What would you do if you suddenly gained magic in a world without it?
One moment, you were as normal as everyone else. Whether you were a college student studying for their midterms, or a busy worker who traded their happiness and health for a measly paycheck. Everything was normal until, the next moment, you weren’t. It could’ve started as a spark that arched across your fingertips, a whisper in your mind that sounded like the voice of your friend, or something far more dramatic—an uncontrollable burst of power that burned your area down. Whatever it was, however, this magic revealed itself to you, it is real. And you are not alone.
Exactly one week after your abilities appeared, a letter arrived. There was no return address, no postage, just your name in elegant script on the envelope. Your curiosity got the better of you, so you opened it, and you learned three things.
Magic has existed since the dawn of mankind.
You are one of the first magic users to grace the planet in over five hundred years.
And that magic can not be locked away forever as it will reappear if the world needs it.
But why now? What happened five centuries ago to make magic vanish? Why were you chosen for this power? And more importantly—what has caused magic to return?
This is a modern fantasy RP focused on the discovery of magic, mystery, and the dangers that come with being the first wielders of magic in an unsuspecting world. Hidden histories, supernatural threats, and the looming question of what your magic truly means as long as you can answer one question. Are you ready to find out?
Welcome to Modern Magic, a story set in a supernatural and horror-themed setting. You are arriving right at the start of a great change for the world as magic begins to creep into the fabric of our reality once more. The effects of this are yet to be seen, but all it takes is one look at the news to see that it is already being felt. From explosions that ripped through Seoul five days ago, to various campground's attacked by creatures straight out of folklore, the signs that the return of magic has had deadly outcomes are everywhere. You are going to be a first generation Witch or Warlock. This means that how your powers develop will be up to you. At the start you might be very weak with your magic, but if you practice it and work through the story you might be a great mage by the end.
However, while magic has returned and this alone has caused countless deaths, many more are to come as The Witch Hunters are mobilizing. Unlike their mage counterparts, The Witch Hunters trace their lineage back proudly and carry weapons and armors specifically designed to kill you. They have already begun to track any trace of magic their locators can detect and they have already killed several of these new mages. It is going to be a race against time to build up your strength before you are caught.
The Witch Hunters are not the only threats that you will face along this journey. Monsters, of myth and legend, are awaking at the same time. From the mighty minotaur's that ravaged ancient Greece, to the various Dragons that burned the world, these monsters are also going to be drawn to these young mages. Magic attracts magic, and the longer you linger in an area the higher the likelihood that you will encounter one. At the end of the day, despite The Witch Hunters and Monsters, you have been chosen for a reason. Magic is needed in the world again despite the risk it brings. Will you live up to your potential, or will you die like your ancestors of old? The main themes of this story are as followed: Rebirth, Identity, Emotions, and Friendship.
RULES & NOTES
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1. I will be reserving the right to deny, or kick, any players for any reason. Generally, this will not be used unless you make me use it. Do not be racist, homophobic, transphobic, or otherwise an asshole. There is nuance, as always, so I will be sure to review any situations and decide what the next course of action needs to be.
2. Be respectful towards all other players.
3. This will be as realistic of a setting as I can make it. As such, I will want realistic face claims (thus, no anime), realistic characters, and realistic decisions from those characters.
4. The RP will have its dark moments. I will do my best to avoid edgy, or otherwise cringe, moments but do note that there will be death, and there will be struggles
5. No "wip" sheets on the OOC. Post a complete sheet, or don't post anything at all. If you need something looked over, feel free to private message me. Speaking of which, the character tab is for accepted characters only.
6. Your character can die. If you put your character in a bad position the enemy will take advantage of it. Thus, play to your characters strengths and away from the enemies.
7. You're allowed to have as many characters as you can handle.
8. This is not a true super-hero story. It is more akin to shows like the magicians.
9. The lore is going to start off hidden, and be revealed as we delve through the story. Please let me know if you want any details about the lore for making a character.
10. The following abilities are banned: Magic Negation/Replication, "instant death" powers, reality-warping, anything with "Omni" attached to it, complete defense/indestructibility, and any other ridiculous ability. I will explain why if necessary.
11. While I don't have a definitive number in mind this will be first come first serve.
12. One post a week is the expectation. Life happens but if your character is gone from the posting cycle for a while I will reserve the right to either kill them off or send them upstate to the farm until you return.
13. Modern magic calls for Modern times.
14. I decide what weaknesses your spells have.
15. I can also write your magic based off your character sheet. If you want to explore this feel free to message me.
16. You will be weak. You will struggle. But you will grow.
17. All the obvious rules. ...................................................................
CS
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Character Name Here, or get a banner from 1001fonts.com
"Character quote here."
_______________________________________________ First Middle Last
Pronouns | Age | Ethnicity | Height (In Inches) | Weight (Pounds/LB) _______________________________________________ Single word that defines your character. _______________________________________________ Skills & Talents "Quote about Skills here." ___________________________________
[REMOVE THIS. A REALISTIC list of everything your character is good at. Do not make them master of everything, do not make them a living weapon. [REMOVE THIS.] [Skill name here] ⫻ (Brief (or lengthy) explanation of skill/talent here)
Appearance ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Quote about appearance here."
I need a detailed understanding of what your character looks like, what they wear, and so on. Be detailed.
Psychology ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Quote about personality here."
MAIN GOAL ⫻ (What does your character hope to accomplish in life?)
PHILOSOPHY ⫻ (What is your character's outlook on life?)
SECRETS AND FEARS ⫻ (What is your character hiding? )
SEXUALITY ⫻ (Your character's sexual preference?)
WHAT WAS THE FIRST DAY WITH MAGIC LIKE? ⫻ (The emergence of magic was chaotic and possible destructive for so many people. What was it like for you?)
FLAWS ⫻ (What holds your character back?)
Backstory ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Quote about backstory here."
Pretty standard affair. I'm not going to expect a super long essay here, just the basics and whatever.
Magic ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Quote about your magic here."
MAGIC ⫻ (Put the type of magic you wield here plus a one sentence description of what it is and what it does.)
MAGIC DESCRIPTION ⫻ (Tell me every little detail of what your magic is and does. Remember, at the start you will be weak and you may not have any named spells yet. This will change at will, with discussion, throughout the story.)
LIMITS ⫻ (What are the limits to your magic. This list will also grow as we go through the story.)
WEAKNESSES ⫻ (DO NOT FILL THIS OUT, I WILL PROVIDE IT FOR YOU)
Other ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Extra Quote here."
MISQ SECTION
[CENTER][h1]Character Name Here, or get a banner from 1001fonts.com/[/h1][/CENTER] [i]"Character quote here."[/i] [table][row][/row][row][cell] [center][img]NO ANIME[/img] [sup]_______________________________________________[/sup] [sub]First Middle Last
Pronouns [b]|[/b] Age [b]|[/b] Ethnicity [b]|[/b] Height (In Inches) [b]|[/b] Weight (Pounds/LB) [sup]_______________________________________________[/sup] Single word that defines your character. [sup]_______________________________________________[/sup] Skills & Talents[/sub] [i]"Quote about Skills here."[/i] [sup]___________________________________[/sup][/center][hider=] [sub][REMOVE THIS. A REALISTIC list of everything your character is good at. Do not make them master of everything, do not make them a living weapon. [REMOVE THIS.] [b][Skill name here] ⫻[/b] (Brief (or lengthy) explanation of skill/talent here)[/sub][/hider]
[/cell][cell][sub][b] Appearance[/b][/sub] [sub][sup]▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔[/sup][/sub] [i]"Quote about appearance here."[/i]
[indent]I need a detailed understanding of what your character looks like, what they wear, and so on. Be detailed.[/indent]
[/cell][/row][/table][sub][b] Psychology[/b][/sub] [sub][sup]▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔[/sup][/sub] [i]"Quote about personality here."[/i]
[INDENT][b]MAIN GOAL ⫻[/b] (What does your character hope to accomplish in life?)
[b]PHILOSOPHY ⫻[/b] (What is your character's outlook on life?)
[b]SECRETS AND FEARS ⫻[/b] (What is your character hiding? )
[b]SEXUALITY ⫻[/b] (Your character's sexual preference?)
[b] WHAT WAS THE FIRST DAY WITH MAGIC LIKE? ⫻ [/b] (The emergence of magic was chaotic and possible destructive for so many people. What was it like for you?)
[b]FLAWS ⫻[/b] (What holds your character back?) [/INDENT]
[sub][b] Backstory[/b][/sub] [sub][sup]▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔[/sup][/sub] [i]"Quote about backstory here."[/i]
[indent]Pretty standard affair. I'm not going to expect a super long essay here, just the basics and whatever.[/indent]
[sub][b] Magic[/b][/sub] [sub][sup]▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔[/sup][/sub] [i]"Quote about your magic here."[/i]
[indent]
[b]MAGIC ⫻[/b] (Put the type of magic you wield here plus a one sentence description of what it is and what it does.)
[b]MAGIC DESCRIPTION ⫻[/b] (Tell me every little detail of what your magic is and does. Remember, at the start you will be weak and you may not have any named spells yet. This will change at will, with discussion, throughout the story.)
[b]LIMITS ⫻[/b] (What are the limits to your magic. This list will also grow as we go through the story.)
[b]WEAKNESSES ⫻[/b] (DO NOT FILL THIS OUT, I WILL PROVIDE IT FOR YOU) [/INDENT]
Twin Pines is a quaint, small town nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario. Its cobblestone streets wind through a blend of humble brick homes, small inns, and local shops. The town is built cozy, almost rustic, and the Main Street is typically filled during the summer and is well maintained. The population is a mix of races, primarily poorer folk who work the fisheries, however, humans are the dominant presence. There’s a strong sense of community, with everyone knowing each other by name and helping each other. The town’s charm is in its simplicity, and it thrives off the seasonal influx of tourists. In the summer, the main attraction is the small island named Coney Island in the middle of the lake, where two towering pine trees grow, seemingly rising directly from the water.
There are various boating and ferry services to bring people to the island itself. The island is dotted with food vendors offering local delicacies, and a vintage carousel stands at the center, surrounded by small stalls selling trinkets, souvenirs, and hand-made crafts. The veneer quickly falls off on a closer look. Half the horses on the carousel are chipped, splinters are common, and the paint is so dated that hat it’s impossible to pick out a favorite horse from a normal one. The food is of trouble quality, as are the trinkets, and everyone has a chance to leave with a stomach bug if they try the food.
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During the summer months, Twin Pines comes alive with visitors, drawn by the beauty of the island and the surrounding lakeside beaches. The beaches are filled with people lounging in the sun, swimming in the water, and enjoying the relaxing atmosphere. The carousel, with its nostalgic charm, is a favorite for families and children even if it’s no longer quite the same experience they had as children. The air is filled with the scent of saltwater, freshly cooked fish, and the sound of laughter.
When the tourist season winds down in the fall, the town shifts its focus back to its fishing route roots in full. The locals, who rely heavily on the lake’s bounty, spend the colder months fishing on Lake Ontario. The economy takes a quieter turn as the town becomes more isolated, with fewer visitors. The town’s docks, usually bustling with tourists during the summer, now host weathered fishing boats, their crews heading out to catch fish that will be sold in the markets or used for sustenance for as long as the water remains unfrozen.
There is a debate about opening the waters to fishing in the warmer months but there’s a constant discussion on sustainability, loss in tourism revenue, and eye sore that the constant fishing would bring.
The town is known for its resilience, and though the people are often struggling financially, there’s a sense of pride in their work and their land. The community holds regular gatherings at the town square, where stories of the lake and the island are shared, and locals gather for warmth and food.
The air is crisp during the fall and winter months, and while the island may not be as lively as in the summer, it still stands as a quiet, beautiful landmark, seen from the shore as a reminder of the town’s natural beauty. Twin Pines is a place where the simple joys of life take precedence, where the people live in harmony with the land and water, and where the spirit of community is the heart of the town.
.................................................................................................."Oi, you two quiet down….. THEY are waking up..."
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?
Initiate: Everyone Starts Somewhere
An initiate is every magic users first step on their way to becoming a mage. They have raw ability and can wield magic, but don’t have full control over it. To an Initiate magic is something unpredictable, wild, and destructive, and chaotic. An initiate is more likely to singe their eyebrows off than hit a target at first. It takes time, and training to get good with magic. However, like all things in life, you can get decent quickly. On average, in the past, it would take several weeks or a couple of months for an initiate to develop a steady roster of ways to apply this magic. The application of magic is called a spell. Whether you need to chant, do a series of motions with one hand, or use of a grimoire or other object to channel the magic. Eventually, once an Initiate becomes adept with their magic they transition to a great learning stage where they can become a Mage.
