Imagined
beings are a unique class of entities in the universe, existing solely
because of the collective faith and belief of mortal civilizations.
These beings are born not from physical origins, but from the intangible
realms of imagination, prayer, and myth, shaping their form and powers
according to the hopes, fears, and ideals of those who invoke them. As
societies evolve and change, so too do the imagined beings, constantly
shifting in appearance and influence to align with the evolving needs of
their worshippers. They can be deities, mythological creatures, or
spirits, each one embodying the values and desires of those who created
them. The power they wield is derived entirely from the devotion of
their followers—be it in the form of prayers, rituals, or simple
belief—and they thrive and grow stronger with each new believer.
However, the inverse is just as true; if the belief falters or wanes,
the imagined being’s power diminishes, leading to their eventual decline
and disappearance.
These
beings are born of the collective consciousness of civilizations,
becoming representations of what mortals need or fear. For example, a
god of war may take a terrifying and powerful form, embodying the
aggression and violence of its followers, while a god of fertility may
be gentle and nurturing, symbolizing hope and prosperity. The
appearance, powers, and actions of these imagined beings are not set in
stone but can change over time, often shaped by the changing culture or
circumstances of the people who worship them. As a result, imagined
beings may evolve into entirely new forms or fade away entirely when
they no longer align with the evolving consciousness of their believers.
In some ways, they are reflections of the civilizations that worship
them, representing their core ideals, goals, and anxieties. And while
these beings may appear to be powerful and eternal, they are ultimately
tied to the will of those who believe in them. Without faith, they are
nothing more than empty concepts.
The
existence of imagined beings is an intimate and delicate dance with the
mortal world. Without belief, they would cease to exist, losing their
form, their power, and their purpose. It is the unwavering faith of
their followers that grants them life, and this cycle of belief is what
fuels their continued existence. The strongest imagined beings are often
those with the largest number of followers, as the sheer collective
force of belief can shape them into nearly omnipotent entities, able to
influence the world in profound ways. However, this also means that
imagined beings are incredibly fragile, reliant on the ongoing devotion
of mortals to retain their strength. When a civilization collapses, or a
belief system fades into obscurity, the gods born from it will slowly
weaken, their powers waning until they are no longer capable of
influencing the world. In extreme cases, entire pantheons of gods may
vanish completely if their followers no longer exist to remember or
worship them. This cyclical nature of creation and destruction makes
imagined beings a symbol of the fragility of belief and the impermanence
of all things in the universe.
Lesser
imagined beings are a unique class of entities created by the gods or
powerful imagined beings to inhabit and maintain pocket dimensions.
These beings are generally born from the collective consciousness and
imagination of the gods, existing primarily to serve specific functions
or to act as fillers within the fabricated worlds. Unlike full-fledged
gods, lesser imagined beings are not intrinsically powerful, but their
strength is often dictated by the needs of the dimension they inhabit
and the belief of mortals. These beings, often forged from the concepts
of fear, desire, or the darker sides of imagination, are generally not
worshipped but rather revered or feared as symbols of the unseen forces
that govern these realms. While they may possess abilities that make
them useful within their designated dimensions—such as control over
nature, elemental powers, or the ability to manipulate reality to some
extent—they are largely subservient to the will of their creators,
serving as enforcers or regulators in the pocket realms.
On the
other hand, mythical creatures are born out of the collective
imagination and belief of mortals, created by their fears, hopes, and
legends. These creatures are not as powerful as gods or imagined beings,
but they are still potent in their own right, existing outside the
bounds of typical reality due to the intense belief that mortal
societies place in them. Much like the yokai in Japanese mythology or
various other folklore creatures around the world, mythical creatures
are often symbolic representations of human emotions, fears, and moral
lessons. They embody human desires or nightmares, ranging from
protective spirits that serve as guardians of sacred places to
terrifying monsters that punish misdeeds or safeguard hidden truths.
Mythical creatures often occupy the space between gods and mere mortals,
with abilities tied to their mythic nature but lacking the divine
essence that grants immortality or godhood.
