Arcadia Unbound

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By: @WeepingWisteria and @Elektra


In the distant future, humanity has colonized the stars, relying on advanced technology to thrive. But when an ancient structure is found within a meteor, presumably breakoff from another planet, a mysterious wave of arcane magic spread across the galaxy, awakening dormant magical abilities in millions.

For centuries, Arcadia has depended on this meteor, calling this catalyst the Resonance. Everyone must do their part to maintain the balance of magic, or else Arcadia may lose it permanently.

Unfortunately for you and every citizen of Arcadia, The Chronos Corporation has started dabbling in dark magic which threatens to shatter the careful balance and corrupt arcane magic beyond use. You are one of five brave magic users attempting to stop what would be an apocalyptic event.

Danger looms on the horizon line and only you and your crew can stop it.


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Spoiler
This story takes place in a distant future where humanity has colonized numerous planets across the galaxy, forming the United Terran Alliance (UTA), a powerful but corrupt government that controls the majority of human civilization. Advanced technology, including artificial intelligence, space travel, and biochemical enhancements dominate daily life.


Planet Arcadia V

  • A remote, mineral rich planet at the edge of human civilization.
  • Houses the ancient alien structure responsible for The Resonance.
  • Once an outpost for mining and research, it becomes the focal point for arcane magic, drawing interest from all corners of other planets and galaxies.
  • Harsh climate, with dark forests, vast deserts, and unpredictable weather patterns.
  • Large, technology driven cities are common.

Factions

Arcane Syndicate
  • A shadowy group of rogue mages who want to use arcane magic to overthrow the UTA. They believe magic should not be controlled and see the Hornets as destined rulers of a new world order.
  • Operates out of hidden bases, using military tactics and magic to destabilize the UTA.

The Chronos Corporation
  • A powerful megacorp specializing in biotechnology and space exploration. After discovering the profitability of arcane energy, they shifted their focus to researching, harvesting, and weaponizing magic.
  • Ruthless, they exploit both Hornets and the general population.

The Elders of the Void
  • A mysterious, secretive group believed to have ancient knowledge of the alien race that first wielded magic. They have their own agenda, using ancient tomes and artifacts to influence the events surrounding arcane power, often playing both sides.

The Order of the Red Sun
  • A cult-like group that believes the Resonance was the first step towards humanity's transformation into divine beings. They worship arcane magic.

Cities, Landmarks, and Regions

The Shattered Plains
  • Vast region marked by fractured earth and floating rock formations caused by arcane magic.
  • Dotted with rifts and anomalies.
  • Battleground for factions.
  • Powerful storms can arise without warning, strange creatures such as Stormwraiths, Riftwalkers, and Crystalfins.

Cities
Riftspire
  • City built on the edge of a massive rift.
  • Hub for research and resource exploitation
  • City of floating platforms and tethered buildings.
  • Home to the Obsidian Order, a group of arcanists and assassins who study and harness the energies that come from the rifts. They are Anti- Chronos Corp.

Arcanis Hollow
  • Nestled in one of the deeper fractures of the Plains
  • Underground city built into the walls of a canyon.
  • Hidden from the surface, with only a few well-guarded entrances leading into tunnels.
  • Largely controlled by criminals and mercanaries.
  • Black market for illegal magical artifacts and arcane tech.

Skyreach Citadel
  • Towering city built on one of the largest floating rock formations in the Shattered Plains
  • Military stronghold controlled by the Chronos Corp. The Citadel serves as their base of operations, from which they launch expeditions to seize control of arcane resources.
  • Super high tech

.𖥔 ݁ ˖ִ ࣪⚝₊ ⊹˚


The Verdant Expanse
  • A lush, jungle like region
  • Evolved plants and wildlife
  • Overgrown flora

Cities
Faymora
  • Hidden deep within the jungle.
  • Homes and buildings grown from the trees.
  • Center of the Circle of Verdance, a group dedicated to preserving the balance between nature and magic.
  • City covered in a thick canopy with streams of sunlight peircing through the leaves.

