World building informations:
Magic is stored in invisible leylines that can be found everywhere around the world. To access it and be able to manipulate its energy, the witches believe they need to assume a certain Elisir.
Witches can cast using art (drawing sigils or in general, writing, reading, dancing, singing, etc...). Usually they choose to specialise in a certain type of art, but most skilled witches can cast in different ways, even at the same time, to create more powerful spells.
Everyone can choose to study magic, but the female magic-related incidents ratio created the myth that magic is a male dominant field. Males witches are often preferred over more qualified female ones.
The Elisir and the Sages:
It's a powerful potion that allows witches to access the leylines' magic. Everyone who wishes to cast has to assume it at regular intervals during their life, so they can always cast when needed.
Despite this, some witches, usually women, choose to only drink it right before casting, because it can cause adverse reactions in their body. Overdose cases aren't uncommon, especially between women, hence the myth.
The Sages is a group of the most important witches alive. They decide on the laws of magic and other magic matters. They are the magic equivalent of nation leaders. They don't choose sides in traditional wars, but individual witches can be paid by the normal governments to fight for them.
Next to the Sages there is the Council of Arts.
The association of skilled witches that focuses on research, development and improvement of magic. They work closely with the Sages and the most talented ones can become their apprentices/successors.
They are very picky about their members and joining their ranks is the dream of many young people who decided to try the magic path.
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