The
significant difference between lesser imagined beings and mythical
creatures is their origin. While lesser imagined beings are
intentionally crafted by gods or powerful beings to maintain certain
aspects of their fabricated worlds or pocket dimensions, mythical
creatures arise spontaneously from mortal imagination and belief. They
are not "created" in the same way, but instead, they exist because
humans collectively believe in them. These creatures have more autonomy
in their nature, often defying the control that gods might have over
lesser imagined beings. Despite their lower status and limited powers
compared to true gods, they are still potent forces in their respective
realms, living off the reverence and fear of the mortal minds that
birthed them. Some mythical creatures, however, gain power over time as
more and more mortals believe in them, their legends growing stronger
and their abilities expanding as their mythic tales evolve. Thus, while
they are not as powerful as gods, they remain significant within their
cultural context, shaping the world through the power of myth and
belief.
Pocket
dimensions are ethereal spaces that exist outside the mortal realm,
created by the will and power of imagined beings. These dimensions are
not bound by the laws of the physical world but are instead shaped by
the beliefs, prayers, and desires of mortals. They serve as realms where
the ideas and ideals of those who worship the gods or pantheons can
continue to grow, evolve, and manifest. While they may not be tangible
in the mortal realm, these pocket dimensions are very real to those who
believe in them. A good example of this concept is the idea of heaven
and hell—distinct realms where souls are believed to go after death,
shaped by the values of different cultures. However, it’s important to
note that the imagined beings and the souls of the dead exist in
separate, distinct realms within these pocket dimensions, each with its
own structure and purpose.
The
realms of imagined beings are vast and complex, functioning much like
fully developed societies or cities. These dimensions are built around
the ideals of the gods that created them and reflect the narratives and
values held by the civilizations that worshiped those deities. At the
core of these realms resides the main god or imagined being, surrounded
by their closest followers, angels, or mythical creatures that serve as
messengers or enforcers of the god’s will. These lesser beings are born
directly from a higher imagined being, existing to serve the gods in
various capacities—whether by carrying out tasks, managing the flow of
prayers, protecting the realm, or even interacting with the mortal
world. The lesser imagined beings are able to breed amongst themselves
after their initial creation, creating a new generation that continues
to serve the gods and maintain the balance of the realms. These
societies are not stagnant; they are active, evolving, and filled with
complex interactions that mirror mortal societies but exist solely
because of divine and mortal belief.
While
these pocket dimensions house imagined beings, they also serve as spaces
for the souls of the dead. However, it’s important to distinguish that
the souls of the dead occupy separate areas from the imagined beings.
Souls are not a part of the active, living societies that the imagined
beings rule over; instead, they exist in their own dedicated areas of
these dimensions. These realms can act as resting places where the dead
can reside according to their beliefs and the values they held during
their lives. Some gods reward their most faithful followers by granting
them a peaceful afterlife, while others may punish or test the souls
that were less faithful. These realms also allow for communication
between the imagined beings and their mortal followers, as messengers or
lesser beings might visit the mortal realm to deliver messages, receive
prayers, or influence the events in the physical world. In this way,
the pocket dimensions form an essential part of the divine economy of
belief, allowing the imagined beings to continue to exist, maintain
their power, and shape the world according to their will.
The Daemari are a distinct race of imagined beings that originate from
Orias’ appearance and the world of Veritas. When Orias ruled Veritas, he
was the god of the underworld and of destruction. It was during this
time that he created a race of lesser imagined beings in his own image.
These beings were designed to reflect his powerful, devil-like
appearance, and they became the foundation for the Daemari race. Orias
and Caym cannot produce children of the same skin color as themselves.
Orias can only produce pink and purple-skinned offspring, while Caym can
only produce purple and blue-skinned children. This ensures that the
offspring will always have less strength than their parent. When Daemari
with blue or lower skin tones breed, their child will inherit a mix of
their hues, resulting in a skin color somewhere between the two parents’
tones.
Orias created the race of lesser imagined beings modeled after himself
and Caym. The Daemari have devilish features—pointed ears, horns, and
tails—but their strength and societal roles are determined by the color
of their skin and the size of their horns. The closer a Daemari’s skin
is to red or pink, the stronger and more respected they are within
society. Conversely, those with yellow skin are the weakest. There is no
orange skin among the Daemari, and blue is considered the highest skin
color among the lesser imagined beings. Only Orias can create pink and
purple Daemari with his children, as these colors are directly tied to
his divine bloodline. If Orias were to breed with a mortal, however, the
resulting offspring would have the characteristics of the lesser
imagined beings, typically reflecting the skin colors found within that
group.
