One of the major themes I explore is that of "defining yourself," and I tried to weave that into how my magic system functions. Actually, I ended up doing so multiple times over, but that's because I kept finding places where it fit. 0_o
1) A person's self image held within their spirit plays a...
I'd also consider whether I want the world to objectively be dark (Like, say, a post apocalyptic setting) or if it's more of a result of the character's circumstances making things dark (like, say, getting stuck with a villainous power in a setting where everybody gets powers and getting a bad...
With Harry Potter in particular we always generally know what Harry's magical capabilities are and the learning time required ensures that he’s not going to suddenly create a new spell in the middle of a conflict.
In this case I think it's a good idea. Sounds to me that Marscaleb's magic is being utilized as a technology for both civilian and military use. That's a pretty different tone than a legend, folk tale or myth.
Hm, so the main thing I would advise is to consider the previous experiences the people reading your book have had with magic in stories and how that affects what needs to be actually explained to them.
The regent wanting to hold onto power after the queen comes of age and marrying the queen to maintain the image of legitimacy is simple enough.
As for the regent not becoming king as a result, there could be a well established law saying only those from a certain bloodline can claim the title...
Not to be contradicatory, (I just find this type of stuff cool) but dreaming up the sort of technology that could do that sort of stuff and thinking about its effect on society is half the fun.
Oh sure, don't get me wrong. Virtual reality easily lends itself to the theme of running away from reality. It's not the only theme you can explore with it however.
You know those stories where they have sympathetic androids or robots and use that to explore themes of what makes a person count...
There's lots of themes you can play around with when it comes to virtual reality. Running away from reality is just one of them, and it doesn't sound like the one Simpson is aiming for.
Hm, there's a lot of fun stuff you can do here. I can imagine someone returning home after a day at work, but instead of opening to some crummy apartment their door opens up to an entire continent that belongs to them.