Arcwood
  • Ancient city of towering stone obelisks wrapped in vines and moss.
  • Situated near the heart of the Expanse.
  • Known for its arcane trees that absorb magical energy from the land and sky.
  • Controlled by the Woodshade Dominion.

.𖥔 ݁ ˖ִ ࣪⚝₊ ⊹˚


The Frostmarch
  • A frozen, desolate region in the far north of Arcadia V.
  • Covered in ice and snow year round.
  • Powerful arcane energy lies dormant beneath the ice.

Cities
Icecrown Bastion
  • Fortress carved into the side of a colossal glacier.
  • Ruled by the Frostwatch (Ice and Frost Elementals).
  • Snowstorms frequently come through.

Glacier's Edge
  • Located at the very edge of Frostmarch.
  • Mining town perched on the lip of a massive canyon.
  • Controlled by the Iceborn Syndicate, a mining cartel that profits from the work of crystal extraction.
  • Crystals harvested here are rare arcane crystals with magical properties.

.𖥔 ݁ ˖ִ ࣪⚝₊ ⊹˚


The Iron Dunes
  • Vast desert of red sand and metal ruins.
  • Shaped by ancient wars and remnants of arcane technology.
  • Dry and heavy air, scents of rust and magic.
  • Frequent Arcane Storms here, known as Arcana Storms.

Cities
Redspire
  • Directly in the heart of the Iron Dunes.
  • City built around an enormous Ruby. Melting pot for arcane scholars, technomancers, and traders who come to study the crystal.
  • Center of technological and arcane innovation.
  • The Technomancer's Guild and the Resonance Circle operate out of the city. They harvest energy from the ruby.

Rustfall
  • City built into the skeleton of an ancient war machine.
  • Known for scavengers, mercenaries, and outlaws.
  • Claimed by the Iron Clan-- a scavenger tribe.


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Spoiler
Sources of Magic

Arcane Energy
The fundamental force that controls the universe, often seen as a shimmering ether that flows through everything. Mages draw on this energy to perform spells, harnessing it from the environment, their own life force, or specific arcane artifacts or weapons.

☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓


Elemental Forces
Magic on Arcadia V is closely tied to elemental forces-- Earth, Air, Fire, Water, Light, and Darkness. Each element has its own unique characteristics and spells associated with it.

☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 𐦍 ☾𖤓


Anomalies and Rifts
Certain areas, such as the Shattered Plains, are rich in unstable arcane energy. These anomalies can amplify or alter spells, leading to unpredictable effects.



Magic Types

Conduit Magic
This is the most common form, where mages channel arcane energy through their bodies to cast spells. The strength and complexity of spells depend on the mage's training, talent, and health.

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆


Technomancy
A hybrid form that merges arcane magic with technology. Technomancers create devices that can harness or amplify arcane energy.

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆


Druidic Magic
Tied closely to nature, this magic emphasizes harmony with the environment. Druids can communicate with animals, manipulate plant life, and draw on the natural energy of the land.

⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾𖤓 ⋆⁺₊⋆


Shadow and Necromancy
Darker forms of magic that involve manipulating shadows or drawing power from death. Users risk corrupting themselves with this type of magic.




Spellcasting Mechanics

Incantations and Gestures
Most spells require verbal incantations and specific hand gestures. The complexity of a spell determines the length of the incantation and the precision.

✮ ⋆ ˚。𖦹 ⋆。°✩


Rituals
Some powerful spells require lengthy rituals involving multiple participants.

✮ ⋆ ˚。𖦹 ⋆。°✩


Focus Objects
Many mages use staffs, wands, or other objects as focus objects to channel their magic. These objects can enhance their abilities, store spells, or provide additional protection.


