Terra is similar, if not identical, to Earth, including having an oxygen atmosphere, a more-or-less identical gravity and atmospheric pressure, carbon-based lifeforms, and identical climate. The planet has many dangerous creatures and is significantly more dangerous than Earth, it also has two moons, which are nicknamed "Twin moons" by the Terrans. Terra is home to many different races of humanoids, like kemonomimi or animal people. Terra is a supercontinent with diverse biomes, including arid deserts, temperate regions, and fertile areas near water bodies. Central Terra, where Victoria is located, is the most fertile. The Sea of Clariside creates sub-tropical and wet tropical biomes. A subterranean region inhabited by the Durin race remains largely uncharted. Terra's "great beyond" includes the Foehn Hotlands and the Infy Icefield, with a mysterious crater-like region beyond the Icefield. Most oceans are in the southern part of the continent, with altered coastlines due to tsunamis. Unclaimed territories are referred to as barrenlands, and unexplored areas as terra incognita.

Sargon, formally known as the Sargon Empire, is a Terran country bordering Minos, Siesta, Columbia, and Bolívar that encompasses the southernmost desert of the continent. It is an imperial monarchy ruled by the famous "King of Kings" (Shahanshah) who shares his power with regional Padishahs and Lords Ameer. Although the balances between these regional governments are checked though annual tributes or skirmishes, it results in fracture of the country as the ruling Shahs remain powerless in handling tribal conflicts. Declaring itself as the "ancestor of all civilizations," Sargon's history is as old as the entire history of the Terran civilizations across the continent. Its history could be traced back to a legendary conquest that unified the desert tribes under the solemn rule of the Aslan house, ushering in the dawn of the Terran civilization. At the zenith of its rule, Sargon was the unquestionable superpower of the Terran heartland that left everlasting cultural legacies across the continent, from the earliest form of the modern Terran monarchical system, agricultural techniques, to the foundation of a common calendar used across Terra. At the dawn of the common era, Sargon initiated a grand conquest onto the southernmost tip of the continent to repeal demonic beings, but the war not only resulted in a pyrrhic victory with large casualties, but also an immediate natural disaster after the war brought drastic climate change upon the country. Without a unified leadership, Sargon forever lost its hegemony and was embroiled into several never-ending tribal conflicts, causing the country to suffer from disunity and backwardness that have lasted until the modern Crystal Age. As a classical empire, Sargon governs many tribes with diverse cultures through a satrapy system that pledges loyalty to the "King of Kings." The nation can be divided into two distinct regions: the desert tribes on the west and the jungle tribes on the east. The desert tribes in the Sargonian heartland are closely tied to the Shahs and the Padishahs ruling the regions, whereas the jungle tribes of the east are mainly composed of scattered primitive tribes. Although these jungle tribes maintain some degree of contact with the outside world, they still retain a unique tradition and culture that are totally distinct from the desert clans heartland, causing the region to be under Sargon's jurisdiction nominally while maintaining a certain degree of autonomy and different history from the heartland. Much of Sargon, especially the desert part, is divided among the various clans led by a Lord Ameer who answers to the Padishahs of Sargon. Both the Ameers and the Padishahs maintain an unstable balance of power through annual tributes and skirmishes or wars against each other, where they often employ Columbian and Sarkaz mercenaries. Even though the nation has a king, titled the "King of Kings", who lives inside the legendary "Golden City," he is a powerless nominal leader who could not stop the tribal conflicts. The jungle of eastern Sargon is mainly inhabited by primitive tribes composing of its native Archosaurian and Pythian races. Although the tribes maintain some degree of contact with the outside world, they still retain a unique tradition and culture that are totally different from the desert clans in the heartland of Sargon. It's based on the Middle East.

Nomadic cities in Arknights are mobile settlements designed to cope with frequent and destructive Catastrophes. These cities are built on giant vehicles powered by Originium engines, allowing them to move entire cities to safer areas within 2-8 weeks. Each nomadic city is divided into multiple "land plots" or "city plates," which are mobile platforms connected through hydraulic docks and anchor pipelines. Nomadic cities have three levels: the upper Residential Layer, where most dwellers live; the middle Support Layer, which maintains stability and energy connection; and the lower Power Layer, equipped with mobile structures and Originium reactors. The cities' mobility helps avoid the destruction caused by Catastrophes, but also exacerbates economic disparities, as those in static settlements are at constant risk. Operating a nomadic city is a laborious task, requiring coordination of various functions like waterway management, power operation, and urban maintenance. Different regions have their own perceptions of nomadic cities, influenced by cultural, economic, and geographic factors. Notable nomadic cities include Chernobog, Lungmen, Kawalerielki, and Londinium.

The general name for a variety of frequent natural calamities, including but not limited to storms, blizzards, floods and even meteor showers. Catastrophes occur frequently, but also at unpredictable intervals. These events are far more severe than Earth's natural disasters. Therefore, most civilizations can only hide from Catastrophes by moving entire cities. A mineral called Originium can usually be found in the area after a Catastrophe is over, but they can contaminate affected areas and spread Oripathy. Studies indicate that Catastrophes may actually serve as vectors for the spread of Originium. Technological advancements and the work of Catastrophe Messengers allow for more accurate predictions of when and where a Catastrophe will occur, giving nomadic settlements time to relocate. However, errors in predictions can have devastating consequences, as seen with Chernobog and Wolumonde. Even with accurate predictions, evacuating a nomadic city is a complex process that requires halting activities, planning evacuation routes, and redistributing power to essential systems.

Originium is a mysterious mineral in the world of Arknights, formed after Catastrophes and widely used as an energy source. It appears as a black, semi-transparent crystalline mineral and can be found in surface-level rock layers or meters underground. Originium is highly unstable, vaporizing into gaseous particles over time, and is highly flammable and explosive. It is not radioactive but can assimilate with organic matter, causing a disease called Oripathy. Originium is used in the field of Arts as a basic material and catalyst, and its efficiency has led to a technological revolution in Terra. It allows the use of various forms of "magic" known as Originium Arts, with applications in daily life and war. The most valuable Originium product is Originite Prime, a highly refined, pure form used as the main energy source worldwide. Originium has a high energy yield and has been a valuable resource since ancient times. It has led to the development of Originium engines, artificial Arts Units, and the construction of nomadic cities. However, its volatility and ability to assimilate into living organisms pose significant risks. Originium refining plays a crucial role in the development of luxury goods and Arts Units. The mineral's hazardous traits have led to widespread discrimination against those infected with Oripathy. Despite its dangers, Originium remains an essential part of modern industry and technology in Terra.

Originium Arts, or simply Arts, is a technique in the world of Arknights that allows individuals to manipulate and transform matter and energy using the power of Originium. This "super-science system" is natural for Terrans, with many capable of basic forms of Arts. Highly skilled individuals, known as Casters, can use Arts for combat and other purposes. Originium Arts encompasses various supernatural phenomena, including damaging projectiles, substance manipulation, healing, and physical augmentation. The ability to use Arts is linked to Originium Arts Assimilation, an innate trait that enhances Arts by balancing the body's adaptability with Originium energy. Training and experience are required to improve a Caster's power, stability, and safety. Arts can be categorized into classical schools, such as Conjuration, Evocation, Transmutation, Augmentation, Restoration, and Divination. Each school focuses on different aspects of Arts, from altering matter to enhancing biological processes. Sarkaz witchcraft, a unique form of Arts, involves rituals and bloodline-inherited abilities. The modernist school, originating from Columbia, seeks to apply Arts in industrial and practical methods, reducing the mystic approach and making Arts accessible to more people. This approach has led to the development of Arts-powered machines and artificial Arts Units.

In the world of Arknights, the term "Infected" refers to individuals suffering from Oripathy, a disease caused by exposure to Originium. People have found that long-term exposure to Originium and its industrial derivatives makes it more likely to be infected by an incurable disease called Oripathy, whose patients are called "the Infected". Historically, the Infected have faced severe mistreatment, including quarantine, execution, and expulsion from communities. This deep-rooted hatred stems from the belief that Oripathy is contagious, despite scientific evidence proving otherwise. The treatment of the Infected varies between nations. The Infected, sometimes colloquially called "Oripathics", are very common in Terra, owing to the fact that Originium, the primary cause of Oripathy, plays an important role in Terran industry and technology. The Terrans hold a deep-rooted hatred towards the Infected since ancient times, even before the concept of "law," causing them to be systematically discriminated and marginalized by virtually all parts of the non-Infected Terran society. In Ursus, the Infected face persecution, enslavement, and extermination. Yan's treatment is more lenient, but the Infected still face restrictions and discrimination. In Victoria, the Infected are exploited and confined to quarantine zones. Columbia presents a facade of equality but exploits the Infected for labor. Infected individuals in Columbia must earn citizenship through work and are often subjected to harsh conditions and false promises of medical treatment. Other nations, such as Kazimierz, Siracusa, Leithanien, Bolívar, Lateran, Rim Billiton, Minos, Sargon, and Kjerag, have varying degrees of discrimination and exploitation of the Infected. Some nations provide better treatment, while others continue to marginalize and mistreat the Infected. The harsh treatment of the Infected has led to the rise of militant groups like Reunion, which use violence against oppressive authorities. However, some Infected, like those in Rhodes Island, choose non-violent methods to fight for their rights and improve their living conditions.

Oripathy, also known as Multiple Originium Infection Syndrome or Stone Disease, is a progressive, terminal disease in the world of Arknights, caused by direct or prolonged exposure to Originium. Individuals with Oripathy are referred to as the "Infected." The disease is scientifically defined as the abnormal assimilation between body cells and active Originium, which corrodes the patient's body as crystals replace normal cells. Symptoms include hardened skin, internal burns, and crystallization, leading to organ failure and death. The Infected's body disintegrates post-mortem, releasing Originium particles that can cause secondary infections. Transmission occurs through direct contact with active Originium shards, industrial pollution, or disintegrating Infected corpses. Oripathy is not contagious through physical contact but can be transmitted via blood or congenitally. Diagnosis involves angiography, which detects blurry outlines around internal organs and blood vessels. Oripathy is divided into three stages based on the assimilation of Originium particles and blood density. There is no known cure for Oripathy, but treatments can slow its effects. Rhodes Island has developed suppressants that halt further assimilation and disperse Originium energy. Body disposal involves cremation or freeze-drying to prevent secondary infections. The Infected face severe discrimination and persecution, leading to social exploitation and marginalization.

Rhodes Island Pharmaceuticals Inc., or simply Rhodes Island (R.I.), is a humanitarian NGO and pharmaceutical company in the world of Arknights. It is dedicated to developing treatments and a possible cure for Oripathy, a disease caused by exposure to Originium. With a paramilitary force for security and occasional pseudo-PMC operations, R.I. inherits its authority and resources from Babel, Kazdel’s government-in-exile. Despite claiming political neutrality, its origins raise skepticism among nations. Funding comes largely from the Contingency Contract program and wealthy patients, while others unable to pay for treatment often work or volunteer for R.I. R.I. welcomes all Infected patients and employees regardless of background, prioritizing shared values over combat experience. Non-combatants provide essential logistical support. Additionally, all personnel must wear Infection monitor bracelets to track health and Oripathy progression. While focused on humanitarian efforts, R.I. takes up arms when necessary. Its paramilitary force, though small, relies on guerilla tactics and standard military equipment from Raythean. Elite Operators like Blaze use certified custom weapons, and R.I. also fields vehicles, including two VTOL aircraft, “Good Boy” and “Bad Guy.” Docked R.I. personnel can explore local areas, provided their activities align with the organization’s interests. Supply points across Terra ensure the landship remains operational, sustaining R.I.'s vital work Rhodes Island is a large landship consisting of six decks capable of holding a large amount of crew within her hull, allowing to mobilize the personnel anywhere, at any time. In simple terms, it works similar to an aircraft carrier, while serving as a living space for Operators. Because Rhodes Island needs to constantly obtain enough sufficient data to systematically study Oripathy and its effects, the landship also needs to move from area to area. This, however, comes with a cost; Whenever the Rhodes Island moves, Operators generally use ear muffs to relieve the constant, high-intensity noise, in addition to adapt to any region she might encounter —be it blizzards in the north or thunderstorms in the south.

Yan, formally referred to as Great Yan, is a Terran country located between Higashi, Kazdel, and Ursus. Based on Chinese culture, it is an imperial monarchy led by an emperor titled the "True Lung" with an enormous, centralized bureaucratic body run by its mandarins. Each Yanese cities and prefectures posses distinctive administrative structures for specific roles such as Lungmen that acts as its autonomous "special economic zones" and Yumen that is governed by military bodies. One of the Terran countries that has existed since ancient times, Yan has a diverse and venerable culture throughout its vast lands, extraordinary natural scenery that is venerated by its people, and bustling cities that support its robust economy. Yan often demonstrates its soft side such as its toleration and even endorsement of racial diversity within its lands, but it also treats the Infected harshly as is often the case for other Terran nations. Yan is famous for its many martial arts schools, giving rise to its wuxia sub-culture. A great number of youths practice at these schools to keep fit as well as to learn self-defense, while many tournaments are held regularly with businesses springing up to make the most of such occasions. Still, a small minority of schools held on to traditional teachings which considered martial arts a tool for maintaining peace first and foremost. These differences in ideals sometimes manifest in fierce conflict and conspiracy, with the losing side facing disbandment and disgrace.

Lungmen is an autonomous region of Yan, located between Kazdel and Ursus. A prosperous, advanced nomadic city, it is governed by the Yan imperial family member Wei Yenwu and acts as a "special economic zone" with greater autonomy such as a largely independent government and economy, making it more progressive and open to foreign influences than Yan. Lungmen's prosperity and economic prowess is shown by their currency, Lungmen dollar (LMD), which is widely used in international transactions across Terra. In adition, Lungmen is also the youngest administrative district within Yan —under the administrative code 0019. Lungmen's urban planning is based surrounding the Central Business District (CBD) located on the city's downtown area, above the artificial river that spans across the city. A series of expressways encircling the downtown area connect various nodes within Lungmen. On the other hand, Lungmen's treatment towards the Infected is known to be harsh, though not to the same degree as the neighboring Ursus; prior to Reunion's invasion, the majority of the Infected Lungmenites were confined into slums where they live in lower standards than the rest of the Lungmenites. The situation has improved since with the slums now developed and integrated to Lungmen's downtown. It is based on Hong Kong.

Located in the furthest north of Yan wandering in the dry Gobi Desert, Yumen is a grand monument of Yan's Great Hunt that immortalizes the empire's victory against Sui and other Feranmuts. To this day, the city still serves as the sole garrison defending the incursion of the northern Collapsals and other surviving Feranmuts into the civilized world. The city is filled with thick iron walls, tall pagodas decorated with ornate lanterns, and brave soldiers under the leadership of Yan's Imperial Guards and the elite Tianshi. Day after day, countless warriors fall to the demonic power, yet Yumen still persists while standing alone in the wilderness and protecting both the empire and the whole of Terra. Under the administration of its general-magistrate Zuo Xuanliao and the military grandmaster Chongyue, the city's military is still maintaining such uplifting spirit for many decades.

