Study Points (SP) & Insight Points (IP)

Study Points (SP) and Insight Points (IP) are the two primary progression currencies used to advance a character's abilities in the campaign, representing "The Grind" versus "The Epiphany."

Study Points (SP) - "The Grind"

SP represents academic learning, repetition, and dedicated practice.

Characters earn SP by attending classes, reading in the library, surviving encounters, and studying during Time Slots.

It is used to purchase standard mechanical upgrades:

• Learn a New Spell: SP equal to the Spell's Tier
• Master a Spell: SP equal to the Spell's Tier
• Stabilize an Improvised Formula: 1-3 SP, then trigger Research Matrix
• Increase an Attribute (1 to 5): New Rating × 3 SP
• Increase a Core Magic School (1 to 5): New Rating × 4 SP (each new level unlocks that school's next glyph level band)

Insight Points (IP) - "The Epiphany"

If SP is time, IP is breakthroughs. You cannot become an Archmage just by sitting in a library; you have to push your limits, fight for your life, and uncover the secrets of the world. IP is a rare, narrative currency earned by solving mysteries, surviving deadly threats, and reaching major plot milestones.

It is used to accomplish major paradigm shifts:

• Unlock a Specialization: 1 IP (requires Level 3 in the parent Core School)
• Research Breakthrough Thesis: 1 IP (+ SP cost) for forbidden, Wild, or cross-school matrix stabilization
• Purchase a Trait / Merit: 1 IP (or remove a Flaw)
• Break the Tier 5 Cap: 1 IP (+ SP cost)
• Soul-Bind an Item: 2 IP