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zbenjamin27 — Altar of Elements

Published: 2014-02-25 13:10:44 +0000 UTC; Views: 2843; Favourites: 68; Downloads: 0
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Description We do not know for certain about the forces that created our planet or how old it is. However, we do know about some of those that make up our existence. These take many forms of matter and energy, the most well known being Mana. It is one of the primal forces of creation. Much of what we know about its existence comes through the Fayth, wisdom, and legends of the gods. Flowing through and around all things,  it cannot physically be touched, felt, seen, or contained. There are many theories as to where it originated.

One of the most accepted ideas is that it is maintained by elemental spirits that reside in the mortal realm. These spirits, the Inniria, are embodiments of the powers that protect and create Mana. This allows for a perpetual cycle and balance of energy. It is unclear if the spirits live in equal terms of man, or simply exist as bodiless mystical entities. However, we believe they are immortal beings, each maintaining a piece of Mana. The discovery that Mana is not one singular source, but is made up of eight different strands supports this idea.

Each strand  is complimentary to the “Altar of Elements,” the sacred elements of creation: Time, Earth, Water, Air, Fire, Halo, Shade and Illusion. These are echoed in the origin of the elder deities and the heavenly planes over which they preside. Admittedly, theories are often steeped partially in legend; only  time can tell if we shall ever have a clear answer. Still, one undeniable truth remains: Mana is the power that all magic is derived from.

But what is “magic?” The Academy of Arcane Sciences, the largest coalition of guilds in Erandur, has deemed the art of using charms or spells to invoke supernatural forces as “magic.” There are approximately 433 guilds in the world, almost all of them teaching the art of magic. The types of which vary greatly according to that of the 24 fayths of the gods . Few are those born with innate aptitude, but most people are able to learn through proper study and training.

The actual ability to focus and harvest Mana into a spell is called “channeling.” As previously mentioned, Mana can be divided into eight kinds of energy. However, in regard to difficulty, they are separated into three tiers. First, are the four natural elements, Earth, Air, Water, and Fire are the easiest to learn and tap into. Second are Halo and Shade, requiring a greater level of focus. Lastly, the elements of Time and Illusion are the most dangerous and complex to hold. Without the utmost concentration, control of these can not only be a struggle to maintain, but also cause damage to the user and those around him.


Excerpt taken from 'The Altar; Secrets of Mana'                       
by Aetas Melchoir
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Comments: 4

Steechy [2019-09-26 10:13:43 +0000 UTC]

Sound nice

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rimesthewindrider [2014-02-26 13:29:05 +0000 UTC]

I mean awesome is the picture, the idea of the symbol and the book extract. Only to be more specific

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rimesthewindrider [2014-02-26 13:25:25 +0000 UTC]

AWSOMEEEEEEEEEEE

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zbenjamin27 In reply to rimesthewindrider [2014-02-27 09:50:30 +0000 UTC]

Thank you!!!

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