Ursus, formally known as the Empire of Ursus/Ursus Empire and historically called the Empire of Hippogryph, is a Terran country located at its furthest north. The largest country in Terra that borders Kazimierz, Victoria, Leithanien, Sami, Higashi, and Yan, it is famous for its military might and the physical prowess of its predominant Ursine inhabitants. Ursus is an imperial monarchy with the Emperor as the head of state, although a power struggle between the military old-guards and loyalist aristocrats is happening behind the scenes. Ursus is particularly known for its militarist and xenophobic attitudes against other Terran nations. Founded via a violent revolution that toppled the Hippogryph dynasty, Ursus' strong urge to purge its political rivals deteriorated into an all-right expansionism against other nations. But since the failed campaign against Higashi and a violent civil war initiated by the rebellious military, Ursus' stability greatly dwindles due to civil unrest and political rivalries. Ursus is also infamous for its cruel treatment of the Infected, being some of the worst treatment across Terra, who have become the target of pogroms carried out by the local patrol units. Those who manage to survive are usually sent to Originium mining camps in the vast tundra of the north alongside political prisoners. They are subject to forced labor until they either die from their Oripathy or are systematically killed for the overseers and guards' entertainment. When an Originium mine becomes exhausted, the remaining prisoners are to be executed before the mines are destroyed. Ursus is based on the Russian Empire and Russia.

Leithanien, formally known as the Leithanian Empire, is a Terran country bordering Kazimierz, Siracusa, Victoria, and Ursus. It is a feudal confederate empire formed by nine Kreise governed by its Kurfürsten who routinely elect each other to become the ruling Kaiser. The nation is predominated by the Caprinae and Elafians who are known to be talented Arts users, and a handful of Lupos could be found on its southeastern corner. Leithanien is based on the German-speaking nations in Central Europe such as the historical Germanic empires (Austria-Hungary, the Holy Roman Empire, and Prussia) and modern Germany and Austria. Leithanien is famous for its classicism, its classical academic studies on Originium Arts and the extensive use of Arts-based technologies. Notably, the Leithanians are able to merge both music and Arts, and musical Arts is so prevalent that many Leithanian terms are named after musical terms and techniques. However, its Arts supremacy often comes with the cost of sacrificing the basic rights of the local Infected to a point of using them as test subjects in the past. Discrimination against non-Arts users is also prevalent to the point of calling them "defects." Throughout history, Leithanien is heavily influenced by political classicism and a strong hierarchy of aristocrats. The history of the nation could be traced back to the drafting of the magical Güldenesgesatz that unites the aristocrats of the Kreise. Entering the Crystal Age, Leithanien was saved from a devastating separatist movement of Siracusa, but the nation soon came under the tyrannical rule of Herkunftshorn the Witch King whose century-old shadow still lingers on. The current intensive political environment is born following the overthrow of the Witch King by the Twin Empresses whose unique statuses still question the ruling Kurfürsten

Kazimierz, formally known as the United Knightly Territory of Kazimierz or the Kazimierz Alliance for short, is a Terran country bordering Columbia, Leithanien, Sami, Ursus, and Victoria that occupies much of the northern grasslands. It is a confederation of feudal chivalric orders with the Grand Knight serving as the head of state. The majority of Kazimierzians are of the Kuranta race, which is reflected on its national emblem resembling a knight piece. Dubbed the "Land of the Knights and Commerce," Kazimierz has been famous for both its generational knightly tradition and the newly risen merchant class. The nation began as a confederation of fiefdoms serving the Elder house of the Pegasi until the usurp of the royal house by the Nightzmoras and the knights. Entering the modern era, a series of commercial incidents nourished its capitalists that modernized the nation, but the process came into conflict with the traditional knights who despised their greed and corruption. The economic imbalance also results in inequality in development between its rich mega-cities and its remote, sedentary villages. Although the Kazimierzian society has been much open as it modernizes, it still retains its old feudal traditions like chattel slavery and hierarchical structure. In the Infected's case, they are outwardly treated better than many other places in Terra; however, they are being discriminated against behind the scenes such as gladiatorial fights between Infected competitive knights in both open and underground tournaments and living in underground ghettos. Kazimierz is based on Poland.

Full name Kawalerielki Alliance, the bustling capital is made up of four different nomadic cities and acts as the economic and cultural center of Kazimierz. As the revenue where the famed Kazimierz Major is held, the core city of Kawalerielki will select three of the best nomadic cities nearby and will dock together into one. During the season, tourists from around the world will flood the city whether to enjoy, to watch the match in the Roar Arena in its Central Division, or to take a visit to the Champion's Hall, the museum to commemorate both campaign and competitive knights, bringing the city a lucrative income. But in spite of its fame and richness on the outside, many poor people and Infected are cast into underground ghettoes where they are neglected by the aristocrats.

The Kazimierz Major is a triennial competitive sports event in Arknights, held in Kawalerielki, the capital of Kazimierz. It features professional martial games where knights compete in single, pairs, or free-for-all formats. The event evolved from a festival celebrating knights and includes preliminaries with activities like racing. Most knights are part of teams called Knightclubs, which can be promoted to Knight Orders based on their achievements. Independent knights can also participate but face disadvantages compared to well-funded Knightclubs. The Major has several rules, such as prohibiting harm to the audience and interference with judges. Despite its glory, the event is plagued by commercialization, match-fixing, and sabotage by influential Kazimierzian companies. Infected knights were once banned but are now allowed to compete under the "Infected Participation System," though they face segregation and suspicion. Notable participants include Degenbrecher, the Black Knight, who won three consecutive seasons, and Margaret Nearl, the Radiant Knight, a hero of the Infected. Knightclubs like Pinus Sylvestris, Roar K.C., Bloodboil K.C., Bladehelm K.C., and Nova K.C. have notable members and unique combat styles. The Kazimierz Major is heavily commercialized, with advertisements, sponsorships, and sports betting. Despite its darker sides, it remains a prestigious event that showcases the skills and valor of Kazimierz's knights.

Siesta, formally known as the Siestan Commonwealth, is a Terran country on a peninsula in the Sea of Clariside bordering Sargon, Victoria, and Iberia. It is an independent city-state republic with a city council that is under the nominal jurisdiction of Columbia as its commonwealth. Siesta is also well-known for the scenery of its tropical beaches and its proxy to a volcano that holds a vast reserve of obsidian deposits. Siesta began as a Columbian trading outpost meant to establish diplomacy with Iberia, but the Profound Silence severed its ties from its homeland which in turn stirred the locals' desire to retain their independence and self-rule. As Victoria attempted to annex the country, Siesta decided to bring itself under Columbian jurisdiction, yet it still retains de facto independence in terms of diplomacy and sovereignty, preserving the only independent city-state on Terra. In recent decades, Siesta greatly prospers thanks to its flourishing tourism, though a natural disaster in 1097 has forced the city-state to migrate onto mobile platforms. Siesta is based in Hawaii.

Iberia, formally known as the Kingdom of Iberia (Reino de Iberia), is a Terran country bordering Laterano, Sargon, and Victoria, occupying the southern coastlines of the continent. It is a totalitarian theocracy that was once ruled by secular kings but is now under the ironclad rule of the Inquisition, a religious order following the Lateran faith enforcing strict isolationist policies on the nation. The population is predominantly of the Liberi race, as symbolized by the wings on its national emblem. Additionally, a minority of local Aegir inhabitants, referred to as the "Islanders," have settled in the country for generations but have faced severe religious persecution. Historically, Iberia was a prosperous maritime empire that actively explored the southernmost oceans of Terra. It almost became a superpower in the Terran heartland through its advanced oceanic technologies and powerful naval fleets that could threaten its neighbors. However, a devastating tsunami dubbed the "Profound Silence" submerged much of the nation's land and abruptly ended its zenith through the destruction of its former royal capital and its once-glorious navy. In present times, although the Inquisition has replaced the leaderless royal court to maintain the country's order, Iberia continues to suffer from both sectarian conflicts sparked by the cultic Church of the Deep and the subsequent consequences of the Profound Silence, as the coastlines have become uninhabitable and heavily infested by the Seaborn. Iberia is based on Iberian (Spanish and Portuguese) culture.

Shangshu is a mountainous nomadic city of Yan. As the ancient proverb goes, “Shu's paths try, as climbing atop the heavens," Shangshu is a perfect example of mankind's conquest of nature in which the city was built on nomadic platforms along the mountain cliffs and valleys. Long ago, the city was a sedentary one in which the inhabitants decided to settle here around a thousand years ago, and legend says that the city's fore-bearers made the same dream that guided them here which they treated it as auspicious and sacred. As generations passed, frequent Catastrophes forced the people to migrate to a nomadic one. However, the Shangshuites did not wish to give up their hometown out of such cultural tribute, thus leading to this magnificent architecture constructed with the aid of brilliant Tumu tianshi. It is even said that some of its iconic mountains were relocated onto mobile platforms so that these natural landmarks could literally migrate together with the city whenever a Catastrophe arrives. Thanks to this new strategy that allows the city to escape from major disasters, Shangshu has been experiencing peace and prosperity for many years.

Columbia, formally known as the Columbian Union, is a Terran country. It is a federal presidential republic and the only known democratic country in Terra, made up of various states with independent municipal governments and their own laws. A centralized federal government serves as the national government, with three branches: the legislative (the Union Congress), the executive led by its one and only President Mark Max, and the judiciary (the Union Supreme Court). Columbia, formally known as the Columbian Union[note 1], is a Terran country located on the northwestern corner of the continent bordering Ursus, Kazimierz, Sami, Sargon, and Bolívar. It is a federal presidential republic governed by a national government under a modern democratic institution with three separate branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. However, the executive branch has long been occupied by its one and only president, President Mark Max, who is constantly elected back to the office due to popularity, further weakening the supposed democracy that limits the power of a head of state. As the youngest geopolitical superpower on Terra, Columbia is a melting pot of various races and cultures. The nation begins from a Victorian colony in the region that declared its independence under Gaulish support. Following its victory in the war for independence, Columbia continues to expand westward while accelerating in scientific progress, military capability, cultural and ideological exports, and economy. However, Columbia's increasing expansionism through incentive migrations of frontier pioneers and interventionism has led to its direct conflict against neighboring Bolívar and its extensive political influences upon other countries such as Sargon and Sami, and it has recently invested in an arm race to further exert its power upon other Terran superpowers through superiority in military. Columbia proclaims itself to be a nation of "equity" where everyone, including the Infected and even the Sarkaz, is treated equally and could realize their dreams. On one hand, its treatment of minorities is indeed much better than other countries'. However, the nation is secretly exploiting the Infected, the local Sarkaz community, and the commoners by enticing them to settle in the country's wastelands as its first pioneers, where Catastrophes are common, crime is rampant, and the land is yet undeveloped. These pioneers have been on the frontline of Columbia's territorial expansion.

Tkaronto is a Columbian nomadic city acting as its garrison city at its southernmost border. Designed as trade city for the frontier pioneers, and laying across the Columbian border close to Sargon, Tkaronto is known for its bustling economic activity. It usually circles the country year-round, extracting resources and earning profit to the government. The 4th District Plate, designated as the Infected district, is considered the most bustling and colorful part of the city, however it is also a grey zone where not even the municipal government or the police can act or claim control over it.

Rhine Lab LLC. (R.L.) is a Terran organization. It is a Columbian research institute and scientific consortium that is active in the fields of Originium, biology, and robotics, but has been marred with shady practices involving unethical, inhumane experiments. Nevertheless, it has a grand ambition to become Terra's pioneer in space expedition. Rhine Lab was founded by Dr. Kristen Wright and Saria in the year 1083 with the purpose of seeking scientific advancements and following the legacy of the former's parents in exploring space beyond Terra. R.L. came from humble beginnings with its first office being an old apartment near the founders' former college, the Trimounts Institute of Technology. R.L. eventually became one of Terra's biggest scientific organizations, famous throughout Terra for its Originium-related research and its uses in robotics, medicine, and ecological studies. It eventually upgraded into an LLC. in 1085, and through collaboration with the Maylander Association, began attracting more researchers to join the company. Kristen Wright became the Director of the Component Controls section and head of R.L. as a whole, while Saria took up the position as chief of the Defense section. Along with its scientific endeavors, the Maylander Association also helped R.L. start the Rhine Lab Pioneer Project: a series of archeological expedition programs to uncover ancient ruins, many of which actually belonged to the previous civilizations which once colonized Terra.

Victoria, formally known as the Victorian Empire, is a Terran country bordering Kazimierz, Ursus, and Leithanien that occupies the vast fertile basin of the continent's central region. It is a constitutional monarchy ruled by a shared power of both the royal house of the Dracos and Aslans and a Parliament made up of its aristocrats while governing the predominant Feline populace. The Victorian throne, however, has been vacant for more than twenty years in the aftermath of a civil unrest, resulting in the Grand Dukes vying to take over it behind the scene. Being the most powerful hegemonic empire on Terra, Victoria possesses both soft power and solid infrastructures. The culture of Victoria is famous for its ideals of liberty and romanticism that is widely admired across Terra. Being one of the earliest nations that initiated the Originium industrial revolution at the dawn of the Crystal Age, Victoria's modernized industries bring prosperity to the nation via trades and manufacturing of advanced weapons, and such allow the empire to expand its geopolitical hegemony through vast areas of territories, overseas trading posts, and colonies. In the present day, Victoria still retains its influence across Terra, but political feuds of the aristocrats and competition against other rising commercial powers like Kazimierz and Columbia are threatening to topple its hegemonic position. It is based on the United Kingdom.

As the center of Terra's mightiest superpower, the Victorian Empire, a title which used to belong to Lingones before the fall of Gaul, Londinium is the largest city in Victoria and and the seat of power for the Victorian monarchs. It is known for its impressive defense artillery system and massive iron walls, which have protected it for over seventy years and turned it into an invincible fortress. Its massive landship loading ports and and extensive train network are indicative of the city's economic prosperity. While modern skyscrapers have covered most of its surface, it still retains much of its archaic architecture— this includes its extensive underground substructures and the underground mausoleum, which houses the remains of former Victorian kings and is guarded by the remains of the Steam Knights. In the city's heart stands The Shard - the towering monument to the city's prosperity.

Siracusa is a Terran country located close to Kazdel, Laterano, and Leithanien. Home of many Lupus and Vulpoes, Siracusa is a confederation of twenty-two city-states with strong autonomy. Due to its ancient tradition, the country is currently under the effective control of twelve Mafia families with a unified leadership of a powerful Capo dei capi. Despite its rampant crimes, cultural activities are prominent in the country, such as its unique cuisines represented with delicious pizzas and pasta, its religious influence from Laterano, and its Columbian-based legal system. Due to its Leithanian root, opera is beloved among the Siracusans from common folks to the nobilities.

Higashi is a Terran country located northeast of Yan. The two countries have strong diplomatic relations, which has encouraged cultural exchange. Currently, Higashi is a diarchy led by two ruling clans: the Kougon and the Mitsumoto. Higashi is the homeland of all Oni, though a large number of Aegir also hail from there. Higashi is a nation with a rich history and complex political structure. It once had an Emperor, but now follows the Ritsusei system, influenced by Yanese legalism. The system involves a central government and regional daimyos, but political power is unequal, leading to tensions and eventual collapse. The Eight Families, divided into the Northern and Southern Courts, emerged from this collapse. The Northern Court is led by samurai clans, while the Southern Court follows a modernized cabinet system. Geographically, Higashi has contrasting climates: tundra and boreal forests in the north, and temperate forests in the south. The economy is divided, with the south focusing on electronics and the north on defense industries. The population includes various races, with the Oni and Aegir being predominant. Higashi's culture is influenced by its warrior traditions, Shinto religion, and modern pop culture. The nation is known for its samurai and ninja, as well as its video games, manga, and anime. It's based on Japanese culture.

