Magic was an intrinsic force, woven into the very fabric of life itself. It is not something that was given to someone or can be learned by someone without an affinity for it, but it is something that pulses within certain individuals. A mage’s affinity is as natural as a bird’s instinct to fly or a fish’s need to swim, meaning that mages are drawn to a specific magic first but can learn how to wield them all even if at reduced effectiveness. From the moment of their birth, their magic resonates with them, subtly influencing their perceptions, their emotions, and even their physicality even if the magic itself has been gone. A fire-aligned mage might feel warmth where others feel cold, their body running slightly hotter than normal. A water-aligned mage may always feel comforted by the presence of moisture, their skin never drying out no matter the climate. This is because the bloodlines never truly died out despite the best efforts of The Witch Hunters, only going dormant.

Despite its natural presence, magic has always been a mystery. There is no divine origin, no sacred text that speaks of a moment of creation. It simply existed alongside the rise of sentient races as much as muscle and bone. Some scholars theorized that magic was a byproduct of the world itself, an energy born from the same forces that shaped mountains and oceans. Others speculated that it was the lifeblood of the earth, a fundamental component of existence like gravity or time. Whatever the truth, magic has always existed beyond the scope of mortal understanding. It has never been properly studied or explained. Even among those who possess it, no two mages are ever truly alike, their magic responding to their emotions, their desires, and the ever-shifting state of the world around them in ways unique to them like their fingerprints.

The loss of magic 2,000 years ago was, therefore, not just a disruption of power—it was a severing of natural truth, an amputation if you will, of something innate. Races that had once thrived with magic had to adapt, relying on intellect, technology, and sheer resilience to survive in a world suddenly void of its most powerful force. The knowledge of magic faded into legend, its existence doubted by many, its absence felt by none who had never known it. But for those who’s distant ancestors once wielded it there is a dull ache in the bones that can not be truly explained. Now, as magic begins to reawaken, it does not return as an external force that threatens to sunder our mountains or burn our cities but it resurfaces within an individual. And with it comes the question: if magic was suppressed, why is it no longer?

Devils

Devils are an ancient, powerful race that once ruled over their plane of existence known as The Infernal Dominion which is a realm of strict hierarchies, contracts, and ambition. Unlike Demons and other extraplanar entities, who embody chaos and destruction, Devils are beings of order and structure, thriving on law, control, and carefully brokered agreements.

Long before the fall of magic, Devils interacted with mortals, forming Infernal Pacts with warlocks, rulers, and scholars seeking forbidden knowledge or power. These contracts were always precise, binding the signee to their word. Entire empires rose under the guidance of Devils, flourishing through their influence, only to crumble under the weight of their bargains. The Witch Hunters saw Devils as a significant threat to the balance of the world and, in their crusade against magic, severed most connections between the mortal realm and the Infernal Dominion. This effectively trapped Devils in their own plane, cutting off their direct influence for the last two thousand years.

Though the gates to the Infernal Dominion have been closed for centuries, Tieflings, the mortal descendants of those who once made pacts with Devils, still carry their ancestral magic. Their bloodlines determine how Infernal power manifests in them, from flame-wielding sorcerers to masterful deceivers. However, with magic’s return, the question remains when these charismatic monsters will appear?

Monsters

"Another cruise ship went down this week. What is going on out there?"]

Monsters have always existed, their origins shrouded in myth, but they were never simply mindless beasts. In the earliest days, they were creatures of magic, embodiments of primal forces, nightmares made flesh, or remnants of forgotten civilizations. Some were born from the wild, shaped by the raw power of the world, while others were experiments of ancient mages or the result of infernal corruption. They roamed the land, sea, and sky, inspiring both fear and awe, becoming the foundation of countless legends.

