Scrying orbs or scrying mirrors refer to a type of magical artifact that display surveillance of a remote location within their reflective surfaces. Alternatively, they can be used to remotely project an image to other scrying-receptive devices, provided at least one capable [Mage] is available or the device's enchantments enable for scrying without a spell being cast.
Overview[edit | edit source]
Scrying orbs are the most common variation of scrying devices in Innworld. They come in varying different sizes, as small as a marble[1], and in differing shapes, such as scrying mirrors[2] or scrying pools.[3][4]
To begin scrying, one requires a [Mage], [Diviner], or [Seer][5] capable of the [Scrying] spell, especially to link one scrying device to another for two-way communication or conferences.[5] Communication conducted in this way can be spotty, due to magical interference or faded magic spells. Thanks to their rounded shape, scrying orb images may display a fish-eyed angle. Although orbs are much beloved, some scryers may prefer a mirror due to the inconvenient rounded shape of an orb.[6] The visual provided by scrying orbs can be adjusted by adjusting the orb.[6] [Mages] are capable of zooming in on the images projected to a scrying device.[7]
Use of scrying is an insecure means of communication; scrying conversations are public and can be eavesdropped upon.[6]
Scryings orbs, mirrors, and other hand-held scrying devices can be concealed from sight, with the [Scrying] spell intact and functioning, through the means of Skills.[4]
Anti-Scrying Measures[edit | edit source]
One can mitigate remote attempts at scrying by keeping their true name hidden.[8] Anti-divination wards allow for an area of effect to disallow scrying broadcasts from coming out.[9]
Scrying Usage[edit | edit source]
Scrying enables for remote communication and is seen to be leveraged in a variety of ways.
Broadcasts and News Networks[edit | edit source]
Scrying devices are capable of receiving broadcasted moving images and sound, provided that a [Mage] is present to transmit, similar to a [Message] spell. Wistram is capable of amplifying visuals sent via [Scrying] from a vast distance. And then, by magically linking their mages, projecting those images to a vast audience providing an individual has appropriate receptive capacity.[10]
For the news network set up by Wistram, see Wistram News Network
Auctions[edit | edit source]
Many auction houses allow for remote scryers to bid on items from afar. [11]
Military and Political Conferences[edit | edit source]
Due to the insecure nature of most scrying spells, conferences concerning military and political matters are conducted devoid of confidential information as much as possible.[6]
Trivia[edit | edit source]
- Wistram has been able to leverage their projected scrying images to view scryers on the other side.[10]
- Flos Reimarch was able to broadcast a message throughout the world with Parasol Stroll.[1]
- The largest scrying orb shown thus far was on top of a tower in Fissival.[12]
- The monarchy of Calanfer use a scrying pool of enchanted water, where a [Mage] must cast the [Scrying] spell.[3]
- Noass and Sir Relz were able to use the Skill [Spectator's Concealment] to hide their scrying mirror from sight while broadcasting to viewers[4]