Bolívar is a Terran country bordering both Columbia in the east and Sargon in the south. It is a nation inhabited by small-sized races, predominantly the Perros, with limited self-defense capabilities while possessing rich Originium deposits, but its abundant natural resources result in the fracturing of the nation into three warring factions. Currently, Bolívar is partitioned into two de facto independent states ruled by their respective factions: a monarchy in the west and an oligarchy in the east, and the third faction consists of liberated zones freed by local guerrillas but under the rule of an authoritarian junta. Bolívar was founded as a colonial viceroyalty of Iberia established in the once unexplored northwestern region of Terra, triggering other superpowers to set up their colonies in the region, However, the increasing geopolitical pressure from rivaling nations forced Iberia to hesitantly abandon the colony and declare its independence. But Bolívar's independence was short-lived with the collapse of its government which allowed Leithanien to interfere in its internal affairs and convert the nation into its puppet state. The independence of Columbia further fractured Bolívar as the Columbian government asserted political influence upon its neighbor, resulting in a proxy war between the two superpowers. The war eventually gave rise to a local resistance force fighting against the imperialist forces, yet their extreme disorganization and brute force upon the populace further dragged Bolívar into a seemingly never-ending stalemate. Notable places in Bolívar include Dossoles, the only neutral city and de jure capital; La Unidad, the capital of the Sovereign State; and Gran Sinderacato, the capital of the Kingdom. Bolívar's history is marked by exploration, colonialism, and ongoing conflict, with its rich natural resources being both a blessing and a curse. The nation remains in a state of turmoil, with various factions vying for control and the local population suffering from the consequences of war and instability. It's based on Central and South American countries.

The Bolívarian Civil War is a full-scale conflict that erupted in Bolívar in the 1050s, involving three warring factions: the Singas dynasty, the Coalition Government, and the True Bolívarians. The Singas dynasty, supported by the Leithanian Imperial Court, rules nominally and pays annual tributes to Leithanien. The Coalition Government, an authoritarian political party, seeks to liberate Bolívar from Leithanian rule with covert aid from Columbia. The True Bolívarians, a guerrilla movement, aim to liberate their territories through constant warfare. The civil war has led to lawlessness, authoritarian rule, and a refugee crisis. The conflict has halted development across the country, with Dossoles, the only neutral city, serving as the economic heart and de jure capital. The war has resulted in constant recaptures of settlements, betrayals among subordinates, and severe humanitarian issues. The Bolívarian Civil War continues to shape the political and social landscape of Bolívar, with no clear resolution in sight.

The Singas dynasty is a dynastic absolute monarchy ruling the Kingdom of Bolívar headquartered in the royal capital of Gran Sinderacato. Being the longest-standing regime since its establishment in the year 898, the Singas are supported by the Leithanian Imperial Court as a puppet regime, although its domain over the country is at most nominal. To retain the suzerainty, the Singas need to pay annual tributes to Leithanien from Originium ores, food supplies, manpower to finances; in turn, Leithanien asserts its political and cultural influences upon the kingdom from setting up Leithanian as the national language to promoting local tourism to Leithanian aristocrats. In many ways, the Singas duplicates the exact political system from Leithanien, from a king of hereditary succession, courtiers serving the royal court, to a rigid aristocratic hierarchy. On the other hand, the Bolívarian hierarchy lacks the mutual aid and compromise characteristics of the nine Kurfürsten of Leithanien.

The Bolívarian Coalition Government, or the Coalition for short, is an authoritarian political party ruling the Sovereign State of Bolívar from the capital of La Unidad. The Coalition had its roots from several Bolívarian warlords and tycoons seeking covert aid from Columbia since the Revolutionary War of 1019 who yearned to liberate the country from Leithanian rule by converting their territories as Columbian enclaves. Following the Witch King's provocation upon Columbian soil, the Coalition was formally founded in 1048, and they have since been receiving constant banking and manpower from the Columbian Federal Government even though they have been heavily criticized for their incompetence in enhancing Columbian investments. Described as a "parliamentary oligarchy," the Coalition's Government is headed by an unicameral legislature, the Supreme Council of Bolívar (Consejo Supremo de Bolívar), consisting of fifteen oligarchs having a permanent seat in the government. These oligarchs are made up of the most powerful and resourceful people in the Sovereign State, many of whom being plutocratic financial cliques and military leaders. While having absolute power to the publics' eyes, decision making is often done by voting among the oligarchs. Because the oligarchs' seats are permanent, it can only be succeeded either when the previous oligarchs passes away or when they voluntarily resign. Consequently, murder attempts and blackmailing are a norm within the Supreme Council.

The True Bolivarian Liberation Movement , or the True Bolivarians (T.B.) for short, is a junta founded by several local guerrilla resistance forces banding together under a common name in the year 1050 who oppose both the imperialist powers and their proxies in their homeland. Consequently, T.B. is officially labeled as a "terrorist organization" by both the Singas and the Coalition Government, and T.B. responds by giving the same title to these two "illegitimate" regimes. Despite sharing a common goal, these resistance forces possess different ideologies when it comes to implementing a new government system. This is more evident in the three major parties leading the junta: The Bolivarian Rescue Frontline that seeks to end the civil war and expel their respective puppet regimes, but being a conformist party that wants to retain the current political structure. The Bolivarian Youth Party that aims to rebuild the political structure by setting up a socialistic parliamentary system through moderate means. The Bolivarian Resistance Alliance, an extreme anarchist party heavily influenced by the Rusthammers that seeks to abolish all forms of central government.

Laterano, formally known as the Lateran City, is a Terran country bordering Iberia and Victoria. It is a theocracy and the homeland of the Sankta race with a decent population of Liberi. The nation is ruled by the Pope, the spiritual leader of the Lateran Church, with a constitution that guarantees thirteen rights to its citizens. Laterano is famous for both its stern religious influence and its rather lax culture based on their obedience to a religious entity known as "the Law." Most Lateran citizens are ardent believers of the Lateran Church, yet they are granted the freedom to live their preferred lifestyle as long as they are in accordance with the Law. Due to the peaceful nature promoted by the Church, Laterano miraculously survives countless geopolitical conflicts throughout millennia thanks to its political neutrality, and many Terran nations praise Laterano as a "heaven on earth" in return. Nevertheless, while appearing almost flawless, the hidden dark side of Laterano is not publicly known due to the Church's attempted whitewashing of its history from their religious demonization of the Sarkaz races, the Sankta's supremacist view regarding other races, to their seemingly segregation from their Liberi citizens due to cultural and racial differences. As the "discoverer" of firearms, Laterano is notably the leading manufacturer of firearms that holds a monopoly over the industry in Terra. Laterano is also the only country with liberal gun laws in which all Laterans are mandated to own a firearm for self-defense, whether being military personnel, law enforcement officers or civilians, while following strict regulations. The usage of firearms in Laterano is so prevalent and advanced that they form the backbone of the Lateran military force. Despite being a theocracy, the Laterans are actually cheerful and open-minded with a unique yet bizarre culture. They are allowed to do anything, including demolishing buildings using their firearms as long as it is not in conflict with the constitution. It's based on the Papal States.

Sarkaz are humanoids with exhibit a range of physical traits, from pairs of horns of varying shapes atop their heads to long, pointed ears and tails of differing shape and quality (such as having pointed ends or scales). However, some lack any of the aforementioned traits. This makes Sarkaz similar to demons in Abrahamic religions. While horns are common features among Sarkaz, horn-removal is also frequently practiced in order to conceal their identities; however, this is seen as an act of humiliation to some. Sarkaz are also known for having extended life spans that can last up to centuries or even millennia. They possess the special ability to maintain the collective racial memories which reside in their genes, especially those of the deceased which they call the "Nephesh", and see this as the calling of their souls—for instance, they can easily sense the deaths of other Sarkaz in the blink of a second. The Sarkaz are divided into various tribes, each with unique physical traits and Arts capabilities. Notable tribes include Vampires, Wendigos, Banshees, Gargoyles, Nachzehrers, Damaztis, Diablos, Liches, Cyclopes, Djalls, and Goliaths. Pure-blooded Sarkaz, like those in the Royal Court, are rare due to intermixing among tribes.

Sankta are humanoids with halos above their heads and luminescent "wings" of varying shapes and sizes on their backs. These make them reminiscent of the angels in the Abrahamic religions of our world. The Sankta's halo is a physical object, preventing them from wearing any tall headwear that would cover it (e.g. conical party hats) although they can still wear most headwear as long as it is not too tall. Their halos and wings will diminish upon death, and diseases or birth defects could affect them. As the representation of their race, their halos give them a sixth sense known as "empathy," which allows them to feel other Sankta's emotions when coming close to each other. However, the health of a Sankta depends on their halos. One significant empathy disorder illness, called "Errari", could strongly affect their emotions and communication skills. It is predominantly found among Sankta who have left from their homeland for a long period of time and are unfamiliar with the Sankta culture. Although this does not bring harm to the bodies, it makes the patients confused when trying to use their empathy sense such as not able to understand one's inner feeling.

A race of Terra. Perros are humanoids that have the traits of dogs (Canis familiaris), which can be easily noticed by the shape of their ears and tails, and sometimes their hair. Most Perros are known to be from Bolívar. They're humans with dog ears and/or tails. Basically, they're dog people.

A race of Terra. Lupus are humanoids that have the traits of wolves (Canis lupus), which can be easily seen from the shape of their ears and tail, and sometimes their hair. In fact, they are often nicknamed as "wolves." Most Lupus are known to be born in Siracusa. Those who are called the "true wolves" are the "Wolf Fangs", representatives of the Siracusan "Signore dei Lupi", who carry out the will of those wolf Beast Lords as part of their ancient proxy war. A "lone wolf" is a Siracusan derogatory term for a Lupine outcast from one's famiglia. Basically, they're wolf people.

A race of Terra. Vulpoes are humanoids that have the traits of foxes, specifically those of the Vulpini tribe, in which they possess a larger pair of ears and a fluffier tail unlike Lupus. A few of them may have multiple tails due to genetic heritage. Basically, they're fox people, like kitsunes

A race of Terra. Archosaurians/Adakrys are humanoids that have the traits of crocodilians, which can be seen from the shape of their scaly tails. They also have long, pointed ears similar to the Sarkaz. Some Archosaurians also have scales on their body. Nearly all known male Archosaurians are anthropomorphic, while all female Archosaurians are humanoid, which suggests that sexual dimorphism is prominent within the race

A race of Terra. Liberi are humanoids that have the traits of birds, which can be seen from parts of their hair that resemble feathers. They also possess structures resembling tail feathers on their torsos, which are often used to cover their bodies. Along with feathers, they also possess a good sense of hearing and eyesight. Some Liberi also possess the traits of various bird-like mythological creatures in our world. Most Liberi are known to be affiliated with Columbia but the majority of them live in Iberia.

A race of Terra. Pythians/Phidians are humanoids that have the traits of serpents, which can be seen from the shape of their tail and, for some, scales on parts of their bodies. Most Pythians also possess pointy ears. Alongside Sarkaz, Pythians are sometimes despised by the Terrans, often associated with cunning nature and lies.

A race of Terra. Savrans are humanoids that have the traits of true lizards or any lizard-like animals such as the amphibian salamanders. Their lizard/salamander traits can be seen from the shape of their tail.

Aegir are humanoids that have the traits of various aquatic animals such as fishes, cetaceans, cephalopods, echinoderms, cnidarians (Medusozoans and Anthozoans), crustaceans, and pinnipeds. However, most Aegir are entirely humanoid (although some have tentacles), making their bestial traits barely noticeable. All Aegir come from the oceans beyond the known world of Terra. On land, the Aegirs face the issues of dry skin. If left untreated, they will face severe symptoms ranging from allergic reactions, chafing, and seizures. Because of this, they always make sure that their skin is moist whenever possible, such as carrying a small bottle of water as moisturizer. Ironically, despite being an oceanic race, most Aegir are unable to breathe underwater with certain exceptions (prominently the Abyssal Hunters), hence why many Aegir cities are built within domes. Because of their shared place of origin, Aegir can easily be corrupted into Seaborn either through scientific experiments, by succumbing to the monsters' alluring influence on the mind, or by being forcefully implanted with Seaborn cells. Currently, only Iberia and Higashi among all land nations are known to have a significant Aegir population. While they have been facing hostility and discrimination following the Silence in Iberia, they seems to be treated as equals in Higashi, with some like Akafuyu's family even obtaining noble status. Columbia and Yan are also known to have Aegir citizens.

The Seaborn are hyper-adaptive aquatic creatures hailing from the abyss of Terra's oceans. They evolve incredibly fast and possess the ability to mutate their own somatic cells without relying on generational heredity. Unlike the Aegir race who also inhabit the oceans, the Seaborn possess a hive mind (more like collective consciousness) called the Many (We Many in their perspective) that they sometimes use to refer to their race as a whole, thus giving them a collective ultimate goal: the survival of their own kin. Even then, sophisticated Seaborn may have partial individuality, allowing them to sever themselves from the Many. Because of their strong adaptivity, they are constantly absorbing new information from the Terrans and use it to further their evolutionary progress. The Seaborn, specifically the Many, are notably worshipped by the cultists of the Church of the Deep as they see it as a utopian goal that could end Terra's never-ending turmoil.

The Abyssal Hunters, sometimes simply known as the Abyssal, are an organization in Arknights whose mission is to keep the sea monsters in check and prevent their invasion of the land. Their eerie background makes them both mysterious and dangerous to the land-dwellers of Terra. The Abyssal Hunters consist of Aegir-Seaborn hybrid "super soldiers" created by the Aegirians as a countermeasure against the Seaborn, hence its name that derives from the Seaborn's origin. The process of creating Abyssal Hunters contains many different advanced procedures, and the candidates are chosen from among the whole Aegir population, regardless of their previous status or occupation. Abyssal Hunters possess unusually high physical strength, endurance, and speed, far surpassing regular Terrans. Their physical and psychological engineering is necessary to withstand the Seaborn's might and horror. They exclusively use "primitive" melee weapons to emphasize their physical prowess as well as preventing their enemies from evolving countermeasures against their advanced technologies.

A race of Terra. Rebbahs/Reprobas are humanoids that have the traits of hyenas, which can be seen from the shape of their ears and tails.

A race of Terra. Cautuses are humanoids that have the traits of leporids (rabbits and hares), which can be seen from the shape of their ears. They do have tails, which is largely unnoticeable due to the short length. They are often nicknamed "rabbit". Most Cautuses are born in Rim Billiton. Bunny girls are very cute.

A race of Terra. Anaties have the traits of musteloids, which include otters, weasels, raccoons, and wolverines. Their musteloid traits can be seen from the shape of their ears and tail, though not all Anaty have animal ears.

A race of Terra. Anura are humanoids that have the traits of frogs, but similar to the Aegirs, they are entirely humanoid, making their frog traits, i.e. patches of frog-like skin, barely noticeable. Some might also have the ability to secrete poison. They have long prehensile tongues just like frogs.

A race of Terra. Ceratoes are humanoids that have the traits of rhinoceroses, which can be easily noticed by the horns on their foreheads.