Mages: Keppers of the Natural Flow of Magic
Mages were the first true masters of magic, their power not learned but felt, their connection to magic deeper than mere affinity and basic spells alone. While an initiate of magic may see it as a tool, mages were conduits, seamlessly attuned to the ebb and flow of the arcane forces that permeate their bodies. They do not force magic to obey them; instead, they dance with it, listen and understand its path through their body, and harmonize with its rhythms. This innate bond made them the true forces of nature. They were also the first to comprehend its cycles, its limitations, and its infinite potential. They laid the foundation for spellcraft, shaping raw power into structured forms, and developed the earliest incantations, rituals, and magical theories that would guide civilization at the time. It was through mages that the races learned to work with magic rather than against it, using it to cultivate the land, heal the wounded, and develop new ways of interacting with the world.
Warlocks: Pioneers of the Unknown
While mages nurtured magic as a natural force, warlocks sought to bend it to their will, forging pacts with powerful beings beyond the known world. These extraplanar patrons, ancient entities of unfathomable knowledge, offered warlocks magic not through affinity but through contracts, binding their power to mortal ambition. Some sought enlightenment, trading servitude for cosmic secrets, while others desired dominion, wielding borrowed power to reshape the world in their image. Warlocks introduced the concept of structured magical hierarchy, bringing forth the first true understanding of power beyond the mortal realm. They pioneered summoning, binding, and planar travel, pushing magic beyond its terrestrial roots and into the unknown. Their discoveries expanded the boundaries of what was possible, challenging the races to think beyond their natural limits.
Mages and Warlocks have often fought in the earliest years, and a natural apprehension existed between the two forces of magic.
The Witch Hunters: The Destroyers of Magic
The Witch Hunters emerged 3,000 years ago, not out of fear of magic itself, but in response to the unchecked power wielded by mages and warlocks. As civilization advanced, magic became the backbone of society and it shaped economies, warfare, and even politics. Mages were often found at the top of every existing position of power. Yet, with such power came imbalance and mages often saw themselves as above others, while warlocks brokered dangerous pacts that threatened the stability of the world. The Witch Hunters were originally a loose collective of warriors, scholars, dissidents, and even some mages who sought to limit magical influence, acting as a counterforce to the overwhelming dominance of spellcasters. They believed that no single group should hold such absolute power over society and saw themselves as protectors of the common people. At first, they were enforcers of balance, ensuring that magic did not spiral into tyranny. But as their ranks grew and their ideology hardened, their mission shifted from control to eradication.
For centuries, the Witch Hunters waged a relentless war against magic, hunting down mages and warlocks alike. They developed countermeasures, discovering ways to sever a mage’s connection to magic and disrupt warlocks’ pacts with their extraplanar patrons. They crafted weapons and armor resistant to arcane forces, turning magic’s greatest strengths against itself. This war was brutal and unyielding—entire magical orders were destroyed, grand libraries of arcane knowledge were burned, and cities built upon magical foundations crumbled under the weight of these purges. Warlocks, desperate to hold onto their power, struck dark bargains, unleashing horrors upon the world, but the Witch Hunters adapted, developing new techniques to neutralize even these eldritch threats. Over time, their battle was no longer about justice but total annihilation. Magic had become a plague in their eyes, something unnatural that needed to be erased.
Eventually, one of these dark pacts summoned forth an Eldritch being who simply called itself The Maestro. It took the combined strength of all Witch Hunters, surviving mages, and warlocks to seal it back away. Despite this show of comradery the purges continued.
Two thousand years ago, the Witch Hunters achieved what many thought impossible when they severed magic from the world. Whether through a grand ritual, a forbidden weapon, or a pact of their own, they cut off the natural flow of magic, rendering mages weak and severing warlocks unbound from their patrons. While magic still existed it was forever weakened, and civilizations that had relied upon it collapsed, and history was rewritten by those who remained. Magic became a myth, its existence doubted by future generations, with only fragments of knowledge surviving in hidden texts and oral traditions. The Witch Hunters, not content with simply making mages and warlocks weak, continued their purges against an enemy who could no longer defend themselves. The next fifteen hundred years The Hunt culled every bloodline they could find until finally their magic detection tools grew silent.
The centuries since the order has continued, forever weary that magic will return again. However, the years have not been kind to the order. Nowadays it is more of a fraternity rather than a holy order dedicated to the preservation of their rites and ways. The Old Guard, commonly filled with families with old money, do their best to push the new generation towards the light however when an organization like this looks good on certain resumes it was bound to attract recruits who are more focused on their own future rather than the future of a magic-free life.
Plant : Plant magic, and their mages, are adept at communicating, commanding, and controlling the various plant and other fauna. An initiate can suggest actions to plants, or accidentally force them to action if their emotions get the best of them, but one can’t be a Mage until they learn how to communicate effectively.
Pyromanceryr: The manipulation and generation of flames, heat, and combustion. Pyromancers can create fire from nothing, shape it into destructive or defensive forms, and even alter temperature to extreme levels. Some master combustion itself, igniting objects or even the air around them.
Hydromancy : The control of water in all its forms: liquid, ice, and vapor. Hydromancers can shape rivers, summon rain from moisture in the air, freeze moisture into solid barriers, or extract water from the air. Masters can purify water sources or draw massive waves from deep oceans.
Terramancy : The manipulation of stone, soil, and minerals. Terramancers can shape terrain, summon barriers, and even influence the fertility of the land. Some can manipulate metals, creating weapons or armor directly from the earth.
Aeromancy: The mastery of wind, storms, and pressure. Aeromancers can summon powerful gusts, control weather patterns, and even manipulate sound waves. The most advanced can use air currents to enhance movement, glide, or create near-invisible weapons of force.
Umbramancy (Courage): The manipulation of darkness and absence of light. Umbramancers can use shadows for concealment, create constructs of pure darkness, or drain light from an area. Some can slip into the space between shadows, moving unseen or attacking from unexpected angles.
Conjuration : The ability to summon objects, creatures, or energies from other places. Conjurers specialize in bringing forth constructs, calling forth magical weapons, or even teleporting themselves and others across distances. The most skilled can summon creatures from other planes to fight for them.
Infernal: A powerful and dangerous form of magic tied to demonic or devilish bloodlines. Infernal magic is not one singular force but varies based on the Tiefling’s ancestry. Some bloodlines wield fire and brimstone, others control curses, and some command infernal beasts. The most powerful can tap into the will of their fiendish progenitors, gaining temporary boons at a great cost.
Other: There are thousands of different kinds of magic available to you. If you want to explore a specific type of magic feel free to reach out to me. As well, Warlock and Warlock pacts are not available at this time but that will change as the story progresses. If you want to make a character who becomes a Warlock once again reach out to me!
GM Notes:You WILL start weak regardless of the magic you choose but you will NOT stay weak forever. If I see anyone come up with a massively powerful spell like the World Ending Fire Storm 5000 I will find a corner and cry in it before I deny that character.
.................................................................................................."We thought they were a myth."
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 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.
"There's no place like home. Well, the movies say that anyway."
_______________________________________________ Rowan Elizabeth Moore
| She/her | 22 | Human | 5'7" | 132lbs _______________________________________________ Considered. _______________________________________________ Skills & Talents "Rowan was a model student in spite of her fading attendance." ___________________________________
[Intelligent] ⫻ Rowan is quick-witted and well read. Although she as just as lost as everyone else to understand the new magical norm. [Lab Trained] ⫻ She is able to operate lab equipment and conduct experimentation with a steady hand. [Drawing] ⫻ She is good at quick sketches and things of greater detail.
Appearance ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "I like... practical."
Rowan stands above average height with a slim build often hidden behind coats and baggy clothes. Her hair is usually varying degrees of short but only very rarely does it grow past the shoulder line. She favours muted greens and browns in apparel which can lean toward formal. It seems a conscious choice that her form isn't presented much. Her brunette hair is often cut short and her make-up is light but stylised. She makes special consideration to conceal the dark around her eyes during times of little sleep. Exams, am I right?
Her demeanour is generally friendly and welcoming. Although, anyone who got through the surface level would recognise a great deal of nervousness. She can quickly get overwhelmed with intense exchanges or too many voices and retreat to quieter spaces. Rowan will tend toward quieter hobbies such as reading or drawing. She can often be seen with a notebook which she uses to take notes or sketches of things she finds interesting. It is a habit she has kept since she was very young.
Psychology ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Can we skip this section?"
MAIN GOAL ⫻ The emergence of magic changed everything. She pursued academia for a solid job before, not really for the money, but because that's just the thing you do. Now, she wishes to make the most of the gift that she has and gain an understanding of the new, magical frontier in front of them. The scientist side of her is excited about it.
PHILOSOPHY ⫻ Rowan holds a very insular philosophy. She cares little for shifting society or the world at large with her efforts in life. She simply wishes to enjoy herself, form bonds with the people she cares about, and not waste her academic abilities. If a discovery she finds is helpful to the people around her, she is happy.
SECRETS AND FEARS ⫻ Rowan secretly fears that she is wasting her talents in Twin Pines. Before the emergence of magic, she had applied to go for her masters. She hadn't worked up the courage to tell Bea or her family yet. She is afraid of the type of person she would become going back to the city, but at the same time, she fears a life in Twin Pines will do the same thing to her that it did to Bea.
SEXUALITY ⫻ Bisexual
WHAT WAS THE FIRST DAY WITH MAGIC LIKE? ⫻ "I was scared like everyone else. I was working at the time and it made the park more noisy than normal. Of course, I didn't know I had any powers myself. I just watched the chaos others caused and drove home kinda freaked out. It wasn't until I was home that I discovered it. I was daydreaming at my desk when I discovered my peace lily was wrapping around my hand. At first, I thought my desk plant was magic and the flower was trying to eat my hand or something. I guess me being the one with magic powers was a more settling thought by comparison."
FLAWS ⫻ Nerves and anxiety are the main things that hold her back. She finds it difficult to communicate with some people and will often rely on others for diplomatic situations.
Backstory ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Why someone with a degree would work minimum wage at Coney Island beats me. But that ain’t gonna stop me from hiring her."
Rowan was always a nervous girl. During her early schooling, she struggled to make friends. It was a common sight that another student would introduce themself to her only for Rowan to shy away and offer few words in return. That was often enough for others not to see much use in a friendship, but she held dearly to those who persisted through the way that she was.
It was a normal lunchtime during the final year of high school that changed her direction. Bea and herself had that talk between friends facing a bright but unknown future: idle daydreaming about where they would stand in it. Despite Rowan’s good grades, she had been on the fence about applying for university. The mere thought of such a thing was impossibly daunting and insecurities about friends, life changes, and even the prospect of failing to get in had her second-guessing whether it was worth the effort. But Bea encouraged her.
It was a funny thing. Rowan had been encouraged by her parents, teachers, and other adults to take that next step, but only Bea had convinced her to go ahead with it. Unlike adults, she felt Bea actually knew what she was going through and even felt they would be embarking on that journey together.
Rowan applied and was accepted into a prestigious university across the country for a bachelor of science degree in chemistry. With everything prepared, she set off on the road to embark on this new frontier in her life. Only, she looked back at the road and saw that no one was behind her. She didn’t expect to be taking that road alone.
University was a lot better than what she feared it could be. She was coming out of her shell more; taking in the new people and experiences. Sure the nerves were there, but she had learnt to deal with them much better and people being so welcoming certainly helped. She adjusted surprisingly well and, in the big city, she could see a new home for herself here. That was until a nasty idea had set in.
Around the third year of her degree, Rowan started to get the impression that virtually everything in her life was… transactional. It was hard for her to describe, but she stopped feeling as though the people around her liked her for her, only what she could do and provide. Her studies, friends, and partners, it all felt as though there was something she needed to provide to them. The second she felt tired or couldn’t hold up her end of the ‘transaction’, she would cease to matter to them. Before she knew what exactly that was, she had started to retreat from it all.
She was in danger of believing this was just how the world was until she came home.
Rowan needed a break after her degree and came home to Twin Pines. She caught up with her family and friends that she had felt so distant from in the past few years. It felt like entering a warm home on a cold day.
Despite likely being able to get a better-paying job, Rowan took up shifts at Coney Island for work. She didn’t feel any more nostalgic for the park than any other kid. Except Bea was there. Out of anyone from her home town, she was the one Rowan had kept the least contact with when she moved. It was to her regret when she saw the type of person her once-good friend had turned into: burnt out and jaded with the world.
Maybe her job at Coney Island was some ill-thought-out redemption effort to try and help Bea. Maybe she thought she could reconnect with her, become good friends again, and maybe she would be happier like the bottle of sunshine Rowan once knew. But it was a foolish attempt. Even if she could reforge that bond, Rowan had applied for her masters at the turning of the next year. Who knew where they would stand after that?
It was a normal day at Coney Island. A child had thought a mix of candy, milkshake, and the local delicacy ‘muttonbird’ would make for a great carousel ride meal, then ended up emptying it all over the ride. Bea and Rowan bickered over who would have to clean it up, they ended up playing paper-scissors-rock for it and Rowan lost. In the midst of cleaning up something so disgusting, Rowan had the thought that she was happy here. Not because of the shitty Coney Island job or the mess she was tasked with mopping up, but because she felt valued for just being herself at Twin Pines. It was something she hadn’t felt in years. She would be sad to leave it behind.
