Aether

In the world of Dessend, magic is fueled by the intangible Aether that flows into the world from the Aetheric Plane (also known as the Astral Plane). All living beings have some level of Aetheric Capacity, the ability to store Aether in their bodies. Those with higher levels of capacity tend to become magic users, though the method of giving raw aether a usable form varies between different types of magic users.
Clerics, Druids, Paladins, and Witches call upon external forces for control, while Sorcerers and Rangers rely on instinct. Magi and wizards gain control through extensive study and practice. Continued use of Aether increases a person's capacity, but as spells are cast, the internal Aether is depleted. Once depleted, the person cannot cast any spells except those that need very little aether. A person's aether replenishes with rest. Non-magical users can use their internal aether to enhance their extraordinary abilities, but this is done instinctively.
Aether enters the world in higher concentrations in certain areas, called Aetheric Fonts, and channels form between the Fonts, called Leylines. Crystals of concentrated aether, called Aetherite, form in these areas and around the fonts. Magic users can absorb aether from these crystals to replenish their internal aether supply. But, the crystals are fragile and can explode unpredictably with the slightest damage. Radiant gems can temporarily store small amounts of aether, and the more radiant (and expensive) the gem, the more aether it can hold.

Manifestation

On Dessend, the aether is present in a subtle, imperceptible form, like background radiation. Yet, in areas where the aether is concentrated, it can take on a visible form as wisps of blue-white light. These areas of concentration are often found near aether fonts and leylines. The fonts are points where the aether flows into the earth from above, while the leylines are straight paths of concentrated aether that run between the fonts. The aether emitted from the fonts and leylines is what saturates the world with this magical energy.
When a person is near a leyline or an aether font, their aether capacity replenishes at a faster rate and the spells they cast are often more powerful than usual. The stone and earth near a leyline or font crystallize into a concentrated, portable form of aether, known as Aetherite.

Type

Metaphysical, Arcane