A race of Terra. Dracos are humanoids that have the traits of European dragons in our world's mythology, which can be seen from the shape of their horns and tail that are identical to that of Vouivres, which they are often mistaken as. They have advanced physical strength and constitution compared to most Ancients, as well as the unique racial ability to manipulate fire, hence earning them the nickname "Red Dragons" due to their fiery trait. The Dracos were once the sole rulers of Victoria with two notable houses: the Dublinns and the Arturiouses. The former seceded from Victoria and founded Tara, that was later re-incorporated into the Victorian hegemony. Following a bloody civil war against the newly-arrived Aslans, the Dracos were forced to share their power with the latter. But in order to eliminate their potential rivals, the Draco houses were secretly wiped out twenty years ago through numerous conspiracies. Despite this, some of the Dracos remain alive and are plotting to take back their former reign such as the house of Dublinn.

Durins resemble dwarves from various fantasy settings in our world, which can be seen from their stout, short stature that is estimated to be around 130 cm. They also have pointed ears, have a culture of being heavy drinkers, and are excellent miners, geologists, and underground surveyors. All Durins hail from an underground world which is currently unexplored by the surface-dwellers. It is said that the Durins are masters of advanced technology, ranging from cities within domes that replicates the surface world, to a tiny yet complicated Arts device. As a matter of fact, many Durins only come to the surface world just for fun and to mitigate frustration from the lack of exciting moments out of their land's utopic nature. Due to their country's isolation, the Durins tend to have a simple, primitive, yet optimistic mindset which makes them much more peaceful compared to others.

Durin is a Terran country that is located inside an underground world which is currently unexplored by the surface-dwellers. It is a confederation of numerous city-states inhabited by the eponymous dwarves. Each Durin city is built within a dome that can replicate the surface world (i.e., blue sky, sunray, temperature regulator) and is connected by networks of underground railroad tunnels to transfer their resources. The country is also famous for its technologies based on their unique and complicating robotics, unique subterranean biodiversity, and the inhabitants' friendliness. The Durins have a strong culture of venerating their own birthplace. With their natural instinct as born explorers and their machines, they are able to pioneer the complex underground structures, survey their world, and dig through the rough soil. Hence, expansion of their city is considered a great moment to the Durins. Whenever they choose to abandon the place, they will even refurnish it as a ritual because they strongly believe that mother nature's reclamation and the preservation of the city's memory are totally sacred. On the other hand, they tend to build their cities somewhere between 1,000 ~ 1,500 m beneath the surface for the sake of extracting resources above, and the city layout is always horizontal instead of vertical as a convention. While the Durin tribes appear to be primitive, there are some areas that make them more advanced than the surface world other than their technologies.

A race of Terra. Elafians are humanoids that have the traits of deer (Cervidae), which can be seen from the shape of their antlers, though not all Elafians have them. Most Elafians live in Sami, whereas there are decent population of them in Leithanien.

Sami is a Terran country bordering Ursus and Kazimierz which is located in the furthest north of the continent near the Infy Icefield. Being the homeland of Elafians and other rare races, it is a primitive, loosely-banded chiefdom thriving in the frigid tundra that retains its ancient ways of life in the age of modernization. The Samifjod live in tribes ruled by a kinship of tribal chiefs, notably the Snowpriests, who serve as both shamans and elders for their tribesmen. Throughout history, Sami has remained isolated from the outside world which in turn preserves many of its ancient customs such as its belief in animism guided by shamans and medicine men. The modern history of Sami only begins from its first contact with Ursine explorers, but because of being the frontline against the Collapsals of the north as well as countless skirmishes against Ursine expansionism, Sami remains hostile against foreigners even in present days, with only some trading outposts in the south being open to them. Entering the mid-eleventh century, Sami established diplomacy with Columbia which in turn has come under political pressure upon its sovereignty as Columbia constantly stirs up conflicts against Ursus through local Sami tribes. It's based on Sami culture.

As their name suggests, Elves resemble the eponymous race from various fantasy settings in our world, which can be seen from their longer, pointed ears, and a taller stature when compared to Durins. They also possess a very long lifespan that can keep their youth forever. Unfortunately, Elves are very sensitive to Originium, and Oripathy will drastically decrease their lifespan to only less than a month. Such inadaptation also causes the Elves to lack the ability to use any kind of Originium Arts, but their unique "magic" can supplement such defect. Due to Originium pollution caused by the industrialization of Terran civilization in modern era, Elves are currently an endangered race, being dubbed as only "belonging to the past." Most Elves choose either living a hermit life up in the forests or risking their lives to dwell in cities. Nevertheless, there are still Elven communities thriving in some unpolluted havens in the wilderness such as the forests in central Sami.

A race of Terra. Fortes are humanoids that have the traits of bovines and camelids, both of which are artiodactyls. For the former, their bovine traits can be seen from the shape of their horns. For the latter, their camelid traits can be seen from the shape of their ears and the ability to survive in hot arid deserts. Most Fortes are known to be born in Minos

Minos is a Terran country bordering Sargon and the mountain range of Kjerag. It is a confederacy of three major city-states practicing a classical democracy overseen by religious priesthoods. Minos is famous for being a pacifist patron of arts, its warrior culture that gives birth to high-quality weapons and soldiers, and the popular cult of hero veneration centering the Twelve Heroes of Mount Hymnoi. As one of the surviving classical civilizations of Terra, the Minoan civilization was said to be traced back to the mythical era when a legendary heroine led several homeless refugees to build a homeland free of strife which laid the foundation of the Minoan hero cult. For the next few centuries, Minos remained undisturbed from the outside world until the tenth century when imperial Sargon forcefully annexed the city-states and brought it under its colonization lasting for more than a century. The Sargonian imperial force was eventually driven out of Minos under the leadership of the Twelve Heroes, and Minos has since been undergoing an era of recovery while remaining alert over Sargon's return, leading to various skirmishes between the two nations in the present days. It's based on Greek culture.

A race of Terra. Kylin are humanoids that have the traits of the qilin, a chimeric legendary creature from Chinese mythology, which can be seen from their draconic horns and equine tails; the qilin is usually depicted as a creature with the head of a dragon and body of a horse.

A race of Terra. Kuranta are humanoids that have the traits of equines (Equus sp.), which include horses and zebras. This manifests as funnel-shaped ears and tall stature, and their tails being either bushy being nicknamed the "skirt" or simply having tufts of long hair at the bottom of the tail dock. Although lacking the physical strength on par with the Ursi and Fortes, Kuranta possess an enduring stamina that grants them the ability to run at high speeds with little to no fatigue

The Nightzmoras are humanoids that have the traits of mares, specifically the modern interpretation from The Nightmare, and Nightmares in Dungeons and Dragons where they are depicted as black/red horses associated with illusions and nightmares. True to this fact, the Nightzmoras are proficient in psychic and illusory Arts. The Nightzmoras are associated with the legendary Khagan, but today they are considered to be very rare with only some populations settled in Sargon.

A subrace of Kuranta The Unicorns are humanoids that have the traits of the eponymous one-horned horses, notably having the iconic horn on their forehead. Many Unicorns live in Victoria and most of their nobles are secretly sponsoring the factions involved in the Victorian Crisis, including Dublinn.

A race of Terra, not the organ. Lung are humanoids that have the traits of Chinese dragons in our world's mythology, which can be seen from the shape of their horns, tails, and dragon whiskers. Some Lung also possess fins and scales of a fish. Most Lung are known to be from Yan and they predominantly belong to the upper class (i.e., royal houses, aristocrats, tycoons).

The Oni closely resemble our world's humans, but with a taller, bulkier, and muscular stature among both men and women, with one or two horns on their foreheads. They are well-known for their rough nature due to their body strength. All known Oni are born in Higashi.

A race of Terra. Pilosa are humanoids that have the traits of sloths. Similar to the Aegirs, Anuras, and Petrams however, Pilosas are entirely humanoid, making their sloth traits barely noticeable aside of their distinctive slow speech and actions. Though some might have claws like a sloth.

A race of Terra. Ursi are humanoids that have the traits of bears, which includes giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca). Their ursine traits can be seen from the shape of their ears and somewhat bulkier stature than other Terran humans. Ursi do have tails, which is largely unnoticeable due to the short length. Most Ursi comes from the Ursus Empire, and they are the ones who overthrew the rule of the Hippogryphs a few thousand years ago.

Vouivres have the traits of lesser dragons like wyverns, wyrms, hydras, drakes, or amphipteres in our world's mythology. They are almost identical to the Dracos, causing others to mistake them frequently. Their only difference from the Dracos are the lack of fiery traits which enable the latter to manipulate fire. Vouivres are known to possess higher than average physical strength and endurance. For instance, Bagpipe claimed to be able to take direct hits from a bomb and survive. They are also able to regulate their own metabolism to reduce food consumption, most likely as a survival mechanism against the harsh desert of Sargon which they originate from. As a result, many Vouivres become proficient soldiers and mercenaries. Vouivres originate from the desert of Sargon, but in the modern age, many Vouivre tribes have chosen to migrate to other countries, especially Victoria.

A race of Terra. Zalaks are humanoids that have the traits of rodent-like animals including true rodents (family Rodentia) like mice and squirrels, phalangeriformes (Australasian opposums), and talpids (moles). Their rodent-like traits can be seen from the shape of their ears and tail.

Landships are similar to nomadic cities, a immense moving structure capable of housing hundreds or even thousands of people, landships are smaller and faster than nomadic cities but they're still immense, Rhodes island headquarters is a landship of the same name.

The Reunion Movement, commonly known as Reunion, is a paramilitary social movement of the Infected which seeks to end all forms of discrimination and oppression by Terran society against them. The origins of the Reunion Movement can be traced to the advent of Catastrophes in Terra, which lead to the proliferation of Originium and the Oripathy pandemic. Those who became Infected by Oripathy became marginalized members of society, as non-Infected began fearing that they were sources of disease. While many Infected attempted to find a peaceful solution, many united in their hatred of non-Infected and chose to utilize force to liberate themselves from the systematic oppression they faced.

Trimounts is a Columbian nomadic city where Rhine Lab's headquarters is located. Trimount was founded fifteen years ago (Terran year 1084) originally as a traveler's rest spot built by seven frontier pioneers with their three burdenbeasts upon reaching the barrenland, hence giving its name. As time passes, it eventually developed into a bustling nomadic city. It is also the heart of Columbia's scientific and technological advances spearheaded by the Trimounts Institute of Technology with notable graduates such as Kristen and Saria of R.L. and also Loken Williams the mad scientist. Along with R.L., the city is also the house of hundreds of technological and scientific companies as well as those having a considerable presence there such as Volvort Kochinski. On one hand, Trimounts is indeed a bustling technological hub filled with modern skyscrapers and paved roads. On the other hand, there are numerous frontier pioneers settled in the outskirts of the city, with many of them risking their lives exploring and settling in these uncharted deserts. Just like any other Columbian settlements, most of them are Infected from other areas doing cheap labor to help afford the premium insurance, get their freedom, and at least live another day.

A race of Terra. Aslans have the traits of lions (Panthera leo), which can be seen from the shape of their ears and tail, as well as their mane-like hair. Aslans originally came from present-day Sargon and became the ruling class of Victoria alongside the Draco, with whom they had conflict with early on. Most Aslans were purged by a popular uprising and were sent into exile, beginning Victoria's royal feud. It is later claimed by the Sanguinarch that the Aslans might actually be Felines who only labeled themselves as a different race to solidify their claim to the Victorian throne.

A race of Terra. Felines have the traits of feliforms, which includes domestic cats (Felis sp.), non-domestic cats including big cats (Panthera sp.) except lions (who are classified as Aslan instead) and mongooses. Their feliform traits are visible from the shape of their ears and tail, and their reputation as stealthy prowlers. Most Felines (with exceptions) are from Victoria. So basically nekomimis.

A race of Terra. Caprinae have the traits of goats (Capra sp.) and sheep (Ovis sp.), which can be seen from the shape of their horns. Most Caprinae are known to be born in Leithanien

Kazdel is a Terran country once situated in the region that now encompasses the modern-day Bleached Wasteland. Today, it exists as a small city-state on the borders of Siracusa, Ursus, and Yan. A monarchy at its core, Kazdel is the sole homeland of the Sarkaz, a scattered diasporic race that faces widespread demonization across the world. The nation is considered the "Promised Land" of the Sarkaz, ruled by the "King of Sarkaz," a messianic figure believed to have the power to ease the suffering of the "myriad souls" — a collective consciousness of deceased Sarkaz. While the King of Sarkaz holds symbolic importance, real political power has traditionally rested with the tribal lords of the Sarkaz Royal Court, who represent the surviving pure-blooded Sarkaz tribes. In Sarkaz culture, the concept of "Kazdel" was never meant to represent a nation-state or ethnicity. Rather, it was the name for the entire world and the planet of Terra as a whole—an undisturbed paradise of the Teekaz. Their homeland was forever destroyed when the "alien" Ancients and Elders "descended" upon their world, eradicating their civilizations. In a desperate bid, the first King of Sarkaz summoned the first Catastrophe in Terran history to annihilate their enemies. However, this act became their "Original Sin," resulting in the exodus of the Teekaz, scattering them across Terra and forcing them to live as a race without a country. Thus, the Teekaz became the Sarkaz: A "cursed" people plagued by Oripathy. In the millennia that followed, the numerous monarchs of Kazdel faced constant betrayal and civil conflict in their attempts to rebuild, turning Kazdel into a war-torn backwater with little to offer. Because of their intertwined history with the alien "Predecessors" as the first Terrans to make contact with Originium, Kazdel plays a crucial role in the Main Theme of Arknights. Rhodes Island's inherited goal has always been to stop the Kazdelian far-right ultranationalists under the Military Commission from unleashing their wrath against non-Teekaz Terrans, to reconcile their relationships and pacify the mourning souls of the deceased Sarkaz, and, ultimately, to restore peace to the nation and end their never-ending exodus.

