Each class has a mastery it can attain. Takes a TON of pracs to get the max mastery, and mastery can only be attained post, say, lvl 65 (or more).

Mastery is coupled with how often you use the skills of your mastery (on targets - where applicable). Could perhaps also add age into the total 'quality' of the mastery skill.

The mastery skill would act like it did in the past. Skills become enhanced. Knowledge of skills durations known. And unlike the past - damage or healing qualities or protection lengths or protection amount (e.g. armour more than 20 ac - sanc protecting more - vortex hurting opponenets more - mana shield absorbing more hp per mana cost).

I know Blobbie doesn't like the concept, but I do - and thought i'd start a thread on the topic but not specifically arcana mastery.

Graels got a good idea, but instead of beefing up stuff we already have, Id rather see new skills and spells, like reflect, that bounces spells back on the caster. How about a counterspell?! Or the ability to combine spells with other casters to make them better. Perhaps two clerics can combine their powers to heal the entire group, or drape them in the protection of sanctuary. A circle of mages with the ability to summon a massive firestorm, or even gate a party across the sea. I've gotten used to not seeing spell durations, and with the new wacky way your spells run out, i dont think it would help a whole lot, cause i dont think Blobbies going to give them to us in microtics. Dont get me wrong, Im ALWAYS for getting more powerful, but new stuff would be better, rather than old in a new dress.

I swear "mastery" is the topic that won't die

What, nothing to say about my ideas, Blob? I didnt even say Mastery. I even tried to dis it!

You mean this line
Anyways we discussed counterspell some time ago at which time I said I thought it was cool.

Never said such a thing! Wait, it was my idea, so maybe it is a good one!

No Lisp did as indicated by the quote

You forgot the 'but'.

But then I wouldn't be properly taking it out of context. Didn't you know it's all the rage these days with journalists and reporters?