More-Than-Average How-To Guide

[MJ Spooks]

xxxx X xxxxMore-Than-Average How-To Guidexxxx X xxxx

spaceThere are certain traits in the Harry Potter universe that are considered rare and/or unique. Since we can't have everyone possessing these traits and maintain the canon, we require members to get approval to play characters with these traits. We also want to make sure that they are being portrayed accurately. So, we have put together the following guide to explain how to accurately portray these character types, and the rules regarding them. Once you've picked a trait and read the rules, fill out here.

spaceNew members are not permitted to claim MTA traits. You must be an active member of the guild for at least three months before you will be allowed to apply for an MTA trait. Genetic traits such as Metamorphmagus cannot be applied to previously-created characters.

spaceInherited MTAs such as Parselmouth, Half-breeds, Seers, etc. are covered under a blanket MTA for the family. However, some MTAs such as Metamorphmagus and Seers have a limit per generation of one per family. The others such as Parselmouths and Half-breeds can be for the entire family, and Half-breeds must state the amount of Veela, Vampire, Goblin, etc. blood they happen to possess. Anyone that has the MTA in their family MUST state that they are that MTA or be considered normal.

Animagus
Half-Breed
Giant
Goblin
Leprechaun
Vampire
Veela
Wood Nymphs
Legilimens/Occlumens
Metamorphmagus
Parselmouth
Quidditch Experience
Seer
Vampires & Werewolves

 

[MJ Spooks]

xxxX Animagusxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

What is an Animagus?

spaceAn Animagus is a witch or wizard who has, through extensive and exhaustive study, acquired the ability to turn themselves into an animal at will, without the use of a wand or incantation. Animagi differ from people who have simply been turned into animals in that they still possess their human minds, whereas people who have been transfigured into an animal become that animal in all ways. A witch or wizard can be identified in their Animagus form by specific markings which relate to their human form, such as eye spots on a butterfly's wings that match their eye color, or markings around a cat's eyes that mimic the person's glasses. Animagi are legally required to be registered with the Ministry of Magic.

How does a person become an Animagus?

spaceThe actual process for becoming an Animagus in canon is not outlined exactly, and we are unaware of how many steps it actually entails. We have put together a process based on the information provided, which can be used in roleplay.
- First, it is important that characters who wish to accomplish this be skilled in Charms, Transfiguration, and Potions, and they must study the process to become an animagus very carefully and thoroughly.
- When you believe your character has sufficiently studied the process and is skilled enough, you can begin the actual process of becoming an animagus.
- The first step is for your character to spend an entire month with the leaf of a Mandrake in their mouth. They cannot swallow the leaf, nor replace it, as it will be used to brew the Animagus Potion.
- The potion must be brewed by the intended Animagus, and can only be consumed during a lightning storm.
- Once the potion is brewed, the intended Animagus must begin a twice-daily ritual, until such time as they can consume the potion.
- At both sunup and sundown, they must recite the incantation 'Amato Animo Animato Animagus' with their wand over their heart.
- If, immediately following the incantation, a lightning storm begins, the intended Animagus must drink their potion.
- If the potion has been brewed correctly, and the intended Animagus did not miss any recitations of the incantation, they will feel 'a fiery pain and an intense double heartbeat'.
- Following this, the shape of the animal which they will be come will appear in their mind, immediately followed by the first transformation.
- Failure to adhere to the sunup/sundown incantations, or incorrect brewing of the potion, will result in the intended Animagus becoming trapped in a half-human, half-animal state, which cannot be reversed.

How does my character become an Animagus?

spaceFirstly, you will need to send in an MTA request for the trait. The MTA request should include their animal form, and whatever markings they possess to identify them.
spaceAs far as in-character attempts, most characters will become Animagi in their sixth or seventh year, by taking the class Animagi Studies. The class, being a specialized elective, is not free, and costs students fifteen galleons. All students who take the course are considered automatically registered with the Ministry of Magic.
spaceOn rare occasions, we will allow characters to become Animagi outside of the classroom, similar to James Potter and his friends. In order to go this route, you must establish your character as capable of such a feat. If they are a student, they must be exceptional, and will not be permitted to accomplish this goal before the age of 14. If they are an adult, there is a little more leniency, since they obviously are a more skilled magic user than a teenager would be.
spaceCharacters who become Animagi outside of a classroom setting will require a plot request. They also have the option of remaining unregistered with the Ministry, although they will still have to be registered with the guild, and the information regarding their MTA is still required on their profile.
spaceIf you wish to make an adult character who is already established as an Animagus, you should state in their profile if they are or are not registered, and include how and why they became an Animagus in their backstory, especially if they did not acquire the skill through a formal education. You will also need to send in an MTA request at the time of their profile's posting. Please remember that any and all MTA requests may be denied, and be prepared to remove this information from your profile if necessary.