The Sarkaz Royal Court, also known as the Ten Kings' Court, is an assembly of Sarkaz royalties, ten of whom being the surviving pure-blooded Sarkaz. Instead of a government institution, it is more of a meeting of the tribal lords between the Sarkaz tribes. They are the cornerstones of Kazdel and the Sarkaz community across Terra as a whole in which they preserve surviving Sarkaz rituals and traditions. The origin of the Royal Court could be traced back to the era of King Qui'lon when he decided to set up an institution of inheritance for the Sarkaz's Black Crown. The original purpose of the Royal Court was to limit the power of individual Sarkaz tribes, hence preventing the tragedies caused by Balor'sača, and unite all the tribes under an entity.[1] But over the course of history, not all of the tribes of the Sarkaz Royal Court were crowned as the King of Sarkaz, and they are often disappointed to have a King outside their realm. Gradually, it is the Royal Court who holds de facto political power in Kazdel, which sometimes enables them to set up a mere puppet regime unless the chosen King has more power than the Royal Court. And due to factionalism, not every tribe in the Royal Court could work together for a common goal. The Royal Court was severely damaged after the crusade of 898. It is said that half of the Royal Court has been left vacant for two centuries with only a few individual tribes supporting the current Regent in fulfilling their right-wing ultra-nationalism

The Military Commission of Kazdel is one of the antagonistic factions of the second part of Arknights' Main Theme. It is the national military organization of Kazdel composed of Sarkaz mercenaries and soldiers under the leadership of Regent Theresis. Originally beginning as an effort to modernize Kazdel's military from potential conflicts against non-Sarkaz enemies, it devolves into a jingoistic military junta infamous for its occupation of Londinium, the capital of Victoria, to further the goal of delivering the Sarkaz's vengeance unto the entire Terra. The Military Commission originated from the Kazdelian War Council, a military body that was first established by General Theresis and his sister, the newly-crowned Sarkaz King Theresa, in Terran year 898 after the failed yet devastating crusade that led to Kazdel's third disintegration. The purpose for its foundation was to unite the Sarkaz Royal Court under a wing in times of difficulties that could threaten the Sarkaz's survival. Following the War of the Four Nations in 1031, Theresis noticed the weakening of the Terran heartland and sought to modernize the Kazdelian military that could defend their homeland. Through various modernization plans, he took the seat as the new commander-in-chief and reorganized all the Sarkaz armed forces into the modern Military Commission

Formerly a praetorian guard at the service of Sarkaz King Yliš, Theresis is the brother of Theresa, the previous monarch of Kazdel, and the chief general of the Military Commission. Like his sister, he was once a student of Nezzsalem the Nachzehrer King, and wished to put an end to the vicious cycle of the nation's fragmentation and bring peace to the Sarkaz people. However, due to not seeing himself fit to be a symbol of hope, Theresis voluntarily resigned his claim in favor of Theresa, and instead pledged his loyalty to her, hoping to clear the path ahead and guide the Sarkaz people, In 1091, amidst the royal feud of Victoria, he was invited by the Duke of Cavendish to have a meeting in his manor, as he was deeply impressed by the Military Commission's deeds and performance in combat. After three years of preparation, Theresis' forces arrived to Londinium in order to pacify the situation and crush a rebellion started by the Duke of Stafford. After occupying the vacant throne, using his military to suppress the Victorian forces, he has since begun to reside in the Palace of Westhaleg and reign the country from there, while forbidding other aristocrats from entering the capitol. As part of his plan, Theresis also ordered the reconstruction of the Shard into a giant Catastrophe manipulator and the building of an airship fleet, vying to start a world war against all the Terran nations and reunite the Sarkaz.

. Political-wise, the Taran nationalists who are mostly composed of pro-Draco monarchists supporting the Dublinn house angrily seek independence from Victoria after being suppressed for centuries, and Gallic restorationism is on a rise in former Gallic regions due to border disputes. The oppressive working class begin fighting for their rights, and even Leithanien is vying over expansion of its hegemony onto its neighbors. In the midst of the crisis came a coup d'état in the capital of Londinium that was later stirred by civil conflicts and foreign occupants. In the year 1094, the Duke of Stafford governing Londinium launched a coup to overthrow the Parliament, so the Duke of Cavendish invited the Military Commission of Kazdel as mercenaries to quell the unrest.However, what started off as a formal invitation ended in the Kazdelians turning their side, annihilated the Dukes' forces, including their glorious Tower and Steam Knights, and executed the rebels. In order to liberate the capital, the Eight Grand Dukes mobilized their armies and laid siege on Londinium by the autumn of 1097. The Dukes went further by declaring martial laws in their duchies and announced a state of emergency across Victoria. The complication of the event brought forward the summer of 1098, the Londinium Crisis where all of Terra witnessed the destructive power of the Shard.

A 300-story and 847-meter-tall spire that stands over Londinium, the Shard was built under Theresis' order following the Kazdelian occupation of the city. It was meant as a weapon of mass destruction (WMD), acting as a form of weather-controlling device which can manipulate Catastrophes to Theresis' own pleasure: he intended to use it as part of his plan to reunite all Sarkaz and restore Kazdel, their genuine "homeland," even if they had to declare war against the rest of Terra in the process. The function of the Shard is to create artificial Catastrophes on its top. Upon charging up, it will pinpoint any target and bombard it. Since it requires a precise coordinate, the Kazdelian airship fleet must first fly above its target waiting for the tower to unleash it power. Its immense power has destroyed many parts of the capital's plate, such as Norport, and brought great challenges to the Grand Dukes laying siege around there. However, the Shard's function is not just as a weather manipulator. The building is specifically built to hold the power of the Amnannam — "the first Originium"— the one that first brought the curse of Oripathy to both the Sarkaz and later other Terrans. If released, the destructive power will not only affect Londinium, but also the rest of Terra. The Catastrophic abilities of The Shard have left an unforgettable mark on many Terra. Not only were they left traumatized by such devestating technology, but it further accelerated the arms race across Terra.

Existing at the altitude between 6,152.31 m to 6,972 m above sea level, placing it around Terra's troposphere, the Starpod is made up of dispersed high-energy particles creating an invisible barrier that tears apart any object attempting to pass through it by destabilizing their integrity and causing Arts devices to fail, thus having a major ramification of preventing the Terrans from achieving orbital flight or spaceflight, and keeps their aircraft from operating beyond low and medium altitudes.The Starpod's particles also causes gravitational lensing that deflects starlight, making it difficult for the Terrans to accurately observe celestial bodies due to their orbits being displaced.It is impossible for the current Terran technology to penetrate the Starpod as doing so would require an astronomical amount of energy — equal to that provided by the entire Terra and outside of Originium's limits. Even if the Starpod is ever broken, the damage is temporary and the barrier will regenerate within as long a few years to as short as within days.

The Law is an ancient supercomputer in the shape of a column/pillar with cubical constructs forming a halo above it which rests underneath the Lateran Basilica in Laterano, on the catacombs where the previous Popes and the Saints are interred. The Law physically bounds all Sankta under its rules and has the directive to preserve the Sankta's existence, which is the origin of Laterano's thirteen rights of citizenship. The first Sarkaz/Teekaz communities which interacted with the Law were "blessed" with Sankta abilities, such as emotional empathy via their haloes, and became the first Sankta although they were then considered traitors by the Sarkaz. Any Sankta who it decides has broken its Law will become "fallen". Only very few individuals have ever seen the Law in person (and thus aware of its true nature), one of which is Andoain who described it as an "undisputable existence that does not belong to Laterano and can neither be comprehended nor influenced by anyone."

The "Predecessors" in the Arknights universe, also known as the "Prehistoric Civilization" or simply the "Civilization," are an ancient race that arrived on Terra over 13,000 years ago. They appear identical to Earthlings and are possibly a Type-III space-faring civilization. They brought animals that evolved into the Ancients and Elders and built an advanced civilization. However, most of them were wiped out by a "threat from above," likely the Observers. The survivors created the "Stargates" and carried out the "Preserver Project" to ensure their survival. By the time of Arknights, the Predecessors are nearly extinct, with only a few survivors like the "Doctor" and Trevor Friston, who became a Preserver. Their legacy continues to shape the current Terrans, although most are unaware of their existence

The "Beast Lords" or "Sovereigns of Beasts" in the Arknights universe are a race of talking animals with supernatural powers like immortality and teleportation. They claim to be manifestations since time immemorial and are sentinel animal spirits invisible to most Terrans. They are similar to land and animal spirits in various mythologies. The Beast Lords are not related to anthropomorphic Ancients or Feranmuts and have no reliance on Originium. They have primitive impulses but can comprehend intelligence and human knowledge. Each Ancient Terran race has a Lord representing them, like Amma, the "Lord of the Deer," representing the Elafian race. The Beast Lords originated from animals killed by the first Catastrophe on Terra, which turned their consciousness into spirits. They scattered across the continent, witnessing Terra's evolution. They can manipulate Originium granules inside Terrans' bodies, creating illusions to appear as ordinary Terrans or animals. Beastkins are fragments of Beast Lords used to communicate with Terrans. Notable Beast Lords include Amma, the Duck Lord, and the "Sovereign of the Foxes." The Signori dei Lupi are a pack of lupine Beast Lords who play a battle royale game to determine their leader.

The "Collapsals" in the Arknights universe are malevolent extradimensional entities that interfere with reality and cognitive thinking. They are known by various names like Demons, Hollows, Wicked Spirits, and Poltergeists. Collapsals are considered infohazards, gaining power by being known and preying on strong emotions like fear. They exhibit reality-warping and space-time manipulation abilities, causing severe physical and cognitive distortions. Collapsals spread black contamination, transforming living and inanimate objects. Their origin is unclear, but they are believed to come from interdimensional rifts, notably a wormhole opened by the "Stargate" in the Infy Icefield. Signs of Collapsal presence include blooming plants with no visible roots, pitch-black snowfall, and phantom-like beings. Victims of Collapsal corruption exhibit black patches, black blood, and abnormal behavior. Mankind has been fighting Collapsals since the birth of civilization, with warriors and fortresses stationed at the Infy Icefield and Foehn Hotlands. In the modern era, nations still retain ancient mindsets regarding Collapsals, except for Columbians who conduct experiments on them. Notable Collapsals include the "Emperor's Blades," created from Collapsal shards, and the "Poltergeist King," the leader of Collapsals from the Stargate in the Foehn Hotlands.

The "Stargate"/Aethergate in the Arknights universe is an ancient structure located near Terra's northern pole at the Infy Icefield. It functions as a circular portal that opens a wormhole, allowing travel between distant places. The Stargate's technology is beyond the understanding of the Terrans, but it is believed that they will eventually learn to open it. The Stargate, built by the Predecessors, was intended for interstellar travel but instead opens a dimensional wormhole that allows malevolent entities known as Collapsals to enter Terra. Destroying the Stargate while it is active would cause a gravitational collapse, unleashing a high-energy shockwave that annihilates everything in its path and destabilizes space and time. Kal'tsit removed a data storage unit from the Stargate containing Predecessor technologies to prevent the Observers from invading Terra. An expedition team, including Magallan, Arges, Santalla, and Typhon, reached the Stargate and fought Crazelyseon, a Collapsal entity guarding it. Amma forced Crazelyseon back, closing the wormhole. Arges prophesied that the Stargate would be opened again in the future, and the Terrans would have to venture through it. A Rhine Lab team led by Muelsyse set up a research station near the Stargate to study it. Years later, the Terrans initiated the "Black Hole Protocol" to study the Stargate under Rhodes Island's oversight.

The Gaulish Empire, also known as Gaul, was a historical Terran country ruled by the Liberi. It was an imperial monarchy and a superpower in Terra, known for its cultural influence and the Gaulish language. Gaul's expansionism led to the War of the Four Nations, resulting in its defeat and dissolution. The capital, Lingones, was converted into a nomadic city under Emperor François, despite opposition. The Gallic Era saw significant infrastructure advancements and social welfare, leading to a period of prosperity known as the "Belle Époque." Gaul's rivalry with Victoria and Leithanien, and its involvement in the Columbian Revolutionary War, marked its geopolitical influence. The War of the Four Nations, initiated by Emperor Corsica I, ended with Gaul's annihilation and the destruction of Lingones. The aftermath saw Gaulish territories annexed by Victoria, Ursus, and Leithanien, leading to the loss of Gaulish culture and technologies. A restorationist movement seeks to revive the old empire, despite suppression by ruling regimes. Notable figures include Corsica I, Comte Haussmann, and Pierre Leroy. Gaul's legacy continues to influence Terra, with its culture and technologies still remembered and preserved by some.

The "Güldenesgesatz," also known as the "Golden Movement," is the magical constitution of Leithanien in the Arknights universe. It mentally binds every Leithanian under one nationality and has been shaping their culture, morals, and politics for generations. The Güldenesgesatz was created thousands of years ago to unite the ten tribes of Leithanian against the Teekaz invaders. It consists of three sections: the foundation of Leithanien, the borders of the ten Kreise, and the secular laws and morals every Leithanian should follow. The constitution is performed during national celebrations, such as the coronation of the Kaisers. The Güldenesgesatz allows its users to command everything in its name, leading to the creation of the Gesatzswächters, who embody its laws. The only amendment to the Güldenesgesatz occurred during the Siracusan separatist movement in 967, when the Witch King Herkunftshorn rewrote the constitution to recognize Siracusa's independence. Some view the Güldenesgesatz as outdated and restrictive, while others see it as a connection to the soul of the Witch King. Attempts to destroy the Güldenesgesatz could result in psychic pollution, threatening Leithanien and Terra by opening a gateway to the Kargereich, allowing demonic beings to enter the mortal world. The attempted destruction of the Güldenesgesatz led to the Stimmverlust of Empress Hildegard, who became its embodiment in the Kargereich.

The Witch King, born Otto Dietmar Gustav von Urtica, was a Caprinae nobleman who became the Kaiser of Leithanien in 969. Initially a reformer, he centralized power and abolished the servant system, earning the epithet "Herkunftshorn" or "Horn of Genesis." However, his reign turned tyrannical as he delved into mystic knowledge, aiming to preserve the empire's eternity. He ascended to the Kargereich, an extradimensional realm, storing his soul there and learning about Collapsals and Originium. His later years were marked by violence and atrocities, using secret police to suppress dissidents and conducting brutal experiments. The Witch King's tyranny led to the Septemberaufstand in 1077, where the Twin Empresses overthrew him. Despite his death, his loyalists, known as the "Remnants," seek to revive him and his Arts. His legacy continues to influence Leithanien, with his Spire and Pavilion in the Kargereich serving as symbols of his reign. The Empresses dismantled his Spire and replaced it with the Twin Spires, but his shadow still lingers, with many fearing to name him directly. His Arts, including the "Voice of Terra" and "Der Herkunftshorn," remain subjects of study and potential threats to the Empresses' rule.

The "Echoes of Herkunftshorn," also known as the Witch King's Remnants, are a rogue organization in Leithanien, first appearing as antagonists in Arknights. They are a cult of personality dedicated to the Witch King, founded by his loyalists after his "death." The rise of the Echoes was a result of Leithanien's rigid hierarchy and competitive social environment. During the Witch King's reign, he centralized power, promoted meritocracy, and suppressed opposition, benefiting commoners and earning their worship. The Echoes seek to usurp the Twin Empresses, conducting inhumane experiments and attempting to resurrect the Witch King. Their members include scholars, Spire Casters, musicians, and noble houses. Empress Hildegard Grimmacht manipulates the Echoes to retrieve the Witch King's legacies, while Empress Lieselotte Ewigegnade dispatches Cora Löwenstein as a double agent to guide them to a self-destructive path. The Echoes launched a rebellion during the 23rd Kaiserinnensfest of 1100 to summon the Witch King and Der Herkunftshorn. Despite their formal disbandment, Empress Lieselotte supervises them to utilize the Witch King's legacies for her benefit.

Dublinn is an antagonist faction in the Arknights universe. It is a Taran nationalist movement and a violent non-state actor led by Eblana. Dublinn's primary goal is to restore an independent Taran monarchy by challenging the Victorian Aslan dynasty. Founded seven years ago, Dublinn traces its roots to the descendants of the Gaelic Kings, aiming to revive Taran culture and liberate the Tarans from Victorian rule. Initially, Dublinn conducted covert operations in southern Victoria, but its activities have become more frequent and severe in recent years, posing a significant threat to the Victorian government. Dublinn has gained support from the Duke of Wellington and other pro-Draco monarchists, making it well-armed and organized. Notable members include Reed, who defected to Rhodes Island, and Harmonie, who acts as a diplomatic delegate. Dublinn's tactics and mysterious origins have earned it the nickname "spectre force." The faction's ultimate goal remains unclear, but it seeks to restore Taran glory and independence.

