Universal Cultivation Ranks
1. Novice → Novice+
2. Intermediate → Intermediate+
3. Expert → Expert+
4. Graduator → Graduator+
5. Master → Master+
6. Grandmaster → Grandmaster+
7. Paragon → Paragon+
Note: Each rank represents a fundamental increase in power, with the "+" variants marking peak mastery within that tier.
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Known Races
Humans: The dominant race within their territorial domain, organized around powerful bloodline families and supernatural cultivation systems.
Barbarians: A physically superior race capable of crushing human fighters of equivalent rank through raw strength alone, making them formidable opponents even when cultivation levels are matched.
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Human Domain & Politics
The Human Domain is governed by powerful bloodline families rather than traditional monarchy. Families are ranked in three tiers based on their strength and influence:
- Tier One Families: The supreme ruling houses (currently 8 of the original 9 remain active)
- Tier Two Families: Major noble houses with significant regional influence
- Tier Three Families: Lesser noble families with localized power
The Domain consists of nine provinces, though only eight remain active following political upheavals. Power is inherited through bloodline abilities rather than mere birth order.
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Energy Systems
Mana - Universal Energy
Definition: The foundational supernatural energy present in all living beings on Aethralis in varying concentrations.
Awakening Requirements:
- Constitutional awakening depends on individual mana capacity and sensitivity thresholds
- Genetic predisposition determines potential
- Can be cultivated by anyone who meets minimum awakening requirements
Core Mechanics:
- Functions as the enabling force for other supernatural abilities
- Stored and channeled through a mana core formed via meditation and energy cultivation
- Power level determined by genetic bloodline limitations
- Recovery: Vitality drain recovers naturally through rest, accelerated by meditation
Bloodline Abilities: Upon awakening, users manifest talents in three distinct categories:
- Augmenters: Enhance physical capabilities (super speed, strength, durability, etc.)
- Emitters: Project and control elemental forces based on genetic disposition (fire, ice, magnetism, healing, etc.)
- Variants: Manipulate reality through unconventional methods (telepathy, telekinesis, alchemy, enhanced crafting, etc.)
Key Limitations:
- Awakening locks users into one bloodline path permanently
- Elemental inheritance follows genetic patterns but can skip generations
- Rare dual-path users (Augmenter-Emitter combinations) are considered exceptional geniuses.
Aura - Conviction-Based Energy
Definition: A supernatural energy that awakens only in individuals with profound conviction or unshakeable will, powered by personal determination and vitality.
Awakening Requirements:
- Requires specific psychological/emotional triggers rather than genetic predisposition
- Dependent on strength of personal conviction and willpower
- Can be awakened alongside mana cultivation (dual-energy users possible)
Core Mechanics:
- Activation: Fueled by willpower - mental strength required to ignite aura
- Maintenance: Sustained by vitality (physical stamina), not life force
- Recovery: Vitality drain recovers naturally through rest, accelerated by meditation
- Enhancement: Strengthens physical capabilities based on individual will at current rank
Visual Manifestation:
- Appears as colored energy fields around the user
- Different color shades represent personality traits, moral alignments, and inner nature
(???):
Rank Scaling: Enhancement capabilities vary significantly between users of the same rank based on willpower strength and conviction depth.
Note: A third cultivation system exists but remains undisclosed.
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Equipment & Artifacts
Enhanced Weapons: Standard weapons improved through magical or technological means
Life Weapons: [...]
Arts: Specialized combat techniques requiring specific cultivation methods and training
Artifacts: [...]
Relics: [...]
Abilities: Supernatural powers typically inherited through bloodline or developed through cultivation
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Beast Classification
Mana-dependent creatures that follow the same ranking system as human cultivators (Novice through Paragon). Upon reaching Grandmaster rank, most beasts cease traditional advancement and begin developing through alternative tier systems, though rare specimens can achieve Paragon status.
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Ancient Structures
The world contains various mysterious locations from pre-human civilizations:
Ruins: Remnants of ancient civilizations with unknown purposes and dangers
Labyrinths: [...]
Dungeons: [...]
Note: These locations often contain valuable artifacts and resources, but are typically defended by powerful guardians or environmental hazards.
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This glossary contains only information revealed through current narrative progression. Additional classifications and details will be disclosed as the story unfolds.