The Pulse

What is the Pulse?

The Pulse is a fundamental property of all things in the world. It is absorbed, released, and regulated in some form by almost all living things, affecting their capabilities and function. Through the control of Pulse, the world too can be sensed, affected and altered.

Though the Pulse is everywhere, on its own it does not do much… at least, not on a small timescale. It is instead used mainly second-hand, by an organ known as a soul. Most creatures possess one, or at least a basal form of it, that absorbs, filters, and regulates the Pulse.

Through the soul, some creatures purposely channel Pulse through parts of their body, to alter it or those it comes into contact with. Enhanced properties of shells, injection of Pulse into prey… there are many adaptions to the presence of this strange force.

But, the Pulse is not a pure substance. At least, not in a stable form. As there are many different materials, states, and energies and such in the world, the pulse does not remain stable for long. It splits itself, in its attraction to different things, into what are known as Pulseways, or Ways for short. As one goes down a path or follows directions, Pulse wants to go a certain way too.

A Brief Look at Ways

Imagine the Pulse is in the air right now. Most would describe it as flowing like water, but spreading like gas. Unlike these, however, it does not quite interact with things physically, as if it were a ghost. It is invisible, in its typical state, but can be sensed, as one senses the cold or a smell.

This may be a hard thing to imagine, especially to us. But even so, imagine the Pulse in the air spreads, and ‘bumps’ into the ground, a different state of matter entirely. Is it repulsed? Or drawn to it? Parts of Pulse react differently, and moves away or towards things accordingly. With this it separates into its Ways.

Think of how many different things there are in the world, light, liquids, the pull even of gravity, heat and cold. The Pulse reacts to each differently, and these Ways are, well, a way of categorising them.

While there are many ways of categorising them, we will focus most on the Traditional system, which has 15 Ways. Certainly, there are academic circles that argue there are far more, and far less. For more on the Ways, have a read of its page.

So, How Does This Affect The World?

Were it not for the need of a soul, perhaps the Pulse would have never been detected. On its own it is unremarkable, but when one can percieve it, take it into the body and push it out, manipulate its structure, one can change that which it is attracted to.

Largely, most do not know that this is what is happening. They are simply born with, and never know a world without, their ability to move water, mould rock, breathe fire. It is simply an unremarkable aspect of their lives. Most do not even use it much, in the same way few become adept in any of the multitude of skills they are capable of, like maths or art or simply walking.

Even though most creatures nowadays are adapted to its presence, the Pulse and its regulation being deep in their biology, inextricable without death, it is not accurate to say all creatures are capable of using it in this manner. Most, as evolution demands, simply need the bare minimum: Keep it from killing you.

Yes, such an all-affecting presence is reduced to being as mundane as eating and sleeping, for most. But as you may know there are some for whom it is not… at least biologically. The Valcari, the ‘new people’ as they call themselves (At least, in one language) are not named that for nothing. Most of their ancient tales and passed-on myth agree that they were once like all the other creatures, Pulse an afterthought if something they could even detect. Something happened. No one is sure what, though there are many theories.

But something certainly happened.

The Valcari and their Anomaly

Their bodies, were changed, irreversibly, by the Pulse, resulting in an unprecedented complete dependence and permeation of it. They could not live without it, they could not even die without it, their bodies melting under the loss of control. They had to consume it, like an Aberration, relying on its constant supply.

It is well known that Aberrations cannot reproduce; their bodies break as they struggle to accommodate such a large amount of Pulse, and regardless it is extraordinarily rare for multiple of the same form of Aberration to occur at the same time. If the Valcari were changed in a similar manner, how are they able to continue as a species?

You may know that, as expected, Valcari are unable to reproduce biologically. Instead, they have found a sort of loophole. It cannot be known how it first occurred, generations of Valcari have adapted to make the process seamless in their overall function, but the Valcari live by channeling the Pulse around them into a self-regulated body called a Soul.

Yes, like the organ, a soul and a Soul are the same thing technically: an object that regulates Pulse. A Valcari Soul, however, is also practically an egg for them; a deposit of resources that protects and forms an individual. In this way, they somehow managed to continue to exist.

But what happened? How and why were the Valcari able to do this, where no other creature has? Even the dragons, with their highly specialised souls are still incapable of something even resembling this. What is unique, on further analysis, is the process of forming a Soul, and more specifically the individuals that can; the Valcari can not only manipulate the Pulse through its Ways, but can manipulate the Way itself.