When Caym fled to Rycelis and conquered the gods of that planet, he
established a new religion and recreated the Daemari race. However,
unlike Orias’ lineage, there are no red or purple Daemari in Caym’s
domain, as he is the most powerful being on his planet. His new creation
only involves pink, blue, green and yellow Daemari, with the
blue-skinned ones holding the highest rank in Caym's society. Orias,
cursed to only produce male offspring, uses his mortal spawn as
livestock. These sons are primarily born with blue, green, or yellow
skin, reflecting the race they are mixed with. Occasionally, a purple
Daemari is born to Orias, but such births are rare. By the time of the
story, only two purple Daemari exist: Hollice and Hollin.
Rycelis
is a remote, ice-covered planet located far from the bustling centers
of the galaxy, with an environment that is both harsh and serene. The
planet experiences only eight hours of darkness each day, which
contrasts with its long daylight hours, where the light reflects off the
icy landscape, giving the planet a cold, yet peaceful aura. The
atmosphere is thin, and the temperatures rarely rise above freezing,
making it an inhospitable place for most species. Despite these
challenges, the Rycelians have adapted to the conditions, thriving in
this unyielding world. Their cities are built from ice and metal, with
intricate designs that harmonize with the natural landscape, while vast
rural areas stretch out into the cold, offering the Rycelians space for
their agricultural practices. The planet is rich in resources that the
Rycelians harvest carefully, as their way of life is grounded in
simplicity, with little ambition for expansion beyond their religious
needs and their commitment to Caym.
Dysmaera,
the pocket dimension created by Caym, exists alongside Rycelis, a
spiritual and sacred place that mirrors the beliefs of the Rycelians. It
is a dimension of perfect order and serenity, an otherworldly space
where the Rycelians believe their souls will reside after death,
provided they live in accordance with Caym’s teachings. The dimension is
a vast and tranquil realm of floating cities, lush forests, and endless
fields of snow, where the air is pure and every element of existence is
bathed in peace and divine purpose. This dimension is a mirror of their
ideal afterlife, reflecting the peaceful existence that awaits those
who lead virtuous lives. The architecture in Dysmaera is simplistic yet
awe-inspiring, with structures made of a crystalline ice that shimmers
under the soft glow of the eternal sunlight. It’s a place that
transcends time and physical constraints, where the Rycelians can
connect with the divine and with the essence of the universe itself.
Dysmaera
is not just a spiritual resting place; it also serves as a realm where
Caym’s influence and power remain tangible, a place where his
worshippers can seek guidance and solace. The dimension is filled with
temples and sanctuaries dedicated to him, where blue Daemari priests
oversee the rites and rituals, ensuring that the spiritual needs of both
the living and the departed are met. These blue Daemari serve as the
intermediaries between the mortal Rycelians and Caym’s divine presence.
The dimension also reflects the social hierarchy of the Rycelians, with
the highest-ranking individuals receiving the privilege of residing in
the most serene and pristine areas of Dysmaera. Those who fall short in
life are believed to be relegated to less peaceful corners of the
dimension, where they must reflect on their failings until they can
redeem themselves. Dysmaera stands as a testament to the Rycelian faith,
a paradise that serves as both a destination and a constant reminder of
their religious commitment to a peaceful and fulfilling existence.
The
Crion are a towering, bovine-like humanoid species from the planet
Crios, a world that basks in constant warmth and light. These beings
stand at impressive heights, with powerful, muscular builds that make
them appear imposing at first glance. Their sheer strength is a defining
characteristic — capable of bending metal with their bare hands, they
have earned a reputation for their physical prowess. However, despite
their intimidating appearance, the Crion are known for their gentle,
peaceful nature. They are creatures of patience and calm, with a deep
respect for balance in both their surroundings and their personal lives.
Their
physical traits are distinct and awe-inspiring. Crion skin tones range
from ivory white to warm tan, mirroring the hues of the sun-kissed
landscape of their homeworld. Their hair is typically fair, often pale
blonde or white, and their eyes range from soft blue to green,
reflecting the clear skies and vast open fields of Crios. The most
striking feature of the Crion are the large, curving brown horns that
grow from their foreheads, extending upward and outward in smooth arcs.
