Sorte (SOAR-tay), or "Fate Magic", is a rare and powerful form of Sorcery found exclusively in Vodacce, where it runs only through the bloodlines of women. These women, known as Streghe (singular "Strega") or "Fate Witches", possess the ability to see and manipulate the strands of fate that connect all living things. Sorte grants its practitioners a unique insight into the forces that shape the world, allowing them to tug on these strands, influencing events, people, and destinies.
The Nature of Sorte[]
At its core, Sorte is about understanding and altering Fate's intricate web. Every person and event is connected through invisible strands, and a Strega can perceive these connections, referred to as the Tesse or "Weaves". With skill and caution, a Strega can pull these strands, shifting the fortunes of those around her - bestowing blessings or casting curses, though never upon herself.
Sorte is divided into various types of Weaves, each with Minor and Major effects. These Weaves allow the Streghe to bless or curse individuals, manipulate their emotions, or even physically influence their actions. However, the at of meddling with Fate comes at a cost, represented by Lashes. Each time a Strega uses her power, she accumulates Lashes, which strengthen her magic but also bring misfortune to herself or those around her if not properly managed.
The Price of Power[]
The more a Strega interferes with fate, the more Lashes she accumulates, intensifying the effect of her magic but also increasing the potential for dire consequences. A Strega can choose to pay off these Lashes through personal suffering - either in the form of physical pain and injury or by inviting misfortune upon herself or others. Failure to manage these Lashes can lead to catastrophic consequences, as fate seeks retribution for her tampering.
Using Sorte[]
the practice of Sorte requires the Strega to first read the fate strands, using a basic power called Read, which allows her to see the fates of those around her. From there, she can apply various Weaves, manipulating the threads in subtle or significant ways. The more skilled the Strega , the more complex the Weaves she can control. Some Weaves influence emotions or behavior, while others allow her to pull individuals toward her or place powerful curses and blessings on her targets.
One notable aspect of Sorte is its association with the Sorte Deck, a divination tool used by Streghe to interpret the strands of fate. The deck consists of cards that correspond to the different aspects of a person's destiny, helping the Stregha gain insight into her target's strengths and weaknesses, known as Arcana.
The Cultural Impact of Sorte[]
In Vodacce, Sorte is both feared and revered. It is believed that the fate of a Vodacce nobleman is tied closely to the actions of his wife, as she can manipulate his fortunes through her magic. Vodacce women born with this gift are highly controlled, denied education and personal freedoms to prevent them from using their powers for their own gain. Despite these restrictions, their influence in Vodacce society is immense, as even a glance from a Strega can alter the course of a person's life.
Throughout Théah, stories of blessings and curses associated with the Streghe have become a part of the cultural fabric, with many historical and literary tragedies linked to their intervention. The manipulation of Fate by the Streghe is viewed with a mixture of awe and fear, and it is said that the greatest disasters in Théah often begin with a Vodacce curse.