Another topic that I have been struggling with is a system of magic that doesnt borrow too heavily from somone elses work, or just seems too stupid be believed.

I know magic is an "X" factor in these stories and you can pretty much do what you want with it but there have to be some guidelines. The magic needs limits or else the protaganist could just snap the fingers and the story would be over, problem solved, everyone happy.

Having said this I think i have come up with a system that I like, that works in my opinion and I am going to integrate into my story. I just hope it looks as good on paper.

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sumigo is just an online handle, my real name is Brandon.

Yeah, IMHO the concept of magic in fantasy can really be a make-or-break element. As a reader, I'm willing to forego a lot of science for the good of the story. As a writer though, I find it hard to create a world that strays too far; I try to make everything explainable, which can be tough and, bluntly, defeats the whole point of magic. But you're right, there has to be some sort of balancing of magic, e.g. it makes the user weak, or has unintended consequences, etc.

I can say this, I am more a fan of sword vs. sorcery. I loathe magic users in books that use spells, incantations, sacrifices, etc. I prefer a lighter brand of fantasy than all that, but that's just me and my tastes.

If you ever get stuck, just throw a red priestess in your book somewhere, everyone else does.

Yeah Kross I understand the less = more approach you are describing and fully appreciate it, George R.R Martin is a perfect example of that. More swords less sorcery.

Plus sometimes people feel writers put too much magic into a story, I have heard this critique in regards to Harry Potter and Xanth by Piers Anthony. I dont really feel that way, but I can see how people might feel it waters down the story.

EDIT:

Maybe ill add an orange Priest/Priestess just to be different.

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sumigo is just an online handle, my real name is Brandon.

If you haven't read the Death Gate Cycle by Weis and Hickman definitely check that out. It has one of the most unique approaches to magic that I've seen.

Once read a book called "Master of Five Magic" ([url=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Master_of_the_Five_Magics]here[\url]. It was an interesting take, although i remember struggling through the book.

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Quote:

Death smiled as she withdrew. Kill an army for me, Raif Sevrance. Any less and I just might call you back.