The Source
The primal wellspring fueling all magic and driving the conflict between gods and mortals.
The Source is the primordial wellspring of magical energy that permeates the universe of Rivellon and beyond. It serves as the fundamental fuel for all spells, rituals, and supernatural phenomena, existing in a delicate balance against its corrupt counterpart, the Void.
- Nature
- Primal Magical Energy
- Location
- Metaphysical Plane / Ambient Reality
- Status
- Historically Contained, Currently Volatile
- Opposition
- The Void
- Primary Users
- Godwoken and Licensed Mages
Lore & Background
Over time, society adapted to these restrictions, developing structured schools of magic that relied on elemental affinities rather than direct connection to the Source. However, the emergence of the Godwoken shattered this equilibrium. These unique beings possess an innate immunity to elemental harm and can draw directly from the wellspring without suffering the usual backlash, challenging the divine order established centuries ago.
In Their Own Story
The mage knelt before the ancient stone circle, hands trembling as he reached for the invisible current. The air hummed with a low vibration, tasting of ozone and old dust. He knew the Gods had forbidden this direct touch, yet the pull was irresistible. A crack formed in the earth, leaking not light, but pure potential energy that danced around his fingers like living fire.
Reader's Guide
The history of magical energy on Rivellon begins with the First War, where unchecked sorcery nearly destroyed civilization. To prevent such catastrophe, the Gods intervened, sealing away the primal flows and restricting mortal access to magic through rigid schools and regulations. This era established the dominance of elemental manipulation over raw power, ensuring stability for centuries. Magical theory suggests that all spells draw from this universal wellspring, often categorized by elemental affinities like fire or water. However, recent discoveries indicate a darker counterpart known as the Void exists in opposition to this energy. While traditional mages rely on learned techniques and artifacts to channel safely, certain beings born with innate immunity can tap into the raw flow directly without risk. This tension between controlled magic and primal freedom fuels modern conflicts. The rise of individuals capable of wielding this energy without restriction threatens the established order maintained by the ancient powers. Understanding these origins is key to navigating the dangers of unchecked sorcery today, as the balance shifts once more toward chaos.
Did You Know?
- Soul Gems are artifacts designed to store concentrated Source energy for specific magical purposes.
- The Void actively drains the Source, creating zones where magic cannot function properly.
- Godwoken individuals can manipulate elemental forces without taking damage from their own spells.
- The Gods originally sealed the Source to prevent another war of magicks.
More in Lore & History
Elsewhere in the Divinity Original Sin universe
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