Éla

Éla is the name given to the force of magic detected in and around Magi. Little is known about the energy as studies are still being performed and given its volatile nature it is difficult to measure. It is popularly theorized that Èla is a heightened, evolved version of the electricity already present in the human body, but this is merely speculation.

Capabilities

As most ancient studies on the capabilities of Éla were lost during The Great Cataclysm, not much is known on an official capacity about the extent of what a wielder can use it for. Jade scholars have the majority of information and studies on the power, but much is still unknown.
So far it has been observed to be capable of manipulating all natural elements to varying extents. Users have been witnessed spontaneously combusting the environments around them, conjuring lightning storms in the atmosphere, and temporarily altering the flow of rivers, indicating the extent of this manipulation is reliant only on the individual strength of the user's Éla connection -- which adds credence to theories that Éla is an ever-present natural energy. Telekinesis also seems to be possible: though the former is accepted as a manipulation of gravity.

Limitations

Use of Éla seems primarily limited by the individual Magi's age, natural connection with the power, and level of control they have over it. In some cases the largest displays of power have manifested in an outburst associated with the onset of Icarus Syndrome, however these outbursts are often short-lived and impossible to direct or control effectively.
According to limited and controlled studies of Éla users under supervision, Merinian psychiatrists have concluded that creation of matter from nothing (i.e. growing plants where seeds or cuttings are not present, conjuring objects in mid-air) is impossible through use of Éla. Jade and Querian scholars insist otherwise, however, having observed otherwise in cases where two or more Magi hold a deep emotional connection. This is not accepted by Merinian authorities and is largely considered pro-Magi propaganda.

Cost and Side-Effects

According to Magi scholars, the use of Éla can be likened to exercising any physical muscle or taxing mental work. It is an innate ability that can be trained and thus the primary side-effects of its use are fatigue and, in some cases, physical weakness and pain. Some Éla users have described the costs of its overuse as being similar to running a marathon or staying awake for more than 24 hours at a time. Usually this can be solved with rest and the effects can be lessened by training and practicing in small bursts.
The largest alleged cost of Éla use, and perhaps the most well-known, is Icarus Syndrome, though whether or not this is actually a consequence of Éla sensitivity is hotly debated between scholars and outright rejected by some cultures, such as the Avvar-Kunrud.

Manifestation

The use of Èla is usually accompanied by a translucent 'shimmer' resembling a heat haze, whether this be around the Magi in question or the item/property they are manipulating. In some circumstances it has also been known to cause a shimmering purple effect similar to sheet lightning behind clouds, though this is usually only when natural elements are being manipulated (e.g. casting storms, moving water, breaking earth or concrete).

Type

Metaphysical, Arcane