The Draiocht

Spoiler Alert! Information within these pages may contain answers to some of the mysteries revolving the Madigans.

What is the Draíocht?

The power of the Caomhnóir (guardian) is called the Draíocht. All Caomhnóir are bestowed wth this power, however, it does not manifest itself until their 18th birthday at which point they must complete the process of transformation called the Athru.

The concept of the Draíocht was inspired by a religion called Ogam. On a high level, Ogam believes the natural world has energy and power. Trees are the strongest conduit of this energy. There are 16 trees that have been specified to have a uniquely defined power.  

How do the Caomhnóir's use the Draíocht?

The Caomhnóir use their body as a conduit for the energy around them. They are taught to use their minds to reach out and draw the specific power from the appropriate tree and then channel or focus it to enhance the ability they desire.

By drawing the Draíocht, it allows the Caomhnóir to control the elements, create forces to move or block objects, alter something's physical characteristics, heal a wound, or enhance their body's capabilities to say, run faster or jump higher. For example, if they wish to enhance the ability to heal, they would draw the energy from Birch, or they may draw from Holly to create a protective shield.

Many trees offer the same or similar powers. This allows the guardians to draw on different powers within a variety of physical locations.

Once the Caomhnóir has complete authority, the ability to seek out and find the specific tree and then draw the appropriate power will become second nature. But learning to summon and control is not easy. Until one's mind is strong enough, the body can only handle what it is designed to endure. They quickly tire.  In addition, the stronger the Draíocht is within the Caomhnóir , the easier it is to let it take over and have it escape from them uncontrolled.

• Trees of The Draíocht