Sootumine

Sootumine is a fictional concept, often appearing in speculative fiction and role-playing games. It generally refers to a form of magical or supernatural energy that is drawn from or associated with darkness, shadow, or negative emotions. The term itself is a portmanteau, combining "soot," indicative of impurity and darkness, with "lumine," the Latin word for light, suggesting a twisted or corrupted form of illumination.

Beings or entities that wield sootumine are often portrayed as being able to manipulate shadows, drain vitality from others, or induce fear and despair. Its effects can range from subtle psychological influences to overt destructive powers. In some narratives, sootumine is a signifier of a corrupted soul or a pact with malevolent forces. The exact nature and abilities associated with sootumine can vary significantly depending on the specific fictional universe in which it is used, but the core concept remains consistent: a dark, often sinister, form of power. It is not a recognized scientific or real-world phenomenon.