Mana

In the world of Shards of the Altar, Mana is not a supernatural phenomenon. It is the energy in the world around all. Every form of energy, whether that be the thermal radiation from the belly of the planet or the kinetic motion of a quake, is a force to be manipulated. Factions that came from species with "magic" abilities are able to tap into this energy because of their biology. Those that cannot, or those not satisfied with their limited natural potential can use catalysts to bolster their capabilities.