What are the rules for being an Animagus?

- Your character does not choose their Animagus form. It is based on their personality. Your character may have suspicions regarding their Animagus form, but will most likely be unsure of it until they complete the transformation. The most reliable way of determining an Animagus form prior to completing the transformation is to assume it is the same as a character's Patronous, though this is not foolproof as some people's Patronous will represent someone else, rather than themselves.
- You are not required to send in plot requests every time your character uses their Animagus form to accomplish something. However, if they use it to invade other character's privacy, it will require explicit permission from that character's player. If they use it to break a law, it will require a plot request.
- Your character will not take on traits of their animal form simply by becoming an Animagus. Rather, the reverse is true, that witches and wizards in their Animagus form retain their human identities and personalities. However, if your character spends an extended or excessive period of time in their Animagus form, they may begin to subconsciously retain the behavior patterns they adopt in that form while human.

Can I have a character fail to become an Animagus?

spaceWhile we don't wish to limit people's roleplay options, we will be extremely critical and selective about who we may or may not allow to go this route in the roleplay. We would require a very convincing argument as to why someone wanted to go through with it, and an idea of where they would take the character after the incident. Please plan this out carefully if it is something you wish to attempt. We will also not allow very many, if any, people to go through with such an idea, so don't be surprised if you are told no.

 

[MJ Spooks]

xxxX Half-Breed - Overviewxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

What is a Half-Breed?

spaceA half-breed is someone whose parentage is not 100% human. Their bloodline may be any combination of approved magical creatures and humans. In most cases, a half-breed's human heritage is magical, though this is not always the case. Any character with any amount of non-human blood is considered a half-breed, regardless of the actual percentage of their non-human blood (such as someone who is really only 1/4 veela, or 3/4 wood nymph).

What kind of creatures are capable of breeding with humans?

spaceWhile we do not know the extent of what is and is not possible in Harry Potter canon, we have gone through the various magical creatures and selected the races we believe would potentially be able to have children with a human. The requirements for this are as follows:
- Humanoid
- Compatible mating habits
- Mental capacity to desire mating with a human
- Mental capacity to successfully engage in the act of mating with a human
spaceAny creature that does not meet all of these criteria are not permitted to mate with humans in the roleplay. Mermaids, for instance, are not capable due to the fact that they likely lay eggs, and would not be capable of a human pregnancy. Trolls are not an option due to their low intelligence and violent behavior, which would likely lead to them killing any human partner, even if they did desire to mate with them.
spaceThe official guild list of creatures who can parent halfbreeds is: Giants, Goblins, Leprechauns, Vampires, Veela, and Wood Nymphs.

Can I make a Half-Breed who is part ______?

spaceIs the creature on the guild approved list? If it is not, the answer is most likely no. It was more than likely considered and rejected for failing to meet one of the criteria mods agreed upon. You are free to ask, but do not be surprised if the answer is no.

How does playing a Half-Breed work?

spaceIt varies depending on the non-human parentage. Half-Breeds take on traits from both their human and non-human parents. A child whose human parent is a muggle, for example, will not be a witch or wizard. A child whose non-human parent is a giant will be abnormally large. There are more details for each individual type of Half-Breed below.

 

[MJ Spooks]

xxxX Half-Breed - Giantsxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

What is a Giant?

spaceA Giant is a very large humanoid, generally somewhere between 15-25 feet tall. Their appearances vary from being mostly-human to more bestial, with some possessing traits such as tusks. They are generally thought to be very dim-witted, much like trolls, but in reality they just have a very different culture from humans. They possess their own language and societal structure, and are capable of learning human languages. They are prone to violence if they become frustrated, but can be appeased with gifts. Giants are largely immune to magic, due to their large size making it difficult for direct spells to affect them, though they do possess weak spots, such as their eyes.

