Ritma and Planar Theory

Original Development

The Kurerans developed Ritma as a methodology to translate Feywild magical understanding to Theran energies. As Feywild natives, they needed a complex but precise system based on their deep magical knowledge - similar to learning a second language through academic study.

The development period (10,000 PF - 3,000 PF) involved extensive study of Thera’s “raw chaotic energies,” which differed significantly from the Feywild’s natural magical patterns. This research culminated in the founding of Korad, marking their mastery of the system.

Kalassarian Adoption

As Thera natives, Kalassarians had natural affinity for local magical patterns. Ritma gave them the framework to access their innate potential, achieving greater raw power despite less sophisticated understanding - like native speakers learning formal grammar of their mother tongue.

Mathematical Expression

For a magic user attempting to access Theran magical potential T(t):

Effective Power = T(t) × A(o) × R(p) Where:

T(t) = Raw magical potential at time t
A(o) = Origin affinity (higher for Theran natives)
R(p) = Ritma proficiency

Typical comparative values:

Simplified representation

Kureran = {
    'origin_affinity': 0.6,  # Feywild native
    'ritma_proficiency': 1.0  # Original developers
}

Kalassarian = {
    'origin_affinity': 1.0,  # Theran native
    'ritma_proficiency': 0.8  # Learned system
}

Planar Alignment Dependency

The effectiveness of Ritma techniques was intrinsically tied to specific planar alignment conditions. Classical Ritma effectiveness R(t) during time t:

R(t) = Σ(pᵢ × aᵢ(t)) Where:

pᵢ = planar influence coefficient
aᵢ(t) = alignment factor for plane i at time t

The Silent Ages Decline

The gradual obsolescence of Ritma during the Silent Ages (435-1225 AI) can be understood as a misalignment between the original framework and shifting planar conditions. Like using astronomical tables that become outdated, the knowledge was preserved but no longer applicable to current conditions.

Regional Variations

Areas with different planar influences experienced varying rates of decline
Some regions maintained partial effectiveness longer
Remote areas might have developed local modifications
Proximity to Orbs of Enhancement could stabilize local conditions

Modern Implications

The return of magic following the Fall of Bastion (1225 AI) doesn’t represent a return to original conditions. New planar alignments require new frameworks, though understanding of classical Ritma remains valuable for theoretical purposes.

Current magical practices likely represent a hybrid approach:

Adaptation of classical Ritma principles
New techniques developed for current planar conditions
Integration of knowledge gained during the Silent Ages
Understanding gained from studying Orbs of Power

Research Questions

How do modern planar alignments differ from those during Ritma’s development?
Can classical Ritma techniques be modified for current conditions?
What role do Orbs of Power play in stabilizing magical access?
How do regional variations in magical effectiveness relate to historical planar alignments?