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The Shadows are a mysterious colony native to the Shadow planet. Though often dismissed as the weakest of the four, they wield one of the galaxy's rarest and most powerful abilities the art of blending into darkness. They are currently led by Lady Daine, a respected figure known for her strength and diplomacy. Under her guidance, the Shadows have grown more united.
Shadows can vanish into shadow itself, slipping through it unseen, guided by unmatched night vision and an instinct for navigating the unknown. Their greatest strength lies in their bond with the planet’s fearsome creatures. Where others would flee, the Shadows thrive, coexisting with beings that repel invaders and defend their home. This deep connection makes the Shadow planet a near-impenetrable stronghold.
ORIGINS
The Shadows were once a proud, aristocratic society ruled by their Royal family, a select group of individuals handpicked by the Rulers. These chosen leaders were easily identifiable by the crowns that floated above their heads, symbols of their divine selection and their ability to command the shadows at will. Under their reign, the Shadows thrived, guided by the wisdom and power of their royal bloodline.
However, everything changed when Caroline, the princess of the Lights, driven by grief and rage over the death of her parents, mistakenly believed the Shadow royal family to be responsible for their loss. In a blind fury, she slaughtered the Shadow queen, forever altering the course of their history. This tragic event left the Shadow people in turmoil, their leadership shattered and their future uncertain.
Over the course of a decade, a war known as the Eclipse ravaged the planet. The Shadows lost 80% of their population, including their grieving King, who fought fiercely to stand his ground, despite being outnumbered by their Light counterparts. The Eclipse forever changed the fabric of Shadow society, leaving them scarred, both physically and emotionally.
In the aftermath of this devastation, Daine, a former advisor, stepped forward to take on the mantle of leadership. She was not chosen by the Rulers like her predecessors, but her strength and resolve quickly earned her the respect of her people. Daine rose to power during the Eclipse, a time when the Shadows were already in disarray, and through her determination, she united the fractured people and began rebuilding their society.
As the leader of the Shadows, Daine holds the final say on matters of importance, yet she values the voices of her people. She listens to their concerns and is guided by their words, understanding that her decisions affect not just her, but the future of her people. To support her in her role, Daine has appointed her most trusted advisor, Traike, and formed a group of Elites, highly trained individuals who serve as both the authorities and protectors of the Shadows. These Elites can be found in all walks of life, functioning as a police force, military, and emergency responders, always ready to defend their people. They are easily recognized by the purple badges they wear, signifying their elite status.
Though the Shadows may be considered one of the 'weaker' races in the galaxy, their resilience and unity under Daine's leadership have made them stronger than ever before. They have adapted to their circumstances, and the bond they share with their planet and its dangers ensures that they remain a force to be reckoned with, no matter what challenges lie ahead.
EVENTS
The Eclipse festival
The Eclipse festival is a grand annual event hosted by the Shadows, celebrated in their royal castle as a symbol of their peace alliance with the Lights. This intergalactic event brings together people from all corners of the galaxy, with the royal castle serving as the central hub. The festival is a time of unity, reflection and celebration, where the Shadows and their allies come together to honor the harmony they have forged. It is not only a celebration of peace but also a moment for cultural exchange, where different species share stories, music and traditions from their home worlds.
Traditionally, attendees at the Eclipse Festival dress in black and purple, which are the national colors of the planet. The colors symbolize the Shadows' deep connection to their home planet, with black representing the mysterious, elusive nature of their species, and purple symbolizing the powerful energy that flows through them. These colors are worn with pride, reflecting both the Shadows' identity and the significance of the occasion.
During the festival, there are various ceremonies, performances and displays of magic, as well as dinner and a Bal. Shadows often participate in traditional dances, showcase their magical abilities and engage in friendly competitions. The event is also an opportunity for Shadows to exchange knowledge with other species and foster relationships across the galaxy. It is a time when the Shadows reaffirm their commitment to peace and the festival serves as a reminder of the alliances that have helped them survive and thrive in the complex galactic community.
