Traditions of Magic: Hokum

The most basic of spells, Hokum are the first magics that a student learns in Swansgrave. In fact, in order to move on from the junior school and enter the upper classes, a student must solve a series of 7 puzzles using Hokum spells applied with both skill and creativity. In Upper Classes, student no longer formally study Hokum, but it proves useful day to day, often for the entirety of a Magi's life. While the effects are very minor and quite restricted in their direct applications. Hokum does not require the careful focus and precision of other magics and also runs no risk of taint. Magi are still expected to abide by The Oath Obscuring, refraining from the use of even Hokum when in the presence of Frails.

While Hokum is capable of numerous, useful effects, it does have the following basic restrictions:

1. Direct line of sight is needed for any effects, with a maximum range of 10 meters.
2. No foci are required, but the Magus needs to be able to vocalize and have at least one hand free for casting. Casters can attempt to conceal what they are doing.
3. Effects can distract but can not do any lasting harm. Combat applications are severely limited.
4. Effects are typically fleeting.
5. Hokum spells cannot be Darkcast, do not risk Corruption and the Magi cannot Gather before casting. The difficulty is typically 0 to 2.

Some possible Hokum spells.

1. Cause a nearby candle to light or be snuffed.
2. Fill an empty glass with cool, clean water.
3. Fill a bowl with nutritious, plain gruel.
4. Repair a hand sized object for which all the parts are present.
5. Simple telekinesis of objects no more than 1 Kilo.
6. Cause a pen to float and transcribe what is said onto paper.
7. A small illusion lasting no more than 10 seconds, effecting up to two senses.
8. Calming a skittish but not threatening animal.
9. Alleviating minor ailments, such as headaches or superficial cuts and scrapes.
10. Changing the color of one's hair, eyes, or clothing.
11. Placing or revealing a Witchmark.
12. Clean and disinfecting a surface or clothing that is no more than moderately soiled.
13. Increase the volume of ones voice
14. Improve one's acuity as if one had just had a strong cup of coffee.
15. Copy a document by laying a clean sheet of paper upon it.
16. Gently warm a plate of food.
17. Cool or warm one's own body moderately.
18. Accurately mimic an animal call or someone's voice for up to 30 seconds.
19. Affix or undo ones own clothing.
20. Moderately improve recall of memories of the last 24 hours.