Entry Last Update: 04/15/2001
Description: Channeling represents the ability to use magic in almost every form. A Heart Cleric laying hands and a runemage casting fire spells use the exact same skill, though the results are very different.
Who Can Learn It: Anyone can learn channeling (though Arachnians will find it troubling).
What It is Supposed to Do: Allows you to cast spells, use certain abilities, and just generally control magic.
What it Does: Channeling appears to be fully implemented at this time. As new spells are added and removed, however, the "power" of channeling is constantly being changed. Additional Fatigue points are also gained after reaching certain levels.
Activation: INVOKE (INVOKE [Word/Corridor #] AT [Target]), WEAVE (WEAVE [Rune Names]), MEMORIZE (MEMORIZE [Word] [Corridor #]), LAY HANDS (LAY HANDS ON [Target]). Also: SHOP IMPLANT [Rune Name], SHOP LIST RUNES, SHOP RENEW [Rune Name], INFO MAGIC, INFO RUNESPELLS.
Usefulness (Low Levels): Moderate. At low levels, the damage of channeling spells is pretty low. They do, however, often give other bonuses (such as defense).
Usefulness (Mid-Levels): High. Decent damage and interesting spells have been attained.
Usefulness (High Levels): High. More damaging spells can be learned/cast, as well as spells with "exotic" effects.
How to Practice: Clerics can Lay Hands to gain uses. Others will need to INVOKE spells. Prior to tenth level, inanimate objects may be cast on for uses (so long as they are whole). Beyond that, uses can only be gained through combat situations and "traditional" spell methods.
Tips: Cast "small" spells (INVOKE SMALL [NAME/NUMBER]) to conserve fatigue when practicing. Use spells with short casting times and low fatigue drain. When in the Training Grounds, take advantage of the free healer and stay CLOSE to him in order to restore your energy when needed. If you keep running out of an element rune, have it implanted multiple times.
Unconfirmed Rumors (May or May Not Be True): The increased casting time for "surging" spells goes down as you get higher in level. Your magic resistance may go up as your channeling level increases. Willpower is the stat used to resist magic, so those with high Will will be harder to kill with spells.