Gift

“Gifts”, in the context of magic, refers to a very specific type of spell. Typically referred to as blessings and curses—depending on the outlook of the recipient—gifts are typically very specific to the person to whom they are given, and typically grant them easy access to otherwise inaccessible magic.

An effect must be unique for it to be formally classified as a gift. Gifts are the primary way that unique abilities are attained, but magic etiquette dictates that the caster cannot grant the gift to themselves.

Types of gift
There are three basic ways in which gifts are bestowed. The first is the birthright gift. These gifts are passed down through families, with more or less chance of appearing in a descendant regardless of whether intermediate generations possessed the gift. The “Gift of the Muse”, possessed by the Karalis family, falls into this category.

Secondly, there are “bound” gifts. These are attached to a particular object rather than a particular bloodline. Soulbound objects are partial applications, and the soulbinding spell often accompanies a more active bound gift. For example, the Polaris Amulet is soulbound to Varis Arrna, but it also grants her the unique ability to read and manipulate emotions.

Finally, there are “duty” gifts. These are typically bestowed on a specific person at or near birth. Unlike birthright gifts, they are not passed down; in fact, they are not transferable in any way. Duty gifts can be suppressed by stronger forces but otherwise remain with the bearer until death. These tend to be the most specific and personal gifts, intended so that the bearer may fulfill a particular purpose once matured.