Within the intricate tapestry of magical arts, there exists a clandestine school known as Echomancy. Born from the ingenuity of shape-shifting races like the Changelings, practitioners of Echomancy possess a unique ability to harness the energies wielded by others. Rather than conjuring magic from within themselves, they deftly manipulate and redirect the mystical forces present in their surroundings.

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At the heart of Echomancy lies the mastery of mirrors and reflections, tools that serve as conduits for capturing and reshaping magical energies. Through keen observation of auras and skilled manipulation, Echomancers can siphon spells as they're cast, or hoard dormant magic for later use. This art demands not only a keen eye for the arcane, but also a deep understanding of oneself. For it is through introspection and self-awareness that Echomancers maintain control over their own magic, as well as that which they seize from others.

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Mirrors serve as the focal point for their spells, amplifying their ability to perceive and manipulate magical energies. The more reflective surfaces at their disposal, the greater their prowess. However, this reliance on visualization renders them powerless in absolute darkness, highlighting both the strength and vulnerability of their craft.

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Though regarded with skepticism by many, Echomancy is shunned in most traditional wizarding circles. Its practice is seen as opportunistic, antithetical to the ethos of creating one's own magic. Critics label it as "Leech magic," condemning its practitioners for their reliance on pilfered power. Indeed, prolonged encounters with Echomancers can leave even the mightiest mages drained and weakened, as their magic is systematically siphoned away.

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Yet, despite its moral ambiguity, Echomancy is not without its limitations. It is wholly ineffective against non-magical adversaries, and its reliance on reflective surfaces presents opportunities for counterplay. Echomancers mitigate this vulnerability by storing stolen spells within mirrors, allowing for strategic deployment even in the absence of live targets. However, this tactic carries risks, as overuse can lead to the shattering of these spell-storing mirrors, rendering them useless.

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Beyond its utility in spell theft, Echomancy grants its practitioners unique insights. They possess the ability to peer through reflective surfaces, extending their perception across vast distances. Whether gazing into the eyes of a distant foe or spying through a remote mirror, Echomancers wield their vision as both a weapon and a tool of reconnaissance.

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In combat, the unpredictability of Echomancy is its greatest asset. Spells may manifest from any reflective surface the caster has tapped into, whether it be a staff adorned with mirrors or the polished surface of a warrior's weapon. The potency of stolen magic varies with the skill of the caster, with novices limited to weaker incantations while masters can wield formidable spells with finesse and precision.

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In the realm of magic, Echomancy stands as a testament to adaptability and resourcefulness. Its practitioners navigate a delicate balance between empowerment and exploitation, wielding stolen magic with cunning and dexterity. To face an Echomancer is to confront a foe who thrives on the reflection of their own strengths and weaknesses, ever poised to turn the tide of battle with a flicker of mirrored light.

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