This is, perhaps erroneously, known as Soulway, the control over how the Pulse interacts with objects, rather than the interactions themselves. No other creature can do this. In fact, were it not for the Valcari, this Way, if it is one, would be nearly impossible to detect. While several substances affect other Ways and how they flow, no other living thing can, that we know of.

It is believed this is what separates the Valcari from Aberrations, if they are in fact similar in origin.

But unlike them, whose bodily functions collapse under the extreme levels of Pulse, the Valcari

But unlike them, perhaps because of the extremity of its impact, they were not doomed. Through the Pulse, a sort of, loophole was found. They could channel it into new souls, capable of its regulation, capable of… life? Yes, they continued to reproduce, albeit in a way unseen before. And through that, as all things do, adaption followed.

Now, an unknown time later, the Valcari are indistinguishable from any other creature at first glance. Their incredible resilience allows them to thrive, even with their extreme needs. And also with adaption came control. Where most creatures use their body to externalise Pulse, from which point on it cannot be influenced, the Valcari are capable of complete disconnect from it. Though, practically, most still need to use their bodies in some way.

What this means in practice is that, without touch, a Valcari can pick up rocks, form rocks, water, whatever their Line allows. You may want to say that they are doing this with their minds, but, this is not quite accurate. Certainly it requires great mental ability (Which came first, the intelligence or the presence of Pulse?) but importantly you must remember that the Pulse diffuses, and is always present, and so is still manipulated physically overall. This is important to understand why the Valcari even bother using their bodies at all: You of course have the most control over the Pulse exuding from yourself!

Soul Biology

The natural roots of the body, the veins and arteries, that pump blood and other life-keeping elements, were once the only circulatory system found in living things. Some believe they were just also used for the Pulse, some believe low Pulse levels meant nothing ever had to. Even so, it is doubtless that, at some point, things developed a second system, derived from their heart and veins, to regulate the Pulse, naturally.

This secondary system, the soul and its roots, however is a little different from its ancestor. The Pulse diffuses through things, like a gas, and so the system is semi-open, with vents in the place of capillaries. It is also different in that it is connected to the digestive system, as the primary method of replenishing Pulse is through food. It also is naturally present in the environment, and is taken in by the skin and lungs, but mostly, food is where a creature gets it.

Has the Pulse always been present? It is hard to tell. The history, geology, and much else points to some significant event, or events, far escalating the Pulse’s presence in the world, but most find little to suggest it was never there; only dormant, unregulated.

Academic Thought on Lines

The exact number of Lines is disputed, as most systems are, but the most common bodies of thought on the topic are the Traditional, Splitless, and Minimal models.

• Flameway and Frostway
• Stillway, Slipway, and Driftway
• Starway and Pullway
• Rootway and Fleshway
• Lightway and Darkway
• Boltway and Bondway
• Soulway and Pureway

Energy

Energy is a fundamental material present in almost all things to some capacity, that is absorbed and released constantly in different ways to give things their appearance and properties. Energy can be moved and changed to alter said properties.

Energy is a phasal force, and exists on and in between its own phase, known as the energy phase, and ours. Transfer between phases is controlled by a soul, a concentrated bundle of energy, accumulated trace energies, and energy absorbent materials. They make for excellent housing due to their absorbency, and therefore give living things a defined base of operations to exist in. Living things that form without souls are unheard of, at least in this world.

Energy runs along channels in living things, akin to veins, in the energy phase. These energy channels flow constantly in most circumstances, but differently in every individual. This is known as channeling. Channeling is unconscious, and different from focusing, which is where one releases energy from said channels to form, manipulate, and alter things.

Pure energy is volatile, and to stabilise converts to the other elements. It is the easiest to convert but the hardest to control. Most things in the world have converted, but some rare things contain pure energy such as certain valkyries, earthen deposits, materials, and formations.

Focusing

Passive energy focusing is when energy is focused only or mostly without contact or intervention with the host body. Things spontaneously occur or move, with no or little visual movement or indication. This can be difficult and control over it is imprecise. Most people require no extra energy to aid in focusing, but still use the flow and movement of their body to concentrate and ease energy focusing. That is a form of passive energy focusing.

Active energy focusing is when energy is focused only or mostly with contact or intervention with the host body. One can tell visually, when someone is or is going to focus energy. This includes contact, where energy is released from or in relation to one’s body, such as forming a flame on top of one’s finger to direct it easily. It is also concentration. When one concentrates the flow of ones natural channeling to an area, it gains an aura of energy. At the cost of the increased flow, it is easier to focus from or with the aid of that body part. While any part of one’s body can do this, motile areas are the most frequent, such as the limbs. The eyes are also common, as what is perceivable is often leaned on when focusing.

