Magical Crystals

Stones of Energy and Mystery

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"In every crystal beats the heart of universal energy. They are not merely beautiful, nor merely useful: they are the very essence of magic incarnate."

— Arkanis of Khaz'Dûm, Rune-forger

Magical crystals hold a central place in the Universe. Endless sources of fascination, they serve as tools, relics, and key elements of civilization. These mystical stones, formed over ages within the depths of the earth or in the most magical places, embody the balance between nature and mystical power.

Origin and Nature of Magical Crystals

Magical crystals form at energetic nexuses, points of convergence where the magical currents of the universe intersect. These locations, often sacred or isolated, promote the crystallization of raw energy into solid, refractive structures. Each crystal is unique, reflecting the nature of the nexus where it was created: some shine with a warm, golden light, while others pulse with cold, ethereal colors.
Sages and alchemists regard these crystals as a physical manifestation of the fragments of Aenor and Nyssara, two divine entities whose cosmic duel marked the creation of the world. In this sense, crystals are seen as fragments of primordial essence, endowed with immense but dangerous power.

Properties and Classification

Each crystal possesses unique properties influenced by its internal structure and magical resonance. Researchers classify them according to three criteria: their brilliance, purity, and elemental affinity.

Types of Magical Crystals

Crystals are intrinsically linked to the fundamental elements that structure magic: fire, water, earth, air, lightning, ice, nature, and gravity. Each type of crystal reflects the unique qualities of its element and has various uses in magic, craftsmanship, and technology.

Fire Crystals

Fire crystals, often glowing or incandescent, emit a constant heat. They are used to fuel forges or enhance pyromantic spells. Their raw energy makes them unstable, but their power is unmatched when wielded by an experienced mage.

Water Crystals

Translucent and often tinged with blue, water crystals are prized for their ability to purify and manage liquid flows. They are widely used in healing magic and technologies related to irrigation.

Earth Crystals

Earth crystals, with brown and green hues, embody stability and strength. Their properties allow them to reinforce structures or create impassable magical barriers. They are commonly embedded in walls and armor.

Air Crystals

Light and often opaque, air crystals facilitate spells related to speed and levitation. Their affinity with air currents makes them essential components for flying ships and similar mechanisms.

Lightning Crystals

Charged with palpable electrical energy, lightning crystals are recognizable by their internal sparks. They are used in magical weapons and energy systems, symbolizing power and speed.

Ice Crystals

These crystals maintain an extremely low temperature. They are ideal for preserving substances or powering spells related to cold.

Nature Crystals

Imbued with the vitality of forests and plants, these crystals vibrate with a gentle green energy. They are highly valued by druids and alchemists for amplifying spells of growth and regeneration.

Gravity Crystals

As beautiful as they are mysterious, gravity crystals possess the unique ability to manipulate gravitational forces. They are crucial in advanced technologies and enchantments related to spatial manipulation.

Physical Characteristics

The size and purity of crystals directly influence their power. The largest crystals, called "Hearts of Nexus," can power entire cities, while smaller fragments are commonly used for spells or enchanted items.

Uses of Magical Crystals

Magical crystals are omnipresent in the fields of magic, technology, and craftsmanship. Their ability to contain and channel energy makes them essential for many purposes.

In Magic

Mages use crystals to amplify their spells, stabilize rituals, or create durable artifacts. Crystals engraved with runes, combined with incantations, enable mages to reach power levels that would be impossible on their own.

In Technology

Crystals are at the heart of magical engineering in Vélactris, powering complex machines like the Fulgur-Rail. These hybrid devices combine steam and crystalline energy to function in extreme conditions.

In Craftsmanship

Dwarves, masters of forging, incorporate crystals into their weapons and armor, enhancing their durability and offensive power. Crystals embedded in jewelry are also highly prized for their aesthetic and protective effects.

Rarity and Extraction

Magical crystals are a coveted resource, a source of wealth and conflict. Their extraction is often perilous, requiring specialized mining teams and mages to stabilize the nexuses. The rarest crystals, such as ethereal shards, often fetch a fortune on the markets.

Cultural Impact and Mythology

Magical crystals are not merely utilitarian objects: they are embedded in legends and beliefs. Elementals and Ethérians consider the crystals sacred, linking them directly to the energy flows that govern the universe.
Complex rituals are organized around these stones, such as offerings of purified crystals to temples in exchange for the favor of the gods. In some cultures, crystals are considered protective talismans, passed down from generation to generation.

Type

Ore

Related Locations

• Vélactris
• Andoris