For much of history, monsters were a part of life. Some races coexisted with them, forming fragile ecosystems where powerful beasts became sacred guardians or deadly predators. Others sought to control them—mages experimented on them, warlocks bound them to service, and warriors hunted them for glory or survival. However, as the Witch Hunters rose to power and magic waned, many monsters were wiped out. Those that relied on magic to exist vanished, while others were driven to the edges of the world, into deep caverns, uncharted seas, and the darkest forests. Without magic to sustain them, many were believed to have died out entirely, becoming nothing more than myths.

Now, with magic returning, so too do the monsters. Some awaken from centuries of slumber, others reemerge from hidden places, and some are born anew, shaped by the returning flow of arcane energy. Once again, the world must face the reality that it is not theirs alone—monsters are real, and they are no longer just stories whispered in the dark.

Humanity – The Dominant Innovators(Origin: Southern Africa | Lifespan 80-90 years)

Without magic, humans did what they do best—adapted and thrived. As the most widespread and populous race, they became the dominant force in shaping the modern world. From industrial revolutions to space exploration, humans spearheaded scientific progress, filling the void left by magic with technology. Their adaptability allowed them to assimilate and integrate all races into their societies, making human-led nations the center of global politics. While they have cities across the globe, humanity has truly flourished in the New World.

In the modern age, humanity is defined by politics, business, and media. They can talk their way out of most fights, make deals thought impossible, and are the biggest stars on the red carpet and online. Human ingenuity extends far, and their position at the top of the food change is a testament to this.

Dwarven Kind – The Industrial Titans (Origin: The Mountains of Eurasia | lifespan 95-105 years)

Without magic to shape stone and metal, dwarves became masters of engineering, construction, and industrial development. Their ancient underground cities evolved into mining hubs, factories, and high-tech facilities. Today, dwarves dominate fields like mechanical engineering, architecture, and material sciences, crafting some of the world's most durable technology and infrastructure. Their subterranean cities are often described as some of the world's modern marvels and have become a top travel destination for influencers in recent years. There is something to be said about the food quality there, which is usually negative.

In the modern world, Dwarves are known for three things: perfectionism, construction, and mining. There is a deep love of the earth and keeping her healthy among the dwarven miners, and their ability to sing to the stone is ever useful as they chase any rare material buried deep in the heart of their mountains. They are also the expert craftsman of the world. Their wares tend to be expensive, as it could take ten times as long for them to make a single item compared to the human factories, but there is no denying their quality.

Elven folk – The Keepers of Lost Knowledge (Origin: The British Isles, Ireland, and Scotland | Lifespan 175-300 years)

Once rulers of vast enchanted forests, elves turned to knowledge and culture when their magic faded. Many became scholars, doctors, and environmentalists, dedicating themselves to preserving history, nature, and the arts. Their long lifespans allow them to excel in academia and philosophy, but they often struggle with modernization and adapting to fast-changing human societies. There are rumors that they hold the last remaining tomes of Magic in hidden libraries.

In the modern world, Elves tend to find themselves as the leading academic voices. They are professors, scientists, artists, and conservationists. They are often the fiercest critics of humanity and dwarves' incessant reliance on the use of fossil fuels as many of the oldest remember the advancement of technology and how the world has warmed as a result.

Gnomes – The Tech Innovators (Origin: Swiss Alps and neighboring areas | Lifespan 125-175 years)

Gnomes, once masters of magical craftsmanship, became pioneers in science and technology. Without magic, their obsession with tinkering turned toward mechanical at first but this quickly adapted to electronics, robotics, and AI in the modern world.

Today, in the modern world, they are the backbone of the tech industry and are often founding startups, designing new inventions, and constantly pushing the boundaries of modern science.

Halflings – The Heart of Communities (Origin: Ukraine | Lifespan 100-150 years)

Halflings, once deeply connected to the land through magic, became the heart of rural and suburban life. They focused on agriculture, hospitality, and small businesses, creating tight-knit communities where tradition is valued. Their culture was built on two things, food and a good story. Over time, the amount of good stories and good food available has grown stale so a singular halfling set out to explore the world. When they returned with amazing stories, and amazing spices, many more began to leave their burrows and explore this amazing world.
Today, they thrive as restaurant owners, farmers, and social workers, emphasizing community and stability in an ever-changing world. Each year Halflings who turn of age go on a pilgrimage across the world where their goal is to find new stories, make new friends, try new foods, and live the best life they can.

