

Then of course there is tonal magic like that produced by Kagrenac's Tools or the Thu'um, sounds that carry power. The illusion mage uses magicka to influence the target's mind, etc The Alteration mage knows reality isn't real, yes even in game the mage comes to the realization that reality doesn't exist, and thus can use a little nudge with their magicka to convince the dream to change. To cast Alteration spells is to convince a greater power that it will be easier to change reality as requested than to leave it alone. It's, as Lach said, a form of science, and requires practice.

It's not as simple as in goes magicka and outcomes fireball, per se.

Arcane spellcasting, such as that which draws on Magicka, is about focusing one's internal magicka reserves, that they take in ambiently from Aetherius into desired effects.
