Domination Magic

The word domination comes from the Elder root dolmas, meaning "presence," itself derived from dolmataer, meaning "to be filled."

Domination magic is any form of magic that grants influence over the mind and actions of another being. It is a method that only arises in a select few places in the magical sphere.

Domination magic is uncommon and largely ineffective in the Pure Magic, because on that scale of energy a ritual would likely be needed, and thus concise instructions for the energy to manifest in. However, the mind is frequently changing, and the Pure Magic may make a momentary change but not lasting control. For example, a rituals could be used to stun someone for several moments, or even create momentary panic.

Elemental magic, with its focus on emotion and its constantly changing nature, is far more suited to domination magic.

Specifically it resides in the realm of Shayshan, the Element of sound. A soundsmith could create continuous frequencies of noise acting upon a subject's mind (or many subjects), eliciting an emotional response and even filling it with some images. This can be used in limited manners, to create what many consider symptoms of physical and mental sickness. One case was recorded where a man was subjected to the constant exertion of Shayshan, and after half an hour of throwing up he picked up a knife, killed two innocents, and then himself.

As an extension of this, the Nekaran sub-Element Syseris is perhaps the most effective dominating method. The use of Syseris can be used to, in effect, possess men and beasts, especially snakes. This has been used in more than one assassination attempt between GodKings.

The Element of Mayena, that of blood, is another tool capable of dominating. The skilled bloodmage can work his or her magic upon entire crowds, filling their heads with pulsing and clouding and emotion. The emotional responses that Mayena-domination can elicit are not many; fear and anger and passion (i.e. lust, pride, loyalty, etc.). In the Conduit War on Amriak bloodmages transformed crowds into riots.

Domination magic is deeply, deeply frowned upon in society and in the Academy. An organisation like the Divan Ring would refute this, however. "Bloodmage" is a common term for a mage within the Mayena Collective, but it is one that elicits and propagates fear against them. Bonemenders exist within the collective, too, with control over Visir or Ose and no domination potential.