reality

Core Concepts

There are two fundamental ways of existence: Nothing and Something. Nothing is a singular state, devoid of variation, form, or potential. Something, on the other hand, exists when there are Fundamental Forces, unconscious and impersonal, forming the foundation of reality. These forces can either remain separate or interact with one another. When interactions occur, they follow specific Laws, defining the structured nature of a cosmos. A single realized version of a cosmos, with its unique set of interaction laws, is called a Cosmos—a distinct reality within the broader scope of what could be.

Metaphysical Structures

The full range of possible Cosmoses is mapped within the Framework, a hyper-dimensional structure encompassing all possible configurations of interaction laws.

Within any Cosmos, interactions between Fundamental Forces give rise to recurring Patterns—structural, conceptual, or even emotional tendencies that shape reality. These Patterns can be as tangible as the behavior of elements or as abstract as concepts like honor or greed. Some Patterns exist independently, while others nest within broader ones, forming complex hierarchies of meaning and influence.

Beings of Power

All intelligent life within a Cosmos begins as Mortals, beings who exist within the framework of a cosmos, living by its Laws and interacting with its Patterns. When a Mortal strongly aligns with a Pattern, they begin to draw power from it, evolving into Titans—powerful figures who embody these fundamental aspects of reality. If a Titan more perfectly attunes to a Pattern, they ascend to the status of a God, becoming a true manifestation of that concept within their Cosmos.

Divine Dynamics

The power of a God is not absolute but exists on a spectrum, determined by how purely they embody their Pattern or set of patterns. A god of honor, for example, gains strength from their unwavering adherence to honor but weakens if they act against it. Some Patterns have multiple gods, each matching it to different degrees, while others remain without a divine representative. Broader Patterns can contain multiple lesser ones, creating layered deities with dominion over expansive concepts. The discovery of new Patterns may lead to new ascensions, divine rivalries, or shifts in power.

Applications in the World

Mortals can tap into Patterns in small ways, channeling them into magic, inspiration, or acts of heroism. A bard’s song, a warrior’s moment of divine courage, or a spellcaster’s incantation may momentarily align with a Pattern, drawing strength from it. Over time, societies may come to revere certain Patterns, leading to the rise of religions, philosophies, and divine figures.

As knowledge of the Framework deepens, new understandings of reality may emerge, changing how beings interact with the forces that shape their world. Powerful beings from other cosmoses could work to communicate with others, or even draw from their power. It is important to have gods, powerful ones that embody the best patterns so that they can defend their cosmos from outsiders.