An explanation of absorption mages

An excerpt from A Guide to Magic, by High Mage Derowith

One of the more obscure mages in the new world is the absorption mage. The ability of absorbers to drain a magic item and gain its abilities is powerful, but limited by both available magic items and their own strength.

The power of the mage can be increased by repetition, but each mage has a hard upper limit. Abilities absorbed are temporary, and will last longer the more powerful the mage. The most powerful absorption mages can hold a power for years, but even they are limited by the abilities strength. Stronger abilities will fade faster, and trying to use an ability beyond the mages capability simply isn’t possible.

The simplest way to gauge the potential of an absorption mage is having them drain a minor item. Most mages require a few minutes of concentration, with the weakest requiring almost an hour. On the other hand, powerful potential mages can drain an item in seconds. Mages of that level are rare, and rumors of powerful absorption mages able to drain active spells and living creatures are terrifying possibilities.

Once absorbed, abilities can be used repeatedly, but rapid use is dangerous, as too much magic use can be harmful even to a powerful mage. Bear in mind the tale of...

Excerpt ends here.