These horns are not only a sign of their strength but also carry
symbolic significance, representing wisdom, age, and the connection to
their ancient ancestors. The horns are treated with reverence, often
adorned with intricate carvings or personal embellishments that denote
an individual's achievements or social standing.
Crion
society places immense value on family, and the concept of uniting under
one roof is deeply ingrained in their culture. Most Crion households
consist of two to three generations living together in harmony. This
close-knit structure allows them to pass down wisdom, traditions, and
crafts that have been honed over millennia. Elders are greatly
respected, and their advice is often sought on matters of great
importance. Family ties are strengthened through shared labor, communal
activities, and an unwavering sense of loyalty. A Crion is never truly
alone; they always have the support and guidance of their family
members, making them an incredibly resilient race.
The
planet Crios is a land of natural beauty, where vibrant landscapes
stretch across vast distances, offering a harmonious blend of open
plains, rolling hills, and tranquil rivers. The climate is Mediterranean
in nature, with long, hot summers and mild winters that encourage a
flourishing ecosystem. The sun-drenched environment nurtures expansive
fields of golden crops, particularly grains, fruits, and vegetables,
which form the backbone of Crios’ economy. The land is also home to
thick groves of olive-like trees, their gnarled trunks and lush green
foliage providing shade and sustenance to both the people and the
animals that roam the fertile plains. The rivers, crystal-clear and
cool, carve through the land, serving as vital sources of water for both
agriculture and the daily lives of the Crion people. The vibrant,
agricultural heart of the planet ensures that Crios is a place of life
and abundance, with communities spread across the landscape in a
peaceful and sustainable manner.
The
architecture of Crios is in perfect harmony with the planet’s natural
beauty. Crion homes and villages are constructed from locally sourced
stone and wood, materials that are abundant on the planet. Buildings are
designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape, with domed roofs and
open courtyards that take advantage of the mild climate and breathtaking
surroundings. The structures often feature intricate carvings and
artistic designs that reflect the Crions’ deep connection to their world
and their respect for nature. The homes are typically spread out,
creating tight-knit communities that are interwoven with the environment
rather than imposing on it. This integration with nature is a core
value for the Crions, who view their homes and surroundings as an
extension of their own selves. They have learned to live in balance with
the land, taking only what is needed and giving back through
sustainable practices that ensure the longevity of their society.
Crios is
a world where work and leisure coexist in perfect balance, reflecting
the peaceful and steady nature of the Crion people. The planet’s
agricultural traditions are deeply rooted in their culture, with most
Crions spending long hours tending to the fields, caring for the
livestock, or learning ancient crafts passed down through generations.
However, this dedication to hard work is always tempered by the
importance of rest, reflection, and socialization. Festivals and
communal gatherings are integral to Crion society, offering time for the
people to bond, celebrate, and honor their heritage. Music, dance, and
storytelling are common at these events, with the elder generations
often imparting wisdom and tales of the past. This culture of balance
ensures that the Crion people remain connected to each other, their
planet, and their history, fostering a deep sense of unity and peace
across the world.
The
Anrionion are a nocturnal species from the icy, desolate planet of
Anrion, where sunlight is a rare and fleeting phenomenon, gracing the
surface for no more than four hours each day. The planet is a barren
expanse, covered in frozen tundras and towering, jagged mountains that
reflect the cold harshness of the environment. With such limited
daylight, the Anrionion have evolved to thrive in the dark, adapting to
the planet's cold and the long nights that span the majority of the
year. Their physical appearance is striking, with nearly pure white skin
that seems to glow in the absence of sunlight, contrasting sharply
against their black hair, which is patterned with distinct white
streaks. The Anrionion's third eye, located on their foreheads, is a
feature that allows them to perceive more than just the physical world,
offering them heightened awareness of their surroundings. Their eyes,
with their purple-blue sclera and white irises, lend them an ethereal,
otherworldly presence that makes them appear almost mystical to those
who encounter them.
Anrion,
the planet they call home, is unforgiving. The constant cold wears down
not just the landscape, but also the people who inhabit it. The
Anrionion, being physically frail by nature, often struggle with health
issues when they venture beyond their homeworld, as their bodies are
ill-suited to the warmer, more hospitable climates of other planets.