Focuses

A focus is an object used for storing and releasing energy remotely. They come in natural and manufactured forms, the latter of which can be formed from many objects. Usually a focus is a crystal or gem, supplemented with structures to amplify or alter its contents.

The supplements are referred to as a frame. Frames can be metal, wood, stone, bone, whatever. Different materials, forms, and combinations produce different effects. For example, a wooden frame will be better at channelling Strand energy, as it was already once carrying that function out in life. Stone forged from magma will channel Heat energy better as it has already contained it at one point, or still does.

The combination of a frame and a focus is generally simply referred to as a frame, though, colloquially a frame made for swapping out small daily use focuses is called a rod, and a, generally large, focus made for focusing a specific element, is called a staff. (cut?)

Focuses tend to come in two distinct forms, orbal and facetal. Orbal focuses are rounded and dispense energy over an area. Facetal focuses channel energy to points, allowing for control and aim. Some are a combination.

Shops called Letharies are run by Lethariers, who specialise in the production, repair, and selling of focuses, their parts, and other energy supplementary items.

Element

Pure energy is very unstable, and so tends to specialise into specific forms based on the objects and forces present in and around it. These forms are known as elements.

The classification of elements is a hotly debated area of energal science, as energy is fluid and its apparent nature is somewhat subjective based on how you view it. The Traditional model, which believes there are 15 is the most recognised, taught, and understood, both in modern day and historically. However other models include the Splitless and Minimal model, as well as others, though these are the most common. They are compared below, though the Traditional model is what will be discussed here, and what is used throughout.

Elements are called different things regionally. Levyten and Calabern have adopted their Scientific names, while Nethratica, Vatanlan, and Icronis mostly go by the Traditional names outside of scientific fields. Efirjen does not differentiate. As usual the scientific names are used here, and the reason for them compared to their traditional counterpart is discussed.

The Heat element is found, understandably, in things that are hot. As temperature increases, the amount of Heat energy it contains increases too. Vice versa, as temperature decreases, the amount of Heat energy decreases. If you believe that Heat energy and Cold energy are one and the same, you likely think that as Cold energy is exposed to heat it is converted to Heat energy. If you do not, you likely believe Heat energy is repulsed by increased cold and that Cold energy is attracted hence, both ever present.

Though fire is a combination of several competing elements, it is primarily associated with Heat energy, which is where its traditional name derives. This can cause issues with Heatens who culturally may be expected to control fire, rather than the far easier and less volatile control of heat.

Things that have a Heat soul, which in Valkyries is known as a Heaten or traditionally as a Firel, are resistant to burning, but in turn are vulnerable to the cold. They tend to be warmer than most, literally and metaphorically, loving the warmth of others and making sure others know their arms and homes are open. However, they may also have a short fuse, prone to sudden anger or frustration, and things may get a little heated if they manage their emotions poorly.

They take in energy from the sun’s heat, heat from the earth, and or from hot substances like lava, steam vents, forest fires, electricity and lightning, or from substances that are easily turned into heat, like wood, volcanic rock, fuel, or oil.

Heat energy presents in and is used by Valkyries in a variety of ways. Heat is the commonest, but some Heatens are naturally good with fire, as well as, while rarer, smoke, lava, steam, or hot objects. Lava, while very hot, is also full of Solid and Liquid energy, making it difficult to control. Common usages include forming flames on ones fingers to light things, heating up cooking plates, heating utensils for cooking, controlling natural heat and fire, and warming clothes to dry them faster.

For Heatens, the fire they create is bound to their soul, and will not spread even if given fuel. In order to sustain a fire, they need to separate it from their soul. This process takes further energy. Some have the opposite problem, of needing to bond it to their soul in order to stop it spreading. This is especially common in those with high amounts of energy and young children.

Most Heatens focus Heat energy actively rather than passively. Fire especially can be volatile, even if it isn’t made to be able to spread. Only especially strong Heatens risk forming fire with no bodily support, and usually only do so to show off, as it is energy consuming.

The Cold element is found in things that are cold, just as Heat energy is found in things that are hot. As temperature decreases, the amount of Cold energy it contains increases too, and vice versa.

