Just as our society has laws to maintain order and protect its citizens, so too does the magical realm have its own set of regulations known as the Arcane Statutes. These statutes outline the permissible and forbidden applications of magic, ensuring that its practice remains within the bounds of safety, ethics, and the greater good. On top of the obvious laws prohibiting the use of magic in illegal practices, here are some of the most common laws under the Arcane Statutes:
- Registration of Magical Abilities: All individuals possessing magical abilities are required to register themselves with the Royal Arcane Society or the local Arcane Council. Failure to register can result in penalties and restrictions on the use of magic.
- Prohibition of Unauthorized Enchantment: It is strictly forbidden for individuals without proper authorization to enchant objects, items, or structures. Only licensed enchanters and approved magical institutions are permitted to perform enchantments. Enchanted precious stones for the use of Arcane Focusing and minor personal use are exempt from this law.
- Restriction on Magical Duels: Engaging in magical duels, whether for personal disputes or entertainment purposes, is strictly prohibited. The use of magic for harming others is subject to severe legal consequences.
- Restriction on Public Displays of Magic: The use of overt or flashy magic in public spaces is regulated. Uncontrolled displays of magic can cause public disturbances or create unnecessary attention, which is to be avoided.
- Protection of Magical Artefacts: Stealing, damaging, or tampering with magical artefacts, whether privately owned or belonging to magical institutions, is a criminal offence. Specialized agencies, such as the London Institute for the Preservation of Enchanted Items, enforce the protection and preservation of such artefacts.
- Prohibition of certain Necromantic Practices: The practice of necromancy for the purpose of raising and controlling the dead as well as the harming of any one person, is strictly forbidden. Necromantic magic for the use of death magic is considered highly dangerous and unethical, and its practitioners are subject to harsh penalties.
- Ban on Unlicensed Mind Control: Using magic to manipulate or control the minds of others without their consent is strictly prohibited. Mind-altering abilities and practices are tightly regulated to safeguard personal autonomy and prevent abuse.
- Licensing of Magical Transportation: Magical means of transportation, such as self-propelling carriages or enchanted vehicles, require proper licensing and safety inspections. The use of such transportation without proper authorization can result in penalties and confiscation of the enchanted vehicles.
- Prohibition of Commercial Conjuration: The act of conjuring objects, creatures, or materials with the sole purpose of selling them for personal gain is strictly prohibited. Conjuration is a powerful magical practice that should not be exploited for commercial purposes. Engaging in such activities can result in legal consequences, including fines and confiscation of illegally conjured goods.
The police force has a separate section, known as the Arcane Enforcement Division, which has been specially trained to handle matters concerning magical law. These dedicated individuals possess both magical aptitude and a comprehensive understanding of the Arcane Statutes. Their duty is to enforce the law, investigate potential breaches, and maintain the delicate balance between magical practitioners and the non-magical populace.
When a mage is suspected of violating the Arcane Statutes, the Arcane Enforcement Division initiates an investigation. They possess specialized magical detection tools and techniques to identify the nature of the offence and gather evidence. In cases of minor infractions, the division may issue warnings, administer fines, or provide education and guidance to ensure future compliance.
However, for more serious offences or repeated violations, the Arcane Enforcement Division may proceed with legal actions. This can involve arrest, detainment, and bringing the accused before the Arcane Court, a specialized tribunal under the direct jurisdiction of the Royal Crown that handles magical law cases. The court, comprised of experienced mages and legal experts, conducts fair and impartial trials, taking into account the intricacies of magical practice and its potential impact on society.
Punishments for breaches of the Arcane Statutes can vary depending on the severity and nature of the offence. They range from probation, community service, or the revocation of magical privileges, to more severe consequences such as imprisonment in special facilities enchanted to detain mages and render their abilities useless.
It is essential for mages to understand and respect the laws governing their craft, as the balance between magic, however rare, and mundane society relies on responsible and ethical practice. By upholding these laws, mages contribute to the harmony and coexistence of both magical and non-magical communities, ensuring a safer and more equitable realm for all.