What is a Half-Giant?

spaceA Half-Giant is someone who has both human and Giant ancestors. Characters are considered Half-Giant as long as they possess at least 1/16 Giant blood.
- Half-Giants are typically much larger than the average human, though still smaller than most giants. The largest Half-Giant might be as tall as the smallest full blooded Giant.
- If their human lineage is magical, they too will possess magic. However, if it is muggle, they will not.
- While Half-Giants are not immune to magic the same way their full blooded family might be, they do have some level of resistance. They are not as susceptible to things like Stunning Charms, for example.
- Half-Giants are often looked down on by both wizarding and Giant society. Wizards typically believe them to be dim-witted and violent like their Giant relatives. Giants, meanwhile, place great importance on how large a person is. Given that Half-Giants are significantly smaller than their full blooded relatives, it is difficult for them to gain their respect.
- Half-Giants are very rare, both due to the animosity between the two peoples, and the difficulty inherent in them mating.

How exactly do Giants and Humans... you know?

spaceGreat question! ... We have no idea. But it clearly happens as there are two very well-known (and beloved) Half-Giant characters in the books. It has been hypothesized that a shrinking charm is useful. The Giant parent being the mother might also make things slightly easier. But honestly, we don't know and we're not sure we want to. Let's just... all agree not to think too hard about it.

Can Half-Giants play Quidditch?

spaceThey have to acquire specialized gear to play, including a broom large enough to support their frame, but yes, they absolutely may.

Do Half-Giants get special stats when they play Quidditch?

spaceNo, they do not. Sorry, guys, but your character is not going to be an unstoppable Beating machine, or a literal wall to prevent balls from going through hoops. We want to keep the Quidditch system as simple and easy to follow as possible, which means not worrying about writing a whole separate set of rules for one specific type of character. To explain this apparent discrepancy, we've more or less agreed that the perks one might get for being Half-Giant are equal to the detriments, and therefore would even out the player's stats so that they are the same as a fully human character.

Things to consider when playing a Half-Giant

- All halfbreeds experience some level of isolation and separation from both human and non-human cultures. This is especially true for those who cannot hope to pass as fully human, such as any Half-Giant who has 1/4 or more giant blood.
- Your character will likely struggle significantly with their size, particularly when going through puberty. Their growth spurts are likely to be much more dramatic. They might be exceptionally clumsy, and will probably break a lot of things.
- Your character will likely have to have a custom-made wand, as Ollivander's (and other wand shops) are unlikely to stock wands large enough for them to handle easily.

 

[MJ Spooks]

xxxX Half-Breed - Goblinsxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

What is a Goblin?

spaceGoblins are a highly intelligent race of small humanoids with long fingers and feet that coexist with the wizard world. Their diet consists of meat, roots, and fungi. Goblins converse in a language known as Gobbledegook, and are adept metalsmiths notable for their silverwork; they even mint coins for wizarding currency. Due to their skills with money and finances, they control the wizarding economy to a large extent and run Gringotts Wizarding Bank. Goblins have their own type of magic and can do magic without a wand.

What is a Half-Goblin?

spaceA Half-Goblin is someone who has both human and Goblin ancestors. Characters are considered Half-Goblin as long as they possess at least 1/16 Goblin blood.
- Half-Goblins are typically quite smaller than the average human, able to pass as dwarves among muggles.
- If their human lineage is magical, their own magical attributes will be a mixture of wizard and goblin magic. They may be particularly skilled at wandless, and have a predilection towards magic that is related to metals or crafting. They are also likely skilled at arithmancy. If their human linage is muggle, a Half-Goblin will possess a weakened version of Goblin magic.
- Half-Goblins are often looked down on by both wizarding and Goblin society. Wizards are very distrusting of Goblins, and Goblins find wizards to be arrogant. The animosity causes tension on both sides, and often results in Half-Goblins being treated by both sides as they would treat the other.
- Half-Goblins are very rare, both due to the animosity between the two peoples.

What sort of attributes might a Half-Goblin possess?

spaceFor starters, they are likely very good at math. They are also likely very intelligent. Other than this, there are no specific traits associated with Goblins, and therefore with Half-Goblins.

Things to consider when playing a Half-Goblin.