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Spoiler
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[b]Name[/b]:
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[b]Region/City of Origin[/b]:
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Meet The Cast


Aisling Taranis & Echo written by... Elektra

Carter Song written by... eulogy

Stella Carrera written by... avimoon

Clara written by... Iggy

Brynn Dalzell written by... ScarlettFire
“Ley moves and I am a couple feet behind, waiting.” - winterwolf0100
“Ley you will be fine because we all have magic powers that will protect you.” - WeepingWisteria

Ley, she/her
dreamer♡




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The descent into Arcanis Hollow was as disorienting as always. Echo's shuttle spiraled down through layers of jagged cliffs and tight canyon walls before finally landing on a narrow platform carved into a flat rock. The Hollow consisted of dark tunnels and a network of underground caverns bustling with black market traders, mercenaries, and arcanists. Everything was different than Redspire. It was darker, yet somehow better lit, and the streets gleamed with the hustle and bustle of trade.

If there was ever a place to find those who didn't care about Chronos Corp's influence, it was here.

He stepped off the shuttle, pulling his hood lower to blend in with the crowds swarming the platform. Dim lanterns casted light on wooden buildings, and broken neon signs. This wasn't the first time Echo had been to Arcanis Hollow, but it was his first time on an invitation. Apparently the person that invited him had a interest in taking down Chronos Corp as well, or at least in making their lives harder.

As he navigated the crowded passageways, he kept one hand on his Resonance Core. The energy here was different--fractured, unstable. The Hollow was a natural host for arcane disruptions, and it made his core buzz, picking up stray signals like a static filled radio.

After a few turns and a sharp descent down an extremely long hallway, he arrived at his destination: a dimly lit tavern carved directly into the canyon wall, with a small symbol painted above the door---a crescent. This was the Hallowed Moon.

Inside, the air was thick with smoke and hushed conversation. Eyes tracked him as he moved toward the back, where a woman sat, observing a dimly glowing map of Arcadia. The woman looked up as Echo approached, her violet eyes slightly glowing from the lanterns strung along the ceiling. Her hair, dark as night, was pulled back into a tight braid that trailed over one shoulder. She wore fitted black leather, and there was a striking mark on her arm--a swirling tattoo of the Obsidian Order. He knew her by reputation alone.

"Aisling Taranis," she introduced herself before he could speak, her voice low and smooth, "You're Echo. I heard you'd be joining us."

Echo spared a quick glance at the map spread across the table between them. "Word travels fast in the Hollow," he said with a faint smirk, "Seems like everyone here's got a bone to pick with Chronos."

"For the right price, most people here will take a swipe at Chronos," Aisling sighed, leaning back in her chair.

Echo studied her, "I didn't take you for the group type. From what I hear, you prefer to work alone."

Aisling's gaze shifted to him, "I do. But desperate times call for desperate measures. Chronos is… an exception."

He nodded, "So it's personal, then?"

She let out a dry laugh, "You could say that."

It was obvious they were waiting for others. It was no telling how long Aisling had been waiting here. She had large eyebags under her eyes and she yawned every few minutes, hinting at exhaustion. Has this girl been sleeping?

Echo awkwardly shifted in his seat and glanced around them, "So, what's your take on them?" he asked, "Chronos, I mean."

Aisling's facial expression changed into one of interest, "Chronos Corp isn't just some greedy corporation. They've got roots, connections everywhere--even in the places you'd least expect. They're like a parasite, weaving their influence into everything, sucking the life out of whatever they touch."

"Yeah, I've noticed," Echo replied, drumming his fingers on the table, "They don't just settle for resources--they want control. Arcane tech, minerals, artifacts… If it's got value, they're staking their claim. And now they've turned that same control against everyone. What is it about magic that makes them so desperate to hoard it?"

"Power," she replied simply. "Chronos has always been about that damn power. For them, magic is just another tool--a dangerous one, maybe, but something they think they can harness and bottle up. They see it as something they can own, like a piece of land. That's why we're here. To make sure they don't get the chance to ruin anything else. They've crossed too many lines, hurt too many people. If it were up to me, we'd burn their whole operation to the ground."

Aisling had a point. If it were up to Echo, Chronos Corp would've already been history. But now, ever since losing his family, he'd have something to live for. Something real and tangible.

