Symbology, also known as Heraldry or Runology, is the art of using Symbols to summon paranormal effects. The art of Symbology was introduced to the Pangalactic Federation by Ronyx J. Kenny after he visited Roak, though it wasn't mankind's first contact with the art. Symbology was first seen by mankind in S.D. 10 in Aeos, during contact between Earthlings and Eldarians.

Different planets had different understandings of Symbology. Roak and Elicoor had deep understanding of both attack and support spells. Expel's greatest understanding was of attack symbology. They also understood support symbology, but never discovered the symbols for healing. Also, some species have symbols inscribed on their DNA. Nedians and Featherfolk seem to have this in the majority of their members. The Lemurisians have this occur in only a small number of individuals. Some time after S.D. 366 this trait also began appearing in a very small number of Expelians.

Those who effectively use Symbology are called Symbologists, and are usually distinguished by tatooed Symbols in their bodies. Those who have symbological DNA, as described above, can use Symbology without the need of tatooing Symbols.

In later ages, many studies would be conducted on the nature of Symbology, with Dr. Robert Leingod conducting some dubious experiments on the subject many years later. Applying special symbols to a subjects DNA can grant unparalleled power. The Nedians used this in circa 4 billion B.C. to create the Ten Wise Men to quell a rebel uprising. The discovery of this technology by Earthling scientists in S.D. 772 is what prompted Luther to attempt to destroy the Milky Way. Fayt Leingod, Maria Traydor, and Sophia Esteed were altered with this technique in order to defeat the Executioners.

Symbology is actually the Eternal Sphere's processing code. To use Symbology is to manipulate the universe itself.

Dictionary EntryEdit

Star Ocean: The Last HopeEdit

SymbologyEdit

A technology whereby certain phenomena can be induced through the combination of invocation, marking, and mental power near an inscription of a special type of design called a symbol.

Star Ocean: Till the End of TimeEdit

SymbologyEdit

A technology discovered in 346 SD on the planet Roak whereby certain phenomena can be induced through the combination of the three aspects of invocation, marking, and mental power near an inscription of a special type of design called a symbol. This technology was known as heraldry in the past.

RunologyEdit

A secret art that may only be taught to selected members of the royal house of the Sacred Kingdom of Aquaria. The technique of runology, which is practiced by inscribing certain patterns known as runes on the body, and by combining special incantations and sigils, is able to effect a variety of different phenomena. Although the relationship between runology and that which is referred to as symbology in the Pangalactic Federation is unclear at present, it would seem that they are fundamentally similar.

Star Ocean: Second Evolution / The Second StoryEdit

The Origin of SymbologyEdit

The origin of symbology is not clearly known. What is known is that the practice of tattooing symbols onto the skin to enhance a person's latent talents has been in place through countless generations.