Read Southern Magic - Old Empire

In the Realms, one fundamental difference between the magical discipline of the South and the North is reflected in the system used for recording spells. The southern discipline is known as Thoth mage-script. Following the rebellion of the Red Wizards of Thay, the priest-mages of Thoth created a new magical script with which to record their spells.

This writing was meant to prevent the Red Wizards of Thay from learning the priests' secrets. This writing is undecipherable to a standard read magic spell. A read southern magic spell is required to perform this function; and this can be learned only from southern wizards.

Since the creation of Thoth mage-script, read southern magic has spread and been adopted as a standard by all wizards of Mulhorand and Unther, and by some in Chessenta. While many southern wizards also know the standard read magic spell, these are rarely used.

The wizard must have a clear crystal or mineral prism, which is not expended, to cast the spell.