- All halfbreeds experience some level of isolation and separation from both human and non-human cultures. This is especially true for those who cannot hope to pass as fully human, such as any Half-Goblin who has 1/4 or more goblin blood.
- Goblins in particular have a very strained relationship with wizards. Any character who is raised largely by their goblin family will have an extremely negative view of wizards, and/or will have extremely low self-esteem due to their family's animosity towards, if not them, their 'kind'. They will likely have both characteristics to varying degrees, depending on things like exposure to humans, how well they are able to deny their human heritage, etc.
- Your character will be short. Like, very short. Be sure to remember this in crowd scenes, when they're observing events like concerts or sporting events, etc.
- Your character will likely have an eye for detail, and may be artistically inclined.
- Wandless magic is likely to come easily to your character, since Goblins perform magic wandlessly.

 

[MJ Spooks]

xxxX Half-Breed - Leprechaunxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

What is a Leprechaun?

spaceThe Leprechaun, sometimes known as the Clauricorn, is a mischievous magical creature, although it is not malicious. They have a reputation as pranksters, but have never inflicted lasting damage on a Human. Native only to Ireland, they are fully sentient and capable of speech but have never requested the Ministry of Magic to reclassify them as Beings.

What is a Half-Leprechaun?

spaceA Half-Leprechaun is someone who has both human and Leprechaun ancestors. Characters are considered Half-Leprechaun as long as they possess at least 1/16 Leprechaun blood.
- Half-Leprechauns are typically quite smaller than the average human, able to pass as dwarves among muggles.
- If their human lineage is magical, their own magical attributes will be a mixture of wizard and Leprechaun magic. They are likely good at illusions and transfiguration, and may be skilled at wandless magic. If their human linage is muggle, a Half-Leprechaun will possess a weakened version of Leprechaun magic.
- Leprechauns are the most likely magical creatures to mate with muggles, as they enjoy interacting with and playing pranks on them. As the magical creature with the most frequent interaction, they have ample opportunity to seduce a muggle.

What sort of attributes might a Half-Leprechaun possess?

spaceA Half-Leprechaun is likely to be something of a prankster. They also tend to be quite jovial, and are likely to feel a strong connection to nature.

Wait, but the wiki says they're six inches tall and green!

spaceIt does, but we've chosen to take some liberties with the canon to expand options for members. Leprechauns in traditional folklore have a lot of leeway, and the information regarding them in canon is based on a very limited appearance. Given that they are tricksters, it's not entirely out of the question that they are able to alter their physical appearance in order to trick people... or seduce unsuspecting humans.

Things to consider when playing a Half-Leprechaun.

- All halfbreeds experience some level of isolation and separation from both human and non-human cultures. However, Leprechauns tend to be more on the playful side, and so this may not be as much the case with them as it would be with others.
- It is likely that the source of their feeling like they don't fit in is more due to feeling torn between nature and society, as opposed to any friction between their two families.
- Like goblins, Half-Leprechauns are going to be on the small side, though not as dramatically so. They will be perhaps six inches to a foot shorter than average (if their bloodline is 50/50) as opposed to two to three feet. Still, keep this in mind when they are in large groups of people, or attempting to observe anything around them.
- Keep in mind that your character is likely to be gifted in magics meant to alter perception, like confounding spells or illusionary magic.
- Wandless magic is likely to come easily to your character, since Leprechauns perform magic wandlessly.

 

[MJ Spooks]

xxxX Half-Breed - Vampirexxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

What is a Vampire?

spaceFrom the Harry Potter Wiki: "A vampire is a magical humanoid that is famed for biting people on the neck and sucking their blood. They are part of the family of beings known as the Living Dead."

spaceNot much information is provided in-canon regarding vampires, so we have had to take some liberties and fill in some blanks. Sources include other popular depictions of vampires in media. As our version of vampires are already well-established in-guild, any contradictory information released by official sources must be discredited in the interest of maintaining the continuity of the roleplay. More information about vampires in guild can be found here: [https://www.gaiaonline.com/guilds/viewtopic.php?t=25233569]

What is a Half-Vampire?

spaceA Half-Vampire is someone who has both human and Vampire ancestors. Characters are considered Half-Vampire as long as they possess at least 1/16 Vampire blood.
- Typically pale, with extreme sensitivity to the sun. Must use special protection to prevent severe sunburn if exposed for extended periods of time.
- While not as sensitive as a full-blooded vampire, half-vampires still have some heightened senses. They have a strong sensitivity to bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells.
- Half-vampires age normally from birth until they reach maturity. However, once they exit puberty, their aging process slows considerably. The lifespan of a half-vampire is roughly double that of a normal person.
- Half-vampires must eat like a human, though their intake of human food can be reduced if they choose to consume blood as well.
- Half-vampires do not require blood to survive, but generally speaking will choose to consume it, due to their vampire nature making it appealing and the general convenience of it being on-hand, assuming they are being raised around vampire relatives.
- Half-vampires can offset hunger cravings both for blood or human food with blood-infused treats such as Blood Pops.
- Half-vampires are automatically considered members of the clan they are born into.
- It is impossible for a biologically-female vampire to conceive, carry, and birth a half-vampire. All half-vampires are the child of a biologically-male vampire and a human woman.

