One of the first questions that a new practitioner of magic is likely to ask is, “How do I defend myself against other people who can do magic?” Most paths provide some training in the arts of protecting oneself against hostile powers.

The two-dot version is based on the idea that first defense is being able to detect an attack. This ritual extends a mystic’s senses for a single scene, allowing her to detect the first thaumaturge ritual used against her during that time, whether the magic is intended for good or ill. Rites performed through a sympathetic connection are noticed, though the source may not be. She senses the beginning of the ritual, which may give her time to try to prevent its completion via other means.

The four-dot version weaves the will into a defensive barrier against hostile magic. If the character succeeds, she benefits from the effects of the two-dot version. If the first ritual to target her during the scene is one that she would like to avoid, her Countermagic also applies a –2 penalty to the caster’s ritual rolls. This defense works against mental assaults as well as physical ones — the magical energy intrinsic to the attack is what is blocked. Only one Countermagic ward may apply to a character per scene, and the effect cannot be transferred to others.

Countermagic applies against other thaumaturge rites only, not against the spells of mages or the powers of other supernatural creatures.

Dice Pool: Resolve + Occult
Ritual Length: One minute
Duration: One scene

Roll Results
Dramatic Failure:
The thaumaturge weaves an ineffective Countermagic field around her, providing no protection but potentially attracting the attention of those who can sense such things.

Suggested Equipment: Possession of a ritual tool used by the attacker (+1)

Ritual Details: Use of this magic commonly includes the hasty erection of protective circles or amulets scrawled on paper and worn. Iron, lead and various gemstones are sometimes included for their reputed defensive properties.

Drawback: The four-dot version creates an invisible aura that may be detected by certain supernatural beings, which could endanger the thaumaturge by drawing unwanted attention. If a being can see the barrier, it may appear as a shield or wall of magical energy.