Though ice is a combination of several competing elements, it is primarily associated with Cold energy, which is where its traditional name derives. This is more appropriate than with fire and Heatens, as most Coldens and Cold souls are able to produce ice and such products, by cooling water in the air. However once it is formed, they may struggle to control it or get rid of it.

Things that have a Cold soul, which in Valkyries is known as a Colden or traditionally as a Icel, are resistant to freezing, but in turn are vulnerable to heat. They tend to be colder than most, literally and physically, not enjoying prolonged or strong touch, making them delicate and precise in their expressions of affection. They may seem a little stiff, or awkward, needing some time to warm up to others.

They take in energy from places and times absent of heat, such as areas of shade, during the night, and or from cold substances. Icels are less common than Firels, as fewer places get cold in the same way they get hot.

Cold energy presents in and is used by Valkyries in a variety of ways. Cold is the commonest, but ice is also very common. Somewhat rarer includes formation and or manipulation of snow, fog, and very cold substances. Common usages include cooling things, charging the crystals in fridges and freezers, controlling natural cold and ice, and forming ice for drinks and such.

Coldens generally focus cold energy actively, similar to Heatens, but less. Passive focusing is situational however.

The Solid element is found in things that are solids. If you believe all the states of matter are a single element, you likely believe Solid energy is turned into Liquid energy when things melt. If you don’t, you believe Solid energy is attracted to solids, and repulsed by other State elements.

The traditional name of the element of course comes from earth, or dirt, a very pure solid devoid of other elements, with enough flexibility to be easy to control. Stones, certain metals, crystals and glass, are also usually quite pure, but are much less flexible and dense, making them hard to control and having less uses. Things like mud and sand are also controllable, but are either more difficult or just aren’t always things people have practice with.

Things that have a Solid soul, which in Valkyries is known as a Soliden, or traditionally as a Earthel, tend to be grounded and bulkier, and more in tune with their bodies and the world around them. They don’t mind getting dirty or physical. They have increased resistance to temperature fluctuations and electricity. They may be sensitive to earthquakes and other subterranean occurences.

They take their energy from dirt, clay, sand, rocks, metals, and crystals, and things that hold or live in and below the earth and rock.

Common utilisations of Solid energy include formation and manipulation of earth and rocks for construction and protection, forming defensive barriers on the surface of things by altering their properties, moving solid containers for convenience and flexibility, judging soil and mineral quality and content, and manipulating soil for improved agriculture and gardening speed and quality. Rare utilisations include formation and manipulation of hard and impure solids, creation of short-range earthquakes, and breaking open the earth.

Solidens usually focus their energy passively, with active aid supplemented if needed. This is mostly due to the immobile nature of most solids. More movement is effective on fluid solids like sand and mud.

The Liquid element is found in things that are liquid. If you believe all the states of matter are a single element, you believe Liquid energy is turned into Solid energy when things freeze, and into Gas energy when things evaporate. If you don’t, you believe Liquid energy is attracted to liquids, and repulsed by other State elements.

This does not just include water and things that contain water, as its traditional name would suggest, as any liquid or approaching liquid substance will contain Liquid energy. Usually there are competing energies that make them hard to control however. Water is a very pure vessel for Liquid energy, and so is what most control.

Things that have a Liquid soul, which in Valkyries is known as a Liquiden, or traditionally as a Waterel, tend to love being damp, are naturally good swimmers, and often produce more fluids than usual. They may be sensitive to thirst, and dry conditions.

They take their energy from moisture in the air and clouds, water in nature, and things that hold or live in water.

Common utilisations of liquid energy include manipulation and formation of water for washing or drinking, pressurising water to clean, judging water content and purity, and creating air pockets in water to breathe through. Rare utilisations include manipulation and formation of non-water liquids such as bodily fluids, lava, sap, or molten metal, formation of liquids from solids, vapors, or gases, and control of substances through their liquids, such as plants. Liquidens are very useful in the desert where potable water is scarce. People will often allow their Liquiden to drink real water and eat more, and use their energy to create drinkable water for the others.

Liquidens usually focus their energy passively. It is a very stable but flexible element, that only needs direction and flow, rather than supplementation.

The Gas element is found in things that are gases. If you believe all the states of matter are a single element, you likely believe Gas energy is turned into Liquid energy when things cool, and into Plasma energy when it gets heated further. If you don’t, you believe Gas energy is attracted to gases, and repulsed by other State elements.

