Manifest Zones

Nexus Points of Planar Influence

Manifest zones are areas in the Material Plane where the influence of a particular plane is strongly felt. These regions act as nexus points between the planes, allowing the energies and traits of other realms to seep into the mortal world. The effects of a manifest zone can vary depending on whether the connected plane is ascendant, in decline, or in a neutral state. The ascendancy of planes varies naturally across time as a by-product of astral currents, but a more important aspect is how strongly a plane resonates within the subconscious of mortals, and how much faith is played within the God that created the plane, when applicable.

Ascendant and Declining Planes

When a plane is ascendant, its influence on the Material Plane is greatly amplified, especially within its corresponding manifest zones. The traits, energies, and denizens of that plane are more easily able to cross into the mortal world, often resulting in significant changes to the environment, magic, and inhabitants of the affected area.
Conversely, when a plane is in decline, its impact on the Material Plane is greatly diminished. Manifest zones connected to a declining plane may still exhibit some minor traits of the connected realm, but the effects are generally much less pronounced. It is during these periods that the influence of other planes may become more apparent, as the waning power of a declining plane creates an opportunity for others to rise in prominence.

Effects of Manifest Zones

The specific effects of a manifest zone depend on the nature of the connected plane. In general, manifest zones can impact the environment, the potency of magic, and the behaviour and appearance of inhabitants.
Environment: A manifest zone may cause the local environment to take on characteristics of the connected plane. For example, a manifest zone connected to Pandemonium might exhibit chaotic weather patterns, while one linked to Axiom could impose a sense of order and structure on the surrounding landscape.
Magic: Spells and magical effects related to a plane may be strengthened or altered within its manifest zones. Magic that aligns with the connected plane may become more potent or easier to control, while magic that opposes it might be weakened or negated.
Inhabitants: People living within a manifest zone may gradually take on traits associated with the connected plane. Over time, their personalities, appearance, and even abilities can be affected by the planar influence. Offspring born within a manifest zone might be noticeably plane-touched, exhibiting physical and mental characteristics reminiscent of the connected realm.

Interaction with Planar Beings

Manifest zones can serve as conduits for planar beings to enter the Material Plane. During times when a plane is ascendant, its denizens may find it easier to cross over into the mortal world, either by choice or due to the increased planar energies. Conversely, when a plane is in decline, planar beings may have a harder time maintaining their presence in the Material Plane, and their influence may be reduced.
Understanding and navigating the ever-shifting landscape of manifest zones is a challenge for scholars and adventurers alike, as these regions provide a unique opportunity to study and experience the myriad planes that exist beyond the Material Plane. Often, the appearance of a new type of manifest zone is the first visible sign of a new metaplane's birth, and the vanishing of manifest zones is an indication of a metaplane's demise.

Type

Metaphysical, Supernatural