Background:

The process of creating solid matter out of Flux, using a different and more theoretical kind of Equation has been being used for centuries. Even before 0SD, Foldships navigated the universe, piloted by Ebons wearing Deathsuits, carrying Flintlocks for protection... The list of practical applications for Ebb Reactive material is practically limitless. But very complex.

The theory behind the process is based around unsolvable equations, or "Neutrals". To explain this, you will have to imagine Flux as a liquid and a Hyperbolic equation as the construction of a path for the flux to follow. Using techniques still not quite pinned down by Ebon tutors, an unsolvable equation is constructed (no mean feat), and then formulated in the normal way. The process of formulation is halted at some stage close to what would normaly be its resolution. This stopping point forms into a "Block", an insurmountable calculation or a logical impossibility which stops the Flux in its tracks. This "wash" of flux manifests itself in the physical world as a black viscous liquid which, via manipulation techniques and special equipment, can be shaped into useful structures and items.

The theory behind this is simple to grasp on a basic level. Actually using these techniques in practice, or even trying to associate this with any kind of physical or Ebb-related laws, is practically impossible. Therefore the rank of this skill is limited by Formulae, as it represents the culmination of understanding the nature of the Ebb.

The Matrix:

The nature of Science Friction, contrary to most peoples ideas, is not that much different from steel, or possibly very tough stone. It is fairly brittle unless under mental control, and will shatter rather than bend. The perceived unique nature of Science Friction, namely the ability to construct seemingly living objects (like Deathsuits and Foldships) from it is actually not so much the material as the conductivity of the material and the complex arrangement of the Matrix.

Science Friction items can be catagorised into two groups, Chargable and Non-Chargable. Chargable Sci-Fri has a Matrix existing alongside it (see "The Parallel nature of the Ebb", coming soon) which conducts and channels the Flux in certain directions, and allows Glyphs to be inscribed, Flux to be stored etc etc. More complex Matrix have the ability to become partially sentient (in the case of a Deathsuit), or refine and improve Hyperbolic Equations.

The potential for the Matrix has bearly been touched upon, and potential for many weird and wonderful creations exist. A Gore-Cannon is, essentially, an extremely complex and particular Matrix, and if these "Creatures" can be adapted in the same way other Matrix can, it would go some way towards explaining the strange nature of many of the Myths and Fables that reportedly exist within Downtown and the Cannibal Sectors...

Abilities: