Fantasy Children of infinity- lore

[FearItself]

World history

The world of aria is a realatively large planet roughly 11,980 miles in diameter with no moons. A massive singular ocean spans the world dividing up its 3 large continents. However incredibly dangerous waters with massive creatures and super storms cuts one continent off from the other two. It is on that continent that our story takes place.

The large continent is home to 13 kingdoms that were a great empire 8000 years ago. This empire crumbled after the disaster known as the darkening. This disaster caused the air and water currents around the continent to become hectic and violent causing storms and whirlpools to drag ships and aircraft down. That is if the leviathans of the sea dont take them down. Even the mightiest of Dragons cannot escape. Cut off from the world and greatly disorganized this great advanced empire turned on themselves and a vicious civil war broke out. This war would last 1000 years as the factions repeatedly broke into more factions that continued to fight long after the great empire had been reduced to fighting with sticks and stones. The wars finally ended when the first recorded child of infinity was born and created the first of the 13 kingdoms, the nation of Xaxxis.

As the first perished the next was born in the then called wildlands and would go to forge a new kingdom on the opposite end of the continent. Eventually the wildlands were tamed as more kingdoms rose from the example of the other two. These nations would each grow and develop and soon after the last kingdom rose the gods of the old empire returned. They would split themselves evenly among the 13 kingdoms and teach the continent the wonders of magic. Thousands of years would pass with occasional conflicts breaking out between nations but the gods always intervening before a nation was ever destroyed entirely.

It wasnt until 30 years ago that things began to destabilize as suddenly across the world Hundreds of children of Infinity were born. Previously only one would ever be in the world at any given time, when they died another would be born. With their power to draw great abilities from the world itself that rival even magic these children became a sought after resource for many kingdoms. Then Ten years after that the gods fell silent without warning, no more would they speak to their followers and the powers of clerics and paladins began to fade. Finally the past ten years have seen the forces of magic itself begining to grow unstable and unpredictable. With the nation of Xaxxis gathering a large amount of children of infinity a power imbalance has begun to cause the fragile peace between nation to begin to crumble as the nations each begin to stockpile power in their own ways and brace for war.
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Magic

In the world of Aria magic is a force generated by a mages Soul. If it can use magic it has some form of soul this includes monsters. Mages draw power from within and blend it with natural energies to preform spells such as hurling fireballs and casting healing hands. This DOES NOT mean mages can have overarching abilities like pyrokinesis. A flame mage is simply a mage whose list of spells includes several flame spells such as fire whip, fire ball, flame bolt, pyroclysm etc. Being a fire mage does not mean you just "control fire". Keep this in mind and dont be afraid to multiclass and use healing and damage one neednt be a single focus mage.

Enchanments work in a similar way. The main difference being the mage puts a fraction of lifeforce into the spell to bind it to the item, usually using the life force of a monster. The amount of life force determines the duration and power of the enchantment. There are however incredibly rare artifacts made by the gods that have no duration limit and are amazingly powerful. Golems are also technically enchanted items.

Alchemy is the process of taking the natural energies within things like stones monster parts, plants, and a variety of different chemicals. These can create potions and gases and other strange things designed to react to the natural magics within whatever they are ingested or otherwise exposed to.

Domains are another name for the aura of the mage. It is a zone where the mages magic takes precedence usually located on and around a mage. This prevents people from controllong a mages mind, reading their mind, targeting the internal structure of their body such as organs and bones or causing their clothes to explode. You can fire attacks that can do alot of these things however you cannot make the effect spontaneously appear on the enemy with some invisible spell. (In short manipulating another persons character with auto effects, auto hits, and other such unavoidable shennanigans is not possible via magic, infinity power, or any other means.)

