[quote=The_J]
So how does all this stuff work with Codex, ranks, etc.?
[/quote]

Codex are keepers of laws of physics. They used to be guardians of Triggers, the eight items and eight being that could destroy code, basically what everything is made of. But all the Triggers were destroyed in the war, leaving the thirty two Codex completely free. Each one has a different ability, and all of said abilities require incredible calculation skill on the Codex's part to actually perform his or her ability. Ranks (also called "Levels" and "Priority Ranks") are how the Codex council determines the strength of the Codex in question, and when put directly against the physical law control of another Codex, which will take priority and overtake the other. Rank is based on both the calculation skill of the Codex and the ability itself.