The traditional name of the element of course comes from air, the most numerous source of control for this element, despite it being made of several gases. It seems as states become more fluid, the less competing energies they can hold. While Solidens struggle to manipulate little more than dirt and stone, and Liquidens need some skill to branch out to blood and organic fluids, few Gases are off limits to an average Gasen, save for the most volatile or actively exploding ones, like fire and solar flares.

Things that have a Gas soul, which in Valkyries is known as a Gasen, or traditionally as a Airel, tend to love the wind and things that blow in it, and have a tendency to love exercise and other things that get them out of breath. They tend to have increased stamina and make for excellent fliers should they have the ability. They may be sensitive to poor air quality and dust.

They take their energy from the air and its winds, gas deposits should they be available, and things that hold or live in air.

Common utilisations of Gas energy include manipulation of air and winds for drying and moving things, pressurising air to clean, judging air quality, weather, or pressure, and creating air pockets in water to breathe through. Rare utilisations include formation of gases as few learn to considering air is all around, and manipulation and formation of uncommon and volatile gases such as fire or explosives, and formation of gases from solids, liquids, or vapors.

Gasens tend to focus energy equally passively and actively, as it is a naturally motile, yet unpredictable element. The way one uses it depends on the intended end result.

The Plasma element is found in things that are plasma. If you believe all the states of matter are a single element, you likely believe Plasma energy comes from a higher state of matter than Gas energy. If you don’t, you believe Plasma energy is attracted to plasma, and repulsed by other State elements.

The traditional name of the element refers to stars, of course the most powerful being Rey. However, recognising the distant energy of other stars, Rey and them were understood to be of similar source, and as such, the element is named after stars. As such, Plasma souls deal primarily in solar rays and winds. On the poles of Ternuaal, Plasma souls may be seen controlling and forming auroras. Rarely, lightning is seen being drawn upon, though it is considerably easier for Electric souls to do so.

Things that have a Plasma soul, which in Valkyries is known as a Plasmen, or traditionally as a Starel, tend to love being in the sun, and want to soak up the sun’s rays. They’re generally earlybirds. They tend to be resistant to sunburns and high temperatures. They may be sensitive to cloudy and foggy weather, the dark and night-time, especially at empty moons, feeling de-energised at such events.

They take their energy from the sun and its rays, occasionally storms, auroras, and sun-feeding organisms such as plants.

Common utilisations of Plasma energy include formation and manipulation of the suns rays and heat for drying clothes, forming volatile solar flares and winds to set things alight, measuring natural light levels, and creating solar orbs for seeing with, similar to light orbs, but more dangerous and with higher energy outtake. Rare utilisations include formation of lightning and other rare plasmas.

Plasmens tend to focus energy actively, as it can be a volatile and unpredictable element.

The Caustic element is found in things that are caustic, generally. It is perhaps the most poorly understood element, with fields of view even disagreeing on whether it exists or not.

To facilitate varying views on its nature, it is name based on its most agreed upon feature: its products ability to cause deterioration over time. Depending on your perspective this includes primarily acids and other corrosive substances, but also toxins, poisons and even smoke. If you do not believe it is its own element, you likely believe these are abnormal expressions of Liquid, Strand, and or Heat energy.

The traditional name of the element refers to the general toxicity of these substances, the closest substitute for the Efirjen concept of ‘praan’, or a substance that hurts to intake.

Things that have a Caustic soul, if they exist, which in Valkyries is known as a Causten, or traditionally as a Toxel, tend to have features based on the properties of their product. However, they’re generally averse to unprovoked touch, and may be quite reactive to percieved threats or stressful situations. Some find relief in focusing their energy, hopefully in a safe manner, to destress and feel safe.

They take their energy from their source product primarily, but generally the majority draw from caustic pools, sour foods and products, soaps, burning gases and smoke, and even stomach acid.

Common utilisations of Plasma energy include formation and manipulation of caustic substances for the purposes of melting or harming things. Some mild products are enjoyed in taste as flavourings. Rare utilisations include use of ones energy to remove substances from the body, to heal or produce effects in the reciever.

Caustens tend to focus energy actively, as generally they use their energy in very precise manners. Uncontrolled or purposely harmful usage may favour passive focusing.

The Void element is found in organic material, though while under the influence of Strand or Phase energy, most material is uncontrollable. As such, primarily cut off or dead tissue is the domain of this Element. However, as things rot, they lose their Void energy, becoming Solid energy, a process called earth decay, which means fresh tissue is most easily manipulated.

The traditional name of the element comes from this association with the dead and rotting, while the scientific name is more broad in its reference to organic matter once absent of competing energies.