Then a letter arrived in the mail after a week of magic chaos.
Magic ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Four years and big student debt, then this thing comes to make it all useless... Or maybe not."
MAGIC ⫻ Plant manipulation and transmutation
MAGIC DESCRIPTION ⫻ Rowan is able to manipulate plants this includes getting them to move, rapidly growing them, and having them rapidly decay.
She has begun to discover that transmutation is another option. This includes changing an existing plant into another one or even making genetic hybrids.
LIMITS ⫻ She is limited by speed and familiarity. Her power is incredibly slow, only sped up by proximity and contact with the plant. It could only see very limited use in a combat situation as a result.
Additionally, Rowan needs to be familiar with any plant for transmutation purposes.
WEAKNESSES ⫻ (DO NOT FILL THIS OUT, I WILL PROVIDE IT FOR YOU)
Other ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "We spent centuries praying to dark gods for the powers of black magic. Now a bunch of youngsters are running around with what is rightfully ours."
The Order of the Weeping Lamb ⫻ Rowan's grandmother, Edith, is the head of the Twin Pine's branch of the Order of the Weeping Lamb. Before the re-emergence of magic, the order dedicated itself to dark rituals in the pursuit of arcane power. Then the re-emergence came and exactly one member gained magical powers. Was it their leader? No. It was Mike, an accountant from the Michigan branch. Naturally, they are not very happy about this.
Singing ⫻ His voice is hauntingly beautiful, with a dreamlike quality that lingers in the air and captivates anyone who hears it.
Playing the ocarina ⫻ Before her death, Azure's mother gifted him an ocarina and taught him how to play the lullabies of The Otherworld. These soulful melodies have a way of evoking wistful memories and unspoken desires.
Storytelling ⫻ Azure has always had a knack for storytelling. He weaves enchanting tales filled with mystery and whimsy, blurring the line between reality and fantasy.
Mythology and Folklore ⫻ His deep knowledge of myths and legends allows him to interpret and retell them in ways that feel deeply personal.
Manipulating social dynamics ⫻ Azure has a talent, or what he'd rather call, an instinct, for reading people and subtly guiding conversations or situations to his desired outcome.
Appearance ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "The world is unbearable without a touch of decadence, no?"
Like something out of a gothic fairytale, Azure Roux is a vision of ethereal elegance, his tall, svelte frame carrying an air of mystery and effortless grace. His dark skin shimmers under the full moon, smooth as polished obsidian, while his mystical violet eyes seem to hold galaxies within them, drawing people in with their hypnotic witchlight. His features are delicately balanced—full lips, a button nose, and short, tightly curled hair that frames his face like a crown of dark clouds. Slightly pointed ears lend him an almost fey-like quality. Silver hoop earrings glint with every turn of his head, subtle accents that add to his striking beauty. Every detail, from his posture to his gaze, radiates an allure that is equal parts human and otherworldly.
His style is no less captivating. Azure is rarely seen without his black mink coat, its oversized hood often draped like a shadowy halo around his head, giving him a mysterious and commanding presence. Beneath the luxurious fabric lies an unusual tattoo etched into the skin of his toned chest, its design both intricate and arcane, a secret of his past whispered only to the stars. Everything about him feels deliberate, from the small details of his appearance to the way he holds your gaze just a moment too long. There's an unnatural pull to Azure, an undeniable charm that makes it hard to tell whether he’s luring you into a dream or a trap. Either way, his natural magnetism lingers long after he's gone.
Psychology ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Hold on to your secrets, my love. They're far more valuable than honesty."
MAIN GOAL ⫻ Azure is not wholly in his right mind, though perhaps he never has been. His main goal is to find his soulmate, believing this person, whoever they may be, is the key to achieving his true goal in life, entering The Otherworld, a mystical place he has believed in since childhood. He believes, in The Otherworld, he can live eternally without pain or suffering...
PHILOSOPHY ⫻ Azure believes that life is a series of delicate, interwoven tales, each moment a potential masterpiece to be crafted. In his eyes, the world he inhabits is only a shadow of something far greater, a prelude to the eternal. Since childhood, he's viewed his every step as part of a sacred journey toward The Otherworld, a place where he is convinced he can escape the limitations of mortality. For Azure, this world is merely a fleeting dream, and the true reality, the one free of pain, lies just beyond reach. As such, his motivations don't always make the most sense to those around him.
SECRETS AND FEARS ⫻ He is "Widowed twice over", having directly, and accidentally, caused the death of both his now-deceased spouses. He fears never finding his soulmate and never being able to enter the Otherworld. He doesn't fear death itself, only the wrong death that would prematurely end his true destiny. Azure believes The Otherworld is a secret reserved only for himself and his soulmate-to-be.
SEXUALITY ⫻ Bisexual, having first been married to a man, and then a woman.
WHAT WAS THE FIRST DAY WITH MAGIC LIKE? ⫻ The emergence of his magic accidentally caused the death of his second spouse, and though the experience was traumatic at first, he surmised this person was not his soulmate after all and therefore, he should continue looking. But more importantly, discovering his magic convinced him even more that he is something of the fey and not of this world.
FLAWS ⫻ Azure's greatest flaw is his obsessive belief in The Otherworld, which blinds him to the real beauty and connections around him. His devotion to find his soulmate leaves him somewhat isolated, as he views others as distractions or tools to manipulate to achieve his goal, drawing them into his web of secrets. His possessive nature leads him to fiercely guard what he considers his, whether it be people, possessions, or memories. He can also be somewhat self-indulgent too, thinking only of what he wants rather than what is best for others. Ultimately, Azure's inability to completely distinguish between fantasy and reality keeps him trapped in a cycle of longing, dissatisfaction, and heartbreak.
Backstory ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "I can give you the eternal love you have always wished for. Just promise me, you will not pry..."
Born into the shadows of Los Angeles, where the glittering lights of the city never reached the crumbling tenements he called home, Azure's family teetered on the edge of homelessness, scraping by on odd jobs and dwindling hope. Despite the hardships, his mother’s warmth and his sisters’ laughter gave him fleeting moments of joy. But the fragile foundation of his life shattered when tragedy struck. A devastating fire claimed the lives of his father and two older sisters, leaving Azure and his mother to pick up the broken pieces. With grief weighing heavily on their hearts, his mother turned to stories, weaving vivid tales of a magical place called the Otherworld. In this mystical realm, she promised, there was no pain or loss, only perfect love and everything was beautiful. She had only told him these stories to help him cope with the pain. And that, despite the pain, he was more than a mere human, he was destined for so much more.
But little did she know how deeply Azure clung to these tales, his mother’s words filling the void left by his family’s absence and planting the seed of a dream that would shape his life forever.
Fate, however, was not finished with its cruel hand. His mother, the anchor of his fragile world, fell ill and passed away, leaving Azure utterly alone. Homeless and grief-stricken, he wandered the streets of Los Angeles, carrying the stories of the Otherworld in his heart like a sacred text. The belief that he could one day escape his suffering and find a soulmate who would lead him to that promised land became his guiding light. But the harsh reality of life on the streets tempered his desperation with cunning. Azure learned to charm and manipulate, using his beauty and silver tongue to survive, all the while clinging to the dream of a love so perfect it could defy the cruel world that had taken everything from him.
Salvation came in the form of Agatha, an old family friend who found Azure huddled on a street corner. Agatha was a wealthy but cold woman who lived in a sprawling, dilapidated mansion with her lonely son, Charlie. Welcomed into their home, Azure quickly became a beacon of light for Charlie, who had spent most of his life neglected by his mother.
The two boys bonded over their shared loneliness, and Azure’s enchanting stories of the Otherworld mesmerized Charlie, giving him something to believe in. But beneath Azure’s magnetic charm lay a growing need for control. As their friendship deepened, Azure began subtly manipulating Charlie, ensuring his loyalty by feeding into his insecurities and isolating him from others. The mansion became their private universe, a gilded cage where Azure ruled as the center of Charlie’s world.
As they grew older, their bond evolved into something more. They married in their early twenties, their youthful passion masking the cracks in their relationship. For a time, they lived as young lovers in their own world, but the toxicity of Azure’s need for control and Charlie’s growing resentment began to surface. When Charlie finally tried to leave, Azure’s desperation exploded into violence. In a heated argument, he impulsively lashed out, unintentionally pushing Charlie down the grand staircase of their home.
The fall was fatal.
Charlie’s death was ruled an accident, and Azure escaped suspicion. But the loss haunted him, not for the love he had lost, but for the soulmate he believed Charlie was not. Determined to find the one who would lead him to the Otherworld, Azure buried the past and moved forward.
Years later, he met Aisha, a woman drawn to his otherworldly allure and the promises of eternal love he whispered into her ears. She fell for him completely, bewitched by his beauty and the dream he painted for their future. Azure’s condition—that she never pry into his past—seemed like a small price to pay for the perfection he promised. But curiosity gnawed at her, and when she uncovered the truth about his history and confronted him, it unleashed something inside him. His long-suppressed anger and grief collided with a newfound power he didn’t fully understand. Everything in the room, including Aisha, began floating aimlessly. Overwhelmed with horror at what had happened, Aisha ran out of the house screaming and, in her mania, ran into the road and was hit by a car. Azure was left widowed once again, but this time, his pain was tempered by revelation. The illusions of himself smiled at him, almost reaffirming. He believed this was a sign that he was not truly of this world. His newfound magic confirmed what he had always felt: he was destined for The Otherworld.
Now twice widowed and carrying the scars of his past, Azure continues his search for his true soulmate in the small town of Twin Pines. Each day, his belief in the Otherworld grows stronger, fueled by his grief, his magic, and his unshakable conviction that he is meant for a realm beyond this one. After each death, somehow, he feels closer to the perfect love that will unlock the gates to the Otherworld and free him from the pain of this mortal coil.
Magic ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Why stay tethered to this place when you and I can drift into the Otherworld?"
MAGIC ⫻ Velvet Gravity; Azure can soften gravity around himself in a small area, making objects float gently or appear virtually weightless.
MAGIC DESCRIPTION ⫻ Azure’s magic, Velvet Gravity, allows him to manipulate gravity’s pull with a delicate, almost sensual touch, softening its grip like velvet against skin. When he activates this power, the world around him seems to lose its weight—objects drift lazily through the air, untethered by the usual rules. Azure can use this effect on himself, allowing him to traverse effortlessly across rooftops, leap impossible distances, move silently, walk on water, cushion his falls, or descend from great heights with the grace of a feather caught in a gentle breeze, among other applications.
With concentration, Azure can apply this effect selectively, creating pockets of softened gravity in specific areas and he can extend it to those around him, allowing them to benefit from this weightlessness. In battle, he uses it to disorient opponents—swords swing sluggishly, bodies stumble as their sense of balance warps, and thrown projectiles hang uselessly mid-air.
LIMITS ⫻ Velvet Gravity’s abilities are limited by Azure’s need to focus on the immediate area around him. He can only influence the gravity of objects or individuals within a certain radius, making it ineffective for long-range manipulation. This magic also requires a great deal of concentration, as Azure must maintain a delicate balance to avoid creating unintended effects like destabilizing objects or causing them to float away uncontrollably. The more objects he tries to manipulate at once, the more taxing it becomes on his stamina, limiting the duration and frequency with which he can use it
WEAKNESSES ⫻ (DO NOT FILL THIS OUT, I WILL PROVIDE IT FOR YOU)
Other ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Sometimes, the most exquisite things are the ones that hurt the most."
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.
Psychology ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "There's nothing quite like the great outdoors. No one around for miles, just you, nature, and your next prey..."
MAIN GOAL ⫻ Mathias only wishes to find some measure of contentment in life. Ideally by climbing the corporate ladder, amassing enough savings so that he can afford to retire, and then promptly fucking off into the woods, away from other people, permanently. Yeah, that would be the good life...
PHILOSOPHY ⫻ For Mathias, the daily grind is an unbearable drag and the crowded urban life is a prison. He has trouble seeing people in general as anything other than cruel and selfish, finding them aggravating at best, and downright insufferable at worst. He feels that moving to the city for work, despite being a financially sound choice, was the worst decision he has ever made in his life. Mathias is a nature-lover at heart, and being kept away from this love, while being forced to surround himself with people he doesn't know and barely tolerates, has made him miserable. Unsurprisingly, his outlook on life and future prospects is rather bleak.
SECRETS AND FEARS ⫻
Mathias hides his sexuality at work, afraid of retaliations should he be outed.
Mathias' greatest fear and anxiety is ending up stuck in his current urban lifestyle, which he absolutely loathes, for the rest of his life.
Mathias fell and almost drowned in a lake when he was very young. This caused him to develop thalassophobia, the phobia of deep bodies of water. He'll do almost anything to avoid having to swim or go near or on lakes and pools. He hides this fear, since he finds it deeply embarrassing.
