"What we call 'Words' refers to the language used by the gods when they created the world. The power and effectiveness they have is determined by their speaker. If you're interrupted mid-Word, the spell can backfire on the caster and kill them. If you don't keep an even temper while speaking, your spells might behave erratically, drain your magic, and kill you."

He raises a hand. By now, he's had a portion of magic restored to him so he can actually demonstrate.

"For example, if I say ignis..." A small flame appears above his hand. "That's the word for 'fire'. It captures everything about the concept of 'fire' and the caster can shape it into an offensive spell with focus."