Ether is the term for a very wide range of abilities which are similar to magic, but are derived from a variety of sources present or limited to each series.
Ether in Xenogears[]
The Zohar is the source of all Ether power used by the planet's inhabitants.
The Zohar's power comes through something called Phenomenon Phase Shift - in short, the Zohar calculates different possible phenomena, then 'selects' the one closest to the desired phenomena. However, it does not have a 'will' of its own.
Those who use Ether are, in short, borrowing this process. The greater one's connection with Zohar, the greater their ability to "interfere" with the Zohar, which allows them to do seemingly miraculous feats beyond human capabilities, such as creating fireballs, to being able to take on Gears.[1][2][3] Even the martial arts techniques of Fei Fong Wong, which in-game are called Chi, are ultimately just Ether as well, as are Citan's Arcane Arts.[citation needed]
History[]
It wasn't until 9088 that the first mention of person using Ether appears, with that being Adoriel, the first founder of the Nisan Sect. As word of her abilities spread, what started as a local doctrine tied to the region between current-day Aveh and Kislev grew unto a religion.[4]
The amount of people who could use Ether became notable around the Shevat-Solaris War, which lasted from 9497 to 9500.
After the Diabolos Collapse in 9501, which eliminated the majority of humanity, those with Ether abilities were often numbered among the survivors, and passed on their abilities to future generations.[1]
Amplification and Artificial Use[]
While most Gears are compatible with the use of Ether, more advanced models, such as Solarian Gears and Omnigears, sport higher Ether Response, amplifying the capabilities of their pilots. Basic Ether Engines simply supersize Ether abilities, such as turning a lightning bolt or energy beam into a Gear-sized lightning bolt or energy beam. More advanced Ether Amplifiers make those abilities more dangerous.
AERODS are a form of Ether Amplifier, turning a pilot's Ether abilities into the ability to control drones and ships with their thoughts alone, as well as fuel those drones with Ether energy to fire beams and lasers. It's stated that only the most powerful Ether users can control AERODS. Of the characters in the game, Elehayym Van Houten, Myyah Hawwa, Emeralda and Dominia Yizkor all use AERODS.
Ether in Xenosaga[]
| “ | Short for "Especial Theory of Rudimentary."
A generic term to denote various types of special powers. It encompasses everything from paranormal abilities, to medical treatments using nanomachines, as well as the ability to control spatial dimensions using transference technology. The Ether skills used by Shion, KOS-MOS, Ziggy, and MOMO can be categorized into two types: those using applied transference technology, or special skills which use nanomachines. In real life, "ether" is a hypothetical medium with special light-conductive characteristics which is believed to fill air and space.
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Ether is short for Especial Theory of Rudimentary. It consists of a very wide range of abilities which are similar to magic but based upon scientific reasoning to various degrees, depending on the source.
Some characters have the ability to tap into the nano abilities for medical and attack purposes, and they will usually say something like "Open Ether Circuit!" or "Ether drive!" when using Ether. Some Ether abilities include the Medica series (uses nanomachines to heal), attack Ethers, and countless others.
Ethers
Ethers during gameplay in Episode I.
Shion healing herself in Episode II.
There appear to be many versions of Ether, hence the generalized name. While most characters and NPCs appear to use nanomachine based Ether (even recovery items appear to be nanomedkits), some characters rely on different sources. Several characters exhibit energy emission and manipulation powers as well as psychic powers and physiological abilities beyond the human norm which can either be explained by contact with Zohar, U-DO, some form of mutation, vague skills or through transference technology. A few characters prominently exhibit the ability to summon equipment via teleportation. This is likely done through the U.M.N. however biological beings are noted at being unable to cross space this way without detrimental effects.
In Episode II, combination Ethers were used by the characters both inside and outside of their E.S. Notably Episode I featured unique character Ether based upon their professions or species. Gnosis and other humans are also known to use similar effects. Although U.R.T.V. units like Albedo and Rubedo can regenerate or 'preserve' themselves in that order, this may or may not fall within the Ether classification.
Etymology[]
Ether may come from the word "aether," which is the Greek personification of the sky/heaven, from Aether, the substance that supposedly fills all of space and was often considered a fifth element in science and philosophy. Aether was also the substance which was breathed by the Olympian gods (as opposed to the aer, or air, breathed by humans).
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