SEXUALITY ⫻ Homosexual. Semi-openly gay in his private life, but fully in the closet at work. Has a thing for bears, older men, and leather. He's not looking for anything other than casual flings.
WHAT WAS THE FIRST DAY WITH MAGIC LIKE? ⫻ Mathias' magic awakened while he was on vacation. After close to a full year of saving up vacation and sick days, he finally could afford to take a full week off, right in the middle of deer hunting season. And so he was off for seven beautiful days of camping, hunting, and solitude. And thank god for that solitude: because how the hell would he have explained to any witness why he woke up one night next to a mauled, partially eaten deer carcass, his body covered in blood, with long, wicked claws and fangs sprouting from his fingers and maw? How would he have explained the deep, gnawing hunger now churning within him, clamouring for flesh, for prey?
FLAWS ⫻ Mathias is very emotionally closed off, with many misanthropic tendencies. Almost all of his (few) relationships are surface-level only, with no true bond or attachments formed, out of fear of getting hurt. His attitude, when not at work or cruising, is also rather abrasive, which doesn't help matters. This distance he keeps between himself and others is keeping him from finding any fulfillment in his current life.
Backstory ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Secondary school fucking sucked. I'm glad I never have to see any of those assholes ever again."
Mathias was born in and grew up in the rural parts of northern Québec, in Canada. He was close to his maternal grandfather, who taught him how to hunt and trap, a love that's still strong to this day. He never really got into fishing however: when he was 7, he almost drowned in a lake while on a family trip, and has stayed as far away as possible from large bodies of water ever since.
Secondary school was rough: he'd realized he was gay at 15, and tried shooting his shot with another boy in his class. He was promptly rejected and outed by that boy, and, as was typical of rural regions in the early 2000s, became the victim of mockery, bullying and even homophobic violence by his peers, until graduation, when he finally moved out of his hometown for post-secondary education. Luckily his family was generally supportive, but these events still instilled a distrust in others in Mathias, and are the prime motivators behind his aloofness and being in the closet at work.
He got a business degree in administration, and began working as a secretary. He eventually found a job under his current employer, and rose through the ranks through hard work, going from a simple administration assistant to a high-placed executive's personnal secretary. This new position, and the raise in salary that came with it, had him transfer to the U.S. corporate offices in New York. He's now been living in the States for the last 2 and a half years. Mathias hates his job and is deeply unsatisfied with his life, but can't really afford to quit.
More recently, business has brought his boss, and thus him, to Twin Pines. The smaller, much less dense town is a... welcome reprieve from the city.
Magic ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "I've never felt so alive. So hungry."
MAGIC ⫻ Therianthropy A.K.A. human-animal shapeshifting. Mathias can morph his body adopt animal characteristics and boost his physical abilities.
MAGIC DESCRIPTION ⫻ Mathias can modify his physiology to gain animal-like characteristics. The changes range from boosted senses and abilities, to new or modified body parts. Though vastly reversible, some changes appear to be permanent: ever since his first accidental shift, his instincts are sharper (though not always right) and he has developed a strong prey drive, as well as a hunger for raw bloody living fearful fresh meat. He's also discovered that raw meat is not only much more palatable to him now, but that he can also digest it without problems.
Improved senses and abilities ⫻ Through subtle changes in his eyes, joints, and olfactory system, Mathias can improve his night vision, speed and sense of smell, though to nowhere near the level of an actual wild animal. Other (or further) improvements should be possible, but he hasn't figured out how to make it work yet.
Beastly transformation ⫻ Mathias can currently grow large wolf-like claws and fangs. His ears, arms and legs grow patches of soft brown fur whenever he transforms in these more obvious ways.
LIMITS ⫻
Mathias' magic can only affect himself, and not others.
Shifting isn't instantaneous, it takes a moment to complete.
The range of his transformations is very limited (for now).
When faced with a life threatening situation, or hunger, his new instincts might act up and make him behave in a more aggressive way than usual.
WEAKNESSES ⫻ (DO NOT FILL THIS OUT, I WILL PROVIDE IT FOR YOU)
Other ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "What's real funny is that I've always been more of a cat person."
MISQ SECTION
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.
Carnival Ladder Climber ⫻ As assistant manager on an understaffed, shitty carnival island, Bea has developed a variety of skills. First of all, she knows she can’t depend on anyone above her. They do fuck all. Second? They sure as shit aren’t paying her enough for the amount of work she does now… but she has nothing else going on. Bea has gotten pretty good at solving problems without the actual needed help. Sure, she’ll grumble and scowl her whole way through it, but she gets shit done. Honestly, the place would be falling apart even more if it weren’t for her. She can also lead a team… of mostly teenagers who don’t know any better. If anything it’s more impressive she can get a bunch of teens to listen to her. She’s a master of nonchalant customer service. Ask for a manager on the island, and you get Bea and her resting bitch face. As much as she fucking hates it, she’s really very good at her job… which only makes things more depressing. Since she technically worked up the ladder from temp summer to permanent to assistant manager, she knows how shit runs well - and can run the various (minimal) stands they have if needed… which it often is.
Daughter of a Devil ⫻ When she puts in the effort, Bea can be charismatic. She’s always had a natural way with words, being quite the smooth talker when she wants to be. While she doesn’t bother much nowadays, it’s a skill she’s never lost. Her ability to be deceptive, on the other hand, is one she still uses to get out of all kinds of annoying situations. Her mind is still sharp. She’s cunning, able to manipulate and deceive people with relative ease and little knowledge on their part. While she doesn’t tend to use this with bad intentions, it’s still manipulation at the end of the day. All of these are traits she’d had from a young age, but they seem to be pushing more to the forefront now.
Gifted Kid Burnout ⫻ While Bea certainly wouldn’t consider herself gifted anymore, she once was. She’s still got the brains for studying if she puts her mind to it, and is pretty smart. This is channeled into her cunning and general wit. She’s good at math, which was her planned degree. Along with this she’s always expecting failure- softening the blow when it happens.
Artfully Not Giving A Shit ⫻ Bea is adept at not giving a shit in a way that doesn’t result in people punching her. Her sarcastic comments almost seem like jokes, and she’s managed to hold down a job since she was a teenager even with an increasingly worsening attitude. It’s almost endearing. Almost.
Appearance ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "I call this look ‘dying nicotine addict.’ The purple tinge is cool, I guess."
Uncaring about the world around her, Bea is someone who’s never found without her signature frown. Her expression can generally be described as dead inside or pissed off at anyone expecting her attention. But even though she doesn’t seem to care, she still puts some effort into her appearance. She’s rarely found without at least foundation, eyeshadow and lipstick in a variety of darker shades. Overall it tends to be darker, in a minimal gothic or more grunge style. Her hair, naturally brown, is dyed black and falls down to the top of her chest. Her bangs are cut to just above her eyebrows, and she consistently trims them so they remain at that length. Short and slim, her body is nicely curved. It’s kept in shape more by virtue of a job on her feet and meals on a budget than any effort on her part. Bea has tattoos all across her right arm, with about half her left arm done. She has floral tattoos across the front of her shoulders, and a few on her upper legs. She has a piercing in her right nostril, a septum piercing and a medusa piercing.
Bea’s skin is pale, and she often has dark bags under her eyes. Recently she’s so sleep deprived these seem to be spreading, with her entire body starting to take on a slight purple tinge. Her once dull green eyes are becoming more vibrant, verging towards yellow, thanks to all the nicotine in her system. Her pupils are getting paler too, so she’s probably going blind from all the smoke in her eyes. She’s had simple lobe piercings for years, but she got helix piercings a few months ago. She’s pretty sure they fucked up somehow because her ears are starting to get pointier at the tips.
She’s started feeling two lumps on the top of her head… They’re painful and itchy, so she’s accepted her inevitable death in a year or two. It's not like she can afford to see a doctor. Thankfully they’re hidden by her hair, but she’s started wearing a beanie more often just in case. There’s another painful lump forming at the base of her spine… so a year or two is probably too optimistic. Either way, she’s just been ignoring the obviously worrying changes in her body.
Bea tends to wear various types of crop tops - favouring more tank top, bralet or corset style ones. These tend to be black or white, with the colour coming from her denim or corduroy pants. She’ll swap to shorts in the warmer weather, sometimes a dress or skirt. The colours she tends to add aren’t much- browns, denim blue, darker reds and occasional lighter blues. Her jacket of choice is a medium brown leather one that was her dads, thick enough to ward off most of the cold. On the rare days she really feels like trying she’ll dress up more, favouring a more gothic fashion with long dark dresses or skirts and more intense makeup.
Psychology ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "I’m not the person I used to be. I’ll never be her again. And shit’s never getting better."
MAIN GOAL ⫻ Bea wants to leave Twin Pines and go somewhere better. Where? She doesn’t know, and doesn’t care. She just wants to make enough money to leave this deadend down and go somewhere that actually has life. Maybe even get the education she missed out on. Since that seems like a pipe dream, she just wants to keep making enough money to pay the rent on her shitty apartment and fund her nicotine addiction.
There’s still hope that she can become more like her former self, as much as she refuses to let herself believe it.
PHILOSOPHY ⫻ Hard work doesn’t always pay off and the world isn’t fair. At the end of the day it doesn’t matter how much you do, you could still end up with shit all for it. It’s better just to not try at all, because the result will be the same. The only people who can drag themselves out of the mud are those who got lucky, or are rich in the first place.
SECRETS AND FEARS ⫻ That beneath her jaded, don’t give a shit exterior, Bea actually does care. She’s so fucking scared because she used to care too much. She used to take on other people’s burdens and stresses while putting pressure on herself to do well. This resulted in her burning out, and failing to get anywhere in life. Even after that she still cares, even though she suppresses it. Bea’s scared she’ll always be stuck like this, even though she pretends she’s accepted it. That she’s always going to be a failure at a dead end job in a shitty town. She keeps just how bad her mental health has gotten over the last few years a secret. The genuine cry for help is purposeful hidden under layers of cynicism and sarcasm.
Also, she keeps the whole head lumps, skin turning purple, yellowish eyes and pointed ears thing a secret. No point freaking anyone out about her inevitable death.
SEXUALITY ⫻ Bisexual with a preference for women. Bea has been in a couple of relationships, mainly with men - there’s a very small pool of woman attracted women in a small town like Twin Pines. As a result, she hasn’t been in a relationship for almost a year now. She has had flings in between this but, again, small pool to pick from.
WHAT WAS THE FIRST DAY WITH MAGIC LIKE? ⫻ Bea was at work the day magic emerged. At the exact moment, she was trying to corral a bunch of teenage workers… then half the fucking island went dark for a few minutes. After the lights came back, or whatever magical darkness it was lifted, the shadows started talking to her.
FLAWS ⫻ To be frank, Bea is depressed. She’s what could be described as ‘functionally’ depressed. She can still get out of bed when she has to, get dressed and look nice, go to work, pretend everything is o-fucking-kay. But when she’s alone and has nothing she needs to do? It’s bad. She’s crushed by hopelessness and feels like there isn’t much point to anything. Shit isn’t going to get better, after all. Past events have led to her being incredibly jaded. This often comes across in her scathing remarks or harsh dismissal of other people’s positivity. While Bea masks the genuine problems with biting wit and sarcastic jokes, it doesn’t make her a particularly easy person to be around. She just doesn’t really seem to care about anything. She’s often too blunt. While she doesn’t purposefully lash out at people, her words often hurt those around her.
Bea’s a disconcertingly different person from who she was in highschool and she hates that. It's a cycle of self loathing and resenting her circumstances that keeps her stuck where she is now. And even when the parts that remain from the better person she was seem to resurface, it never feels genuine - at least not to her. Because she truly doesn’t believe that’s who she is anymore, or who she can be.
Backstory ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "I learned the hard way that hard work doesn’t pay off."
Just over two thousand years ago, a young Romanian woman, Sorina Corbeanu, was one of the many persecuted during witch hunts across the country. She had no natural magic, there were no Witch Hunter detection tools picking her up, just superstitious neighbours wanting rid of a single, parentless woman who scorned all men that tried to marry her. Forced to flee the town she grew up in, Sorina grew resentful against humanity - and she sought out a pact with a dark being.
The Demon, 𝔊͎̒͜𝔯̸̶̶̩̝͋ͣ͛𝔬̨̥ͫ̊̀̓͞𝔞̵̮̮ͫ̉̈̓̽͜͠ͅ𝔷̡̬̟͗́͌ͣ̀̕͝ă̗͔ͤ̓̕͠͝, master of the Night. With his power Sorina was able to enact revenge on the very people who tried to have her killed. Her power grew and grew, and she was able to cut out a life for herself and amass a following. She didn’t seek domination: just enough power to protect herself and live well.
