[ Istredd doesn't bother being critical of that part of his situation, because it is simple fact, and there is no way it can be changed. Stephen would be horrified if he ever heard about the students turned into eels. And Istredd would agree it's horrifying. His world is a dark and cruel place a lot of the time. ]
The source that we draw upon requires a give and take of energy. There is balance in how you learn to channel it. If you are untrained, Chaos can take your lifeforce in exchange for your magic, killing the user. It happens accidentally sometimes, that's why they get us as early as possible. Many students start out resenting their situation, but eventually, you learn to make peace with it. Magic itself can be a worthwhile reward.
I assume that is not what it is like in your world.
no subject
The source that we draw upon requires a give and take of energy. There is balance in how you learn to channel it. If you are untrained, Chaos can take your lifeforce in exchange for your magic, killing the user. It happens accidentally sometimes, that's why they get us as early as possible. Many students start out resenting their situation, but eventually, you learn to make peace with it. Magic itself can be a worthwhile reward.
I assume that is not what it is like in your world.