Orcs – The Warriors and Survivors (Origin: Eurasian Steppe through the North of Africa | Lifespan 65-85 years)
Once feared as conquerors and warriors, orcs had to redefine strength in a world without magic or battlefields. They once boasted the mightiest empire that the world had seen, stretching across the entire known world at the time and they alone pushed back all the other mortal races. That was until humanity led the charge and cut their empire in half. This led to two separate Orcish empires rising in its stead, one that was more nomadic in the Asian Steppes and one that would settle down in the rich fertile lands in the middle of Africa. While they faced great adversity and hatred in the thousands of years since they survived every hardship thrown their way and have emerged as the most resilient people in the world.

In the modern world war is sparse, and as such many orcs became athletes, security personnel, and workers in physically demanding fields. Others embraced new cultural identities, thriving in music, and activism, and developing a new Orc culture. Despite their progress, they still face systemic prejudice due to their historical reputation as brutes.

Tieflings – The Charismatic Strategists (Origin: Unkown | Lifespan: 90-100)

Over generations, Tieflings have shed their devilish traits and now appear indistinguishable from humanity, save for a lingering intensity in their presence and the occasional horn and tail ridge. Historically mistrusted due to their infernal ancestry, Tieflings adapted to the modern world by leveraging their natural charisma, sharp instincts, and strategic minds. They turned adversity into opportunity, thriving in competitive and social environments where cunning and resilience are paramount.

Tieflings are predominantly urban, gravitating toward bustling cities where their talents shine. They dominate industries like entertainment, and business, excelling in roles that require negotiation, leadership, and influence. Their communities are vibrant and culturally rich, often driving the cultures of the city that soon spread out into the world. Tieflings are known for their ambition, often spearheading social movements or pioneering creative ventures.

In the modern age, Tieflings are defined by their adaptability and drive. They are the charismatic CEOs, captivating performers, and visionary leaders who shape the cultural and economic landscapes of the world. Though they have left their infernal origins behind, Tieflings remain masters of reinvention, proving that strength lies in overcoming the odds.

Goliaths – The Resilient Titans (Origin: Scandinavian Mountains | Lifespan 70-80 years)

Goliaths remain as imposing as ever, with towering statues, rugged physiques, and an innate connection to the natural world. Historically nomadic, they thrived in harsh environments by fostering a culture of teamwork, endurance, and honor. While their physical differences once set them apart, Goliaths earned respect for their strength and reliability, carving out a place in modern society through hard work and determination.
Goliaths are drawn to rural and suburban areas where they can maintain their connection to nature. They excel in physically demanding professions, from professional sports to construction and search-and-rescue operations. Most firefighters, especially volunteer stations, are Goliaths and they excel at fighting wildfires. Their communities are tight-knit and centered around mutual support, with traditions that celebrate strength, perseverance, and communal success. Despite their imposing size, Goliaths are known for their fairness and humility, valuing effort over victory.

In the modern age, Goliaths are defined by their resilience and loyalty. They are the athletes breaking records, the firefighters saving lives, and the builders shaping the world. Their grounded nature and unyielding spirit make them pillars of strength in both their communities and society at large.
Tieflings and Goliaths - Shared Strength in Diversity

Despite their differences, Tieflings and Goliaths share a history of overcoming prejudice and finding their place in the modern world. Both races were initially marginalized—Tieflings for their infernal heritage and Goliaths for their imposing size—but these struggles forged a mutual respect between them. Together, they have built communities that celebrate their unique strengths, blending Tiefling ingenuity with Goliath determination.
In cities where both races coexist, they form dynamic partnerships. Tieflings often lead as strategists and visionaries, while Goliaths handle execution and logistics. Their combined efforts are seen in everything from community development projects to successful businesses. Annual festivals in shared neighborhoods highlight their collaboration, with events like strength-and-strategy games that showcase their complementary skills.
In the modern age, the bond between Tieflings and Goliaths is a testament to the power of unity. Together, they embody the idea that diversity is not a weakness but a strength, shaping a world where all races can thrive. As such, besides humanity, these two make up the dominant races of the New World.