Her relationship with 𝔊͎̒͜𝔯̸̶̶̩̝͋ͣ͛𝔬̨̥ͫ̊̀̓͞𝔞̵̮̮ͫ̉̈̓̽͜͠ͅ𝔷̡̬̟͗́͌ͣ̀̕͝ă̗͔ͤ̓̕͠͝ changed as well. It became more than just Warlock and Patron. It wasn’t a loving relationship, neither side interested in something like that, but it was deeper than one Sorina had with anyone else. From this union her daughter, Viorela Corbeanu, was born. After her birth, 𝔊͎̒͜𝔯̸̶̶̩̝͋ͣ͛𝔬̨̥ͫ̊̀̓͞𝔞̵̮̮ͫ̉̈̓̽͜͠ͅ𝔷̡̬̟͗́͌ͣ̀̕͝ă̗͔ͤ̓̕͠͝ refused to have another. There could only be one with his blood per generation, he said. Only one with access to that power.
It wasn’t until she went through puberty that her infernal heritage was clear. Horns, tail, glowing eyes and dark purple skin. While being a Tiefling made her a target, her magic was strong. As was her son’s.
Her son was the first to ignore the warning about having multiple children. After all, it didn’t matter if only one ended up like him. So he had two children. The first transformed as he did when he hit puberty. The second succumbed to an illness and died tragedy before she could reach that age.
It wasn’t just a warning. It was a curse. Only one child could be born per generation.
As magic disappeared from the world, the demonic features got less and less with each generation. Still knowledge of their ancestry was passed down along with warning of the curse. It wasn’t until the second generation without any visible demonic features that the decision was made to keep their infernal heritage secret. It wasn’t important anymore.
So from then on, the bloodline has remained unaware of their origins. The curse has been inactive for five hundred years, but is still passed down as a superstition.
Sabina Lucaci was born to Matei Lucaci and Katherine Gray in the small town of Twin Pines. Her parents weren’t married at the time as she was an unplanned, but welcome, surprise to a couple in their mid twenties. Matei had moved to America from Romania when he became an adult to study, but ended up having to drop out and following the ‘love of his life’ to her hometown. Here he worked in the fishing industry primarily.
They weren’t well off, but Bea was raised in a loving home. Her parents married when she was a toddler and she doesn’t have many negative memories of her earliest years. But as she moved towards the double digits, her parents' relationship turned rocky. Hushed arguments became loud and heated. They argued openly over Bea- and over the second child her mom had wanted and her dad refused to have.The household fractured. Her parents divorced shortly after she turned ten.
From there she spent equal time at two much worse off homes, both sides struggling without the double income. But Bea was a confident and positive child. Bright in more ways than one, she excelled in school while being incredibly friendly. It was difficult to deal with her parent’s separating, but she did better than both thought she would.
A couple of years later, her mom remarried. Then, she had another child. And another.
Bea started to spend more time at her dad’s, preferring the quiet. The two of them were close and she loved him. He always encouraged her to do her best, and to not give up on her dreams. He didn’t want her to end up like him, forced to drop out of university for reasons outside of his control. He planned to do everything he could to support her. But money was tight, so Bea took up a temp summer job at Coney Island from when she was fourteen, before working weekends part time from when she was sixteen.
Along with excelling academically, Bea was popular in school. She was a girl that almost everyone knew, someone who was always cheerful and smiled at everyone. She was nice to everyone and seemed to get on with them too. Like a ray of absolute sunshine. But while Bea was popular and well liked, she had very few proper friends. Close ones. One of the few was Rowan- or Roro, as Bea teasingly called her. Much shyer, their friendship was a bit of an odd one, but Bea liked the quieter company. It balanced her.
It was Bea, with her confident and bright demeanour, who encouraged Rowan to go out of comfort zone and apply for university. To actually leave, just like Bea planned to. Bea worked her hardest for that goal too. She knew she had to get a scholarship to be able to afford it. But she was doing well enough that she should manage to get one that paid most of the fees at her prepared school.
Everything was going well. She was excelling, and most people liked her. It was fine that she was sacrificing sleep. It didn’t matter that she didn’t have many actual friends.
But it meant when everything came crashing down around her, there was no one to help pick her back up.
Right before final exams and her SAT, Bea’s mental health plummeted. She lost confidence in herself and struggled to even get out of bed. It was so sudden. She went from being happy and doing well, to struggling with depression that hit out of nowhere. But she still managed to push through and sit what she had to… but her grades just weren’t what they had been. She’d completely burnt herself out. She didn’t get the full scholarship at her chosen school. She didn’t even get into that school, and she didn’t get any scholarships anywhere. The one school she did get into she couldn’t afford.
Her dad reassured her that she could resit everything in a year and apply again. She just needed to rest a bit. Her mum was sympathetic too - but her attention was taken up by her two other younger children.
There was still some hope. Bea increased her hours at the carnival job, and studied on her own. All she needed was some kind of scholarship and between her working and some money from her dad, she’d be fine. She lived full time with him now, helping with bills here and there.
Then that winter, things got worse. Her dad’s boat capsized in a freak accident, and he presumably drowned. They didn’t find his body.
Now Bea had to deal with the grief of losing the person she was closest to, and face that university was just a pipe dream now. She couldn’t afford it herself. She could barely afford to keep the apartment her and her dad had lived in. While she pushed into a worse state of depression, she didn’t want to lose the place she considered home and what she had left of him.
So she went full time at the carnival. Then, eventually, she was given the promotion to assistant manager. It was a shit job with way too many responsibilities for the pay, but it wasn’t like Bea had anything else going on in her life. And it meant she could cover the costs of the tiny, shitty apartment while having enough to fund her smoking habit on the side.
Life wasn’t good. Quite frankly, it was shit. Sometimes she thought about ending it… but she never did. She couldn’t. Not when her dad wouldn’t want her to. She couldn’t do that to her mum, as much as she didn’t see her often, or to the younger siblings she wasn’t that close to. Or the few friends she had, even though she didn’t have contact after they all escaped town.
She loosely clung onto life, even though she didn’t have any hope. A shit job in a dead end town… she didn’t see any different future.
But recently, things have changed a bit. Rowan- for some godforsaken reason- came back and started working on Coney Island. Sure, Bea was her sort of boss, but there was… some small amount of comfort from an old friend’s return. It was a break from the horrible monotony. Just a little bit she found herself able to joke with someone- even if it was mostly sarcastic.
Then, there’s the magic. While it should be thrilling to have something out of the ordinary happen in her shit, boring life… Bea’s just pissed off at it. She’d rather not have constant whispers in her ear, thanks.
Magic ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Can you fucking shut up for one goddamn minute?!"
MAGIC ⫻ Infernal. Bea can (unknowingly) manifest shadows from people’s fears and nightmares, and manipulate them.
MAGIC DESCRIPTION ⫻
Bea comes from a demonic bloodline that specialised in fear and nightmare magic, shadow magic, and mental curses. At their strongest her ancestors could manifest shadowy versions of great beasts from nightmares, with the power to level towns. They could command the manifested shades to act as their spies, getting comprehensive information whispered in their ear. Nightmares and fears themselves were manipulated and used for fuel, with powerful mental curses cast, such as haunting people their worst nightmares.
Right now, Bea can manifest people’s fears and recent nightmares in an area around her as shadows, and do incredibly basic manipulation of them. Manipulation wise, she can create a thin ‘whip’ of shadow that she can use to trip people or lash out at them. It’s relatively useless, able to trip if it's not noticed or cause a shallow wound on open flesh.
Bea has no control over the shadow manifestation. She has no idea that she’s the one bringing talking shadows into existence. Currently, they’re just shadows that take a vague shape of whatever they were formed from. They whisper to Bea, and she could talk to them - but she generally just tells them to go away. No one else can see these talking, moving shadows. Once they manifest they naturally flock to her. Against her will, Bea manifests the shadows from people within a forty metre radius around her. They are basically useless - she has no named spells, because she doesn’t even realise this is part of her magic and that she’s bringing them into existence.
LIMITS ⫻
Bea’s manifestation isn’t something she can actively cast or turn off at the moment, thanks to her lack of understanding and skill. This constant manifestation not only drains her energy, but leads to a near constant flow of irritating, useless shadows that whisper to her. She can manifest them in forty metres around her. People who are happier don’t tend to ‘produce’ shadows because it would require her to delve deeper into their mind, something she currently can’t do. The shadows also don’t actually do anything, nor can they interact with the world right now. Only Bea can see, hear and talk to them.
Manipulation wise, she can only make a basic whip that lashes out, trips or wraps around something once. It’s as strong as an average human in terms of ability to hold on or hurt.
WEAKNESSES ⫻ (DO NOT FILL THIS OUT, I WILL PROVIDE IT FOR YOU)
Other ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Nah, Tieflings aren't real. They're just people pretending their ancestors fucked a demon to make it cool when they’re massive cunts."
In case it wasn’t obvious, Bea has no idea she’s a tiefling. She’s in denial it’d even be possible.
Bea is the only one left in the direct bloodline of 𝔊͎̒͜𝔯̸̶̶̩̝͋ͣ͛𝔬̨̥ͫ̊̀̓͞𝔞̵̮̮ͫ̉̈̓̽͜͠ͅ𝔷̡̬̟͗́͌ͣ̀̕͝ă̗͔ͤ̓̕͠͝, but there might be some distant relatives she doesn't know about. Technically the ‘one child per generation’ curse wasn’t active when there wasn’t any magic to fuel it.
Bea speaks Romanian, but she’s worried she's starting to lose it now she has no one to speak it with.
She/Her | 99 | “Wood” Elf (Celtic Broadleaf) | 5’5” | 110 lbs _______________________________________________ Uproot _______________________________________________ Skills & Talents "Good at picking out the best slice of apple pie at the diner. The secret is you go with cherry instead." ___________________________________
[Green Thumb] ⫻ Pom is an avid gardener and is happiest when she’s futzing around in her garden and greenhouse. It’s not uncommon for her to show up to work at the diner with a brown lunch bag full of homegrown veggies or to slip someone a plastic baggie full of homegrown herb. Until magic kicked everything in the teeth, Pom had a (poorly thought out) plan to become an independent coffee grower instead of just a part-time coffee pourer. [Folk “Singer”] ⫻ Pom was present when American folk music was at its apex, but she also enjoyed the traditional songs of her particular commune of wood elves song in their old tongue. Occasionally she tries to pen her own songs, but Pom largely sticks to the classics like “the one that sounds like two cats fighting while a third one cries out for blood” or the absolute banger of “hey mom, just poking my head in here to make sure that you weren’t choking on a granola bar”. To put it kindly, her singing voice is, er, unique. [Home Remedies] ⫻ Pom knows for a fact that Big Pharma is nothing more than the Man in disguise and doctors are just like pushers with college debt. Sure, go to them for a surgery or whatever, but just about everything else can be cured with a bit of ginger, some St. John’s wort, a little bit of this, some of that, and a shot of colloidal silver. [Thrifty v. Shiesty] ⫻ Growing up with next to nothing made Pom real good at making that go a long way. She’s frugal as fuck and is more than happy to share her pro tips with anybody who would listen. Eat oatmeal for breakfast and pack a sack lunch instead of going out for food. What’s in that sack lunch? More oatmeal. Repurpose just about everything: old shirts become a “new” quilt that eventually become “free” cleaning rags. Never pay a parking ticket or a speeding ticket from a camera because there simply is no proof that you weren’t the victim of a car thief or having an evil twin situation. The code for bananas at self-checkout is 4011, this applies for pretty much every major retail grocery store, and the only person hurt by you “accidentally” ringing those expensive ass macadamia nuts as bananas is the Man.
Appearance ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Retro? But fringe never went out of style…"
Pom is a wood elf, which is like a regular elf but a bit more folksy, a lot less snooty, and has stronger opinions when it comes to the ageless argument of which is better: pine or oak? Oak, by the way, it’s oak. Pom looks young because she’s an elf but also she looks young for her elf. She’s obviously old enough to be more than a sapling yet it’s still surprising when she actually (albeit rarely) admits to how many rings she has grown. Her eyes are brown like dirt after rainfall and it’s atypical to find them neither heavily bloodshot nor dilated. Her messy, shoulder length hair is jet black that contrasts with her light, freckled skin. In a moment of desperation to fit in with the youths, Pom has dyed two streaks of blonde through her hair, tucked just behind her pointed ears.
Pom has a slender body that she drowns in oversized, handknitted sweaters that drape like they were a poncho or cosplays as a younger version of herself with a psychedelic tye-dyed t-shirt and an absolutely sick fringe jacket she had since Woodstock. Pretty much everything else in her wardrobe evokes an image of the late sixties and early seventies. Pom has pierced ears, with the only other jewelry she wears is her wedding ring, a cheap silver ring designed to look like a small daisy chain. Her fingernails seemingly have a permanent streak of dirt underneath them from digging around in her garden, yet her hands are somehow soft and uncalloused despite the endless war on weeds.
