Every Arcanus carries a core — a teardrop of living energy that fuels their elements, sets their rank, and shapes the length of their life.
The core energy is directly affected by health, sickness, and corruption. The amount of core energy depends on the rank of the Arcanus — the higher the rank, the larger the core. At Legendary, the core grows so large it can spill out and shape physical traits and the battle armor.
Elemental output is tied directly to the core. The bigger the energy, the longer it can be channelled and the larger the attacks. The core will automatically halt elemental use at 5% remaining to protect its host. Forcing that final 5% is a direct threat to health, and to life itself.
A bigger core does not automatically mean a more skilled user. Learning to use an element takes time, dedication, and sometimes talent — a skilled elemental user does not have to be of a high rank.
Any Arcanus can carry a weakened core. It may be temporary, caused by physical or mental health problems, prolonged illness, or exhaustion from over-exerting the energy. Damage from forcing the final 5% reserves can leave them permanently weakened and shorten their lifespan. In extreme cases, it can be fatal.
Very powerful Arcanus — mainly Legendary+ and some Warlords — can lose control of their core. It happens most to those who rise in rank quickly without being accustomed to the increase, or to those so corrupt they are no longer emotionally stable. A spike of anger or grief can be enough. The spill can be a soft tremor, or fully destructive.