Chapter Text
The planet Empyrean is divided by five lands and governed by a ruler of ancient bloodlines. These lands, aligned with the directions of North, South, East, and West, surrounding the Equator. At the center of the Equator stands a giant tree, its red leaves reaching into the heavens. Many whisper that the tree is connected to a soul, but the truth remains a mystery.
Despair, the tree goes by.
The Equator is the largest and most perilous of all regions, and is home to outlanders (those who have been banished from the other lands). It is a place of decay, with abandoned buildings and uncivilized groups killing for survival. Additionally, there is a train station that serves as the last tether connecting the Equator to the rest of Empyrean to travel to the four lands. But every human is granted only three tickets. use them all, and you will be forever bound to the land where you last stand. Return to a land from which you’ve been exiled, and face the wrath of the land's guardian.
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The South
Current Ruler: Lord Efear
Rank: 5th High Rank
The southern lands are known for their violent, oppressive rulers. Lord Efear continues this cruel tradition, though those who stay silent and follow his harsh rules may avoid his wrath. Knights patrol every corner, enforcing strict laws.
The West
Current Ruler: Lord Vitran
Rank: 4th High Rank
In contrast to the South, the West is a land of order and protection. Lord Vitran rules with a strong sense of justice, believing that law and fairness should come above all else. The Vitran family’s lineage is said to be blessed by the light of Heaven, their land protected by a divine law.
The North
Current Ruler: Lady Vin
Rank: 3rd High Rank
A frozen land ruled by Lady Vin, whose icy demeanor mirrors the never-ending snow. Lady Vin has ruled for millennia, dismissing the need for knights to guard her territory as she's confident she can defeat any threat alone.
The East
Current Ruler: Lady Mediocry
Rank: 2nd High Rank
The East is a land of lush greenery and vast fields, where villagers live with nature. Often called Heaven by its inhabitants, this region thrives under Lady Mediocry and makes use of Mother Nature's creations.
The Equator
Current Ruler: ???
Rank: 1st High Rank
The great tree that dominates the skyline is said to be tied to the very essence of Empyrean, but the truth behind its existence remains hidden from all but a few.
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Every millennium, Empyrean’s bloodlines engage in a brutal contest of strength and skill. The five warriors who rise victorious are crowned as the High Ranks. Immortality is bestowed upon them, allowing them to rule unless they are dethroned in the next trial. Former High Ranks may still compete to retain their positions, but even the strongest must prove themselves time and again.