What sort of attributes might a Half-Vampire possess?

spaceHalf-Vampires are prone to being somewhat nocturnal, and are unlikely to be 'morning people.' They might be a bit reckless, due to their enhanced traits. Other than that, their personalities are largely informed by the company they keep.

Can Half-Vampires play Quidditch?

spaceThey can, though they are highly recommended to acquire specialized protective gear to keep them safe from sun exposure, and special goggles to protect their eyes and help their vision.

Do Half-Vampire get special stats when they play Quidditch?

spaceNo, they do not. Just like with Half-Giants, the guild operates on the assumption that the bonuses gained from their vampire traits is offset by their weaknesses.

Things to consider when playing a Half-Vampire.

- All halfbreeds experience some level of isolation and separation from both human and non-human cultures. Half-Vampires may deal with this less if they are mostly around humans, since they pass quite easily. Many vampires, however, consider Half-Vampires lesser beings, due to humans being their primary food source.
- While Half-Vampires do not need blood, they do experience cravings for it. Depending on how long since they've eaten (food or blood), exposure to free flowing blood might cause erratic behavior.
- Possessing heightened senses, Half-Vampires can often pick up on people's emotional state if it has physical symptoms, such as sweating or pounding heart. However, they do not inherently know what these signs mean, and must rely on context clues and past study to figure it out.
- Half-Vampires are able to determine certain things about a person by how they smell, such as who they are related to or if they are fully human.

 

[MJ Spooks]

xxxX Half-Breed - Veelaxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

What is a Veela?

spaceThe Veela are a race of semi-human, semi-magical humanoids reminiscent of the Vila in Slavic folklore. Little is known about their biology; they appear to be young, beautiful humans. Their looks and especially their dance is magically seductive to almost all male beings and some female beings, which causes such people to perform strange actions in order to get nearer to the Veela. They are thought to have their own type of magic which does not require a wand. When Veela are angry, however, they transform into something more like Harpies — their faces turn into cruel-beaked bird-like heads while long scaly wings burst from their shoulders, and they can launch balls of fire from their hands. Veela seem to be quite an irascible race.

What is a Half-Veela?

spaceA Half-Veela is someone who has both human and Veela ancestors. Characters are considered Half-Veela as long as they possess at least 1/16 Veela blood.
- If their human lineage is magical, their own magical attributes will be a mixture of wizard and Veela magic. They are likely skilled at magic that involves illusions or mental manipulation, and might be good candidates for learning Legilimancy. They also may have a talent for Transfiguration, particularly human Transfiguration. If their human linage is muggle, a Half-Veela will possess a weakened version of Veela magic. They will not possess the ability to transform into a harpy form, but their features may grow more sharp and avian when angered.
- Full-blooded veela are exclusively female, however, half-veela can be male, as the chromosomes that decide gender come from the father, not the mother.
- Half-Veela possess a natural magnetic pull towards anyone attracted to their specific gender (or gender expression, as the case may be).

What sort of attributes might a Half-Veela possess?

spaceHalf-Veelas are likely to have very dramatic mood shifts, and are often quick to anger. They might be naturally flirtatious, even unknowingly so. They are quite charming, and hard to resist.

Things to consider when playing a Half-Veela.

- All halfbreeds experience some level of isolation and separation from both human and non-human cultures. Half-Veela pass well as human, but their effect on human physiology will affect any and all interactions they have with them, possibly in a negative light.
- Half-Veela are not obligated by their veela lineage to be more inherently sexual than anybody else. While their behavior might often border flirtatious, there is no reason to make a character highly sexual just because of their bloodline.

