Transmute - An Investigation into the Intermediate, Part 1

By Magus Tybalt Rasul - Ebony Order of the Moon

Introduction

Most mages know and understand the general use of Transmutation - but few truly appreciate and understand the more advanced forms. This tome covers the intermediate circles of the advanced magical art known as Transmutant. For a more basic approach to the advanced art, please consult the previous book in this series: "Transmute: An Academic Approach to Alteration".

While those who begin to focus on the advanced art of Transmuting generally start with the first three circles of the arcane, intermediate users of the art focus more on the next three: fourth through sixth. Like my first book, this tome will cover the academic theories and uses of the forms and alterations of the Transmutant.

Method

Vigorous tests were performed on each of the altered spells of the middle range of the Transmutant's arsenal. Each spell is listed separately along with its base theory, how a Transmutant changes it, information about the resulting changes, and practical analysis of its use. Please note that all casters perform the art a little differently and some variance can exist in the method. All testing was done with an otherwise non-enhanced caster, using minimal personal equipment when possible.

All transmuted forms have been run through a series of rigorous tests to ensure accuracy of the information portrayed in this tome. These tests include, but were not limited to:

• Exposure to multiple forms of energy, effects, and abilities.
• Combat tests in both controlled and uncontrolled environments.
• Physical tests of strength, flexibility, endurance, agility, and speed.
• Mental tests such as puzzle solving, memory trials, perception tests, and social interactions.
• Timing of spell drain (duration) in gnomish seconds.

(The Flenken Power Scale or FPS is used when metering arcane power for the purposes of this book.)

The Spells

Polymorph Self A potent spell of the fourth circle, this spell typically allows the caster to transform into one of five common forms. Using the base theory of each form, the Transmuter takes the already potent transmutation and further alters it for some fantastic and sometimes unusual results. Each form will be approached as a separate spell, though the base theory for each remains the same.

Fey Shape - Form of the Lesser Minotaur The fey form is handy when facing enchanters or young mages, as its fey blood makes it immune from the effects of enchantment as well as any spell of third circle or lower. It's also quite small and can dodge more easily than some bulkier forms.

The alteration is usually the first achieved by the intermediate Transmutant, as the alteration of body mass is almost identical to that of the transmuted bulls strength spell (see Transmute: An Academic Approach to Alteration).

The higher circle of magic backing the spell does make the alteration last considerably longer than the bulls strength transmute - the same duration as a normal polymorph self spell. The physical properties are identical to the previous minotaur, sans the small boost from the bulls strength magic. Any enchantments on the target's equipment carry over into the new form, so some advanced planning can turn a great new shape into a killing machine. It should be noted that the axe that forms can be enchanted as any other weapon, though the spells placed on it will fade when the form finally drops. It can also be used with proficiency, even if the subject has never trained with an axe before in their life.

Giant Spider Shape - Lesser Gargoyle Form The Giant Spider shape finds its use in its ability to be unimpeded by webs or other forms of entanglement. Its bite is also quite poisonous.

Through the advanced manipulation, the form granted by the spell is altered to that of a Gargoyle. Some have argued that the natural carapace of the spider has lead the magic to alter in this regard, but there is still some debate in the exact reasons.

As with all the polymorph forms, the duration lasts the same as the base spell. As one might expect, the gargoyle's skin is extremely hard to penetrate without a magical weapon. It is an extremely agile form, capable of raking with its claws and biting hard with stoney teeth. Limited flight may also be possible with training, but anything other than slow-falling could take years to master.

Troll Shape - Manticore Form The troll shape is highly prized for its quick powers of regeneration and high strength common to the giant-kin.

Perhaps it was an advanced mage's odd sense of humor, but the troll alteration is that of a four legged, spiked-tailed, ugly faced manticore. This one can be a bit disconcerting to take for the first time.

As with all the polymorph forms, the duration lasts the same as the base spell. Agile as a cat, this hulking beast of a form can be quite formidable in combat. Huge claws, a mouth full of sharp teeth, coupled with its innate nature to throw its spikes - manticore form can be used both up close and personal as well as at a distance.

Umber Hulk Shape - Basilisk Form One of the powerhouses of the base polymorph, this hulking monstrosity can sense vibrations all around it, effectively giving it true sight.

The alteration for umber hulk is another denizen of the dark corners of the world, the Basilisk. While it may not be able to see as well as the umber hulk, nor is it as strong, it certainly has its own unique benefit.

As with all the polymorph forms, the duration lasts the same as the base spell. This form may not be the strongest or most agile. Its bite isn't even that potent. What it lacks in physique, it makes up for in its eyes. Specifically, the gaze of a basilisk has the ability to petrify any within a short range. Unlike a mage's flesh to stone spell, this gaze cannot be overturned by a caster's knowledge of the arcane. The strength of the gaze is based on the casting potential of the transmuted mage.