Passive magic is a thing that all beings in this world posses. Even if you dont choose to learn to cast spells. This allows warriors to achieve inhuman levels of strength, or theives to have stealth buffs that allow them to do what would otherwise be physically impossible. Like other magics these passive magics can be trained and will grow stronger with experience in that area. So a swordsman for example can get good enough to do that anime slash where nothing happens until they sheath their sword.
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Infinity powers are the abilities granted to the children of infinity. These powers fill their domain much like magic but unlike magic the power is drawn in from the natural world rather then in magics case where the power of the domain is forced out of the mage and into the natural world. This inverse of the usuall flow of magic causes children of infinity to be completely incapable of learning magic. They do however possess two quirks usually that make them valuable. Their passive magic is usually incredibly high making them have potential to become powerful in any class they aplly themselves too, furthermore their power does not have a tax on it they will not grow tired or "run out of gas" as it were. If a kid had the infinity power to hurl fireballs he could do so all day everyday no problem. Unlike mages however the Child of infinity will only ever have one "power". These powers vary from child to child and can range from powerful eye beams to the ability to transform into a variety of creatures. These abilities are also immutable and cannot be dampened, weakened, strengthened, exhausted, or otherwise altered. So for example a potion that makes a person slower would not be able to effect a child of infinity. However they are far from unkillable in most cases usually relying heavily on their personal power and being loners. The best rule of thumb to remember is you dont overpower or outlast a child of infinity. You out-think, out-strategize, or out-maneuver them because as the name suggests they dont have a bottom to their reservoir.
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[FearItself]

Xaxxis


The first of the 13 kingdoms to rise 6993 years ago. Due to their longevity they have a very detailed record of history and their libraries are where many of the worlds scholars and mages come to learn of topics of old. Bearing a style similar to ancient greece this nation exists near the northern coast with only two nations further north than theirs. They import large quantities of stones and precious metals refining them into ornate statues, jewelry, and other such treasures which they export for a large profit. The nations wealth was intially built by their knowledge of alchemy and craft allowing them to flourish in nearly every aspect of the economy of a nation.

The current Queen Mirabella has revently attained the throne and has opened her nation to all children of infinity who wish to live there so long as they enlist and serve 4 years in the xaxxian military as is expected of all their civilians. That said children of infinity are usually guaranteed more wages and promotions than others causing alot of jealousy and strife to break out. Worse still this seems to have caused the power balance of the continent to shift making many nations uncomfortable. Yet queen mirabella seems unphased by the concerns of the other nations and simply bolsters her own forces while paying for silence on the matter with lavish bribes and gifts.

Despite this trying time the rich of all nations still purchase goods and services from the nation of scholars, and the Taverns keep a steady supply of Xaxxian wine flowing out of the city. Yet they continue to pay handsomely for all their resources and are commited to maintaining fair trade relationships despite the growing tension.​

 

[DreadBirate]

Norswaeda

One of the last kingdoms to rise Norswaeda had remained unsettled by the neighboring original kingdom of Xaxxis due to the inhospitable terrain, it was originally settled by mountain tribes before the goddess Valaer encouraged them to unite under a single king. To protect their small kingdom massive fortifications were constructed, protected by powerful wards and spells to make them impossible to crack without overwhelming sorcery. Over the centuries they maintained a powerful if small army and refined the many aspects by which sorcery could be used in war. The reputation of Norswaedan warriors led to the kings establishing a section of the army as mercenaries hired out to other nations. Norswaeda has maintained an alliance and trade partnership, providing many of the precious metal resources.

The current King Faelin has begun calling back some of the some of the mercenaries with less lucrative contracts in response to the rising tensions. The King has also taken a different tack when it comes to the children of infinity, seemingly not making any attempt to recruit them, and strangely for 20 years no children of infinity have been known to have been born in Norswaeda with them seemingly being the only nation where they have not appeared widespread.​

 

[darkborn]

Rennedorian Empire
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One of the first nations of man to rise, and being among one of the first 13 nations to rise, the Rennedorian Empire has a long and diverse history, as well as government. Rising from the efforts of the legendary and mysterious 'First Emperor'- also known as Ceasar, many whom consider to be a god- the Rennedorian eventually grew to expand a vast amount of territories bordering on the western coast. With such a large tract of territory, and such a long history, it is a wonder than the Rennedorian Empire lasted this long, considering it is a nation of man.

Her secret lies in part with her emperors. They are possessed of a longevity only matched by elves, and all claim direct descent from the legendary Ceasar. However, this longevity is decaying with each generation. While the first three emperors reigned to nearly a millennia, each emperor after the last has lived shorter and shorter lives, with the last living Emperor, Scipius the Reformer, living only for three hundred years.

Another asset to the Rennedorians Empire's longevity is their bureaucracy. Divided into 7 major provinces, and containing multiple lesser ones, each of the seven major provinces represents the will of a famous saint, called a patriarch. Each province has their own strengths and weaknesses- Rael, for example, is noted for their superior scholars and magi, as well as a substantial strength in trading. However, Rael is not known for her knights or military might.

