How would a non-combat mage even get to level 20 to use talents? Nah there must be a non-combat mage profession. Most people wouldn't be able to learn or rather couldn't afford to learn combat spells. They would just be stuck with their one spell like that forest sprite. She should be able to become a non-combat profession by level the skill up high enough.
Already covered by affinity. If the sprite only has one spell it's because her affinity for magic is low. If it's low, it doesn't matter how hard they work, they're not getting a proffession in magic if they can't get to level 45. Only way a low affinity magic user gets a Mage Proffesion is through sheer force of will with unlimited time, unlimited access to a quickening (of decent level with an awakened ley line being cared for by a pixie will be the only way it'd be do-able in a reasonable time frame), or some ridiculously great quest from the universe.
Why would her affinity is low? The person apparently gained the spell without having her power awakened, maybe it was through a spell book. It is not like there is a mechanic for gaining new spells automatically as the magic skill levels. So no reason for her affinity to be low because of having one non-combat spell.
This particular sprite in question did, said she had to struggle to learn it and didn't have affinity in other elements and really low affinity in earth but with struggle, just high enough to earn the first spell. until she bonded with her air pixie. Spoiler: Book 5 Upon hearing that she had magical ability, Richter asked if she knew any spells. The sprite shook her head and said that she had had to struggle to learn that one Earth spell and hadn’t had any affinity with the other Basic Elements. Richter nodded and was going to walk away, but then on impulse, leaned in placed one hand on her head and the other on her chest. The sprite was startled, but she did not resist her new lord. Richter spoke the words, “By the Right of My Power, I Awaken Your Power.” Warmth kindled in his chest and spread down his arms. The feeling passed from him, into her, and magic was kindled in her soul. She looked at up at him with wonder on her face. Awakening Cettiona’s Power has greatly improved your relationship! Congratulations! You have gained +1,018 Relationship Points with Cettiona! Your relationship with Cettiona has improved from Pleased (+250) to Friendly (+1,000). “It has been too long since we’ve seen each other…” Total Relationship Points with the Cettiona: +1,357. Cettiona told him that she had gained the skill Air magic. It would be a level one spell regardless. If it was the only spell a Mage knew without any other resources it would be the work of a life time to get that school to level 45. Even with perfect 100 percent affinity forever and a quick learner ability Richter couldn't do much with light magic because he was stuck with far light and mirror and simple light and magic bolts. He made it to level 11 but over the course of like 5 months. Stuck with 1 level one spell would be a year or two to get to level 10 at which point it stops working as well as it did because it's a lower ranked spell. If your affinity at level 1 isn't mid 70s or higher (to reach apprentice rank), magic will be a quirk of your life. If it's mid 70s to 100 you make the choice to go where the knowledge and resources are because it's your best life, and they can help power level you there and prep you for your proffession properly rather than stumbling into it
Still even simple mancers can be creative and use their abilities to "sabotage/kill with innovative ways" the enemies of the mists.. like grease and flame
Nearly all of it is garbage. There are a few worthwhile series, but its a matter of pure luck whether you can find them. Most series are basically repetition of the same plot with every main character giving the same illogical, anti-moralizing speeches to justify their own shitty behavior instead of just owning that they are vile critters who have no intention of reforming. Nothing is worse than a hypocritical villain which is what nearly all wuxia protagonists are. I do like the one with the fat guy who wins duels by wearing twenty layers of armor, forcing his enemy to run out of magic. It feels like he actually earns his progress, rather than being handed it without any meaningful effort, similar to cradle. I also love that he readily acknowledges being complete scum.
That could be indeed a big part of how the tree levels. Kinda like the HOF needing masterworks created to level.
I think the focus will be in enchanting. I think that the reason he hasn't gotten it yet is he is trying to do everything, uncover every possibility. You need to focus to get a focus. Anyone expect Richter to do that anytime soon?
There are probably ways to earn spells, either on your back or by laboring for a few years for some wizard/ witch in need of free labor and a pair of hands to do all the disgusting jobs. Similar to the way a dwarven smith can earn enchantments by signing away his freedom for a few decades. Not saying thats how everyone operates, but there are probably a fair amount of assholes using access to new spells as leverage. The good ones teach valuable skills, the rest just how to scrub pots, cook dinner and clean up.
kinda cant believe he doesnt have a focus yet. What the hell is a bloody focus (as in how does one get one). come on book nine!
As far as when it will be discussed I doubt it will be in book 9, he has sooo much catching up to do already with his Xiutrix quest and returning to the village. I reckon if AK sends him back to the village in book 9, there will be at least 3-4 chapters on administration. I’m just hoping it’s not as short as book 8 and includes some progression.
I really hope he not only makes it back but also does some settlement building right before he finds out the coalition is about to attack him. He could even get the new settlers situated and send out his boat (finally).
Hanso the Professed Rogue Guard could Specialise as an Inquisitor, a Rogue who specialises in catching other Rogues, then he could Focus as a Thief Catcher, a Inquisitor who specialises in catching thieves and criminals.
