Blackness
The magic of darkness draws from the most mysterious currents of Essence—from the shadows, the forgotten, and the unimaginable of the mortal mind.
The essence of dark magic
The darkness in Ulvenor is not simply the absence of light — it is a force of its own with a will of its own. Dark Essence is concentrated in the depths of the earth, in shadowy ravines, and in places where many beings have died. Some theorists believe that darkness is the oldest form of Essence, predating all others. Practitioners of dark magic teeter on the edge. Dark Essence is seductive and can easily get out of hand — an inexperienced mage can be engulfed by the shadows or lose their identity in the darkness.
Traditions and schools
Dark magic is officially banned in the Empire, but is secretly practiced by a number of groups. Drow mages are probably the most skilled practitioners—in the underground cities where darkness reigns, they have learned to control it with surgical precision. The Cult of the Eye of Morgrat is the most famous outlaw organization practicing dark magic. Their members believe that darkness is the path to absolute power and that the Imperium's restrictions are only a manifestation of fear.
Use in combat
Dark spells focus on weakening, fear and manipulation. They can drain the life force of enemies, create areas of absolute darkness, summon shadowy creatures, or curse targets with debilitating curses. Dark magic is especially effective against creatures sensitive to light and against unprepared enemies. Her weakness is that she loses strength in direct sunlight and against hallowed ground.