Enchantment

Considering to be one of the most pretigious forms of magic in Opia, enchantment has a history of nobility and renown among the ruling classes. Originally used to enchant the swords of monarchs as they took part in duels for honour and land, the practice has expanded to those who wish to use it for more practical reasons.

Those who specialise in enchantment can find themselves in great demand due to the widespread application of their abilities. There is some disparagement towards the school however, as some believe it to be a form of soft magic, having little practical application outside of battle.

In battle those who wield enchantments can find themselves unbeatable. Whether they choose to reinforce the army of themselves and their allies, or simply to smother their blade in a fine flame to cut straight through enemies, even a talentless sword-wielder can be an intimidating foe if knowledgable in the art of enchanting.

Variants
The different strands of enchantment are very clean-cut and allow for specific expertise while still retaining a dabble of skills from another branch.
 * Rending - offensive abilities that work in tangent with the enchanters natural abilities with a weapon
 * Defensive - allow the enchanter to both protect themselves from general damage, as well as counter specific enemy attacks and magic use
 * Complimentary - spread enchantments among other party members to provide mild buffs over a large area

History
Considering a regal school of magic, enchanters found themselves showered with gifts and riches by those who wished to simply witness their talents. A hierarchy was quickly established in the form of the Royal Enchantment Society, whose purpose was simply to negotiate the price of enchanting on a large scale. The Society quickly evolved to promoting their own interests and found themselves above the law in many respects simply due to renown and demand.

Present Day
Although still widely practiced there has been increased negativity towards enchanters as a whole, partly due to the actions of the Society, which found it's powers curbed following a number of incidents of exploitation of royalty. This has largely been covered up however, and is only knowledge to a miniscule number of people; those who wish to suppress it, and those who use the threat of uncovering it for their own selfish gains.