Magic Systems (Galaxa)

The Magic Systems of Galaxa are among the most defining aspects of the universe, blending the metaphysical with the technological in a cosmos where science and mysticism coexist. These systems—Magicka, Astral, and Teleka—are entirely distinct in function, energy source, manifestation, and the principles that govern them. Though they share the commonality of being observable and occasionally measurable by sufficiently advanced science, their inner workings remain partially obscured by forces beyond comprehension.

Overview

Each magic system is wholly isolated from the others in its natural state. They may only directly interact when physically manifested within the Median Plane, the primary reality experienced by mortal species. The majority of beings in Galaxa are attuned to only one magic system, and this attunement appears biologically encoded, though the specific anatomical determinant remains unknown. Questions such as why some species or individuals are attuned, and what determines this affinity, are mysteries yet unsolved, even by the most advanced societies and divine scholars.

Functional Separation

Each magic system has a unique source plane from which it draws energy:

Magicka is drawn from arcane channels that pulse with universal resonance and is associated with the Ethereal Plane.

Astral energies flow from ethereal pathways tied to emotional and psychic forces and is associated with the Astral Plane.

Teleka connects to fundamental currents of existence and motion, almost like a language coded into spacetime itself and is associated with the Teleka Plane.

These energy systems do not overlap, intertwine, or blend under normal circumstances. Attempts to artificially fuse them have often led to volatile, destructive anomalies or failed completely.

Learning and Mastery

Contrary to many assumptions, no system is inherently easier or harder to master. Rather, each system demands a distinct mental, spiritual, and philosophical alignment. Early adepts may struggle equally regardless of attunement. Some systems rely more heavily on emotion, others on discipline or faith, and mastery often reflects the personality and nature of the user.

Training in any of the three disciplines requires not just aptitude, but devotion to understanding the source, flow, and boundaries of one's magic. Cross-attunement is considered impossible, though exceptions exist in the form of legendary figures known as Aspects (Galaxa), whose spirits are reincarnated with the rare ability to access all three systems.

Science and Mystery

Advanced Galaxian societies have developed tools to detect and measure the energies of each system. In some cases, technologies even tap into these energies for functional applications. However, while energy fields can be recorded, and phenomena mapped, science fails to explain why only certain beings can use them, or why energy from one system simply "fails to respond" to someone outside its attunement.

This persistent gray area between the empirical and the spiritual forms the foundation of Galaxa's enduring mystery—and its conflict. It has led to sociopolitical rifts, factional divisions, and entire galactic wars over how these systems should be studied, regulated, or worshipped.

Inter-system Manifestation Only when energy is manifested within the Median Plane can it be seen interacting with another magic system. For instance, a Magicka ward can block a Teleka strike, but only because both are temporarily rooted in a shared physical space. Outside of that manifestation, the systems remain non-overlapping continua.