Aether

The aether is a supernatural form of energy that exists in the Ethereal plane, or dimension, and which permeates the entire universe. It is said to form the very foundation of reality itself, holding it together and maintaining a balance between order and chaos. It can also be harnessed by the Web as a source for magic, wielded by magical creatures and mages. Aether usually exists separate from the physical world, accessible only through the Web, though inter-dimensional rifts exist through which it can flow into the physical world and directly affect the environment.

Elements

The Web

The Web is a construct that binds the Ethereal plane to the physical world, and which can be accessed by certain living beings, notably mages, as a source for magic. While aether permeates all of reality, the Web varies by density, which affects how strong magic would be in specific regions. The Web can also be highly unstable at times, which affects magic to varying degrees, usually adversely. Guardians do not rely on the Web, and are thus unaffected by its density and instability.

Capaxia

See: Capaxia
Capaxia is a crystalline material that can absorb aether like a battery. Mages can draw their power from such a crystal, or focus their energy through it. The crystals grow near rifts and can be mined using special tools and techniques to stabilize the energy stored in them. They are usually crafted into tools or objects carried by mages in order to focus and stabilize their magic.

Manifestation

Aether itself does not manifest visibly as it exists in an alternate dimension, or plane of existence. However, the effects of it interacting with the physical world are clearly noticeable. It most commonly manifests as magic, created by some living beings.

Localization

Aether itself exists everywhere, throughout time and space. It binds the whole of reality together. Locally, dimensional rifts may allow aether to enter the universe and affect the environment more directly. The most notable of such rifts is known as the "Nexus", which is also considered to be the birthplace of all living things, and the source of the powers used by the Guardians.

Type

Metaphysical, Supernatural