 

[MJ Spooks]

xxxX Half-Breed - Wood Nymphsxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

What is a Wood Nymph?

spaceIn Harry Potter canon, Wood Nymphs only exist as an off-handed mention by Fleur Delacour. So, information on them is largely invented by crew, based mostly on Greek and Celtic mythology. They are forest dwelling fae creatures with the ability to shapeshift between a humanoid form, and plant life, usually trees. They are social creatures who tend to live in large groups. Like most fae, they are mischievous and enjoy playing tricks on humans. Wood Nymphs are also very subservient creatures, who must obey orders given to them by humans (though they frequently find ways to get around this, or to make it turn out poorly for the human). They are largely female, but not exclusively.

What is a Half-Wood Nymph?

spaceA Half-Wood Nymph is someone who has both human and Wood Nymph ancestors. Characters are considered Half-Wood Nymph as long as they possess at least 1/16 Wood Nymph blood.
- If their human lineage is magical, their own magical attributes will be a mixture of wizard and Wood Nymph magic. They will likely excel at magic involving nature, such as elemental spells, Herbology, and Potions. They are likely skilled at Transfiguration, particularly when it involves plants. If their human linage is muggle, a Half-Wood Nymph will possess a weakened version of Wood Nymph magic.
- Half-Wood Nymphs are not compelled to obey commands given by humans; however, they experience physical discomfort when they refuse. The stronger their Nymph linage, the stronger the effects. A true Half-Wood Nymph will become physically ill if they refuse an outright order. A Half-Wood Nymph with more human blood will experience symptoms of anxiety.

What sort of attributes might a Half-Wood Nymph possess?

spaceHalf-Wood Nymphs are likely to be very compassionate. They will most likely prefer to spend most of their time outddoors, and will be drawn to forests. City living will make them feel very uncomfortable if they do not frequently make trips into less urban areas. They likely have a hard time focusing, and are very playful.

Things to consider when playing a Half-Wood Nymph.

- All halfbreeds experience some level of isolation and separation from both human and non-human cultures. Half-Wood Nymphs, like Leprechauns, are less concerned with serious matters, and pass easily as human, so this applies perhaps less to them than to some others.
- Also like Leprechauns, a Half-Wood Nymph is most likely to experience the struggle of belonging to two worlds internally more than externally; they will be drawn to nature, and struggle with a highly industrialize society.
- Half-Wood Nymphs are likely to take the respecting and preservation of nature quite seriously; they aren't going to tell a person not to eat plants, but they might object to the use of pesticides, for instance.

 

[MJ Spooks]

xxxX Legilimens/Occlumensxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

What is a Legilimens?

space Legilimency is the act of magically navigating through the many layers of a person's mind and correctly interpreting one's findings. A person who practises this art is known as a Legilimens. Muggles might call this "mind-reading," but practitioners disdain the term as naive. It is not 'reading' so much as 'experiencing' the other person's memories and thoughts. The most advanced Legilimens can perform Legilimency nonverbally and wandlessly, but less talented practitioners must use the incantation Legilimens to enter their victim's mind. If a target is not skilled in Occlumency, a Legilimens will be able to detect if the person is lying, as well as delve into their thoughts, emotions, and memories. Highly skilled Legilimens can also influence a mind that they invade. With this magic, closer is better; it is easiest if you can make eye contact with the other person. You must be in close range to perform the spell.

What is an Occlumens?

space Occlumency is the act of magically closing one's mind against Legilimency. It is ancient, and has existed since medieval times. It can prevent a Legilimens from accessing one's thoughts and feelings, or influencing them. A person who practises this art is known as an Occlumens. The most basic form of Occlumency involves clearing one's mind — making it "blank and empty" — in order to prevent a Legilimens from perceiving one's emotions and thoughts. More advanced Occlumency involves suppressing only the thoughts, emotions, and memories that would contradict whatever it is an Occlumens wishes a Legilimens to believe, producing a "faux" layer of mentality that can totally throw off the perspective of one who uses Legilimency into thinking that the said layer being the legitimate one whilst its bona fide counterpart lies deeper within; hence, it is not obvious that Occlumency is being used even if the person is lying. It requires a great deal of willpower, as with resisting the Imperius Curse, as well as a high degree of mental and emotional discipline. It is also one method of resisting the influence of Veritaserum.

