Sequencing

Sequencing is the intentional use of a spark to manipulate the æther, presumably to reach an otherwise inaccessible physical state. A spark can "tug" at areas of the æther within its aura. This creates imbalances in the æther, changing exergy to cause a desired effect.

Effectively, to sequence is to defy the second law of thermodynamics.

A fae can focus their spark in a specific part of their aura in order to improve their ability to sequence.

Most fae do not know precisely how the æther works; to a fae, sequencing feels like focusing hard on something and mentally picturing how it can change.

Uses

Abstractly, manipulating the æther primarily changes how a part of the physical world progresses through time. It changes change. Examples of common, simple uses of sequencing include: manipulating temperature or electric charge; temporarily changing the rate something decays; proofing an object against specific environmental hazard; catalyzing reactions; embedding or communicating information in atypical media; and so on.

The effects of sequencing are typically transient. Sequencing often requires creating a spot of far lower entropy, which will rapidly normalize with its surroundings. More permanent effects require the fae to sequence in a way so that, when the area does normalize, the state it falls into is the state desired. A very simple example of this is lighting a fire: a fae can sequence to force heat to follow toward the target, enough that it can ignite and sustain a fire even after entropy returns.

Sequencing a body is possible, although dangerous. It can allow quicker recovery from injury and illness, relief for chronic health issues, and even body customization. However, as bodies are complex organic constructs, mistakes are easy; fae prefer to visit trained doctors rather than try to fix something themselves.

Precision

Most fae can comfortably sequence within a volume of a few cubic centimeters inside of their aura. Larger or smaller scales become exponentially more difficult. More powerful sparks may be able to manipulate a range from a cubic millimeter to a few cubic meters.

Fae can more easily sequence when they focus. Focusing is easier when targeting a specific object.