The Rennedorian Empire has a reputation of being...benevolently arrogant. In the past, they were known to impose their imperialistic will on many smaller nations, and build those said smaller nations up to prosperity as a province of the empire. This has garnered it a mixed view in the eyes of their neighbors. While many see the Rennedorian Empire as a potent defender from the horrors of the Demon Lands to the southeast, the pagans of the southwest, and the barbarians of the north; and a arbiter over lesser conflicts, they are always wary of her potential expansion.

The Rennedorian Empire has survived through two civil wars, one incursion by pagans, a confederacy of northern barbarians, and the ever constant threat of demons. However, age has begun to take its toll on the once ascendant empire. Provinces often engage in cloak and dagger against each other, and the bureaucracy is known to be inefficient. Though somewhat relieved by Scipius the Reformer, the current Emperor, Emperor Antellius the Forsaken has had his authority greatly undermined by the gods' removal of themselves from mortal matters. Further damning his position, he has had a son-Regalius- born to him. Every citizen of the Rennedorian Empire knows that when a child is born to the Emperor, his time to live is short.

Because of both internal and external matters, the Rennedorian Empire has not expanded in nearly 700 years. To their west is a vast expanse of ocean. To their north, a cold and unforgiving wilderness full of barbarians who have shown themselves able to unite against a threat from the south. To the south, lies the dual threats of the Demon Lands- surrounded by mountains, and perpetually covered in smoke and ash from the red mounts of death and destruction forever spewing forth magma- and the decadent sultans of the southern caliphates. To their east lies the greatest- and historically, most common route- chance of expansion. However, the nations to the east, fractious and bickering they may be, have formed an alliance to support each other to prevent further expansion.

With his loss of prestige, Emperor Antellius has in turn declared that every and any Children of Infinity within its borders must be trained by the church of Ceasar and join the Rennedorian Empire's army. While many in the Rennedorian Empire distrust these children of infinity, Emperor Antellius hopes that these potential powerhouses will help strengthen the military, and thus quell any arguments between the provinces.

 

[Tamriel]

RANKITA

Rankita was one of the first of the 13 kingdoms. In fact is was the third kingdom made. Most people go there to learn kung-fu and learn the samurai ways. It's a very peaceful place where you can just relax and not worry about anything.

They don't have any relations to the other kingdoms except for Xaxxia. Jakarta is good friends with Mirabella. When children of infinity are born they give them to Xaxxia because they think if they have the children then someone might want to attack and kill them. When they give them the children Xaxxia gives them supplies. Pandas frequent the area. They train people to ride them incase they're threatened by war.

The people there usually eat Rice balls and drink sake. There are other foods but Rice balls are the main food. Rankita is the only place you can get Rice balls and sake.

Rankita's weapons are Katanas, bows, and bamboo spears. They can also use kung-fu. Of corse they can also ride into battle on pandas.

Rankita doesn't have a government but they do have a council. The council says what happens but the kings opinion is highly viewed. Rankita is barely a kingdom it's more of a villiage.

The king right now is Jakarta Mudo. He is 70 and has a daughter that will take his place. He doesn't see the point in war and would rather talk it out. His daughter, Haruka Mudo, is 25 and actually wants to be in war.

The first king was said to have gathered a group of people and built Rankita. There he locked away the legendary artifact, The Staff of Saprolings. It has been locked away for many many years. Jakarta, the king as of now, has taken it out to protect his people.

Rankita is actually home to Feng Shui the god God of Martial arts, Master of all ki, and inventor of the Mixed Style martial arts. This 700 year old monk mastered ki to the point where he has in fact become ageless. His ki techniques can change weather patterns and level mountains, yet he has spent the past 500 years dedicating himself to teaching. He has many students and being the greatest teacher of ki in the world he is sought out excessively. However he is very selective and will only train those who he sees fit.​

 

[FearItself]

Kyphos

Long ago when the Nation of Norswaedia was being founded a schism rose between two factions of the original clans. Those who trusted in the Gods and the power of magic, and those who would rather rely on sinew and steel. Kyphos was a the nation that grew out of the latter group after they traveled nearly a thousand miles south. Unlike most nations who were extablished due to the comfort of their area, for the first kyphosians they found their home when they encountered the great plains tribes of orcs who fought well enough to force the Kyphosians to halt their march south. War camps would become Fortified positions and eventually mighty keeps as slowly but surely over the course of their bloody history the nation has grown.

