Chapter 0 : Introduction
Power System: The Thirteen Ranks of Existence
In the world of Aetherion, power is not merely strength—it is a measure of one’s existence within the Laws that govern all worlds. From ordinary mortals to beings who stand above reality itself, all are bound within a system known as the Thirteen Ranks.
These ranks represent the evolution of life, from those who cannot perceive mana to those who can shape the very fabric of existence.
At the lowest level are the Mortals.
Mortals are ordinary humans who possess no awareness of mana. They rely solely on physical strength and survival instincts, completely detached from the Laws of the world.
Those who begin to sense mana are known as the Awakened. Though still weak, they have taken their first step beyond humanity, gaining the ability to feel the invisible forces that surround them.
With training, one becomes an Initiate, capable of controlling mana at a basic level. Their attacks begin to carry energy beyond the physical, marking their transition into true practitioners.
As their control stabilizes, they reach the Adept stage. At this level, mana flows naturally within the body, enhancing strength, speed, and endurance far beyond that of normal humans.
Beyond this point lies the Immortal Path.
At the Core Vessel stage, individuals form a core of energy within their bodies, allowing them to store and refine mana efficiently. This marks the true beginning of an Immortal.
Spirit Binders go further, merging mana with spiritual essence. They gain the ability to sense others, manipulate energy more precisely, and unleash more complex techniques.
Domain Walkers possess the ability to influence the environment around them. Within a limited space, they can impose their will, bending natural forces to their advantage.
Those who reach the Law Seeker stage begin to understand the Laws themselves. They can manipulate minor aspects of reality—heat, gravity, motion—though only in limited forms.
The next stage transcends normal existence.
Half Ascendants stand at the threshold between mortal and divine. Their lifespan extends dramatically, and their bodies begin to detach from conventional limitations.
Ascendants are beings who have stepped beyond most natural Laws. They can manipulate reality within certain boundaries and are often regarded as legends within the world.
At the highest levels lies the Divine Realm.
Pseudo Deities wield immense power, capable of controlling major Laws and destroying entire regions with ease.
Near Deities approach true godhood. They can control multiple Laws simultaneously and even create or destroy small worlds.
At the pinnacle are the True Deities. These beings stand above all existence, capable of shaping fate, creating life, and erasing entire galaxies.
However…
There exist anomalies.
Rare beings who do not follow the Laws.
Their power cannot be measured.
Their existence cannot be explained.
Such beings are known as Lawless.
And in a world where everything is governed by rules…
They are the greatest threat to all.
Mana System: The Five Types of Mana
Across the entire cosmos, beyond planets, galaxies, and even the boundaries of known existence, mana is not a singular force but a vast and complex system divided into distinct forms, each governed by its own origin and nature. All beings, from mortals to deities, exist within this system, whether they understand it or not. Among these, five types of mana exist, though only four have ever been recorded in ancient texts since the beginning of creation.
The first is known as Vitalis Mana, a deep blue energy generated naturally within the body of an Immortal. This form of mana is used for combat, healing, and the execution of techniques, making it the foundation of all cultivation paths. Its blue glow symbolizes life and flow, yet it cannot be absorbed by others while its owner is alive. Only upon death does it lose its original identity and transform into another form.
The second is Terraflux Mana, a vibrant green energy formed from the balance between heaven and earth. It exists throughout environments across countless worlds, sustaining ecosystems, stabilizing terrain, and preserving the structure of life itself. Its green hue represents growth and harmony, and only those who have reached the Ascendant rank can begin to refine and absorb it.
The third is Necro Mana, a dark crimson energy often referred to as dead mana. It forms when an Immortal dies and their Vitalis Mana decays into a corrupted state. This red glow carries remnants of death and destruction, and unlike its original form, it can be absorbed by other Immortals or spiritual entities, though it is unstable and dangerous.
The fourth is Astryx Mana, a pure white energy born from stars, planets, and entire solar systems. It is the force that sustains cosmic balance, ensuring celestial bodies move in harmony and maintain universal order. Its white radiance reflects purity and absolute structure, and it cannot be absorbed by any being below the level of a True Deity. Should a solar system lose this mana, it will collapse into destruction.
The fifth type of mana, however, is something that should not exist. Known as Aurion Mana, it manifests as a radiant golden energy unlike anything recorded in history. No ancient scripture acknowledges its existence, and no known being understands its origin. It does not belong to the body, the environment, death, or even the cosmos itself. It cannot be detected, measured, or explained. Its golden light does not follow the natural order, and because of this, it has long been ignored as impossible. Yet, within a system where everything is bound by laws, Aurion Mana stands as an exception—an unknown force that defies all rules, and perhaps, the only power capable of breaking the Law itself.
