Orahi are both nano-mechanical and chemically active. They have a hive mind artificial intelligence programmed through a quantum network. Their ability to be chemically active means they can bind to molecules of most types of matter. Once bound, they can use their mechanical nature to motivate the element in a manner programmed into the hive mind.
Orahi can motivate the basic elements of fire, water and earth. If given the means to attach to things less porous, the can motivate things like wood, metal, and plastics. It requires millions of orahi particles to manipulate even the smallest flame, and except for fire, they lack the energy to motivate a substance beyond a few seconds. Since fire infused orahi is the most common use, living fire is referred to as orahi.