Pom is fidgety and skittish, unable to stand still without playing with her hair, rearranging the countertop, or disorganizing somebody’s desk. Seemingly always overstimulated and unable to focus, her eyes often darting each and every way around a room except in a way that’d force her to make eye contact. She has a deep, raspy voice and a bad tendency of speaking in a rapid, stumbling mumble, making it difficult to parse if she’s attempting to strike up a conversation or just talking through her own thoughts. Pom can be easily tracked by the strong smell of patchouli which follows her like a choking cloud of miasma.
Psychology ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ “Let’s not get too heavy. All you gotta know is that I’m a hip, hip, hip lady."
MAIN GOAL ⫻ She wants to be forever young. Pom is in the beginning stages of a midlife crisis, already throwing her own life into a chaotic reset before magic made its way into the mixup. The thought of turning one hundred has taken control of Pom’s life. She is desperate to prove that she is still groovy, hip, radical, fly, phat, a bomb in a bag of chips, dope that has been lit and is on fire, or whatever the heck it is that the kids these days are saying in the latest failed attempt to replace cool. She might pretend that her biggest desire was for her coffee startup to become a success before switching back to wanting to publish a field guide on cryptids when magic sprung them back into existence, but really nothing would make Pom happier than the approval of some young cool cat telling her that she’s the bee's knees.
PHILOSOPHY ⫻ Life is precious and all aspects of it should be respected unless that aspect is part of the fucking Man. Born amongst a loose conclave of wood elves that roamed the American Southwest before settling down in San Francisco, Pom was raised on the virtues of peace and love that would one day be appropriated by humans and become the hippie movement. Of course Pom would never call herself a hippie today, given how the word can evoke images of burnouts who melted their brains on acid created and weaponized by the Man or culty psychopaths breaking into the home of a Hollywood actress and going all Helter Skelter. Still, Pom is a Flower Child at heart. She’s an ungrounded hopeless romantic with a glass half full of psychedelic tea and an openness for new experiences and experimentation that can, at times, be borderline irresponsible.
Pom views herself as being highly ethical, following a vegan and conservationist lifestyle that, while occasionally borderlines on acting holier-than-thou to those who don’t, rarely becomes preachy. She’s also very open about her hatred for the undefined Man, but Pom believes she is able to currently curtail her more anarchistic beliefs by championing nonviolence and peaceful protest over radical actions. However, this might simply be due to her living a life that was idyllic and pastoral enough that Pom had simply never been pushed to the point of challenging these beliefs.
SECRETS AND FEARS ⫻ The worst kept secret in all of Twin Pines is that Pom is the friendly neighborhood drug dealer. Her stock is quite limited, especially during the winter time, as she almost exclusively sells organic products that she grows herself. The second worst kept secret in all of Twin Pines is Pom’s age, who despite claiming to still be a spring chicken exposes herself every time she opens her mouth and lets loose a dated piece of slang. The third worst kept secret is that Pom is a cryptozoologist and ufologist, and settled in Twin Pines to find proof of the local lake monster and has some weird theories about gnomes actually being aliens from Alpha Centauri that could be rustled out of her whenever she becomes heavily intoxicated.
One thing that Pom has actually been able to keep secret is the actual source of her mistrust of elves in positions of power. Pom believes in the Lich Theory, a fringe belief based around the common folklore idea that elves originally didn’t age beyond maturity and were immune to disease, capable of only dying through murder or misadventure. At some point in history,the fear of unnatural death inspired a cabal of elven mages to get together and become liches, sacrificing the longevity of their kin to grant themselves true immortality. Lich Theory hypothesizes that this cabal of liches are still in power, greatly shortening the lifespan of all species so they can capture their souls inside their phylacteries and continually fuel their eternal life.
How these liches actually go about this varies, but Pom claims to have first-hand witnessed an elf drain the soul out of another elf. She might have been tripping on psychedelics at the time and having a freak out, but she knows what she saw. The sudden reemergence of magic has only further convinced her that she is right. Regardless, Pom is absolutely terrified that she is little more than cattle for the cabal. While she carries with her the irrational fear of running into a lich in the wild and having her soul sucked from her body, this irrationality has become the base upon what is a relatively common, almost completely mundane fear: the fear of getting older, having witnessed first hand due to her primary associating with humans and other short-lived things just how debilitating aging can be.
SEXUALITY ⫻ Pom was the free space on the backseat bingo card back during the Summer of Love before she got hitched and lived in (mostly) happy union for five decades with her human husband, Bo. It wasn’t like they never discussed what she’d do when he inevitably passed before she did, but the loss was still crushing. She doesn’t plan to spend her whole life alone, yet always finds a convenient excuse to not to pursue any eligible bachelors and bachelorettes that catch her eye or shoot their shot.
WHAT WAS THE FIRST DAY WITH MAGIC LIKE? ⫻
It had started like any other morning in the last two years–with a stab in her heart as she rolled over and saw the empty space. It was followed by the shattering discovery of her first gray hair, as if the thin wrinkle above her brow hadn’t been enough already. A quick stint in the greenhouse taking care of her babies then it was time to work at the diner, if it could be called work that day. Mostly Pom was just sitting in a booth in stunned silence alongside the usual early bird crowd of blue hairs as the news reports played on the TV, somewhat concerned that the fresh mushrooms she had added to her vegan omelette were accidentally the ones that contained psilocybin as vibrant colors radiated off of the customers and news anchors.
The break from the mental mind fuck happened when Missy Fletcher walked in, slipped on some spilled coffee that nobody had bothered to clean up, and cracked her head viscously on the edge of a table when they were replaying footage of the attack on Athens. Pom watched as red blood washed out the black coffee, swearing she saw a faint wisp of gray smoke escape from Missy’s mouth alongside her last breath as her green light faded. As the diner exploded into chaos, patrons moving to assist the already deceased Missy in a mess of disco lights, Pom only continued to observe the body as a feeling of stillness and peace enveloped her.
Her boss gained control of the situation eventually, clearing customers out of the diner, calling for first responders, and sending her employees home. Pom must’ve been in some kind of shock, or maybe she was just straight tripping out, because she drove herself to Missy’s house instead. She took the key from underneath the third brick along the walkway where she knew it always was despite never being to Missy’s before and unlocked the door, feeling a wave of love wash over her as she looked at the school and sport photos of Missy’s children. She was happy that they were out of the home. Happy that they were now safe.
Then she saw Jim Fletcher sitting in his chair in front of the tv, a haze of green releasing off of him that matched the empty Rolling Rock bottles littered beside the La-Z-Boy. Pom knew about Jim more than she actually knew him, but the whispers were no good, and now the whispers were becoming a banshee wail of hate and rage in her ears. He was sleeping, or rather he was passed out, drunk before noon. Either way he didn’t shift as Pom felt something guide her body forward into the room. She bent down to pick up a beer bottle and caught a glimpse of her face in a mirror. She didn’t recognize the eyes as she lifted the bottle and smashed the end on the corner of a table. It didn’t break clean like it would in the movies. The last thing she remembered was staring at the shard of glass embedded in her palm as Jim started stirring in his seat.
Pom came to balled up in the bottom of her shower, the water having turned so cold it felt like she was being pelted by icicles. She pulled herself out of the tub and flushed down the black bile sitting in the basin of the toilet. Definitely the wrong kind of mushrooms. It explained the lost time. Pom wiped her hand across the mirror and saw that the tired and puffy eyes that looked back at her were indeed her own. She wouldn’t register it until later, but the cut on her hand was gone, as was the strand of gray hair and the wrinkle above her brow. Maybe she had hallucinated the whole thing.
But for now Pom laid down in her bed, still wet from the shower. She rolled over to say good night to the empty space beside her. Her breath caught in her throat as a chill ran down her spine. She stared at the silhouette of the back of his head and didn’t move, certain that it would notice her if she did, terrified about what would be staring back.
FLAWS ⫻ A person doesn’t live to be a century old and amount to becoming nothing more than a part-time waitress, a part-time drug dealer, and a full-time space case without there being one thing for certain: Pom is a fuckup of astronomical proportions. Big, bright dreams and grand, romantic desires amount to the bulk sum of jackshit when tripping her balls off in a field is more appealing than grinding out an actual goal. It’s ridiculous for her to be going through a midlife crisis when she never even fully embraced adulthood in the first place. She is one half of the two kids in a trenchcoat, except the other half grew old and now that the person whose shoulders she stood on is gone. There’s no wonder her son and daughter barely speak to her. What kid wants to have to nurse their own mother back to health from when an Ayahuasca trip goes south?
She’s an embarrassment of a person, the pinata of unambition and laziness hoisted up by the Man to give the angry mob somebody else to point their sticks at when they’ve grown frustrated as to why they have to work so hard for so little. A failure, and one who, deep down, doesn’t only accept that she’s a failure but embraces it and secretly smiles about it, laughing to herself about it like it’s a joke only she knows. And really, isn’t it all just a joke? It's ridiculous how hard people try to make something out of themselves when the punchline is that their fate has already been sealed and they’ll be meaningless dust just like her and everyone before them. Yet Pom finds death, unlike aging, isn’t necessarily a bad thing. After all, it is only the existence of death that makes those moments of life oh so precious.
Pom is also vehemently anti-authority, which can only be considered a flaw because that is what the Man wants people to believe, man.
Backstory ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "I know what I saw, man!"
Her youth was spent dirty, hungry, and in destitution, growing up in a commune of wood elves that roamed the American Southwest. They lived off the land like their ancestors did, believing that if they respected the earth that Mother Nature would provide for them. At the time Pom didn’t question the traditions, only realizing later when she went and got herself an education that there probably hadn’t been trash bins to scavenge scraps of food from or massive barn houses to squat in when her ancestors were around. It didn’t really matter. At the time she thought she was happy.
Sometimes a group of men would head out for a hunt and be gone for a couple of days, returning with a bounty of canned fruits or vegetables and bags upon bags of wondrous, sliced bread. Pom asked her father to join him on the hunt when it was his turn to go, but he said they were dangerous. She asked even for him, and he lied to her and said no, not for him. That was the last time she saw him. The men returned from that hunt with empty hands and bloody clothes, their numbers halved from what they had set out with. Her mother only ever told her that the Man had got her father when Pom asked what happened to him. She’d find newspaper articles in archives later about a gang of wood elves getting in a shootout with the police after an armed robbery of a grocer went south.
The numbers of the commune continued to dwindle, this strange nightmarish creature known as the Man taking more and more of them whenever they stayed in one place for too long. They didn’t find safety from the Man until they made it to San Francisco, where the commune was hidden by the crowd. Other communes would join them in the city, and not only ones composed of wood elves. They were united by their common cause to stand against the Man and start an era of peace and love, planting the seeds of what would bud into the hippie movement.
Pom got swept into like so many other people, and like so many other hippies she smoked a bit too much grass and dropped absolutely too much acid to really recall anything vividly. There were probably some protests and bra burnings and a lot of sitting naked on pillows while passing a bong around and pretending that she was bringing around some kind of revolution. One thing she is really certain of is the night she got invited backstage to hangout with Jam Lemon, where she watched the music legend and iconographic elven leader of their counterculture suck the soul out of a groupie while Yokai Oni began to carve off chunks of their husked flesh with a sacrificial dagger to eat.
Pom’s fervent insistence on this was the kind of thing that got people to look at her funny, especially when she admitted to being on LSD at the time. The only person who didn’t treat her like an absolute nutcase was a human named Bo Winters, who, instead of looking away and pretending to be called away by someone else at the party, leaned in. It turned out Bo was a hunter like her father, but instead of hunting for grocers to rob he was hunting for proof of cryptids, and like Pom believed in all sorts of stupid shit like the existence of aliens to bigfoots to the possibility, no, the fact that Jam Lemon, formerly of the Beatles, was an evil elven lich. The two immediately hit it off, much to the relief of Pom’s friends who were all cutting their hair and looking to get into middle management.
Pom and Bo would marry each other shortly thereafter and leave San Francisco, moving around before eventually settling in Twin Pines. Their marriage of fifty years was more happy than it was not, having a son named Ash and a daughter named Willow. Bo would ultimately serve as a stabilizing force to keep Pom grounded, who had always drifted freely, aimlessly, and haphazardly like a dandelion seed on the wind. He’d end up being the one to convince her to stop telling strangers the story about Jam Lemon, especially after his murder, or that cryptid hunting should maybe become a hobby and they should focus on doing something that would let them one day retire with him opening up a boat rental and offering lake tours with one of his fishing buddies and her getting a part-time job as a server to make ends meet.
It was Bo that kept Pom from completely cutting ties with her son after he broke her heart by choosing to become a pawn for the Man when he joined the Marines. It was Bo that would cut Pom off anytime she tried to bring up the subject of having children around Willow, who had said since she was thirteen that she would never want to be a mother. It was Bo that comforted Pom when he got his diagnosis, telling her that “we” were going to be okay and that “we” would get through this when she should’ve been the one saying those words. It was Bo who kept saying these things over again and again, until one morning she awoke to an empty space where he used to sleep and a handwritten note that said about the same thing, just changing the “we” to a “you”.