Other races

There are very few other races not mentioned above, and most that do not fall into this categories are instead a blend of them. Half-Elves, for example, make up a sizable population across the world. In the past, when magic walked the land, there were thousands more but, like magic, they disappeared.
What does the Modern World look like?

This modern world is much alike ours in terms of countries, technological advancements, and other signs of modern life. There is ample food, raging income inequality, and a building clash between the haves and the have-nots. There can be differences depending on what the story needs and what might make sense. The total population of the world remains the same, thus there are fewer humans and a lot more of these other fantasy races.

Across the world, there is no true land where the blending of cultures hasn’t occurred. While it was started, and truly embraced, in the new world time has a funny way of allowing races to live in relative peace with each other as old wounds have healed in the centuries since the world became blended. Still, the various nations of the world still fight for control of resources, and strategic locations, and most conflict is now focused on countries versus countries as opposed to what it was historically. There are no current war, or proxy wars, but it is only a matter of time before the next one blows up.

With the return of magic, this might be closer than we think.

_______________________________________________ Mathias "Matt" Lefebvre Human | He/Him | 36 years old | French-Canadian | 5'9'' (69 inches) | 146 lbs _______________________________________________ Hunger. _______________________________________________ Skills & Talents "Above all, hunting requires patience." ___________________________________ [+] Hunting ⫻ Experienced at tracking, baiting, stalking, trapping, and calling prey, big and small game alike. Basic stealth and camouflage ⫻ Experience with stalk hunting has left Mathias skilled at moving stealthily through and blending in natural, heavily obscured environments. Those skills are much less effective in urban environments. Basic foraging ⫻ Can identify some edible (or otherwise useful) plants and fungus. Rarer or more difficult to identify species are outside the range he is confident in identifying. Firearm handling ⫻ Experienced at handling hunting rifles, hunting shotguns, and hunting crossbows. Bilingualism ⫻ Speaks fluent French and English. English is his second language. Technological literacy ⫻ Used to working with computers at his workplace. Knows basic IT skills, can type up to 70 words per minute, and is excellent at using Microsoft Excel. Shapeshifting (Emerging) ⫻ Can change parts of himself to gain bestial skills or attributes

Appearance ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "I know I dress like a teenager, but I just can't bear to dress like a corporate baboon during my off time too." Mathias is a 5'9'' tall man with short, light brown hair. His complexion is naturally very pale, no matter how much time he spends in the sun. He's on the scrawny side, but his love for the great outdoors has left him in deceptively good shape, his clothes hiding his lean, yet surprisingly muscular build. He has an oval-shaped face, with a soft jawline, and he keeps his face close-shaven, as every time he tried to grow a beard, it ended up looking patchy at best. His nose is well-defined, and he has wide grey eyes. His skin is relatively fair, with only a few faint acne scars marring his forehead. One of his front tooth is slightly chipped due to an unlucky fall on concrete from when he was a teenager. "Pretty" rather than "handsome" comes to mind when looking at him, although the effect is somewhat ruined by the deep eye bags perpetually circling his eyes. His dress style is a clash of 2 extremes: at work, he is always impeccably dressed in professional business wear, his hair neatly combed and parted, his posture flawless. Outside of work, however, Mathias favours low effort, casual clothing, such as hoodies, band t-shirts, flannel, camo vests, and old jeans. His hair is messy at the best of times, and he seems to constantly be slouching.

• Used to have a dog allergy, before seemingly being cured after his magic manifested.
• Suffers from mild chronic eczema.
• Is a decent cook, but sticks to simple, easy recipes. Anything too complex is both not worth it in his eyes, and at risk of ending up less than appetizing.