Aether
Aether is a rare, pure magical fluid known for its potent arcane properties. When consumed or absorbed, it temporarily boosts a person’s magical capabilities by expanding their personal mana reservoir. This effect, however, is short-lived and not without consequence.
Over time, Aether has found its way into alchemical potions, magical fuel sources, and energy batteries for arcane machines and constructs.
Over time, Aether has found its way into alchemical potions, magical fuel sources, and energy batteries for arcane machines and constructs.
Properties
Material Characteristics
Aether appears as a thick, syrup-like liquid with a black hue deeper than shadow. When exposed to light, observers see different subtle colors dancing within the black—colors that reflect their own personal aura.
Geology & Geography
Aether can be found deep beneath the surface of the world, often pooled in isolated underground chambers. Larger deposits are most common near Lay Line convergence points, though they rarely form within Lay Line themselves—except when water Lay Lines are involved. In such cases, the Aether may carry both arcane and elemental water charges.
History & Usage
Discovery
Aether has been discovered independently in many parts of the world, often under unusual or chaotic circumstances ranging from Adventurers going in after a monster and stepping into it, causing their magic to be volatile, to digging into the layline mine, which resulted in a number of magical and explosive mishaps. As a result, no single discovery myth dominates, and various societies claim diverse origins.
Everyday use
- Magical Enhancer Potion
- Golem Fuel
- Magical Vehicles & Airships
- Arcane Machinery & Tools
- Aether Batteries
Refinement
Raw Aether must be pressure-treated and heat-tempered before it can be used. The refinement process varies depending on its intended purpose—be it alchemical, mechanical, or vehicular.
Hazards
Raw Exposure
Touching or drinking raw Aether grants an immediate surge in magical power. However, this surge is followed by intense fatigue. Repeated or excessive use without refinement leads to long-term or even permanent damage. Symptom after use- Headache
- Dizziness
- Sore or aching muscles
- Muscle weakness
- Slowed reflexes and responses
- Reduced immune system function
- Blurry vision
- Short-term memory problems
- Reduced ability to pay attention to the situation at hand
- Magically drain
- Felling a disconnection from yourself
- Magic energy recover slowly
- Exhausted all time
- Power not active
- Brain damage
- Charka network damage
- Heart damage
- All the other symptoms could go permanent
Type
Elemental / Molecular
Value
Extremely valuable. Kingdoms rich in Aether reserves often rise to power through its trade, control, or weaponization.
Rarity
Uncommon (though highly coveted)
Taste
Those reckless enough to taste raw Aether describe it as a metallic syrup with a sparking zap that tingles across the tongue.
Color
Black but it reflects the color of the aura of the observer
Common State
Liquid
I like the idea of this, What colors does it have in the black liquid? nice article :)
Thank you. Aether has a color that reflects the viewer's aura. There are as many colors as there are viewers.