Hello peeps! I hope you are enjoying reading about my upcoming fantasy novel. As a reminder, the first three chapters will officially be going live on June 4th.

In the meantime, here is some background lore for you about the world in which the novel series takes place. The world’s name is Korelesia. The novel primarily focuses on four kingdoms in that world. The magic system in Loyalty Fallen is based on the characteristics of various gemstones and metals in those kingdoms. Here’s a more detailed profile below.

Fundamental Basis:

• Catalyst and Affinity: Magic universally requires a catalyst, typically precious gems or metals, and the application of human will. Additionally, a natural genetic affinity in the practitioner is essential for harnessing and shaping magical energies.
• Characteristics Variability: The characteristics of magic change dramatically depending on the catalyst used. This variability extends to the magic’s appearance, effects, and applications, making each type of magic unique to its specific element and the kingdom’s culture and environment.

Source and Catalyst:

• Precious Gems and Metals: Magic draws its power from the natural world, specifically through the use of precious gems and metals, each with its own unique properties and affinities. The reason why only certain materials can act as catalysts remains a mystery, suggesting a deeper connection between the earth’s inherent magic and these special elements.
• Depletion and Consequences: The use of a catalyst often leads to its depletion, transforming it into a lesser or worthless state. This depletion highlights the finite nature of magical resources and the need for careful stewardship of these powerful elements. Overuse of gem magic leads to severe consequences, at times even killing the user, while metal magic is less powerful but has few or no consequences. 

Usage:

• Combat, Healing, and Daily Life: Across the kingdoms, magic finds its application in various aspects of society, including combat, healing, and enhancing daily life. The specific uses are deeply influenced by the available catalysts within each kingdom and the cultural significance attached to those elements.
• Elemental Affinity and Effects: The elemental nature of the catalyst defines the magic’s effect — from healing and protection to destruction and manipulation. This affinity ensures a wide range of magical practices, from the weighty blows of iron magic in Hirahja to the delicate manipulations of sapphire magic in Navinor.

Practitioners:

• Widespread vs. Specialized Practitioners: While some kingdoms have a broad base of magic users, others restrict the knowledge and practice of magic to specialized individuals or classes, such as Wardens, Dahab, or shamans. This variation often reflects the kingdom’s social and political structures as well as the prevalence of the catalysts.
• Transmission of Knowledge: Magical knowledge is transmitted through a variety of means, including familial lineage, apprenticeships, and formal education. The method of transmission is often indicative of the magic’s role within the society and its perceived value.

Societal Integration:

• Integral to Kingdom Identity: Magic is a fundamental aspect of each kingdom’s identity, shaping its economy, politics, and international relations. The unique characteristics of each kingdom’s magic reflect and reinforce their cultural and environmental distinctions.
• Resource Management and Environmental Impact: The extraction and use of magical catalysts have significant environmental and societal impacts, leading to conflicts, innovations, and conservation efforts within and between kingdoms.

Inter-Kingdom Relations:

• Trade, Conflict, and Alliance: The demand for magical catalysts and the unique capabilities of different types of magic drive trade, conflict, and alliances among the kingdoms. These interactions are complicated by the varied perceptions of magic’s role and the ethical considerations surrounding its use.

Magical Fauna:

• Creatures Interwoven with Magic: The world is home to a variety of magical creatures, each connected to the magical ecosystem. These beings often embody the magical characteristics of their native kingdoms, contributing to the diversity of magical practices and beliefs.

I’ll be sharing a ton more about the magic system as it is applied in each country, and also the magical creatures in Korelesia. I can’t wait to dive deeper into the world! In the meantime, comment or ask questions below and please also subscribe for further lore and updeates leading up to the novel’s release.