Things that have a Void soul, which in Valkyries is known as a Voiden, or traditionally as a Deathel, get a bit of a bad rap. They tend to love injuries as it is one of the few things they can manipulate acceptably, often exacerbating them and preventing healing. Others are drawn to the dead and dying, like animal scraps, shed scales, feathers, and fallen leaves. This can disgust and worry others, especially when young. Fortunately, many who are drawn to their sources of power grow up to become doctors, scientists, or, in places that need them, morticians. They tend to be resistant to injury, illness, infection, though their nature may put them in contact with hazardous things frequently. They tend to be very in touch with bodies and their functions and changes, which some find off-putting, but others appreciate. Many accumulate and show off their scars.

They take their energy from other living or dead things, though dead is best as there is no other energy holding them back from drawing upon the Void energy.

Common utilisations of Void energy include manipulation of flesh to heal and observe it, manipulation of dead matter to clean it away or move it elsewhere, such as swathes of fallen leaves. Some practice body modification on themselves and others, warping flesh into aesthetic shapes. Rarer utilisations include manipulation of flesh under the influence of Strand or Phase energy, and formation of organic matter, even dead. Living matter requires a level of great complexity to be functional, which even the finest doctors struggle to form in significant quantities.

Voidens utilise their energy passively mostly. Unless their target is moving fast for some reason, they don’t usually need to aid the focusing process.

The Strand element is found in plants, fungi, algae, and most microscopic life. Living things that use Strand energy can be separated or split into parts generally without much difficulty or death, given enough Strand energy is present, unlike those who use souls. However, as souls are considerably more concentrated, they can do more with their host. Solely Strand based life can be limited in size, complexity, and mobility. Some do not regard it as being distinct from Phase energy, simply a different state of it. The splitless model, and even many believers in the split model, regard Strand energy as just a different form of Flow energy, simply a different expression of it due to the abundance of plants and tiny life over creatures with souls.

The traditional name of the element refers to the roots of plants and fungi, where this energy travels within. The scientific name is of similar meaning, but comes from the sinuous structure of its flow.

Things that have a Strand soul, which in Valkyries is known as a Stranden, or traditionally as a Rootel, tend to love being in densely wilded areas, their preference depending on the plants they connect to best, usually local flora. They love to eat plants, which some find amusing, to absorb the energy inside. They may like conditions plants like, such as sunlight, moisture, and fresh water. They tend to be outdoorsy, and have a ‘green thumb’. They may be sensitive to poor air, soil, or water conditions affecting themselves or the food they eat.

They take their energy from plants understandably, but also fungi, algae, and, in large numbers, the presence of bacteria and such microscopic organisms.

Common utilisations of Strand energy include formation of plant matter to wrap around and carry things, or as displays in place of real plants as created plants do not have to grow or decay, manipulating plants to grow in a certain way or to support and improve their growth and health, judgement of the health of plants and bacteria content in things, though the nature and effect of them is beyond their abilities. Rare utilisations include formation of plants for combat purposes, and formation and manipulation of large and or woody plants like trees, which can be used to relocate or adjust them.

Strandens tend to focus passively, as plants generally are slow and solid enough to not need aid in the process. Body motions may help in the creation and alteration of the form and shape.

One of the more misunderstood and in fact least understood elements.

The Flow element is not found anywhere in particular, but in between elements , governing the movement of energy. It allows and prevents the ‘flow’ of it, and as such is a major component of the material forming souls and their accompanying systems, many inorganic energal materials like crystal and wire. If you’re a believer in the splitless model, you likely believe Strand energy is, in fact, a form of Flow energy.

The traditional name of the element refers to souls, the most prominent location of this energy, especially as it is one of the few cases energy is interactible with the physical phase.

Flow energy is sort of an ‘invisible’ energy. It is everywhere and nowhere, and it is often forgotten or seen as synonymous with energy as a concept. It is the glue of energy; hidden but vital, broken without it.

Things that have a Flow soul, which in Valkyries is known as a Flowen, or traditionally as a Soulel. Those who know them will point out their tendency to radiate a calming and focusing effect, improving concentration of energy, ability to focus, and often altering ones channelling. As such they tend to be supportive, often becoming teachers, especially for energy related subjects. Many however are also very self-reliant, using constructs to accomplish tasks that usually require several more hands.

They take their energy from other souls, and ambiently from the world around them, though they usually aren’t aware.

