A snippet from the book "Enchantment at curses" at the MyleHatsu University of Arcana and Artificery (MHUAA)

Written by Pycena Do O Grant

Imbuement is arguably the most ancient and one of the simplest forms of enchanting. The modern, complex forms of enchanting use the ideas deep within the earthly and magical objects themselves. In contrast, Imbuement uses only lapis lazuli and essence found in most things. This makes the entire process quite versatile, if a bit limited in scope. Still, there is much to be learned even from the simplest forms of imbuement.

Despite how ancient the art is, the parallels to the modern day are quite clear. Imbuement uses an enchanting table, a smaller, less versatile version of magic circles that is light enough to be carried around. The most apparent difference is the book in the center, which channels the knowledge of other books around it, and is shaped by the mage's intent.

A lengthy incantation is required to start the imbuement process, then, the mage focuses on the desired effect and its strength as best as possible. The knowledge shapes the essence. As it combines with lapis lazuli it flows towards the object and produces a simple change in the enchanted object, according to its use.

As one might guess, the precision of this process is practically non-existent, and many historical records confirm this. There are notes from imbuers describing their frustration with the process. Accounts range from getting undesirable properties on their new item, to having to reimbue for several times, scraping the lapis lazuli each time to the point of running out. Others express the frustration with combining several layers of imbuements painstakingly on an anvil, referring to the process as "draining" and "complete and utter $#%^#$%#". 

Ripe with frustration, many mages would instead opt to use preenchanted books to apply Imbuements onto their tools, weapons and armor. Many commonfolk have mastered their craft and are able to produce useful enchanted books. The ones that make the object mend upon contact with essence are of particular popularity, while others are sought after by collectors.

Imbuement is still widely practiced across Ateon, and is a great starting point for any mage to grasp the basics of precision and incantations. Even modern rituals could channel essence in useful ways to increase the effectiveness of the ritual and the power of the resulting item.