Origin and Purpose
Codex Entry: According to mortal belief, the Eternals have existed since the beginning of time, shaping the world and its elements through their immense, unseen power. Viewed as gods, these entities hold sway over the fabric of reality, inspiring awe and reverence among the mortal population.
Influence: Though common mortals cannot perceive the Eternals directly, they witness their divine power in natural phenomena and miraculous events, reinforcing the idea that these beings are deities worthy of worship and fear.
Nature and Hierarchy
Eternal Ranks: Eternals vary significantly in power, with some wielding far greater abilities than others. Power often increases with age and experience, though rare circumstances allow younger Eternals to rival or surpass their elders. Seniority typically contributes to power, but it is not the sole determinant.
Personality and Motives: The motives and personalities of Eternals are as diverse as those of mortals. Some pursue peace and balance, while others thrive on chaos or conflict. Some answer prayers or sacrifices, displaying a sense of divinity, while others act on whims that mortals cannot hope to comprehend.
Visibility: Most Eternals interact only with their branded bearers. Common mortals cannot see them, though exceptions can serve as subtle hints of special lineage or hidden potential, which could foreshadow greater destiny or hidden abilities.
Eternals and Society
Religious/Political Influence: The Eternals are venerated as deities in various forms. Mortals construct statues and monuments depicting how they imagine the Eternals might appear. Some Eternals are indifferent or amused by these tributes, while others react with anger if misrepresented or associated with rivals. These reactions sometimes lead Eternals to destroy statues, sparking fear among mortals who misinterpret such acts as divine displeasure.
Royal and Common Ties: Certain royal families claim strong bonds with specific Eternals, earning power and status through generations. However, the Eternals’ favor is not limited to nobility; some commoners gain influence due to their devoutness or qualities that resonate with certain Eternals, leading to factions outside traditional power structures.
Ceremonial Presence: Worship practices include prayer at Eternal statues, wearing symbols linked to specific Eternals, or making sacrifices. Such symbols often emulate branding marks associated with each Eternal, making them recognizable as signs of devotion.
Conflict and Alliances
Internal Dynamics: Alliances and rivalries exist among the Eternals, and these conflicts frequently spill over into the mortal realm. Their feuds and alliances have shaped kingdoms, influenced wars, and even redefined family lines, burdening the branded with responsibilities tied to the legacy of their Eternal patrons.
Eternals and Mortals: Eternals have the power to bestow “brands” upon chosen mortals, often selecting individuals based on lineage, loyalty, or characteristics the Eternal finds worthy. These branded bearers may come from royal families with historical ties to powerful Eternals, but champions can also arise from common backgrounds. Not all Eternals share their power with mortals; some disdain humanity and avoid granting brands. Eternals who choose bearers often form close bonds with their chosen, while others prefer a distant, indirect influence.
Autonomy vs. Control: In most cases, branded individuals retain autonomy, though certain bonds impose limitations. Some Eternals compel their bearers to act according to their own agenda, sometimes threatening or controlling their actions. In rare, extreme cases, an Eternal may abandon or even eliminate a branded bearer deemed no longer useful.