How does a person learn these magics?

space There is no information in canon as to how exactly one might become a Legilimens. On the surface, it requires only knowing the incantation and wand movement associated with the spell itself. However, this is not enough to learn the art. It takes a lot of discipline, and is a very difficult magic to master.
space Occlumency can be learned through meditation and strict control of one's own thoughts; it requires absolute focus to clear one's mind, which is quite difficult as people's minds tend to wander. A possible technique for beginners might be, instead of clearing the mind so that it is perfectly blank, to focus on one specific thing, such as a song, and repeat it in one's mind. Speaking it aloud might help, though it is probably unnecessary. This creates a wall that the Legilimens must go through in order to get to the Occlumen's thoughts.

How does my character learn these magics?

space Firstly, you will need to send in an MTA request for the trait.
space As far as in-character attempts, most characters will become Legilimens and/or Occlumens in their sixth or seventh year, by taking the class Mind Magic. The class, being a specialized elective, is not free, and costs students fifteen galleons.
space On rare occasions, we will allow characters to study mind magic outside of the classroom. In order to go this route, you will need to find someone willing and able to teach your character the magic outside of the official class. Characters may not learn mind magic on their own, both because it is extremely difficult and because it requires a second person to practice with.
space Learning mind magic outside of the classroom setting will require a plot request.
space If you wish to make an adult character who already knows mind magic, you should state in their profile how and why they learned the magic in their backstory,especially if they did not acquire the skill through a formal education. You will also need to send in an MTA request at the time of their profile's posting. Please remember that any and all MTA requests may be denied, and be prepared to remove this information from your profile if necessary.

What are the rules for using this magic in-guild?

- You are not allowed to use Legilimency on anyone without their express permission.
- Using Legilimency on anybody in a position of power, such as a higher up in the Ministry or a professor at Hogwarts, requires a plot request, especially if your character is to discover sensitive information.
- You cannot use Legilimency as an excuse for knowing personal information about characters unless you have discussed your character having acquired the information with the other roleplayer.
- It is possible for your character to successfully learn only one form of mind magic, particularly if they learn it outside of the classroom setting. However, if this is the case, you must include the information on the profile, and cannot change it later without a plot request outlining how and why they learn the other form.

 

[MJ Spooks]

xxxX Metamorphmagusxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

What is a Metamorphmagus?

space A Metamorphmagus (pl. Metamorphmagi) is a witch or wizard with the rare ability to change their physical appearance at will, rather than requiring Polyjuice Potion or a spell like the rest of the wizarding population. Unlike Animagi, Metamorphmagi can take a wide variety of forms, changing sex and age, potentially looking like anyone at all, or even just changing a part of their appearance, such as the colour of their hair or shape of their noses.

How does a person become a Metamorphmagus?

spaceMetamorphmagi are born with this ability; it is a rare genetic trait and not a skill that can be taught.

How does my character become a Metamorphmagus?

space Your character must posses this trait when they are first created. Send an MTA request in when you post their profile. Be sure to include the MTA on the profile itself, marked (pending).

What are the rules for using this magic in-guild?

- Metamorphmagi are allowed to use their powers at will. However, special permission will be required under certain circumstances. Plot requests will be required when law breaking occurs, or when impersonating an authority figure such as an Auror or a professor. All instances of impersonating another person will require permission from that character's roleplayer.
- Metamorphmagi have the ability to alter only their outward appearance, not their actual biology. It is possible for a metamorphmagus to assume an appearance which corresponds with a gender other than the one assigned at birth, but they will not obtain traits related to the biological sex (AMAB metamorphmagi will not have a period, for example).
- Metamorphmagi powers are affected by their emotions; generally this corresponds as color changes of the hair and eyes, though it is up to you how it manifests in your specific character.
- Younger characters will have less control; up until about age seven, it is unlikely a child can control their powers very much at all, except under very special circumstances. By adulthood, they should have almost perfect control; unintentional changes will only occur during times of great emotional duress.
- As this is a genetic trait, muggleborn characters cannot possess it.

 

[MJ Spooks]

xxxX Parselmouthxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

What is a Parselmouth?

space Parseltongue is the language of serpents (as well as other magical serpentine creatures, like the Runespoor and Basilisk) and those who can converse with them. An individual who can speak Parseltongue is known as a Parselmouth. It is a very uncommon skill, and was known to be an almost exclusively hereditary trait.

How does a person learn Parseltongue?

spaceA witch or wizard has to be born a true Parselmouth; those with the ability can understand and speak the language of snakes without actively learning to do so, or even being aware that they are doing it. It is possible for a non-Parselmouth to mimic the language, but they are incapable of actually understanding it.

