A Guide to Wizards of the World by: Brandon Smith

Introduction

This book is to be used for Wizards of the World Classes. It focuses on different regions of the world and the types of people who use magic there. It will show you the ways of Western Wizards, South American Shamans, North American Shamans, and African Shamans. Use this book well in your studies.

Chapter 1- Wizards of the West
The Western Wizard is the custodian of a great body of magical knowledge, passed down through many centuries. Much of this wizarding skill originated with the ancient druids, but it has been added to over the years thanks to the Western wizard's love of travel. Much has been gleaned through communication with wizards from foreign lands, though wizards the world over would be wise to hone their own magical skills before starting ot practise those perfected by other, and at all costs to avoid descent into the demonstration of magic for its own sake. Such exhibitionist tendencies almost always lead to trouble.

Chapter 2- South American Shamans
With their feathered headdresses and colorful robes, the wizards of Central and South America can be a fearful sight. Not fearful enough, however, to protect their people from conquistadors, who even now are pillaging their temples in search of treasure. These temples, wonders of constructions frequently hidden deep in the jungles found in this part of the world, were often built buy magical means. The jungles, also called forest of rain, are also a great sources of creatures that, with a little patience, can make useful familiars. Snakes can contribute greatly to a fearsome appearance, whilst parrots, although extremely intelligent and capable of learning a great many spells, can alsobe noisy to the point of irritation.

Chapter 3- North American Shamans
The Shamans of North America have a deep understanding of the natural world. They can talk to almost all species of animals and know the uses of most types of plants, preparing healing potions and poultices from ancient recipes. Instead of recording their knowledge in books, they pass it down verbally. Similarly, these powerful workers of true magic tend to shun the elaborate trappings of modern life, choosing stones, bones, sticks, or feathers as their magical items, endowing them with enormous power through their ancient spellcraft.

Chapter 4- African Shamans
The wizards of Central Africa have a great love for elaborate costumes, often donning masks, headdresses, and other paraphernalia to perform their spells and accompanying the reading of the spell itselfwith energetic dancing and chanting. This approach, along with the mistaken belief that they command evil spirits, has led these wizards to be greatly feared, especially by strangers. This often works to the wizard's advantage, since he tends to be left alone to hone his powerful healing skills instead of being constantly pestered by those seekin magical curses for the most minor of ailments.