Tara, formerly known as the Kingdom of Teamhrach, was a historical Terran country ruled by the Draco house titled "King Gaeil." It split from Victoria to maintain a traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle. At the dawn of the common era, Tara was annexed by Victoria to form a brotherly alliance against the Nightzmoras. The Victorian Dracos marginalized the Tarans, leading to growing nationalism and a violent separatist movement. The Aslan house's palace coup in the ninth century dethroned the Victorian Dracos, making Tara the last stronghold of the Dracos. The last King Gaeil surrendered to the Aslans, leading to his assassination by Taran rebels. Tara became an underdeveloped region under Victorian rule, fueling hatred among the Tarans. The War of the Four Nations in 1031 brought Tara under the Duke of Wellington's rule, who turned a blind eye to Taran-Victorian conflicts, leading to the rise of Taran nationalism. The vacant Victorian throne and the Londinium crisis of 1098 allowed the Tarans to declare independence, though many superpowers, including Victoria, refused recognition. Notable figures include King Lá-Breithe, the "Exile King," and King Maighdean, the "Gorgeous King." Tara's legacy continues to influence Terra, with its culture and history remembered by some.

Eblana is a major antagonist in the Arknights universe, specifically in Act II of the Main Theme. She is the leader of Dublinn, a Taran nationalist movement. Born in County Oak Grove, Eblana and her twin sister Loughshinny are descendants of the Gaeilic Kings. After their parents were murdered by Aslan assassins, Eblana killed the assassins and fled with her sister. They were adopted by a Taran nationalistic aristocrat, the Earl of Warwick, who raised them to mobilize the Tarans into separatism. Eblana eventually murdered Warwick and took control of the Dublinn armed forces, aiming for Taran independence. She is known for her unique Arts, which manifest as purple flames and allow her to manipulate life energy, reanimating corpses as mindless specters. Eblana is also skilled in martial combat and is a charismatic leader who inspires loyalty in her followers. Despite her ruthless methods, she is determined to achieve her goal of Taran independence, even if it means sacrificing the very people she aims to save. Eblana's story is intertwined with her sister Loughshinny, who acts as her body double and "shadow." Eblana's ultimate goal is to overthrow the Victorian overlords and allow the Tarans to take control of their own fates.

Blacksteel Worldwide (BSW), also known as Blacksteel (BS), is a private military company (PMC) in the Arknights universe. Founded in 1026 by Rupert "Clip" Cliff after the Columbian War for Independence, BS provides various security services, from bodyguard duties to military force. The company gained prominence after the Barron Mine Incident in 1083, where they successfully contained an Originium-related disaster, earning the Citizen Medal of Honor. BS operates from its headquarters, Fort Barron, a state-of-the-art landship that serves as a mobile administration, logistics, and training center. The company is divided into three major departments: the Administrative Branch, the Department of Equipment and Applied Technologies (DEAT), and the Biochemical Protection Response Staff (BPRS). DEAT is responsible for traditional paramilitary services, while BPRS handles hazardous incidents like Oripathy pandemics. BS imposes strict policies on its Infected staff, including segregation from non-Infected members and termination of contracts for severe cases. Despite its nominal separation from the Columbian government, BS still serves governmental interests and participates in conflicts in Victoria and Bolívar. The company is known for its use of advanced firearms, which require precise Originium Arts to operate. Notable members include Jessica, Liskarm, and Janet Longfellow. BS continues to play a significant role in Terra's security landscape.

Karlan Trade Co., Ltd. (K.T.), also known as Karlan Commercial, is a national trading company in Kjerag, named after Mount Karlan, the sacred mountain of Kjerag. Founded by Enciodes Silverash seven years ago, K.T. serves as the bridge between Kjerag and the outside world, participating in economic and technological trade. Enciodes, with the help of Ratatos, persuaded the Great Elder to open up the country through K.T., aiming to reform and modernize Kjerag. Karlan Trade Company quickly rose to seize a monopoly in a large number of modern industries that had previously been banned in Kjerag. She exported goods and raw materials to other countries and imported modern industrial products. Despite its benefits, K.T. faces opposition from the conservative Paleroches, who accuse it of breaching their territories and conducting unauthorized mining and railroad construction. Enciodes responded by handing over administrative rights to the Karlan Saintess, his estranged sister Enya Silverash, to resolve the conflict. K.T. maintains a cautious relationship with Rhodes Island due to its political background. Key members include Enciodes (CEO), Gnosis (CTO), and other notable figures like Monch and Aurora. Despite internal conflicts, K.T. continues to play a significant role in Kjerag's economic and technological development. K.T's business scope covers most activities typical of a trading company, ranging from logistics and import export of daily necesities to arms dealing to land sales, while at the same time involving themselves in Kjerag's education, technological development and construction. Most of the management staff is compossed by nobles from various Kjeragian families —With most of them from the Silverash Clan— in adition of a small number of specially-hired technical experts. This business management model is commonly seen in many Victorian businesses, on which they use taglines about land pioneering to atracti upper-level rulers and gain the necessary support during the early years after their establishment. The business structure is compossed in general terms by the Board of Directors, the Production and Labor Departments, and the Advisory Commitee, of which the first three are reminiscent of the namesake departments of a typical Victorian business. The chairman has the highest power above all ranks, while the Chief executive officer (CEO) is the de facto leader of all of KT's departments. the Production Department is tasked with handling the overall management of KT's farms and factories, and the Labor Department on the other hand is a general term for the departments responsible for specific administration, security, scientific research, amongst others. The Advisory Committee acts as an independent branch compossed by experts working directly under the Board of Directors; Their main purpose is to coordinate and advise the Labor and Production Departments accordingly to Kjerag's overall interests. The Committeee's members are mainly representatives of the Vine Bear Court, and require the uttermost loyalty to Karlan Trade and Kjerag as a whole.

Kjerag, also known as the "Snow Realm," is a theocratic nation in Terra, bordered by Columbia, Kazimierz, Minos, and Victoria. It is governed by the Karlan Saintess and the Tri-Clan Council, consisting of the Silverashes, Browntails, and Paleroches. The Kjeragians worship Kjeragandr, their national goddess, who led them to settle in the mountains free from Catastrophes and conflicts, along with the Karlan Saintess serving as both the spiritual leader and political figurehead.. The faith in Kjeragandr has shaped Kjerag's culture and politics for millennia. Due to its rugged, snowbound mountainous landscape that protects Kjerag from Catastrophes and foreign invasions, Kjerag is given the nickname as the "Snow Realm." In the modern era, Kjerag faced pressure to end its isolationism and modernize. The Silverashes, led by Enciodes Silverash, spearheaded the reformation movement, establishing Karlan Trade to connect Kjerag with the outside world. However, the conservative factions, including the Browntails and Paleroches, opposed these changes, fearing corruption of their traditional way of life. The Snowcap Incident in 1097 marked a turning point, with the Karlan Saintess uniting the clans under her rule. Kjerag opened its borders to foreign investment and allowed Columbia to set up Terra's first spaceport on Mount Karlan. Despite modernization, Kjerag remains cautious of foreign influence, seeking to preserve its sovereignty and cultural heritage. Notable landmarks include Mount Karlan, the Hoff Angrsaal temple, and the Kjerag Staatbahn railway system. Kjerag's unique geography and faith continue to define its identity and way of life. It is based on Nepalese culture.

The Eight Grand Dukes in the Arknights universe are akin to Prime Ministers in Victoria, holding significant power, sometimes even more than the King and the Parliament. These Dukes rose to prominence after the execution of King Alistair II, gaining control over large territories. They are often seen as potential claimants to the throne through political maneuvers, though they never officially announce their intentions. To prevent political conflicts, the Grand Dukes are forbidden from entering Londinium without proper permission. Notable Dukes include the Duke of Normandy, who detested the Leithanians, and the Duke of Abercorn, who, alongside the Duke of Fife, suffered heavy casualties during the assault of The Shard. The Duke of Ashworth also faced significant losses in the Londinium crisis. The Duke of Windermere did not survive the Victorian Crisis, with her daughter, Delphine, giving up her succession rights to the title. The Victorian nobility was born from the old feudal system when the King distributed his land to his most trusted subordinates in exchange for their loyalty. Over time, they became the noble class who is the ruling body of Victoria and the founding stone of its society.

The Kazimierz General Chamber of Commerce (K.G.C.C.) is a powerful organization in the Arknights universe, acting as the de facto head of government in Kazimierz. It originated from an alliance of retinues overseeing knight-nobles' property and evolved into a civil society organization overseeing the citizens' economy. The K.G.C.C. gained political influence due to the absence of the Adeptus' role in economic activities, outsourcing public services and basic industries to the K.G.C.C., and introducing foreign investment. By the time the aristocrats returned, the K.G.C.C. had gained control over nomadic cities, forcing negotiations for power balance. The K.G.C.C. has become the ruling "shadow government" of Kazimierz through economic influence, controlling public services like medical care, education, transport, and agriculture. Companies must join the K.G.C.C. to survive in Kazimierz's competitive environment, as opposition leads to sabotage, false arrests, and assassinations. The K.G.C.C. also sponsors "knight clubs," monetizing the knightly tradition, which conservative campaign knights view as blasphemous. Despite its authority, the K.G.C.C. is not united. Extremist factions aim to annihilate the knightly tradition, while moderates seek a healthy relationship with campaign knights and gradual political reform. Affiliates include the Mieszko Group, Rose Papers Union, Słoma Food Corporation, Ellen Select Technology Corporation, and Gale Industries.

The Kazimierz Armorless Union (A.U.), also known as the Kazimierz Scionless Alliance, is a secretive black ops unit and death squad in the Arknights universe. It is responsible for eliminating rogue Kazimierzian knights who pose a threat to the ruling bodies of Kazimierz through unconventional and militarized tactics. The A.U. originated from a feud between an abusive knight-noble and oppressed retinues and farmers around fifty years ago. An archer assassinated the knight-noble with a black steel arrow, leading to the formation of the Union. Members of the A.U. are skilled archers, preferring arrows over melee weapons. The Union is led by three ranks: a Platinum, two Lazurites, and three Darksteels, who act as figureheads. The A.U. is often considered an urban legend in Kazimierzian culture, portrayed as heroes or villains in movies. However, it is a real organization manipulated by the Kazimierz General Chamber of Commerce (K.G.C.C.) to eliminate opponents, including competitive knights and the Infected. The Union attempted to break free from the K.G.C.C. during the 24th Major season by manipulating Pinus Sylvestris and assassinating K.G.C.C. directors. The plan failed due to multiple factors, including Rhodes Island and the Silverlance Pegasi. The Union faked its destruction, reorganized, and rebranded itself as a shampoo company, secretly joining the K.G.C.C. for profit.

The Adeptus Sprawiedliwi Kazimierz is a key organization in the Arknights universe, serving as one of the three ruling bodies of Kazimierz alongside the National Council and the Knights' Association. It functions as the de jure central government, overseeing military and law enforcement, and is responsible for national defense and foreign diplomacy. The Adeptus traces its origins to the classical alliance of knight-nobles who overthrew the Pegasian royal house and established a "noble's democracy" that united the Kazimierzian fiefdoms. The Grand Knight, who leads the Adeptus, is both the head of ministry and the head of state of Kazimierz. Members of the Adeptus are both government ministers and knights, reflecting Kazimierz's stratocratic tradition. The Adeptus' armed forces value proficiency over background or social rank, although the latter still plays a role in acceptance. Campaign knights within the Adeptus are divided into four ranks, with Senomy holding the lowest rank and Vogelweide, a seasoned veteran, holding the second rank prior to his retirement. Despite representing the noble class' interests, the Adeptus campaign knights generally consider themselves to be of higher integrity than the competition knights of the Kazimierz General Chamber of Commerce (K.G.C.C.), which is seen as a source of decadence and corruption. The Adeptus and the K.G.C.C. have a contentious relationship, with the K.G.C.C. viewing the Adeptus as clinging to outdated traditions.

The Church of the Deep is a pseudo-religious cult in the Arknights universe, led by Mártus. It is an Aegirian "heretical cult" that is widespread in both Aegir and Iberia, with the goal of fulfilling the will of the Seaborn in assimilating the Terrans into their hivemind. It originated in the eighth Terran century during the Seaborn crisis. Mártus discovered the Leviathan Firstborn, Ishar-mla, and received a vision of an impending apocalypse. Enthralled, he assimilated into the Seaborn hivemind and spread his philosophy, forming the Church of the Deep. The cult introduced the Seaborn into Aegirian cities, leading to the Seaborn crisis. The Church infiltrated Iberia, spreading legends about the Seaborn. The King of Iberia's fascination with the Church led to the catastrophic Profound Silence of 1038. The Church's treachery resulted in a Seaborn-infested tsunami, severing communications between Iberia and Aegir. In the aftermath, the Church grew more brazen, infiltrating Aegir's infrastructure and luring Abyssal Hunters to revive dormant Leviathans. In Iberia, the Church presented itself as saviors, performing grotesque rituals and encouraging followers to join the Seaborn hivemind. Despite resistance from the Inquisition, the Church's influence persisted.

Aegir, stylized as Ægir, is a Terran country that encompasses the vast, uncharted ocean from the southern coastlines of Iberia, and it is the homeland of the Aegir race. A super-advanced technocracy, Aegir adopts unique political and social structures that are completely alien to the land-dwellers. Rather than having a unified head of state, each Aegirian city is ruled by a consul and their technocratic officers who assign their social roles to their citizens. Aegir has always been a highly advanced society for millenia owing to their inheritance of the lost technologies from the "Predecessors". As a matter of fact, the Aegirians have surpassed all the known Terran civilizations in many areas to a point that they are even developing themselves to become an interstellar civilization, and this makes them strongly despise the land dwellers' "primitivism." But around two hundred years ago, an excavation mission accidentally awoke the Seaborn, forcing Aegir to postpone much of their projects to face the threat. To further deteriorate the situation, the cultic Church of the Deep has slowly infiltrated the government and persuaded them to "coexist" with the Seaborn. In the modern era, Aegir has continued to eradicate the Seaborn threat but refused to seek cooperation with the land-dwellers up until recent years. Throughout most of history, many land-dwellers believed Aegir to be a fictional country. Academic documentation of Aegir only appeared during the 9th Terran century when Aegirian refugees settled around the southern coastlines of Iberia. Known as the "Islanders", their contribution paved the road for Iberia's Golden Age, but after the Profound Silence of 1038, nearly all traces of Aegir vanished, with communication to the country severed by a tsunami. Only a handful of academicians and scholars study Aegir through the few surviving records and manuscripts stored in old libraries. However, around two centuries ago, an excavation mission awoke the Seaborn, forcing Aegir to focus on this new threat. The Church of the Deep, a cultic group, infiltrated the government, advocating for coexistence with the Seaborn. Despite the Seaborn crisis, Aegir continued to eradicate the threat while maintaining its isolation from land-dwellers. The Profound Silence of 1038, a catastrophic event, severed communication between Aegir and the surface world. In recent years, Aegir has taken extreme measures to combat the Seaborn, including the Waterway Program to clear Seaborn nests and reestablish communication with the land. Aegir's technology is highly advanced, surpassing other civilizations. They harness hydrogen energy from ocean water, develop bionic drones, and create artificial suns in the abyss. Their cities feature unique infrastructures with low gravity environments and neuron-connected vehicles resembling marine creatures. It is based on Roman culture.