How does my character become a Parselmouth?

spaceYour character must posses this trait when they are first created. Send an MTA request in when you post their profile. Be sure to include the MTA on the profile itself, marked (pending).

What are the rules for using this magic in-guild?

- This skill only applies to snakes, both mundane and magical. It does not apply to other reptiles such as lizards or turtles.
- Parselmouths are allowed to use their powers at will. However, special permission will be required under certain circumstances. Plot requests will be required when law breaking occurs, or when a character uses this power to gain sensitive or classified information.
- Parselmouths cannot use this power as justification for knowing things about other people's characters without the permission of that character's roleplayer.
- As this is a genetic trait, muggleborn characters cannot possess it.

 

[MJ Spooks]

xxxX Quidditch Experiencexxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

What is Quidditch Experience?

space Quidditch Experience is a trait which can apply to characters whose families have some connection with professional Quidditch, which results in them being better at Quidditch when they first begin playing at school than the average student.

How does a person get Quidditch Experience?

spaceBy having relatives that play professional Quidditch. It should be close relatives, such as parents or older siblings, or at least relatives that your character is in frequent close contact with. If a family friend is exceptionally close, they may also qualify.

How does my character get Quidditch Experience?

spaceYour character must posses this trait when their first year profile is posted in Hogwarts. Send an MTA request in when you post their profile. Be sure to include the MTA on the profile itself, marked (pending). Backstory should include information regarding how they acquired the experience.

What are the rules for this skill in-guild?

- If your character has this trait, it works as +1 year of experience. So, when they begin playing Quidditch, they will have modifiers as if they had already been playing for a year. Please note: this is not an automatic +1 to your modifiers.
- Your character must be involved in Quidditch in order to hold this trait. If they do not try out or make their house team, the MTA will be revoked.
- If you cannot personally dedicate yourself to Quidditch for a school year but wish to retain the MTA, you must get special permission from the MTA manager.

 

[MJ Spooks]

xxxX Seerxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

What is a Seer?

space A Seer is a gifted wizard or witch who has the ability to see into the future with their Inner Eye. Seers predict prophecies, which are then recorded and stored in the Hall of Prophecy in the Ministry of Magic's Department of Mysteries. They are adept at Divination, though the still must learn how to properly interpret the symbols they see.

How does a person become a Seer?

Seers are born with this ability; it is a rare genetic trait. While any witch or wizard can learn Divination, Seers are the only ones who can give prophecies.

How does my character become a Seer?

Your character must posses this trait when they are first created. Send an MTA request in when you post their profile. Be sure to include the MTA on the profile itself, marked (pending).

What are the rules for using this magic in-guild?

- Contrary to popular belief, Seers do not simply 'see the future'. Most of the time, they must use the same divination techniques as any other witch or wizard, and must interpret the readings accurately.
- They will be naturally inclined towards divination techniques, such as having an easier time seeing things in a crystal ball, or knowing when a tarot deck has been shuffled appropriately.
- Seers must still learn how to interpret what they see; in some cases, such as crystal balls or dreams, they may have more accurate or specific visions, with less left up to symbolism. But, for the most part, while they have an easier time with the technique itself, determining what it means is a skill they must learn.
- The trait that truly sets Seers apart from other witches and wizards is the gift of Prophecy. They will, on rare occasions, be struck with a vision of the future.
- Prophecies only occur for historically significant events; they are not something that happens over personal issues.
- Seers giving a Prophecy will go into a trance-like state; they will have no control over their own words. They will recite the Prophecy, giving sparse details regarding what is to come.
- Prophecies do not have to rhyme, or even make sense. Rarely will any specific details, such as names, be given. It is more likely to be vague references that must be studied to figure out the specifics.
- A Seer will have no memory of their vision or what they have said.
- All Prophecies are recorded and stored in the Department of Mysteries.
- If you have a Seer, you may be approached by a moderator at some point to see if you would like to give a Prophecy regarding an upcoming event. You will be free to refuse if you so wish. If you do not, you will have to come up with the wording yourself, though it will need to be approved by a mod.
- All Prophecies that are not regarding moderator-organized guild plots require a plot request.

 

[MJ Spooks]

xxxX Vampires and Werewolvesxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Information on Vampires can be found here.

Information on Werewolves can be found here.