In ancient times, it was said that magic rained down from the heavens as physical objects that were then possessed by the ancient sages of the First Tribes, whose secrets are mainly lost to history. The old tales relate that the sages learned not only the different aspects of the single source of all magic, but also how to teach it and disseminate the abilities to those who did not possess the physical objects which gave power. Still others sought the objects themselves, thinking that possessing them would grant vast amounts of magical power (at least within that aspect of magic).

While no one knows what these objects were, it is common knowledge that various aspects of magic are taught in schools scattered throughout the nebula, and those looking to avail themselves of the knowledge usually must travel to difficult areas just to knock at the door of a master who may or may not be willing to teach. Many times, such aspiring students never return from their travels. Occasionally, they come back, changed greatly from the people they once were, whether that be for better or for worse.

In any event, magic is a powerful tool to those hoping to become successful adventurers. Some have become hybrid warrior-mages, while others have discovered and honed obscure, unique, and sometimes very specific talents. Some schools teach their magic freely, adhering to old schools of thought that knowledge should be free, while other schools are steeped in ritual, allegiance, and even payment schedules.

The scientific establishment, meanwhile, not satisfied with the magic schools’ continued mystical bluster, have unraveled quite a bit behind magic’s own inner workings, and while the core of the mechanics are unknown, what is known is that all magic seems to rely on a nearly completely unknown source of cosmic energy which is able to manipulate most of the universe’s forces. While the epiphany has raised the legitimacy of the practice of magic in the eyes of those who prefer to use technology, it has also called into question the use of the word “magic” and some of the other terms and rituals which surround the execution of such abilities, as the scientific revelations threaten to strip away any pretense of mysticism. Some in the scientific establishment now actively seek out the fabled Aspect Artifacts in order to discover the secrets of the power it had unleashed upon the people of the Blue Patch so long ago- if those legends are true, that is.

But regardless of the tales, rumors, whispers and claims, none of the old Aspect Artifacts have ever been recovered since the days of antiquity, leading many- even highly venerated masters- to believe that they never did exist. After all, how can objects which grant magical power simply allow that power to be given so freely to others? And yet others claim that the legends are true, the Aspect Artifacts exist, and they exist to be found. If true, the current upsetting of the balance of power may see unlikely heroes (and villains) emerging from the masses of unknown, unwanted orphans currently streaming into every civilization in the nebula.

Gods help us if it’s true…