Their frailty is exacerbated by the extreme conditions of Anrion, where
survival is a struggle. Life on Anrion has always been hard, but a
recent economic collapse has plunged the species into deeper poverty.
With resources dwindling and job prospects scarce, many Anrionion are
forced to live in extreme conditions, relying on minimal sustenance and
basic shelter. As a result, most of them are driven to search for
opportunities off-world, often seeking work or a better life elsewhere,
though doing so is not without its risks. The physical toll of leaving
their frozen homeworld can be immense, but the economic desperation has
made it a necessary choice for many.
Historically,
the Anrionion were a species that valued independence and
individualism. Their society was built on personal achievement and
self-reliance, with little emphasis on communal bonds or family
cohesion. Their economy was once robust, driven by resource mining and
trade, and as a result, they were known for their intellectual pursuits,
their advancements in technology, and their ability to navigate the
stars. However, as their planet's resources dwindled and the economic
systems collapsed, they have found themselves pushed into closer contact
with one another than they had ever envisioned. Family structures have
become more compact, with multiple generations often sharing living
spaces, forced together by necessity. The cultural norm of separation
and independence has been replaced by a grudging unity, with families
pooling resources to survive. The once self-sufficient and proud
Anrionion people are now in a position where the bonds of family and
community are a matter of survival. While this closeness is a stark
departure from their traditional values, it has become a necessary
adaptation to the harsh realities of life on Anrion. Despite this, the
Anrionion retain a sense of personal dignity, still holding on to the
idea that each individual is responsible for their fate, but now,
survival depends on cooperation more than ever before.
The
planet Anrion is a frigid, desolate world located in the outer reaches
of its star system, far from the warmth of the sun. It is a place where
the harsh environment shapes every aspect of life. With sunlight making a
fleeting appearance for only four hours each day, Anrion is enveloped
in near-perpetual twilight, its surface covered in vast stretches of
frozen tundra and jagged ice-covered mountains. The atmosphere is thin
and cold, with temperatures regularly plunging to levels that make
survival without advanced technology nearly impossible. The ground is
cracked and barren, with glaciers and ice sheets stretching out as far
as the eye can see. In the absence of natural warmth, the inhabitants of
Anrion have learned to survive by building vast subterranean cities,
where the temperature is controlled and life can continue in relative
comfort, though always on the edge of danger from the planet’s
unforgiving surface.
Anrion’s
geography is dominated by icy plains and deep, frigid valleys. The only
significant sources of natural warmth come from geothermal activity
deep beneath the surface, where pockets of heat create steam vents and
hot springs. These areas, though few and far between, are considered
prime real estate for the Anrionion, as they provide vital resources for
both food production and energy. In the cities, large domes and
underground complexes have been constructed to shield the population
from the biting cold, but even these refuges are far from safe. Frequent
snowstorms, freezing winds, and thick blizzards sweep across the
planet, rendering navigation across the surface treacherous and nearly
impossible without specialized equipment.
The beauty of Anrion is found in its stark, serene landscapes—long
stretches of snow-covered plains that glisten under the weak sunlight,
and majestic ice formations that create an almost ethereal, haunting
beauty. Yet, this beauty is tempered by the constant reminder of how
harsh life can be. The deep, silent cold of the planet is inescapable, a
force that shapes the character of its inhabitants, who have come to
view the planet not just as a home, but as an unrelenting force of
nature that must be constantly resisted and endured. While Anrion’s
environment might seem inhospitable, it has birthed a resilient people,
determined to survive despite the odds stacked against them. As the
Anrionion look to the stars, they dream of escaping the endless night
and finding a place where warmth and opportunity might one day allow
them to rebuild their once-proud civilization.
Lungorians
are an ancient and venerable species, their lineage stretching back
thousands of years. This race of reptilian humanoids is known for their
deep connection to the natural world, their spiritual practices, and
their unshakable wisdom. Their appearance is as majestic as their
reputation, with their scaly skin coming in a dazzling array of
colors—ranging from deep reds to vibrant blues, emerald greens to
shimmering golds—each pattern as unique as the individual. Their long,
wispy tails, tipped with dragon-like fronds, add to their ethereal look,
while the large horns curling from their heads only enhance the aura of
ancient power that surrounds them. These horns are not just ornamental,
but represent status and wisdom, growing and shaping throughout a
Lungorian’s lifetime, signaling their achievements and experiences.