CREATURES
Duws
Duws are friendly creatures that inhabit the Shadow forest, often making their homes in hollow trees or burrows in the ground. They are curious yet shy, though they have a particular fondness for most humanoids. Easily recognized by their colorful eyes, Duws are known to glide gracefully across the floor as they move. Most people find them endearing and are pleased to encounter them during a stroll, as they rarely cause any trouble.
Dupes
Dupes are formless entities, their true identity lost after wandering the forests for so long that they have learned to prey on others, stealing their essence. When they attack, they absorb the memories, appearance and abilities of their victim, replacing them completely.
Once the Dupe has taken on the victim’s identity, it will go to great lengths to eliminate any interference. If the original person attempts to reclaim their life or expose the imposter, the Dupe will stop at nothing to ensure its place remains unchallenged. At their core, Dupes seek nothing more than a solid role for themselves in the world and a life to call their own, no matter the cost.
Wanderers
Wanderers are shadowy entities resembling the appearance of Shadows using their shadow ability. These enigmatic creatures roam freely at night but during the day, they retreat to the forests, where they become more elusive. Their behavior is deceptively innocent. If a Wanderer spots a potential target, it may wave or act friendly in an unsettling attempt to close the distance, making it easier to lunge at its victim.
The danger of a Wanderer lies not just in its attack but in the aftermath. Wounds inflicted by these creatures carry a poison, causing severe infections that disrupt the flow of magic within their victims. If left untreated, the infection can progress to the point of permanently severing one's ability to use magic. While the process is gradual and not immediately devastating, delaying treatment will significantly lengthen recovery time.
When encountered alone, Wanderers are timid and tend to flee if they sense danger. However, this changes drastically when they gather in groups. In swarms, Wanderers become a formidable threat, their coordinated behavior making them far more difficult to handle. Travelers are advised to stay vigilant, especially in forested areas where these creatures are known to prowl during daylight hours.
The Reaper
The Reaper is more than a name whispered to frighten unruly children, it is a living terror lurking in the shadows of the forest's deepest reaches. This monstrous entity does not kill out of necessity but for the sheer thrill of the hunt. It watches, it waits, and when it strikes, it does so with calculated cruelty, leaving its victims to slowly succumb to their injuries. For the Reaper, death is not the endgame, it is the performance.
Many dismiss the Reaper as a bedtime fable, a tale spun to keep civilians from straying too far into the woods. Yet whispers persist of those who have seen it, felt its gaze or heard its voice, a voice some claim drips with intelligence and malice. Tragically, few of these witnesses survive to tell their stories and those who do are forever haunted.
Believed to be unkillable, the Reaper’s only known vulnerability lies in its enigmatic sense of admiration. If one can endure its ambush long enough, even earn its respect, the creature may relent. This has led some to theorize that it is more than an animal that it is a trial sent by the Rulers, a deadly test of wit and survival meant to strip a person of their raw instincts.
Its true origin remains a mystery. Perhaps it is a punishment. Perhaps a guardian. Or perhaps the Reaper is simply a force of nature, one that thrives on fear and chaos. For now, the forest belongs to it, and all who enter do so at their own peril.
PLACES
Taina's
Taina’s is a charming bistro nestled in the heart of the town, a cozy retreat where local Shadows gather to enjoy their midday meals. With its warm, inviting atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for a relaxing break from the bustling town life. The bistro is a beloved haven for its regulars, including Daine, the leader of the Shadows, who often frequents the café with her trusted assistant, Traike. Its exterior exudes comfort, drawing visitors in with the promise of soothing ambiance and good company. Inside, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, perfectly complementing the array of delicious pastries lovingly baked by Taina and her wife, Kaille. The couple’s care and dedication to their craft make Taina’s a place where time seems to slow, offering a welcome respite for anyone seeking a quiet moment or a friendly chat. Whether it's the warmth of the food, the cozy environment or the gentle hum of conversation, Taina’s is a cherished part of town life, a place to unwind and savor the simple joys.
