In DFA Rituals v2.0, a Link is what ties the ritual to its target — the sympathetic, symbolic, or direct connection that makes the spell *about* the thing it’s meant to affect. Without a Link, magic has no focus; it’s just raw potential.

• Function:
  • Directs the effect of the ritual
  • Connects the caster to the target through magical sympathy
  • Determines whether the ritual *can* affect the intended subject at all

• Types of Links:
  • Sympathetic: Hair, blood, personal items, names — the stronger the emotional or physical tie, the better.
  • Symbolic: Maps, dolls, written names, representative art — useful when true sympathy is unavailable.
  • Situational: Environmental clues, resonant energy signatures, or shared locations — often used in forensic rituals.
  • Relational: Emotional bonds, debts, oaths — less tangible, but powerful under the right circumstances.
  • Intrinsic: The caster themselves (e.g., if ritually bonded, spiritually attuned, or cursed).

• Strength of Link:
  • The stronger the link, the more precise and effective the ritual.
  • Weaker links may impose narrative complications, require more Catalysts, or reduce reliability.
  • Some rituals require a specific type of Link (e.g., blood for tracking, true name for binding).

• Ritual Examples:
  • Tracking: Use a lock of hair or stained clothing
  • Binding: Use a full name, written in the caster’s blood
  • Healing: Use the wound itself or a resonance signature
  • Cursing: Use an image, name, or cursed object connected to the victim

• Link Substitution:
  • If the proper link is unavailable, a caster may:
    • Increase the ritual’s cost
    • Accept complications
    • Use a Catalyst to reinforce the weaker connection
  • This is a great opportunity for narrative concessions or bargains

• Failure States:
  • A false or corrupted Link misdirects the ritual — or may even backfire
  • Using no link at all? The magic fizzles or strikes something unintended

• Invoke/Compel Opportunities:
  • Invoke: “I have her blood in this jar — I know exactly where to strike.”
  • Compel: “The only link you’ve got is a sketchy third-hand name. Are you sure?”