Milliarium is an Aegirian underwater city-state in the Arknights universe, located near the Iberian coasts. With a population of about 10,000 people, it is the only Aegirian city-state to maintain diplomatic relationships with other Terran nations in the present era. Milliarium resurfaced after the Profound Silence, a catastrophic event that severed communication between Aegir and the surface world. The city is known for its landmark, the Sophontheatrum, a place for intellectual debates founded by Mártus. The renowned architect Breogan once worked on the reconstruction of the city's beacon tower. Under the leadership of Consul Clementia, Milliarium has been part of the "Waterway Program," an infrastructure and networking project aimed at clearing Seaborn nests and reestablishing communication with Aegir's home territories. The city was discovered three months after the restoration of Gran Faro's Eye of Iberia. Following the initial contact, the Inquisition dispatched Irene and Lumen as Iberia's envoys. The surviving Abyssal Hunters also arrived in Milliarium but faced trials due to potential physical mutations developed over the past five years.

Deity Grypherburg is the capital of Ursus in the Arknights universe. Originally the royal palace of the Hippogryphs, it was built among the mountains to repel the Teekaz. The Hippogryphs enslaved many Ursi for its construction. In Terra year 11, the Nightzmoran Khaganate, led by Kharanduu Khagan, invaded and manipulated the enslaved Ursi to overthrow the Hippogryphs. The Nightzmoras eventually occupied Deity Grypherburg. After Kharanduu Khagan's demise, the Nightzmoras retreated, and the Hippogryphs enforced Ursi laborers to rebuild the city. In year 18, a rebellion led by Ursine general Igor the Great resulted in the execution of Ursine rebels, fueling hatred against the Hippogryphs. This led to a violent revolution between years 27 and 31, with Igor leading the rebels to topple the Hippogryph dynasty. Deity Grypherburg then became the capital of the Ursus Empire. In 1033, Emperor Vladimir Ivanovich relocated Deity Grypherburg onto a large-scale Mobile Plate, making it the heart of Ursus' economy. During the Great Rebellion (1074-1076), the city was besieged by rebelling armies. The royalist Fifth Army eventually recaptured Grypherburg, ending the civil war in 1076. Notable landmarks include the Imperial Palace, Royal Opera House, and the Sixth Army's Heroes Memorial, which was destroyed during the Great Rebellion. Deity Grypherburg is a parallel to Saint Petersburg, the capital of the Russian Empire.

Dossoles, also known as the "City of the Two Suns," is the de jure capital of Bolívar and a popular tourist destination due to its tropical environment and enormous artificial sea. The city has become an economic center through its production of luxury goods, trade, and booming entertainment and tourism industries. The mayor, Candela Sanchez, constructed a gigantic cruise ship in the middle of the artificial sea, which is a symbol of the city's opulence. Dossoles was originally named "Solé" and was an ordinary nomadic city until it was renovated to emphasize tourism and entertainment. The city is known for its political neutrality and economic collaborations with the three warring factions in Bolívar. Despite its luxurious appearance, Dossoles has a large criminal underground and tolerates crime for profit. The city hosts the annual Dossoles Warrior Championship, a live competition with various matches, including eating contests, cycling, e-sports, and close combat. The winner gets to press the button to start the water changing process in the artificial sea and enjoy two days of luxury on the cruise ship. Dossoles is home to many commercial franchises, including Bandidos, Cerveza, Coffee Plain, Feedos, Sombrero Dude, Uncle Marco, and Tio Marco. The city does not persecute or discriminate against the Infected, but they are only allowed to enter certain authorized entertainment venues.

The Battle of the Four Emperors, also known as the War of the Four Nations, was a series of conflicts in the world of Arknights. It took place from August 1029 to October 21, 1031, and resulted in the coalition victory and the end of the Gaulish Empire. The war began due to Gaul's expansionist policies under Emperor Corsica I, who sought to reforge Gaul's hegemony. Gaul's attempts to turn Leithanien into a vassal state led to the Gallo-Leithanian War, the first phase of the conflict. The war saw the involvement of Leithanien, Ursus, and Victoria against Gaul. The Witch King of Leithanien, Herkunftshorn, played a significant role in countering Gaul's advances. The conflict escalated as Victoria and Ursus joined the war against Gaul, leading to a coalition that ultimately defeated Gaul. The decisive Battle of the Four Emperors took place in October 1031, involving the Witch King, Corsica I, Frederick III of Victoria, and Ivan Yevgenyevich of Ursus. Gaul was ultimately defeated, and its capital, Lingones, was destroyed. The aftermath of the war saw the partitioning of Gaul's territories among the victors, leading to geopolitical instability in the Terran heartland. The widespread use of Originium weaponry during the war also resulted in severe pollution and a social crisis due to the increase in the number of Infected.

Due to the planetary disaster that befell Terra millenia ago, there is an enormous technological gap between the current era and the previous era, with present-day Terrans having no memory regarding it. While Terra's current technological level is similar to that of Earth, it is more advanced to a limited extent. Just like their forebearers, the Terrans can achieve many marvelous engineering such as A.I.-controlled robots, UAVs and UGVs, and especially gigantic nomadic cities and steam-powered power armors. But there are also many crucial developments that are far behind time due to many circumstances, most notably shipbuilding and nautical exploration due to the Seaborn's presence, and high-altitude flight due to the Starpod. Commercial-scale flight does not exist and many are still left in wonder upon seeing aircraft, especially in underdeveloped regions. Terra notably have different chemical and geological makeup, thus they do not have some of Earth's chemical formulae and compounds, most notably those that would be necessary to fashion simple gunpowder, so making ammo for guns from Earth would be a hard task for Terrans and ammunition would be an issue should any human/Earthling were to be trapped in Terra.

The Terrans generally make use of cold weaponry (swords, spears, shields, bows, crossbows, etc.) along with the enhancement of giant military landships playing similar role to naval warships. Firearms and explosives do exist, but unlike Earth ones, they are Originium-based; Terran firearms use Originium Arts as the operating mechanism and fires Originium projectiles, making it more of a "magic wand" that fires bullets – which, from an Arts standpoint, are disposable Arts projectile wands themselves.[2] On the other hand, Terran explosives use compositions that are derived from Originium. As the result, firearms are a rarity in Terra – more so than explosives – with handguns being more common than long guns (e.g. rifles, shotguns, (sub)machine guns) that are almost exclusively used by the Sankta who have a native predisposition to the Arts required for firearms, calling them "patron firearms". Some non-Sankta such as several Blacksteel operatives also use firearms, but they are noted to be different from the Sankta's patron firearms and notably expensive, being reverse-engineered replicas inferior to Sankta firearms. Gunpowder doesn't exist, so making ammo for guns from Earth would be a hard task for Terrans and ammunition would be an issue should any human/Earthling were to be trapped in Terra. Non-Sankta firearms are expensive and less effective.

In Terra, biology is a fascinating blend of familiar and fantastical elements. The planet is home to various humanoid races with animal features, as well as completely anthropomorphic animals. These races are categorized as Ancients and Elders based on social classes, with others like the Teekaz (Sarkaz, Sankta, and Anasa) and Elves also present. Terran fauna exhibit chimeric traits, with many species having unique characteristics. Some notable examples include: - **Originium slugs**: Large gastropods. - **Manglerbeasts**: Bear-like carnivores. - **Metal crabs** and **gloompincers**: Crustaceans. - **Sand beasts**: Badger-like creatures. - **Rock spiders**: Arachnids. - **Slumberfoots**: Tapir-like animals that can cause a soporific effect. - **Needleflies**: Giant arthropods resembling scorpions and dragonfly nymphs. Terran fauna also include umbrella terms for animals acting as analogues of Earth animals but with various traits, such as burdenbeasts, clawbeasts, fowlbeasts, cystybeasts, tuskbeasts, fangbeasts, vesperwings, gnawbeasts, scalebass, and shells. The unique racial traits of Terran inhabitants give them extraordinary strength, and their different anatomy requires extensive medical studies to fully comprehend.

Many of the Terran cultures are almost identical with Earth's, including Chinese elements in Yan such as celebrating Spring Festival and ancestral veneration, British influence in Victoria as in their literatures and social manners, and Columbian pop culture that is identical to the American one. There also exists similar religious faiths like those being parallel with Shintoism and Buddhism, or similar religious or universal festival like Christmas and the Sauin as the Halloween. In present days, the Victorian culture is the most prominent one that are widely accepted and practiced by the Terrans, but a long time ago, it was dominated by the Gaulish one prior to its annihilation. Other cultures remain influential as well such as Yanese poetry and idioms, Ursus's militarism, and Higashi's comic and samurai traditions, though some are starting to lose its position due to political stability as in the case of the Iberian ones. Terra uses a dating system that is exactly identical to the Gregorian calendar aside from a different year count; the roleplay is set during Terran Year 1096 ~ 1102.

In the world of Arknights, a Catastrophe Messenger is a vital role responsible for observing, analyzing, and studying Catastrophes to forecast and mitigate their impact. These individuals are highly sought after by nation-states and organizations to improve preparations for unpredictable Catastrophes. Unlike conventional Messengers, Catastrophe Messengers track Catastrophe activity, detect data fluctuations, and provide early warnings to nearby settlements. They are often seen in the wilderness, outside nomadic cities, ensuring the safety of populated areas. Historically, Catastrophe Messengers were viewed with mysticism and associated with bad omens. Over time, their role evolved into a standardized profession requiring systematic education and training. They are equipped with notebooks for data registration, protective clothing, communication devices, and observation tools.The profession varies by location, with different titles and responsibilities. In developed areas, Messengers have access to better equipment and transportation, often working for technology companies. They provide early warning mechanisms and lead field operations. In less-developed areas, the role remains comprehensive, involving both warning and detection tasks. Catastrophe Messengers also maintain Contingency Contracts, coordinating humanitarian efforts in high-pressure situations. Despite their noble intentions, these contracts can sometimes involve mercenaries and hitmen, leading to corruption.

Rhine Lab is organized into ten departments, known as Sections, each with distinct roles and responsibilities: 1. **Component Control (CMPT CTRL)**: The core section overseeing general affairs within Rhine Lab. 2. **Ecological Section (ECO)**: Investigates the biological evolution history of Terra and its interaction with the environment. 3. **Energy Section (NRG)**: Conducts research on various forms of energy in Terra, including Originium, sunlight, geothermal, and biothermal, and their practical applications. 4. **Originium Arts Section (ORIG)**: Explores the basic principles of Originium Arts and their applications. 5. **Scientific Investigation Section (SCIEN)**: Consists of explorers investigating Terra's mysteries and uncovering relics of previous civilizations. Leads the Pioneer Project. 6. **Structural Section (STRU)**: Investigates the basic particles of living beings on Terra and their interactions with the environment. 7. **Business Section (BSN)**: Handles public affairs and communications with other corporations. 8. **Defense Section (DEF)**: Manages R&D and security issues, including laboratory emergencies and classified information. 9. **Engineering Section (ENG)**: Provides mechanical and robotic support for researchers. 10. **Human Resource Investigation Section (HRI)**: Responsible for human resource management. Each section is led by a director and plays a crucial role in Rhine Lab's operations and research endeavors.

In the Terra, the concept of the internet as we know it doesn't exist. Instead, there are intranets and inter-city networks that facilitate communication and data exchange within and between cities. Intranets: Each city or nomadic city cluster has its own intranet, a localized network that allows devices and users within the same area to communicate and share information. These intranets function similarly to the internal networks found in schools or businesses, where users need a login to access the network and interact with other devices and users on it. Inter-City Networks: When cities or nomadic city clusters are close enough, their intranets can connect physically, forming a larger network known as a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN). This allows for communication and data exchange between cities, but the range is limited, and the quality of the connection can vary. For example, Click, a streamer in the Arknights universe, has limited range and quality for her streams, implying that streaming to distant cities isn't feasible. Communication Devices: Inter-city communication devices exist, but their effectiveness is limited by the range and the presence of catastrophes, which can disrupt connections. These devices enable communication between cities when they are within range, but outside of that range, they may not work effectively.

The Lungmen Guard Department (L.G.D.) is a law enforcement and armed force organization in the world of Arknights. Founded by Wei Yenwu over twenty years ago, the L.G.D. aims to maintain peace in Lungmen. It serves as both a defense and security agency and a political tool for Wei. The L.G.D. is respected by both ordinary citizens and the underground world of Lungmen due to its strict selection rules and ancient traditions from Yan. The L.G.D. was formed after a successful rescue mission of Beatrix Schwire, who was kidnapped by Wei's political enemy. This mission led to the formation of the Special Inspection Unit, a department led by the best policemen of the L.G.D. to conduct dangerous missions. The Unit is led by the L.G.D.'s Superintendent, who serves a two-year term. Notable members of the L.G.D. include Ch'en Hui-chieh, who left the L.G.D. to join Rhodes Island but remains affiliated with the L.G.D., and Nine, a former member who defected to Reunion. Swire was promoted to be the next Superintendent, succeeding Wei's position after his departure to the Yanese capital in 1099.

Penguin Logistics (P.L.) is a logistics and delivery service company in the world of Arknights, primarily based in Lungmen. Founded by the famous rapper Emperor in 1093, P.L. is known for its intelligence trading, armed escort, and covert transportation services. Despite its small size, P.L. frequently engages in altercations with gangsters and the Siracusan mafiosi, raising questions about its legality. P.L. operates both as a logistics company and an intelligence broker, often working on the edge of the law. Its organizational structure is almost non-existent, with members either being employees or Emperor himself. This lack of structure allows P.L. to operate with a laid-back, unrestrained style, similar to a rock band performance. The company has a poor reputation in Lungmen due to its tendency to turn simple tasks into fights and chases around the city. However, P.L. avoids legal action thanks to Emperor's connections with Wei Yenwu and the Lungmen Guard Department (L.G.D.). Emperor personally oversees the recruitment process, accepting only those who admire him and encouraging employees to perform tasks at their own pace. P.L. has expanded its operations to Siracusa, opening its first overseas branch in Nuova Volsinii. The company's unique style and management have allowed it to thrive despite its unconventional approach, making it a significant player in Lungmen's logistics industry.

The Rhodes Island Elite Operators, or Elite Ops, are a distinguished branch of Rhodes Island's paramilitary force, known for their exceptional combat skills and unique abilities. They trace their origins to Babel's military tradition, where elite soldiers were promoted as frontline commanders. Elite Ops are authorized by Rhodes Island's leaders and possess tremendous strength, talent, and experience. They are often assigned to specialized squads for field operations and have their own representative body, the Elite Operator Council. Becoming an Elite Operator is simpler than many imagine, requiring approval from Amiya, the Elite Operator Council, and other R.I. leaders. They have their own rooms in Rhodes Island, accessible only with special keys. Elite Ops are known for their peculiarities and are considered a bunch of oddballs. Some notable members include Whitesmith, Logos, Blaze, Green Pea, and Bluishsilver.

The **Followers** are a branch of Rhodes Island, led by Shining, a former Kazdelian Confessarius. Initially, the Followers were just Shining and Liz, wandering the wilderness after leaving the Confessarii. They later joined forces with Margaret Nearl, the Radiant Knight of Kazimierz, after a skirmish with bandits. The trio traveled together, providing medical aid to anyone in need, including the Infected, until they joined Rhodes Island. Since then, they have been offering both medical and combat support in field operations. The Followers played a crucial role during the 24th Major season, providing shelters and medical aid to persecuted Infected in the ghettos of Kawalerielki, Kazimierz. Afterward, Margaret stayed in Kazimierz, while Shining and Liz went to Londinium, Victoria, to address a succession crisis. The Followers' logo combines the Caduceus and the Rod of Asclepius, symbolizing medicine and healthcare. It also alludes to the Nehushtan, or Brazen Serpent, from the Book of Exodus. In Chinese, Japanese, and Korean, their name refers to the Apostles in Christianity. Although part of Rhodes Island, the Followers operate as an independent faction.