Claide's home
Claide’s home is a secluded and tranquil retreat nestled at the edge of the Shadow forest, far beyond the bustle of town life. Hidden away from view, it is surrounded by the dense, looming trees of the forest, offering both peace and peril in equal measure. The home, though cozy, is far from conventional, it has no walls to shield it from the wandering entities that roam the forest at night. Yet, this doesn’t faze its owner, Claide, who has lived here for over a decade. The solitude of the place suits him well and the occasional visit from friends, be they from different worlds, is a welcomed change of pace. Whether it’s enjoying a video game session, sharing stories or simply unwinding, the home has always been a safe haven for those invited.
The building itself, constructed from black wood and bricks, blends seamlessly with the surrounding forest. Its design harmonizes with nature, the roof mirroring the deep red hues of the leaves that fall from the trees, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Despite its vulnerability to the creatures of the night, Claide’s home stands as a symbol of resilience, a place where both danger and comfort coexist in the shadows.
Infinity garden
Infinity Garden is a unique rift located on the Shadow planet, leading to an expansive and almost limitless expanse filled with a wide variety of crops. This garden serves as the primary source of nourishment for the Shadows, providing them with the sustenance needed to survive in a world that can often feel harsh and unforgiving. The garden is maintained by Sabrina, a caretaker dedicated to ensuring the crops flourish and remain abundant.
The rift itself is a product of the Eclipse, a time when energy sources were dwindling and the Shadows faced the threat of starvation. The rift, however, proved to be a miraculous gift, offering an infinite plane brimming with fresh produce that could sustain the Shadows even after the devastating war. Its vastness seems unmeasurable, and its ability to replenish itself constantly with the right care has made it a vital part of the Shadow people's survival. The garden has become a symbol of resilience, offering hope and renewal to those who tend it and those who rely on it for their food.
The peaceful atmosphere of the garden contrasts sharply with the war-torn world outside, providing a much-needed sanctuary where the Shadows can reconnect with their roots and gather what they need to live. Sabrina's care ensures that the garden remains a thriving, vital space, preserving the balance and well-being of the people.
Shadow forest
The Shadow Forest is a mysterious expanse teeming with both life and mystery. It is a place that few dare to explore, as its depths are fraught with countless dangers. The Shadows, despite their affinity for darkness, have refrained from venturing too far into the forest, wary of the unknown threats that lurk within. Despite this, it remains one of Claide's favorite places to visit, offering a unique tranquility that he finds comforting.
The forest starts off as a wide, open area, with trees spaced far enough apart to allow much of the light to filter through. This creates a breathtaking atmosphere, with starlight filtering through the leaves and casting intricate shadows on the forest floor. The air is crisp and refreshing and the whole place feels alive with the soft rustling of the leaves. As you travel deeper, however, the landscape shifts. The temperatures begin to drop and soon enough, snow blankets the ground in a soft, blue-ish white. The snow glistens under the violet starlight, creating an ethereal scene that feels like a dream.
As you press on, the forest transforms further. The trees grow taller and denser, blocking more light and turning the atmosphere from serene to eerie. The once-beautiful scenery begins to feel oppressive and a sense of being watched slowly creeps in. The air grows thicker, colder and darker as you venture deeper into the heart of the forest. In this deeper, shadowed part of the woods, nightmarish creatures, usually only seen after dark, prowl, waiting for their next prey. Most would never dare journey this far, preferring to stay near the edges where the forest is more welcoming. But those brave enough to explore the deepest corners will encounter a dark and foreboding world of their own, where danger, solitude, and the unknown await.
Town
Nestled between towering walls designed to separate the untamed wilderness from civilization, this cozy and welcoming town stands as a beacon of safety and resilience. Built during the Eclipse war to protect the Shadows, it remains a bustling hub of life, filled with the entire remaining population of Shadows.
The town’s architecture echoes the medieval style of Human settlements, with cobbled streets and stone houses dotting the landscape. The city is vast, sprawling to accommodate the Shadows’ thriving community, and every corner is filled with history. From lively shops to humble homes, this city offers a rich tapestry of culture, commerce, and heritage, making it a vibrant, ever-changing place where the past and present intertwine.