Just as Echo opened his mouth to speak, the tavern door to the Hallowed Moon opened again.
“Ley moves and I am a couple feet behind, waiting.” - winterwolf0100
“Ley you will be fine because we all have magic powers that will protect you.” - WeepingWisteria

Ley, she/her
dreamer♡




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Gender Female
Points 2367
Reviews 46
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Collaboration with: @Elektra


It took Stella a few blinks for her pupils to adjust to the lack of natural light in Arcanis Hollow. Faymora was rich with it, so the artificial lights of this dim city were always a shock. Stella wet her lips nervously and took a step forward into the busy street, her apprehensive gaze flicking from sight to sight and effectively hiding the mind beneath, whirring with thoughts that were discarded as soon as they came into being. Darting out into the narrow streetway, Stella kept any signs of weakness to herself as she slid between two sneering men and dodged an exploring hand. She eased a breath into her lungs as she slunk close to the wall, her analytical gaze snapping to a woman looking her up and down, examining her scrutinizingly. Stella straightened, her lips curving into a pleasant, friendly grin. "Hello, miss. I don't suppose you can tell me where the Hallowed Moon is?" she asked in a sweet, cajoling voice.

The woman's lips pressed together in an unforgiving line. "It'll cost you," she said with a sneer.

The kindness vanished from Stella's eyes, something cold and sharp replacing them. "No, it won't," she said, the words low and threatening.

The woman sighed in exasperation, clearly deciding that the trouble wasn't worth it. "Fine. Take a few turns and then the steep stone stairs. You'll find it," she grumbled, giving Stella a glare before shoving herself off of the wall and slinking off.

Stella closed her eyes and sighed heavily. This is why she preferred Faymora. Shaking off the unpleasantry of the whole interaction, Stella followed the strange woman's directions (as she found herself doing many times in the history of her life) and found a door carved into the wall of the canyon, a crescent painted above it. Stella's eyebrows flicked up in surprise. Huh. The stranger had actually given her good directions. Interesting.

The door opened, and Stella stepped inside, walking past a stunned, tipsy-looking man and scanning the room. Her gaze landed on a woman with pale skin and violet eyes, and recognition coiled in her gut. Before she knew it, she was in front Aisling, disregarding her blue-eyed companion entirely. "You," Stella breathed, gripping the back of an empty chair tightly.

It took a moment for Aisling to recongize her, but something eventually clicked in her brain. "Stella. Nice to see you finally made it all the way from the Citadel."

Stella swallowed, awe softening her eyes and choking up her throat. The steel ring on her finger seemed to curl even tighter. "I... Thank you."

"Of course. I'm the one that invited you here," Aisling looked to her left where the companion sat, his gaze hardening as he took Stella in, "Echo. Nice to meet ya," he took a swig of the drink on the table-- some brown, bubbly liquid.

"Nice to meet you, too. Sorry I ignored you, I swear I'm normally not this rude," Stella said with a friendly quirk of her lips, pulling the chair out and sitting down, gracefully at ease.

"No worries," Echo leaned back in his seat, crossing his legs casually, "So, what brings you here? What do you have against Chronos?"

Stella's friendly expression faded, pain flashing across her features as her eyes clouded with memories. "They killed my parents and tried to force me to join them. Naturally, I refused and ran away. Aisling found me, got me across The Ether Sea." Her gaze softened as she realized that the man in front of her probably had a story to tell, too. "How about you?"

Echo hesitated, "We have similar stories. I was part of the Resonance Circle... they massacred everyone I loved. I've been waiting for this day for... months."

Stella gave him an earnest, empathetic look. "My condolences. Still, I am honored to share this journey with you."

"We have a couple more people coming," Aisling looked down at a map in front of her, pushing her dark hair out of her face, "Once they get here, we'll discuss locations. Where we're gonna start. I have some ideas-- but I won't go through with them unless I get the 'okay' from everyone first. We're a team before anything else."



sometimes you just have to cry over spilled milk, and that is okay
— Youbeaucupid