiency. The terrifying magic martial art is mastered by few but still widely used to be a useful tool in many magi's plethora of spells at their disposal.

Current Users

 * Victor Alexander: Master Rank
 * Morgan Deschain: Initiate Rank