Flow energy’s usage is particularly strange. The ability to manipulate the connections between all energy allows them great control. They can teleport almost anything by manipulating the very fabric of the world through the energy in it. They can also ‘store’ energy, hiding its physical form between the gaps of the world. This is identical to how valkyrie wings and such work, but far less confined to ones body. This allows them to ‘hide’ or ‘compress’ objects, making for great storage. This is often combined with a storage vessel, such as a bag, that is augmented to carry far more than it should. These are both very difficult to do, and even more so to make usable without a Flowen. Such storage vessels require the efforts of several Flowens, and are reserved for high status occupations and high bidders.

All seekers are Flowens, and all Flowens are, potentially, seekers. Few end up actually working as one, though. All of them by law are trained for free in performing seekings from the ages of 15 to 18, usually a class once a week. Those who wish to become working seekers can complete an extra two years whenever they like. The job is fairly in demand and encouraged, but has a low ceiling in terms of pay.

Phasens almost always focus actively, their energy is very intensive on them, and any bit of control and stability will be taken.

Common utilisations of Phase energy are to teleport things and people to other places. Unlike other elements’ teleportation, it is both easy and unrestricted for Phase souls to do this, skill level alone determining frequency and range. They also may put things into the Chamber phase, or create storage devices for accessing the Chamber phase, allowing storage of things without taking up space on this phase. Usually this is limited to a few or small objects. They can also manipulate souls and their contents, though this will be fought against by an unwilling host, and lastly of course is their ability to seek souls, which allows for the production of constructs, that may controlled by or be created to complete tasks for the creator. In Valkyries, this ability allows the perpetuation of the species. Rare utilisations include large or large amounts of objects being put into the Chamber phase, creation of storage devices unlinked to ones soul allowing storage unreliant on the makers life, complex or large constructs capable of decision making and many tasks, and the seeking of large numbers of souls without break.

Light

The Light element is found in light, understandably. This also means it gives colour, visibility, and brightness to things.

The traditional name and the scientific name are in agreement on the domain of this element.

Things that have a Light soul, which in Valkyries is known as a Lighten, or traditionally as a Lightel, tend to love being in bright light and colourful and multicoloured things. They avoid darkness and drab items, and are drawn to shiny and reflective things like crystals, glass, and mirrors. They are the sorts to never close the curtains and wake at the crack of dawn.

They take their energy from all things bright, things that absorb and reflect light, and things that have strong colours like rainbows and iridescence.

Common utilisations of Light energy include formation of light to create illusions, slightly changing the colour or the properties of cast light on real objects to make them brighter or more reflective, and to form ‘mirrors’ by warping light. Blinding beams of light can be formed by them for defense, or on a smaller scale to illuminate places. A common Lightel job is in the making of light orbs to fill street and home lamps. Concentrated Light energy is their only effective physical weapon, though all elements can do this, theirs and Darks is most common, as usually other elements have easier more effective alternatives. Their focusing can be easily disrupted by sudden or strong darkness, if not prepared. Rare utilisations include teleportation and warping or removal of light, both tasks considerably easier for their Dark energy counterpart, complete alteration of colour and appearance of real objects, and the formation of hard light, incredibly dense areas of floating light that one can interact with.

Lightens tend to focus passively, as lights structure is more linear than the State elements. Focusing large amounts of light may need more active support. A common area for Lightens to focus actively from is the eyes, as they are already closely connected to light.

Dark

The Dark element isn’t found in anything per se, so much as being present in the absence of light. It is one of the strongest arguments of the Splitless model being as it purely exists only in relation to another element.

The traditional name and the scientific name are in agreement on the domain of this element.

Things that have a Dark soul, which in Valkyries is known as a Darken, or traditionally as a Darkel, tend to favour the dark and drab things. They avoid light and intense amounts of colour, and are drawn to matte, lightless things. They are the sorts to always close the curtains and stay awake all night.

They take their energy from all things dark.

Common utilisations of Dark energy include the removal of light to turn things darker or mostly invisible, or to warp light to change the appearance of things, such as their perceived size or distance, to confuse or trick. They can teleport themselves, as long as there is no interruption between their lights locations. Concentrated Dark energy is their only effective physical weapon, though all elements can do this, theirs and Lights is most common, as usually other elements have easier more effective alternatives. Their focusing can be easily disrupted by sudden or strong light, if not prepared. Rare utilisations include teleportation over long distances and with multiple people, perfect invisibilty with no shadow or warping in light, and hard shade, a similar equivalent to hard light formed by concentrated Dark energy.