Luckily for the soon to rise neighboring nations, the nation of Kyphos was so absorbed in their wars with the orc tribes that they never sought to expand, and the orcs wouldn't divulge to many resources to attacking the neighboring nations while having barbarian axes swinging at their backs. Unlike the many nations who found wealth in trade, craft, or magic, Kyphos was made famous for their warriors who were well known for being as terrifying as giants on the battlefield. Needless to say this history of violence shaped the culture of Kyphos, a nation that now views strength and action as the utmost importance. Its to the point that all crimes are handled by trial via combat between the victim and the plaintiff. If the victim was unable to fight a representative could be chosen for them. Here in Kyphos Last names are not given but earned, those who do great deeds get great names, which help in finding a mate.

Due to this it is often regarded as the hardest nation to grow up in. Many children from around the world hear stories of all the children who die long before adulthood there. Which while not entirely untrue is exaggerated in order to be used as a sort of boogeyman threat to use against the kids. Each city on Kyphos has their own king called Chiefs, a hard to maintain position as its gained by killing the previous chief in fair combat. However for purposes of dealing with other nations the 7 cities Cheifs will hold a tournament each year to determine the "King" who is the strongest amongst the Chiefs and thus the one who interacts woth other nations so that they will see the might of Kyphos. The Current King Is Bron Kyrule who earned his last name when he killed his cities Chief and proceeded to win the tournament for "king" 19 years and running.
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[FearItself]

Bancroft

A nation that grew not from military might, respurces, population, or magic, instead Bancroft was a nation born of Ingenuity and luck. Being the tribes of people the furthest south on the continent their position was a good one for fishing and farming yet what kept them alive during the bloodshed was their boats. In the early days they avoided conflict by tying together canoes and ships to create mobile floating cities. As the wars ended they finally began to lay down roots and discovered their land was rich in Copper, Brass, Iron, Flint, Gold, and Magicite. So began the era of Bancroft Genius. They were open to trade with any nation and quickly built up what they needed to take care of their people. Cities and walls went up in the first centuries and would continue to upgrade ever since.

However as impressove as the nations crafts were Bancroft didnt receive its boom until around 400 years ago, late to bloom for sure. It Came with their 128th king he man known as Thomas Bang. While thomas lacked impressive magic or physical prowess his mind was one of the sharpest in all history. His first invention was the Sundering staff which as soon as it was made more than doubled bancrofts military might. Soon afterwards he developed the sound cage technology that grants bancroft its advanced warning. Even still he was not satisfied his people still died in conflicts and many went without food and healthcare. This started Bancroft era of Automatons. He had great forges built all over his nation, and over the course of a few a decades replaced all soldiers in his army with autonomaton soldiers. This grew into an obsession for him as he did all he could to make more and more advanced warriors, ones that could think like humans, ones that could transform, even ones that remained hidden due ti their immense destructive potential.

Even as Thomas's body broke down and decayed around him he continued on. A replacement arm here, an artificial organ there. This would go on for over three hundred years. During this time he forged a powerful alliance with Norswaedia presenting them with the blueprints for the first ever airship, a project the nations both worked on. A century passed and the airforce of both nations grew much stronger but eventually Thomas came to the realization that even with all his ingenuity his time was running out. So he paired With Norswaedia's best mages and his nations best minds to begin his most difficult project yet. Forging himself a new body out of flesh and magic rather than metal. Sadly for the brilliant man the processes of transferring his mind would not be acheived before he perished. Yet the body was made, Timothy Bang the "son" of king Thomas. A perfect copy of Thomas's body at his prime, with a mind that was somehow sharper than before.

Since his taking the throne 18 months ago Timothy has improved on his "fathers" designs creating the Crown of the Machine king, which allows him to command the vast armies of Bancroft drones with his thoughts, and a variety of other gadgets including a prototype model for a new airship he claims will be the greatest one ever made. Better still with the nation opening its forges to the rest of the world and wealth pouring in the future of Bancroft been brighter, yet how will they handle the growing darkness in the world.​