Numina

Numina is the energy or etheric substance that mages can gather into themselves and shape to create magic. The more adept one is at absorbing it and shaping it, the more powerful they are. These are two distinct processes, and only 20% of those who can draw in numina are able to shape it effectively. Veranix Calbert is particularly adept at shaping.

Numina is attracted by napranium, which mages can then harness. Dalmatium, on the other hand, deadens the use by draining it. Theralium is another rare metal with magical properties (as yet unspecified?) Certain slow-growing wood has an affinity for numina. In addition, individual plant fibers can differ in their ability to attract it, but in such minute quantities that the idea of using them to create magic items seems preposterous.

Gemstones conduct numina as well. Using the mnemonic "robins sing daily to every open person," the list of most conductive stones are: ruby, sapphire, diamond, topaz, emerald, opal, pearl.