Then there was a knock on the door and it was the Man and he was there to tell her that the ground had been taken from her. Bo had told her this would happen in his note, even thanked her for giving him some things to want to hold onto, but said it would be for the best because without the ground to hold her down she was free to fly away again. Only Bo was mistaken. Pom never learned how to fly, she had only ever been blown by the wind, and now she was abandoned in an empty nest and the bough was breaking.
She started to fall, and she fell, and she fell, and she fell. She’s been falling for two years now, and everytime Pom thinks she’s finally found the ground again it turns out she’s just snagged her sleeve on a twig jutting out from a branch and that stick is always about to snap. The same thing happened just a week ago, as Pom thought she finally was starting to feel the earth beneath her feet. Magic swiped her feet out from underneath her and everything around her suddenly became one bad trip.
Magic ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "This shit’s really freaking me out."
MAGIC ⫻ Animancy, a school of magic allowing users to detect, interact, manipulate, and utilize the lifeforce inside of all living things and their lingering souls.
MAGIC DESCRIPTION ⫻ Animancy is a form of magic that deals with all aspects of life, with life in this sense referring to both the physical and spiritual form. Animancy was once referred to as gray magic, as it contains aspects of both white magic as well as black magic, yet in practice it has always fallen closer to the harmful arts of Necromancy than the protective arts of Abjuration. Although they cannot control armies of the dead or raise flesh golems, Animancers were often looped in with their more sinister cousins despite their abilities to preserve life. This is because Animancy has one major caveat required by most spells within its school: lifeforce must be spent by the Animancer to cast a spell.
In turn, to avoid an early grave many Animancers took to harvesting lifeforce from other sources to fuel their magic. Every living thing carries within it some level of lifeforce, with plants and simple organisms carrying the least and the souls of sentient beings holding the most. The longer a thing has lived the more lifeforce it contains. With the exception of a few outliers, some lifeforce is generally lost when an Animancer casts a spell which means that they almost always bleeding resources. Amateur Animancers like Pom are even more wasteful, be it by lacking the knowledge required to store vast amounts of lifeforce or flubbing the incantations and gestures and making the spell cost more lifeforce than it should.
As of right now she is still unaware of what is the most efficient way to cast her spells, let alone if she should even cast them in the first place. She currently possesses no way to store additional lifeforce outside of carrying another soul inside of her. If she were to possess any excess lifeforce beyond the limitations of her own personal pool and the hitchhiking spirit she would begin to leak it, expelling the energy as a black, sludge-like ectoplasm.
Animancy is currently divided into three sub-theories focusing on the soul (Shaman Theory), the living body (String Theory), and lifeforce (Lich Theory). However, Pom is currently unaware of any of this shit. Even after she got the letter she is still suspicious that she is just experiencing near constants hallucinations likely caused by some nefarious experimentation implemented by the Man.
Gray Initiate ⫻ The starting stock for any Animancer starting their path to becoming a master manipulator of life. While Pom unlocked a slew of spells when magic was reignited, she is currently only aware of two of them despite having three others. Many more Animancy spells remain buried inside of her, with the condition to unlocking them currently remaining nebulous to the elf.
PhantaVision ⫻ Pom can see spirits that are present in the material world. With this she can see the souls of the recently deceased before they depart to whatever the hell is happening in the afterlife. However, typically Pom only sees haunts, echoes of the souls that manifest in the presence of someone or something that is bonded to the departed soul through some kind of emotional significance. PhantaVision is a passive spell that doesn’t require any lifeforce.
Kaleidoscope Eyes ⫻ Pom sees a faint aura of light coming off of the living that represents how far along its lifespan it is, with red being a newborn, green being right around middle age, and violet being extremely old. This light is only based upon how much life something has had and not necessarily how much it has left, meaning it cannot predict death from anything other than natural causes. In addition to making the world look trippy as hell, Pom can more easily detect a living thing that is attempting to hide but not fully obscured or completely in the dark. More importantly, it would also allow an Animancer to know what they can harvest the most lifeforce from. Kaleidoscope Eyes is a passive spell that doesn’t require any lifeforce.
Soulmate (Unaware) ⫻ Pom attaches a soul of the recently deceased to her own. While the two are attached, Pom can form a general connection to the soul, getting a sort of vibe from it on certain things, as well as being granted information that the soul would have known when it was alive. Casting an attachment spell costs a minor amount of lifeforce.
Psycho-Pom(p) (Unaware) ⫻ Pom harvests a soul of the recently departed for lifeforce. This can be the soul of a plant, animal, or person, and provide her with anything from a minor to a massive amount of lifeforce depending on the complexity of the creature. Pom can harvest a soul that she has accompanying her via her Soulmate spell. Costs a miniscule amount of lifeforce to cast.
Rejuvenate (Unaware) ⫻ Whenever Pom fully restores her supply of lifeforce she also rejuvenates her body, restoring herself to peak physical condition, healing minor injuries like cuts and bruises, cleansing her body of any sickness or disease, and resetting her physical age to that of early adulthood. Doesn’t cost lifeforce on its own as this is not so much a spell as it is a potential side benefit that accompanies her other spells within lich theory.
LIMITS ⫻ The biggest factor in Pom’s spellcasting is lifeforce, which serves as a fuel for almost all of her spells. While advanced Animancers could theoretically harvest and store vast amounts of lifeforce, Pom is a rudimentary gray witch who doesn’t fully understand her magic and is heavily conflicted by how it is fueled. Although she can tap outside resources to fuel her magic, Pom can also spend her own lifeforce as well. How much lifeforce she has stored up inside of her is manifested both in her appearance and physical wellness. When Pom is full of lifeforce she appears as a healthy elf who has just reached adulthood, but the more lifeforce she spends the more she appears to age and become decrepit.
The level of lifeforce required to cast a spell is broken into five different ranks: miniscule, minor, moderate, major, and massive. Pom could cast miniscule spells all day and barely scratch the surface of her reserves, but the requirements grow exponentially from there with each rank up requiring three times the lifeforce of the rank below. In other words, for every twenty seven minor spells Pom could instead cast nine moderate, three majors, or one massive spell. Currently, a massive spell would use nearly all of Pom’s lifeforce, leaving her in desperate need of a refill as well as appearing in dire straits.
If Pom attempts to cast a spell without having the lifeforce needed to cast it the spell does not fail. Instead, the spell goes off as normal and then Pom would enter into cardiac arrest. Unless she quickly harvests enough lifeforce to balance out her deficit and leave a little in her tank then she will die within minutes. No modern first aid or magical healing can prevent this from happening, with the exception of another Animancer providing lifeforce through a spell of their own.
Several of Pom’s spells have unforeseen or unknown drawbacks.
PhantaVision ⫻ While most haunts are benign, and typically, she is safe as long as she does not draw their attention to her, some are out for blood. While Pom cannot be physically harmed by haunts, they can sap anywhere from minor to major lifeforce from her.
Soulmate ⫻ Most souls on the material world have something that is keeping them from moving on. While some souls will simply bargain or beg with Pom to carry out their final wishes, certain ones would just as happily possess her. Even souls that seem friendly at first might change their tune once they are in the presence of something or someone that sparks an emotional memory. Pom immediately breaks any possession by fulfilling the final wish.
WEAKNESSES ⫻ (DO NOT FILL THIS OUT, I WILL PROVIDE IT FOR YOU)
Other ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Peace out."
Pom has worked as a waitress in Norm’s Diner for over forty years now, getting the job because the owner was a good friend of Bo’s. Norm’s Diner has been a staple of the Twin Pines community for over fifty years and was owned by Norman Jefferies until his retirement about five years ago, where ownership was passed on to his daughter Shelly. Pom's position at the diner has achieved legendary status within the community, where she has been recognized as the absolute worst server in the world, seemingly incapable of not screwing up an order, dropping a glass, or forgetting about a table.
While her ineptitude has become something endearing for the locals, most of whom she has known for all their life and now know the trick to get good service out of her, Pom has proven to be a problem for business when it comes to out-of-towners. With business already being in danger thanks to the opening of a Starbucks within the past couple of years, it’s clear that the only reason Shelly hasn’t fired Pom is due to the woman’s legacy at the diner. Instead, Shelly has just taken to giving Pom less shifts in the summer as a “vacation” as well as making the woman promise that if she’s going to sell drugs that she does it off the clock and behind the Starbucks instead of next to their dumpster.
Norm’s Diner is located on the far end of Main right before the turn that leads to the state route, with a parking lot large enough for semis and typically empty thanks to the drive thru Starbucks that opened up just across the street. It has a U-shaped counter in the middle of the floor with an open window to the kitchen behind and booths ringed around the windowed walls of the diner. The food is the standard greasy spoon special of all day breakfast and burgers. The coffee comes in two variants of either black or burnt, the odds are that the icecream machine is on the fritz again so they can’t make milkshakes, and is home to the best damn cherry pie in the world .
A preview of what Pom's magic might eventually become, subject to be adjusted and better defined if these spells ever actually see the light of day.
Shaman Theory ⫻ Spells relating to the soul. Spellcasting within this theory is extremely under the radar, typically requiring little more than a subtle hand gesture and accompanied with a momentary, blink-and-miss shifting of her pupils to a milky white.
PhantaVision ⫻ Pom can see spirits that are present in the material world. With this she can see the souls of the recently deceased before they depart to whatever the hell is happening in the afterlife. However, typically Pom only sees haunts, echoes of the souls that manifest in the presence of someone or something that is bonded to the departed soul through some kind of emotional significance. PhantaVision is a passive spell that doesn’t require any lifeforce.
Soulmate ⫻ Pom attaches a soul of the recently deceased to her own. While the two are attached, Pom can form a general connection to the soul, getting a sort of vibe from it on certain things, as well as being granted information that the soul would have known when it was alive. Casting an attachment spell costs a minor amount of lifeforce.
Dead Ringer [Buried] ⫻ Pom attempts to open communication with the soul of a deceased, opening herself up as a conduit for the dead to pass along messages and answer questions. Costs a moderate amount of lifeforce.
Free Spirit [Buried] ⫻ Pom takes on the form of a spirit by detaching her soul from her body which enters into a stable, comatose state. Pom is incorporeal while in this form, allowing her to phase through things and float on air, but she is not invisible. Rather, Pom’s spirit form flickers on and off in a slow, steady pulse. She cannot speak while in spirit form, she typically cannot physically interact with anything, and the only way to exit spirit form is to return to her body. She can move as fast as she can run but has limitless stamina as a spirit.
Casting Free Spirit costs a major amount of lifeforce. Pom can interact with an object if she spends a minor amount of lifeforce or hitch a ride with a living creature if she spends a moderate amount of lifeforce to become a passenger. Pom can communicate mentally with the living creature while attached in this way, even if they normally cannot communicate, but she has no actual mental influence over their actions.
Free Spirit Limit: Alongside the previously mentioned inability to speak or physically interact with spending additional lifeforce, Pom’s body is unprotected while she is in spirit form. The further away she gets from her body, the longer she opens herself up to unknown danger.
String Theory ⫻ Spells relating to the living body. Spellcasting within this theory is overt, typically requiring Pom to gesture continuously throughout the channeling of the spell and mutter arcane words in Old Elven.
Kaleidoscope Eyes ⫻ Pom sees a faint aura of light coming off of the living that represents how far along its lifespan it is, with red being a newborn, green being right around middle age, and violet being extremely old. This light is only based upon how much life something has had and not necessarily how much it has left, meaning it cannot predict death from anything other than natural causes. In addition to making the world look trippy as hell, Pom can more easily detect a living thing that is attempting to hide but not fully obscured or completely in the dark. More importantly, it would also allow an Animancer to know what they can harvest the most lifeforce from. Kaleidoscope Eyes is a passive spell that doesn’t require any lifeforce.
Parasight [Buried] ⫻ Pom steals the senses of a living creature she can see, rendering them temporarily blind as she looks through their eyes. While under the effects of a Parasight spell, any spells that require Pom to see someone can still be cast if the target is seen by the vision she has stolen–including recasting her Parasight spell. Costs a minor amount of lifeforce each time it is cast and miniscule lifeforce to maintain.
Parasight Limit: Pom cannot see through her own eyes while she is looking through the eyes of someone else with Parasight.
Twitchcraft [Buried] ⫻ Pom manipulates a muscle of a living creature she can see. She causes the muscle to suddenly seize, which can be used to do things like force someone to drop something, trip them up when they’re running, or turn their head in a certain direction to better set up a Parasight jump. Costs a minor amount of lifeforce.
Twitchcraft Limit: After casting the spell, Pom will experience a twitch in her body. The timing for this varies as does the part of her body that twitches, adding an element of uncertainty to any casting of the spell.
