Summoning Spells: This is the least powerful method of summoning. They only have the ability to gate in a creature of the desired type. It is required that the caster of this type of spell utilize a Circle of Protection and a Thaumaturgic Triangle to contain and protect the summoned creature until a pact can be sealed because these spells offer no protection to the caster and do not compel the creature to serve. Due to this, the caster has three chances to compel, coerce or bargain with the creature in order to seal a pact (refer to Sealing a Pact below).

Evocation: This type of spell is superior to Summoning spells because they have the power to both gate a creature in and to compel it to service. Evocations spells require that the creature make a Save vs. Will or submit to the caster’s demands. However, even if the creature makes its Save, the caster still has three attempts to seal a pact.

Although a Circle of Protection and a Thaumaturgic Triangle are not mandatory for this type of spell, only a very foolish caster would attempt an evocation without these precautions.

Invocation: This is the safest and most effective method of casting a summoning spell. This type of spell may only be used to gate in creatures of a similar outlook, alignment (good, neutral or evil), and/or religious beliefs. Due to this restriction, the caster does not need to inscribe a Circle of Protection or a Thaumaturgic Triangle and there is no need to compel the creature to offer its services to the caster. Generally speaking, an invoked creature will rarely refuse any reasonable request for aid or advice, so long as the caster has remained true to his faith and principles (GM’s call).

Note: Novus also has spells of conjuration that produce what appear to be similar results. Conjuration spells do not summon creatures; they instead draw upon the ether and temporarily create the summoned creature. Because such creatures are created by their caster’s magic, they will always obey their master.