Naturally occurring energy used to perform magic. Radiates out from Nodes.
- Extra-dimensional form of energy that overlaps with reality and features particle-wave duality
- Presence varies from planet to planet, system to system, and flows out from the limbs of The Tree of Life in currents much like wind, water or even spreading roots
- Portion that overlaps into reality can be physically condensed into a heartstone, which in turn can vary in both size and mass unrelated to the density of mana present
- "Depleted" form of solidified mana is known as Catonite; initially thought to be unrelated
- Excessively high concentrations of mana is visualized as red static in a person's vision
- Excessively high concentrations of mana will result in magic occurring spontaneously; see "Primordial Magic"
Out of Character Notes
Portion cut from magic article:
As a result, there can be places that are relatively devoid of its touch, while nearby, a location is brimming with its potential. The form in which magic takes is also as myriad as its possibility with its presence being most often comparable to a type of fundamental particle in space that comes and goes like a tide, yet flows like the wind across planetary surfaces. The form in which magic is perhaps the most valuable however, is the Heartstone, in which pure magic is condensed and contained within a diamond-like substance or substrate, enabling its use to become consistent and reliable. Still, a being must be attuned to magic in order to use it. Certain species such as the Aos Si are naturally attuned, sometimes from birth. Others become attuned to magic by repeated exposure or a deliberately conducted attuning process. All however, form a Heartstone at the very center of their being.