Snipsnap [Buried] ⫻ Pom targets a limb of a living creature she can see. She can spend a moderate amount of lifeforce to snip the limb, rendering it limp and useless for a short amount of time. Pom can maintain the spell with a minor amount of lifeforce, continually spending more and more lifeforce to keep the limb snipped as time moves on. Alternatively, she can spend a major amount of lifeforce to snap the limb and break it.
Snipsnap Limit: Pom’s limb is snipped for as longer as her target remains snipped. While debilitating, it’s nowhere near as brutal as how Pom must snap her own limb to do the same to someone else.
Threaded Fates [Buried] ⫻ Pom targets a living creature she can see and makes them a marionette as she seizes precise control over their body, directing her target to mirror the movement of her own body. Costs a massive amount of lifeforce.
Threaded Fates Limit: Due to the massive amount of lifeforce required to cast the spell, Pom’s movements and therefore the movements of her marionette are slower and lack fluidity.
Lich Theory ⫻ Spells relating to lifeforce. Spellcasting within this theory is not only overt but an assault on the senses, the air around Pom swirling violently while her eyes go black, her limbs flailing wildly as if she were having a seizure, and an ungodly wail like the keening of a banshee claws its way out of her throat. A chorus of whispering spirits can be heard by the targets of these spells.
Rejuvenate ⫻ Whenever Pom fully restores her supply of lifeforce she also rejuvenates her body, restoring herself to peak physical condition, healing minor injuries like cuts and bruises, cleansing her body of any sickness or disease, and resetting her physical age to that of early adulthood. Doesn’t cost lifeforce on its own as this is not so much a spell as it is a potential side benefit that accompanies her other spells within lich theory.
Restore [Buried] ⫻ A more advanced form of Rejuvenate. In addition to the previously mentioned benefits, Pom now also heals herself of major injuries like broken bones or missing limbs. As well, Pom begins to immediately Rejuvenate herself whenever she resupplies her lifeforce, no longer having to fully reset her supply to heal minor wounds, cleanse disease, or appear more youthful.
Revival [Buried] ⫻ A more advanced of Restore. In addition to all the previously mentioned benefits, Pom can cheat death and revive herself if she has a soul attached to her that she can harvest. As well, Pom begins to immediately Restore herself whenever she resupplies lifeforce, no longer having to fully reset her supply to heal major wounds.
Recycle [Buried] ⫻ Pom can take lifeforce and recycle it from herself into another living creature. While this does not revert them to their younger selves, it does allow them to heal injuries and cleanse sickness. Pom can spend anywhere from a moderate, major, or massive amount of lifeforce to immediately provide someone with the healing benefits of her Rejuvenate, Restore, or Revival respectively.
Psycho-Pom(p) ⫻ Pom harvests a soul of the recently departed for lifeforce. This can be the soul of a plant, animal, or person, and provide her with anything from a minor to a massive amount of lifeforce depending on the complexity of the creature. Pom can harvest a soul that she has accompanying her via her Soulmate spell. Costs a miniscule amount of lifeforce to cast.
Flower Power [Buried] ⫻ Pom harvests the lifeforce from living plants within close proximity, regaining a miniscule to moderate amount of lifeforce depending on the health and complexity of the plants. This ultimately leads to the immediate withering and death of the plant. Costs a miniscule amount of lifeforce to cast.
Close Cull [Buried] ⫻ Pom harvests the lifeforce from a single living animal within close proximity, regaining a minor to major amount of lifeforce depending on the health and complexity of creature. In return the animal greatly seems to age, potentially to the point of death. Costs a miniscule amount of lifeforce to cast.
Last Rites [Buried] ⫻ Pom harvests the lifeforce from a single living person within close proximity, regaining a moderate to massive amount of lifeforce depending on the health of the person. In return the person greatly seems to age, potentially to the point of death. Costs a miniscule amount of lifeforce to cast.
Second Death [Buried] ⫻ Pom harvests a haunt for lifeforce. By harvesting a haunt, she also breaks the bond connecting the haunt to the material world. She won’t necessarily make people forget about the haunt or the original soul that haunt was pulled from, but it will never manifest again and quickly becomes a distant, ho-hum memory. She regains a minor to moderate amount of lifeforce, but it costs a miniscule amount of lifeforce to cast.
Memento [Buried] ⫻ Instead of directly consuming the lifeforce she harvests, Pom imbues it in a small token that she can use as a fuel source for her spells. Costs a minor amount of lifeforce to cast.
Analytical Thinking ⫻ Emmy is able to analyze situations, problems, or social interactions quickly. Emotional Intelligence ⫻ Emmy is great at picking up on the emotions of others or her own emotions, and can use this to resolve conflicts, communicate effectively, or regulate her emotions in response to stressful situations. Adaptability ⫻ Emmy is able to adapt to situations quickly in order to fulfill her needs. This includes learning information or a new skill, or simply figuring out how she can physically accomplish something that her body normally couldn't.
Appearance ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "My father sees her every time he looks at me."
Born from an Elven mother, Emmy possesses the fox-like features of high cheekbones, long and slender limbs, slanted eyes, and pointed ears that are associated with Elves. Besides her human nature, the only thing she has inherited from her father are his dark green eyes and his button nose. Her figure is slim, with subtle curves where her long torso meets her hips. What little muscle she has is held in her legs because she prefers to walk when her body allows it. Her skin is fair, yet it develops a tan during the sunny months of summer. The only scar on her body is faded, sitting on her left temple from a fainting spell as a child.
Her hair, like her mothers, cascades in sleek, auburn waves down to the middle of her back that flashes red in the sunlight. She braids it to protect it from tangles on windy days, pins it up with a clip, or ties half of it back with a ribbon when she wants it out of her face. As for makeup, Emmy prefers to keep her face clean. She simply brushes her slim brows out and applies mascara and she's ready for the day.
Although she stands at 5'4" in her comfortable ballet flats or sandals, in the colder months Emmy often wears boots that add an extra inch or two to her height. Her style overall screams student, as she prefers timeless academia pieces that add layers to basic tee's or button-ups. She'll layer these basics with sweaters, vests, cardigans, or jackets. She wears jeans and short skirts in the warmer months, and opts for trousers or long skirts in colder weather. She prefers to wear modest pieces, but will occasionally layer a jacket or blazer over a satin tank or dress in the summer. The color palette of her clothing sticks to neutrals, with pops of reds, blues, and greens mixed into her wardrobe.
Emmy has recently started pairing thin gloves with her outfits, and if anyone asks, she tells them that her hands are just cold.
Psychology ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Appreciate what you have, because the future is always uncertain."
MAIN GOAL ⫻ For now, Emmy wishes to finish her literature degree. Beyond that, Emmy is unsure whether she wants to teach or open her own bookstore in Twin Peaks. She'd love to travel the world, but her condition has kept her from straying far from home. Perhaps one day she'll brave the unknown despite her limitations.
PHILOSOPHY ⫻ Emmy lives with a quiet strength. Her condition has taught her that time is precious, so she lives each day as it comes and practices patience with her body's needs. While she's been well taken care of by her father since she was a child, she knows that she must be independent in her own struggles in order to begin her own life. She often pushes herself to live as normal as possible despite her needs. She's also aware of the privilege she has, and is grateful for it, but she does her best to be humble despite it. She believes that everyone should be treated with the same kindness and respect no matter who their family is or how much money they have.
SECRETS AND FEARS ⫻ Emmy doesn't like to talk about the points of her ears because she believes that her mother left because of her illness. She often covers her ears with her hair or hats just to avoid the conversation.
Emmy is also afraid of heights.
Not so much of a secret if you look at her wardrobe, or know who her father is, but Emmy isn't forthright about the status of her bank account.
SEXUALITY ⫻ Straight, but her eyes have been known to wander
WHAT WAS THE FIRST DAY WITH MAGIC LIKE? ⫻ It was fortunate that Emmy's magic awakened in the evening, while she was resting by the window with a book in hand. It was equally unfortunate that within one minute, the book began to rapidly decay within her hands. The pages began to yellow, the ink began to fade, and the binding came undone and cracked where it had been bent. It disintegrated between her fingers and fell into her lap like ashes.
She was stunned, confused, and horribly disappointed that a relatively new book was suddenly destroyed. Still, what was she to do but clean up the mess and plan to buy the replacement the next day? Something must have been wrong with the book, right?
Little did she know, it wasn't the book that was to blame.
Over the next few days, she noticed subtle changes in the things she would touch. Her toothbrush, near the end of it's use when she began, suddenly looked brand new after she brushed her teeth. The wooden handrail she would hold onto while going down the stairs looked shiny and new in some places, and worn in others. Her slippers, well-worn but with plenty of life left to them, fell apart the moment she put her feet inside of them. She even noticed that she was able to predict the time on her watch before she'd even looked at it. She could feel how much time had passed since she'd laid down for a nap. She was also much better at being on time for class.
When the mysterious envelope arrived a week after the first bizarre incident, everything clicked into place as the letter slowly disintegrated into her lap. Just like the book had done a week earlier.
FLAWS ⫻ Her illness plays a huge part in the flaws that Emmy presents. She's been humbled by her condition many times throughout her life. Unable to play sports or engage in many social events, Emmy has become a bit of a bookworm and has grown comfortable living quietly. It's become hard for her to break from her usual routine, so she hasn't tried anything new in a long time.
Backstory ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Twin Pines is all I've known."
The Longwell's have been a consistent name in the history of Twin Pines. The family business has dabbled in many areas within the city. It began first with the fishing docks, hiring boats and men to bring back a catch worth a profit, and then began to invest in the many tourist spots like restaurants and museums in the town. It has always remained a family name that carries respect within the business owners of Twin Pines. By the time that Emmy's father began to step into his own father's place within the business, the family had enough investments and property ownership that they were within the top percentage of wealth.
Emmeline's mother was travelling through the states when she found herself staying in the lakeside city. She loved it's rustic and cozy atmosphere, and even found love with a human man during her visit. She extended her stay in Twin Pines indefinitely, and soon the two were wed with a little girl on the way. They purchased their own home at the top of the hill that borders the fishing docks and ensured that little Emmeline would be comfortable in life. Her father put all of his efforts into the business, while her mother collected many books and pieces of art that would enrich Emmy's mind from a young age.
Emmy grew up well-fed, well-taught, and as happy as she could be. It was only when her illness began to present itself that the troubles began. She quickly tired, and suffered from headaches, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fainting spells. Her parents took her to many doctors, but it would take a year for them to get a proper diagnosis. By then they had already chosen to homeschool Emmy, and their happy little girl had become a shell of who she once was. They'd run themselves ragged looking for answers, and it had put a strain on the marriage that they couldn't return from. Emmy's mother left after a few months, leaving her father to pour himself into his work so that he could provide for Emmy and her condition.
With his love and constant support, Emmy soon began to find a balance between her illness and leading a normal life. With little to do otherwise, she became an exceptional student and eventually found friends through the other homeschooled children or in the bookstores or cafes she would frequent. She applied for college, and began to slowly work on her degree by taking classes part time to avoid overworking herself. She is now on her final year in her degree, and must decide for herself what her future will bring.
Magic ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "Please don't ask about the gloves, please don't ask about the gloves..."
MAGIC ⫻ Chronomancy The perception and manipulation of time.
MAGIC DESCRIPTION ⫻
Perception: The ability to feel and perceive time passing like an internal clock. This is a passive ability, but it is useful when applying other chronomancy skills. The user is able to perceive how much time they are manipulating or how much time has passed since they began to use their magic.
Manipulation: The ability to manipulate time by reversing, slowing, accelerating, or freezing time. This can apply to anything the user comes into contact with. If ink or paint has been erased or smudged, the user can reverse time to make the word or art readable again. If something has broken or aged past it's usefulness, the user can reverse time to restore the object to it's original state. If the user wishes to dismantle the object, they can reverse time on it to return it to the separate parts that make the object a whole. Also, if they wish to destroy an object, they can accelerate the effects of time on said object and it will decay within their grasp.
LIMITS ⫻
Perception: At the moment, Emmy is only able to sense time passively or through her use of magic. Because her magic has just recently awakened, she is still getting the grasp of perceiving how much time she is manipulating on an object. This means that she may not achieve the desired aging or de-aging of said object and could potentially alter it too much or not enough.
Manipulation: Emmy has not been able to slow or freeze time. She also has not been able to affect the space around her nor anything living. She is only able to affect tangible objects at this moment, and she must maintain physical contact with the object she is manipulating until she has finished. She can only affect one object at a time, and is only able to affect an object as large as the wheel of a car. The amount of time that she manipulates, and the size of the object she manipulates, affects the energy levels she has or can cause her to develop a headache. Emmy also wears gloves when she is out in public because she is not yet able to control her magic.
WEAKNESSES ⫻ (DO NOT FILL THIS OUT, I WILL PROVIDE IT FOR YOU)
Other ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ "This is where the acknowledgements would go."
Aesthetic Inspo: Click Here Faceclaim: Blanca Soler Color: 7B68EE