Despite their formidable appearance, the Lungorians are not a race of
conquerors or aggressors; instead, they pride themselves on balance and
understanding, seeking to preserve the knowledge of the ages and avoid
unnecessary conflict.
The
Lungorians have a long and storied history, one that spans across
millennia. Their planet, Lungora, has seen the rise and fall of
countless civilizations. While many of these societies have either
vanished or left their mark in the annals of time, the Lungorians have
persisted, adapting to change while retaining their deep-rooted
traditions. They are both historians and philosophers, keeping detailed
records of their history and ensuring that the wisdom of the past is
passed down to future generations. This dedication to learning and
maintaining balance has made them respected not only on Lungora but also
in the wider galaxy. When a Lungorian does choose to leave their
homeworld, it is often to take on positions of great
responsibility—whether in governance, diplomacy, or as influential
advisors in various galactic sectors. Their ability to see the long-term
implications of decisions and their unmatched intellect makes them
invaluable in high-profile professions, even though they do not seek
power for its own sake.
Their
society is deeply hierarchical, with respect for elders and those who
have earned the right to lead, guide, or teach. In Lungorian culture,
the wisdom that comes with age is held in high regard, and those who
have lived through many experiences are revered as living libraries of
knowledge. Their society also places great emphasis on the importance of
unity and harmony, not just within their own species, but with the
surrounding environment and the other races they encounter. It is
through this mindset that the Lungorians have managed to maintain such
longevity as a race. While they may be slow to trust outsiders, once a
Lungorian forms a bond or makes an alliance, they will remain fiercely
loyal. Their commitment to the balance of all things has earned them the
respect and admiration of those who have encountered them. However,
they are not without their challenges; as an ancient and powerful race,
they sometimes face a burden of isolation, finding it difficult to
connect with younger, more impulsive species who do not share their
sense of patience or long-term perspective.
Lungora,
the homeworld of the Lungorians, is a planet of both beauty and danger,
shaped by the vast forces of nature over millennia. Its terrain is
diverse, with sweeping, towering mountain ranges, vast plateaus, lush
forests, and deep, winding rivers that carve through the land. The
climate is temperate, with seasons that shift gradually, and its weather
is often mild compared to other worlds. However, Lungora’s true
distinction lies in the deep spiritual connection its inhabitants share
with the land. The planet is rich in natural resources, and its flora
and fauna are diverse, though many of its species are adapted to the
planet’s specific environmental conditions. There are sprawling cities,
built into the sides of mountains and nestled among dense forests, but
much of Lungora’s population still lives in close connection to nature,
cultivating the land in a harmonious balance between urban development
and the wilderness.
The
Lungorians’ connection to their planet is spiritual as much as it is
physical. They believe that the energy of Lungora flows through all
things—earth, water, and sky—and that maintaining balance with the
planet is vital to their survival and prosperity. Sacred sites, such as
temples carved into the sides of mountains or hidden within the deep
forests, are scattered across the planet. These places are seen as the
heart of Lungorian society, where knowledge is passed down from the wise
to the young, and where the deepest truths of the universe are
meditated upon. These sacred locations are also where many of the
Lungorians undergo important rites of passage, marking key moments in
their lives. Here, the young learn not just about their history and
their responsibilities, but also about the delicate balance of power
that governs their world, and the broader universe. The planet itself is
seen as a living entity, one whose health reflects the health of the
Lungorian people, and as such, they treat it with the utmost reverence.
While
Lungora is largely peaceful, the planet has known its share of
challenges. Throughout history, Lungorians have had to defend their home
from invaders, though these conflicts are rare, as they are often able
to maintain diplomatic relations with neighboring planets. The
Lungorians’ wisdom has helped them avoid unnecessary wars, instead
relying on strategic alliances, trade, and the quiet strength of their
advisors to safeguard their world. Yet, the ancient knowledge they carry
is a double-edged sword, and there are always forces—both internal and
external—that covet it. In times of great unrest, Lungorians will take
up arms to defend their world, though this is always a last resort.
Their ability to stay calm in the face of adversity, guided by centuries
of wisdom, is what has allowed Lungora to flourish for so long, and why
their people are so highly regarded across the galaxy.