Darkens tend to focus passively, as lights structure is more linear than the State elements. Removing or warping large amounts of light may need more active support. A common area for Darkens to focus actively from is the eyes, as they are already closely connected to light.

Electric

The Electric element is found in things that are made of or contain electricity or magnetic fields. While it is abundant it is usually not strong enough to be noticed.

The traditional name and the scientific name are in agreement on the domain of this element. While lightning is its most recognised form, Electrens have long recognised their influence over static forces and magnetic objects, of which all mean the same word in Efirjen, and all approximate to electric charges.

Things that have an Electric soul, which in Valkyries is known as a Electren, or traditionally as a Electrel, tend to be very energetic and wild, drawn to exciting and high wire places and situations. Being around them may make your hair stand a little on end, or give you a little buzz. They may have trouble settling down, always wanting to keep moving and trying new things and seeing new places. They may be restless and have troubling focusing on things that do not excite them.

They take their energy from storms, lightning strikes and their residual damage, magnetic materials, and charged substances.

Common utilisations of Electric energy include formation of static, sparks, and bolts, which can be used for cooking, lighting fires, killing bothersome flying creatures, or just making your hair stand on end. They can alter magnetic fields to make small things float and can power things, given they are set up that way. More likely however, they will charge crystals which are used as power sources instead, allowing for controlled release, intensity, and direction of energy. The production of things powered like this are most prominent in Levyten, due to its abundance of soft conducting metal. Rare utilisations include formation and manipulation of magnetic rock and electrified objects, large scale altering of magnetic fields, and creation and manipulation of large scale electricity.

Electrens usually focus their energy actively and passively. As the flow of electricity is very similar to the flow of focusing energy, it’s quite familiar and intuitive to use, even though it is one of the most volatile energies.

The Gravity element is found radiating from celestial objects being pulled on by even larger celestial objects. The closer and larger they are, the more energy comes from them.

The traditional name for this element comes from Ternuaal’s moon, Veil. In Efirjen it is directly named after it. The Valcrian name is more general. This is because Veil is being pulled on by Ternuaal, making it the most prominent source of Gravity energy. Ternuaal itself, Rey, and various other celestial bodies also radiate it, but not to the extent and noticeability Veil does.

Things that have an Gravity soul, which in Valkyries is known as a Graviten, or traditionally as a Moonel, tend to draw people in. Whether they are outgoing or stick to a small group, they tend to be leaders or organisers. They are easy to approach but hard to leave generally, forming strong bonds with people and getting distressed when those bonds are challenged. Most are night owls, especially loving the full moon, and are drawn to water and high places.

They take their energy from Veil’s pull, crystals which are formed from Veil, and other celestial bodies.

Common utilisations of Gravity energy include forming floating crystals that can serve as a weapon, focus, or forcefield, manipulation of gravity to make things float or sink, and drawing things into ones pull for convenience. By forming very small crystals they can create a sort of reflective dust. Rare utilisations include large scale manipulation of gravity and formation of crystals.

Gravitens usually focus their energy actively. The force of gravity, while not volatile, takes a lot to counter, and crystals and dust require specific formations depending on their use.

Pure

The Pure element is energy devoid of element, but also in a sense a bit of every element. It can do anything, but is extremely hard to control and work with.

The traditional name and the scientific name are in agreement on the domain of this element, and simply refer to its lack of specification.

Things that have an Pure soul, which are very rare, are known as a Puren in Valkyries, or traditionally as a Purel. There aren’t many generalisations you can give to them, except that they’re usually antisocial or have poor mental health, as the element is often comorbid with elemental and mental issues. Many are deficient or Grounded if measured, despite seeming quite strong elementally. Those who are not frequently struggle with managing their energy healthily. To be around, they are generally seen as intense, making others feel more energised in an unpleasant manner.

They take their energy from no particular sources, and in fact should stay away from most things containing this energy. Rarely some are helpful and regulate energy, and many have focuses for that exact purpose, but most provoke or worsen energy irregularities.

Common utilisations of Pure energy include manipulation of objects to move them in any manner, teleportation of objects, and formation of solid but shakily corporeal objects. Rare utilisations include pretty much anything else, especially well controlled uses.

Purens pretty much always focus their energy actively. Any bit of control is necessary.

• Earth Shrine in the Noath, dilapidated, inside a large rocky cliff, with many old light writings, maintained by teri.
• Death Shrine in the Hecklands, very old nethratican architecture. Well-maintained.