Royal castle
Royal Castle is a magnificent and imposing structure built for the royal family of the Shadows. This dark and towering castle is crowned by a large purple diamond at its highest point, a gem imbued with elemental magic, particularly that of the Shadow variant. Its immense power played a pivotal role during the Eclipse, creating a colossal forcefield that enveloped the entire city, making it the last bastion of defense for the Shadows. The castle’s protection allowed the people to survive in the face of the devastation that followed the war.
After the passing of the previous rulers, the castle was claimed by Daine, the new leader of the Shadows. Despite its grandeur, Daine often felt a deep sense of loneliness in the vast, cold walls of the castle. To alleviate this isolation, she invited her assistant Traike to move in with her. The two now fill the castle with their presence, bringing a warmth and vibrancy that the grand halls had long been missing.
The sheer size of the castle makes it an ideal place for social events, where the Shadows gather to celebrate, discuss matters of importance, or simply share time together. The once somber and empty halls now hum with a sense of life and purpose, a reminder that even in the most desolate of places, connections can be formed, and new beginnings can emerge.
Claire's workshop
Claire's Workshop is a vibrant and trendy shop where the latest fashions come to life. People come to the store for everything from tailored outfits to personalized fashion advice. Whether looking for a complete wardrobe overhaul or simply wanting to try something new, Claire’s workshop is the go-to destination for anyone in search of style.
The shop is owned and operated by Claire herself, a talented designer with a keen eye for fashion and a passion for helping others express themselves through clothing. Her shop is a reflection of her creativity, filled with an eclectic mix of designs that cater to all tastes.
Shadow peaks
The outer regions of the Shadow planet are dominated by towering, jagged mountains that seem to pierce the very clouds above. These sharp peaks, known as the Shadow Peaks, are both awe-inspiring and treacherous, with harsh weather conditions that make the area far from welcoming. Strong winds and unpredictable storms are common, adding to the rugged, unforgiving nature of the landscape.
Despite these challenges, the Shadow Peaks remain a popular destination for those brave enough to venture into the wild. Hikers and adventurers often make the journey to test their endurance, explore the stunning vistas, and discover hidden paths among the towering rock formations. The peaks are also home to various rare creatures and plants, making the area a fascinating, if dangerous, place to explore.
Laura's library
Laura's Library is a vast treasure trove of knowledge, containing the history of the planet, its neighboring planets and everything in between. Within its walls, visitors can explore everything from enchanting fairy tales to authentic diaries penned by individuals long gone. The library is a sanctuary for those seeking to delve into the rich and diverse histories of the worlds around them.
The heart of the library is its beloved librarian, Laura. A passionate reader herself, Laura takes great joy in sharing stories with those who visit, often reading aloud to her guests.
Averi's hut
Averi’s hut is a small, witch-like dwelling hidden deep within the Shadow forest. Perched on tall wooden beams, the hut can only be reached by climbing up to its platform, a design meant to keep both its occupant and her secrets safe from the creatures that roam below. Fueled by magic and mystery, the hut's chimney occasionally releasing wisps of smoke from the great cauldron within. From her balcony, Averi overlooks the forest, finding solace in the stillness and beauty that surrounds her. Few know of this place and fewer still know of Averi herself, a recluse whose quiet life remains hidden.
Pandora laboratories
Pandora Laboratories is a long-abandoned research facility once hailed as a beacon of innovation and discovery. Founded by order of King David himself, it was home to an elite team of scientists whose experiments once pushed scientific boundaries.
Now, it lies in ruin deep within the Shadow forest, its entrance nearly swallowed by the earth. Built far beneath the surface, the lab was fractured during the war, leaving a massive crater in its ceiling that now serves as a secondary passage, one through which nature has begun to reclaim the space. Those who venture near report unsettling sounds echoing from below: the growls of unrecognizable creatures and the whispers of something restless within. For most, Pandora laboratories stands as a warning, a decaying monument to stay far away from.
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