Spells of the Element of Earth: Sanguinary Block (Level I)

Sanguinary Block was developed as a basic healing method for even the most inept of Earth magi. Unlike another magical healing spell, Burning Regeneration, Sanguinary Block slows down the blood pulsing through the wound causing it to clot, reducing blood loss as well as allowing the patient to survive wounds that normally would be considered fatal instead of using it to speed up the body's healing process.

The effect is achieved by forcing the oúns (portions) of the element of earth within the cár'áll, which we assume is equally distributed in the target to form

Spell Effect. Sanguinary Block increases the influence of the earthen property of immobility and solidness on a normally fluid object, the blood of a person, causing a slowing process which reduces pressure over the wound while the solidness causes the blood to thicken until it forms a clot faster than can be naturally achieved by the human body and with less difficulty. This result is accomplished by using Sphere I techniques, which, in turn makes the spell level extremely low level. The caster must simply make Earth more influential in the composition of the blood, causing its properites to be more heavily expressed, leading to the slowing and clotting effects of the spell.

It should be noted that, unlike the other mentioned healing spell, Burning Regeneration, Sanguinary Block is insufficient to heal on its own. This problem derives from the spell's Sphere I approach. As most magi know, Sphere I produces temporary effects by adjusting the influence the element has over the target. In Sanguinary Block when the mage releases the spell, the clot formed is broken by the renewed flow of the blood through the body. This unfortunate result is manifested because the “healing” powers of the incantation derive from the caster’s ability to slow down the flow of blood to the wound allowing for the injury to scab over with ease. When the spell is released, the natural speed at which the heart pumps returns. This renewed flow of blood across the wound causes it to burst through any coagulation formed unless a third party (such as a physician) intervenes.

Casting Procedure. Because it is so simple, the casting procedure for Sanguinary Block is quite basic. First the mage must achieve complete tranquility, clearing his mind completely so that he is focused solely on the target area and his magic. Once this state of calm is reached, the mage must put his hand either over or upon the skin above the wound. If the caster has chosen to place his/her hands above the injured area, it is suggested that the mage presses firmly upon the hurt to control bleeding if their hands are sterile. At this point the magus uses the magic to slow the blood. Once a scab forms, the caster may begin administering bandages or stitching the wound if he has the skill. If not he or she must simply remove any blood from the hands thoroughly and wait until further care arrives.

Magical Formula. Not yet defined.

Focus/Target. The target of this spell is obviously the blood of the wounded person or animal in the care of the mage.

Reagents. While none are necessary, some magi find that the use of dirt or stone helps them accomplish the incantation, however most mages use wet clay because of its semi-fluid form and high concentration of Earth ounía. While casting the spell, the magus must hold the reagent between his palms representing the goal the caster wishes to achieve.

Spell Class. Physical Representation of Sphere I, Earth School.

Range. Depending upon the level of the mage, the range at which one can cast the spell will vary. While younger casters will need to be rather close to their target, magi who are experienced in casting the spell may only need to be within sight of their target.

Casting Time. Approximate casting times can be seen in the following table:

*Level*	*Casting Time*
Level 1	4 minutes
Level 3	3 minutes
Level 5	2 minutes

*Level*	*Casting Time*
Level 7	half a minute
Level 9	a few blinks
Level 11	instantaneous

Duration. Like most other Sphere I spells, Sanguinary Block has an indefinite duration as long as the mage maintains the casting. While it is almost impossible for a mage to uphold the enchantment forever, most often they are able to hold it for a considerable length of time.

Counter Measures/Enhancing Measures. Because of its low level and basic principles, magi find no need to enhance the effects of this spell. However when able, a higher level sorcerer may use his magically inclined apprentices to assist in the basic maintenace of each of his spells so he is able to attend to more patients. Usually, this does not occur because most apprentices would have the knowledge to cast it unaided. It has also been found surpisingly, that by casting both Sanguinary Block and Burning Regeneration over the same target will negate the effects of the former.

Countering of the spell however is much easier as there is a plethora of ways to reverse its effects. Anything that casues the mage to break concentration will instantly cause Sanguinary Block to fizzle. Illusions using magic or physical injury are common ways in which an opponent can counter the spell as casting leaves the magus vulnerable. Also, any spell that causes movement within the blood stream or negatively effects the solidness of the clot will cause bleeding to resume.