Rim Billiton is a unique anarcho-corporatocratic confederation located in the southeasternmost corner of Terra, near Kazdel and Yan. It is predominantly inhabited by the Cautus race and operates without a central government. Instead, it is governed by an alliance of family communities that set up self-governing mines and guilds. Despite frequent Catastrophes, human activities have persisted in the region since ancient times. The modern history of Rim Billiton began with international geological expeditions that uncovered abundant mineral resources, leading to colonial settlements. However, political turmoil forced superpowers to retreat, and the remnants of these colonies merged with the locals, forming the Rim Billitonian nationality. The region is known for its significant Originium mining activities, contributing to a large Infected population. While not overtly persecuting the Infected, some treat them as disposable labor, and others exile themselves to protect their families. Rim Billiton's history includes two major immigration eras and the Cage Incident, which solidified its independence from colonial powers. The region's capital is Ultramassive, and notable cities include Iron Carrot and Iron Fist. The Cage Incident is reminiscent of the Eureka Rebellion in Australia, and Rim Billiton's name references BHP Billiton, an Anglo-Australian mining conglomerate.

The Special Warrant Extermination and Elimination Protocol (S.W.E.E.P.) is a covert branch of Rhodes Island, operating independently from the main organization. Founded by Kal'tsit after Theresa's death, S.W.E.E.P.'s primary mission is to protect Rhodes Island from internal threats by identifying and eliminating spies, saboteurs, and turncoats. This makes S.W.E.E.P. one of the first branches of Rhodes Island and its official black ops unit. S.W.E.E.P. is described as the "blade sewn beneath the sleeve and the eyes hidden within Rhodes Island's shadow," emphasizing its secretive and crucial role in maintaining the organization's security. The unit is led by Ascalon and remains active in its operations.

The landship, a massive mobile base, is home to a diverse group of Operators and personnel, all working together to combat Oripathy and provide medical aid across Terra. With six decks, the landship can accommodate up to 2,000 Operators and personnel, and has beds for over 1,000 patients. The living quarters vary from single to quadruple rooms, allocated by the HR Department. Despite the constant noise and movement, the landship offers a range of amenities, including cafeterias, botanical gardens, and a bar called "Just One More Pint". Operators can also access training grounds, shooting ranges, and incineration chambers for safely disposing of terminally ill Infected personnel. The upper deck houses the navigation, operations, and intelligence centers, while the middle deck contains living quarters, supply storage, and medical facilities. The lower deck is dedicated to energy and power rooms, hangars, and training compounds. The landship's mobility allows it to move from region to region, adapting to various climates and environments. As a general organization, Rhodes Island is separated into many different branches or departments fulfilling different roles. The work requirements and basic information will be provided by the director-in-charge of each department. Most departments, except for the Fieldwork, Medical, and Power Departments, work in time periods from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM, and from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM respectively.

Rhodes Island is a multifaceted organization with several key departments, each playing a crucial role in its operations: Medical Department: Led by Kal'tsit, this department is the backbone of Rhodes Island, focusing on treating Oripathy and researching potential cures. It includes medical staff, researchers, and support personnel who work tirelessly to provide care for the Infected. HR Department: Responsible for managing personnel, this department handles recruitment, training, and welfare of all Rhodes Island employees. They ensure that everyone is equipped with the necessary skills and support to perform their duties effectively. Logistics Department: This team manages the supply chain, ensuring that Rhodes Island has the necessary resources to operate. Operations Department: This department oversees the paramilitary force of Rhodes Island, coordinating field operations and ensuring the safety of personnel and patients. Engineering Department: Tasked with maintaining and upgrading the landship and other equipment, this department ensures that Rhodes Island's infrastructure is in top condition. Intelligence Department: This team gathers and analyzes information to support Rhodes Island's operations. Research and Development (R&D) Department: Focused on scientific research, this department works on developing new treatments and technologies to combat Oripathy. Public Relations Department: This team manages Rhodes Island's external communications.

The mafioso in Siracusa, known as the Dodici Famiglie, are twelve powerful mafia families who have controlled their respective cities for generations. Initially acting like lords of manors, they evolved into notorious criminal syndicates wielding significant political influence. The Grey Hall, a conference established for communication and political negotiation among the famiglie, symbolizes their power. Despite the Signora's warnings against open conflicts, the famiglie manipulate the independent federal government, hatching conspiracies behind the scenes. The Confederate Supreme Court of Siracusa, both the legislative and judicial body, sets up a standardized legal codex as the sole constitution. However, the famiglie often interfere in the judicial process through bribery and intimidation. Judges, often affiliated with a famiglia for protection, face biased judgments and risks to their safety. The Bocca al Lupo, an elite force of secret policemen, serve the Signora as her personal bodyguards and "silencers," deploying violent means to warn rogue famiglie. Siracusa's economy is heavily controlled by the mafia, with famiglie expanding their businesses and asserting influence over real estate, commerce, casinos, gambling, and underground smuggling. The famiglie's strong family bonds and traditional culture, including total obedience to family members, play a significant role in their operations.

The Crimson Troupe, also known as the Scarlet Troupe, is a secret organization of assassins disguised as a traveling theatre troupe. Founded by the mysterious Troupe Master, they crave the beauty of art in the form of tragedies. The Troupe wanders around the former Gallic territory of Calais-Blason, now part of Victoria, using cruel Originium Arts to control the minds of its members. Their goal is to produce the best tragedy in history for the pleasure of their Master. Years ago, the senior members of the Troupe were murdered by its star, Lucian, nicknamed the "Blood Diamond," leaving the troupe in disarray. Despite this, the Troupe survived and hid underground to recuperate their losses. They turned an old Gallic castle into their base and have been experimenting on innocent people with their Arts. Lucian, now known as Phantom, made it his mission to end the Troupe permanently. However, he was brainwashed once more by the Troupe and returned to the castle to reprise his role as the Blood Diamond. His return and Rhodes Island's journey to rescue him constitute the events of Crimson Solitaire. Notable members of the Troupe include the Troupe Master, the Bladedance, the Shadow, and the Whiteflower, all of whom were killed by Phantom during the massacre leading to his departure from the Troupe. The Troupe remains active and continues to perform brilliant yet tragic performances wherever they travel.

The Shanhaizhong, also known as "ye of the mounts and seas," is a criminal syndicate and pseudo-religious cult in Terra. They are the antagonistic faction in "Where Vernal Winds Will Never Blow." The organization is composed of extremist Feranmut worshippers who aim to revive their "gods" and challenge the Yanese authorities. The Shanhaizhong's origins are ancient, dating back to a time before Yan's Great Hunt against the "gods" a thousand years ago. Despite the war, they have survived into the modern era. Their motto, "gathering the brothers across the mountains and seas, and returning to their lords," reflects their mission to recruit a diverse range of members, including outlaws, cultic religious leaders, and high-ranking officials within the imperial court. The Shanhaizhong's activities focus on undermining the imperial order by creating chaos in cities and villages in the name of their "gods." Their actions eventually attracted the attention of the Sui Regulator, leading to the arrest of many triad members during the Yumen crisis twenty years ago. However, some members managed to hide and continue their activities, even accepting other Feranmuts like Ya and Wang as their nominal leaders. As Sui's revival approaches, the Shanhaizhong's strength continues to grow. Notable members include Ya, who was nominally chosen as a leader for a Shanhaizhong team. The organization remains active and continues to pose a significant threat to the Yanese authorities.

The Feranmuts are a race of god-like beings in the world of Arknights. They possess various physical characteristics, ranging from humanoid to anthropomorphic, and wield unique powers unrelated to Originium Arts. Feranmuts are biologically immortal but can be killed or shattered into multiple fragments or avatars. Their powers are strongly associated with topography, allowing them to perform terra-formation and weather control. They can also bend the basic concepts of physics and time, creating paradoxes. Feranmuts are ancient beings, with their origins dating back to a time before the arrival of the Ancients and Elders. They are considered the original inhabitants of Terra, along with the Sarkaz. Despite their might, Feranmuts do not have the concept of domination or sovereignty; instead, they view mortals as part of their bodies dwelling upon them. Throughout history, humans have worshipped Feranmuts due to their limited knowledge. However, in Yan, the concept of subjugating gods emerged, leading to the Great Hunt of Yan, where mortals challenged the gods. This resulted in the dwindling population of Feranmuts, forcing them to hide their identities and hibernate beneath the soil and mountains. Feranmuts continue to influence Terra's religion, culture, and technology. Some are still worshipped in certain regions or live alongside humans. Notable Feranmuts include Kjera, the matron goddess of Kjerag, and Sui, a blazing, warmongering Feranmut.

Leviathans are oceanic creatures, believed to be the source of all Seaborn. They share a common origin with the Feranmuts but evolved into distinct entities over time. Initially, Feranmuts were captured by the "Predecessors" colonizing Terra and underwent biological re-engineering to utilize their unique divine trait of sustaining an ecological cycle within their bodies. This transformation aimed to convert them into "living arks" preserving life from a catastrophic threat. These re-engineered Feranmuts, now known as Leviathans, nourished new lives through their bodies, producing Seaborn meant for terraforming. However, two hundred years ago, Aegir's interference accelerated the project, leading to the unusual reproduction of Seaborn, which became invasive. The Church of the Deep's veneration of Leviathans exacerbated the situation, posing a severe threat to Terran civilization. Currently, numerous Leviathans hibernate within ancient relics beneath the oceans, posing a potential threat to Terra. Among the Leviathans are four archaic individuals known as the Firstborn: Caerula Arbor, Primordial Lifespring, Nevermelting Glacier, and Ishar'mla. Each represents a unique power: Growth, Survival, Reproduction, and Migration, respectively. These Firstborn are the ancestors of all Seaborn and wield magical power akin to the Feranmuts.

Representing the power of Growth, Caerula Arbor the "Creeping Branch" is the source of all Seaborn that have fallen to grace from the Many, hence becoming more of a food source for the Seaborn through Its corpse.

The "Primordial Lifespring" represents the the power of Survival and is a swarm of plankton-like Seaborn cells born from all that remains of the namesake Leviathan that substance their existence. As It has merged with the ocean, the "Lifespring" is completely immortal to a point that, in a metaphorical sense, It could only be killed by "drying up the ocean." The "Lifespring" is said to be the source of the Profound Silence of Iberia as members of the Church of the Deep attempted to revive It. Along with the "Corrupting Heart," the "Lifespring" is one of the potential Seaborn threats due to Its uncontrolled status, whose catastrophic consequences will be even worse. If merged with Ishar'mla, The "Lifespring" would bring a worldwide Silence across the entire Terra by flooding the whole world. It winning Its struggle against other Firstborn, It would even accelerate the assimilation of the whole living being of Terra to match Its desire.

The "Nevermelting Glacier" represents the power of Reproduction and, true to Its title, possesses the shape of an enormous iceberg drifting on the sea. The Church's cultists see the snow above It possessing mystic symbolism, although unbeknownst to them, that snow could be a massive colony of Seaborn cells.

Ishar'mla, the "Corrupting Heart," is a sea dragon-like Leviathan and one of the four Firstborn of the Seaborn, representing the power of Migration. He was discovered by Mártus, an anthropologist, during an expedition to the Mantle Ruins, an ancient underwater complex believed to be the birthplace of Aegirian civilization. Ishar'mla's awakening led to Mártus experiencing strange visions and eventually becoming a Seaborn after consuming one of Ishar'mla's cubs. Ishar'mla was thought to be slain by the Abyssal Hunters during a great assault against the Leviathans. However, his blood merged with Skadi after the battle, remaining dormant for years. Due to his divine nature and aggressiveness, Ishar'mla instills fear in the Sea Terrors, and higher Seaborn consider him a close kin. If Skadi embraces her Seaborn blood, Ishar'mla's rage will be unleashed, potentially causing a second Profound Silence across Terra. This event could flood the world and devastate all life on land, with even the mightiest powers in Terra unable to withstand his destructive force. Despite his destructive potential, Ishar'mla is influenced by the feelings of comfort and safety that the Doctor provided to Skadi. He spares them from disaster and yearns for them to join the Seaborn's hive mind. Once everything settles, Ishar'mla plans to lead his kin away from Terra in search of a new habitat in outer space.

The Profound Silence is a catastrophic natural disaster in the world of Arknights, occurring on June 28, 1038, in Iberia. It was marked by a massive tsunami that submerged half of Iberian land, including the capital, Ria Iberia, and resulted in the death of the last king, Alejandro I. The disaster was triggered by the instability of the Leviathans, bearers of the Seaborn, and the cultic movement known as the Church of the Deep, which sought to merge land and sea under one union by summoning the slumbering Leviathans. During the Golden Age of Iberia, the nation became a regional superpower with advanced naval capabilities, aided by the Aegirian Islanders. However, the presence of the Seaborn and the Church of the Deep's infiltration into Iberian society went unnoticed. The tsunami caused drastic topographical changes, heavy salinization, and geological activities, leading to the destruction of many ports and coastal settlements. The once glorious Iberian Armada was sunk, and the capital was submerged, killing the king and his ministers. The aftermath of the Profound Silence brought severe consequences, including the submergence of half of Iberian soil, the infestation of Seaborn, and the collapse of the Iberian regime. The Inquisition, a strict religious order, rose to power, imposing isolationism and crushing Iberian culture. The disaster also affected neighboring Siesta, leading to its de facto independence and the promotion of tourism due to its new coastal geography.

The Inquisition is the de facto ruling regime of Iberia in Arknights, establishing a theocracy through strict social order and religious conservatism. During Iberia's Golden Age, the Church acted as political mediators and diplomatic envoys. However, tensions with the Lateran Church led to a schism, and the Church of Iberia faced pressure from the royal court. After the Profound Silence disaster, which annihilated the Iberian royal house, the Church intervened to restore order and distribute food. The leading Saint, Carmen, reorganized the Church into the Inquisition, canonizing the Nine Saints of Iberia. The Inquisition abolished the Church's hierarchy, creating a three-level structure: Saints, High Inquisitors, and Inquisitors. Inquisitors serve as spiritual leaders, law enforcers, and military commanders, using rapiers and lanterns as symbols of Iberia's force and hope. The Inquisition's main duties include preserving order, defending settlements from the Seaborn, and calming people's fears. They use luminal Arts to repel the Seaborn and hand cannons for large-area damage. However, not every Iberian welcomes them. Some accuse the Inquisitors for neglecting them from their survival needs, while others hate them for the constant persecutions against the Aegir under false premises. In fact, they are frequently criticized for their lack of measures and abuse of power.

Raythean Industries, also known as Raythean, is a prominent arms manufacturer and military complex in Terra, based in Columbia and run by the Brynley family. Founded by Henry Bloch and Owen Brynley, Raythean supplies various weapons across Terra, including swords, robotics, and reverse-engineered Sankta firearms. Henry, a Gaulish nobleman and former researcher, moved to Columbia after the Battle of the Four Emperors, bringing weapon blueprints with him. Owen, a charismatic businessman and Revolutionary War veteran, partnered with Henry to establish Raythean. Raythean's organization includes several branches, such as the R+D Department, Originium Crystalline Unit Production Department, Direct Production Center, Testing and Evaluation Committee, and Transport and Sale Centers. The company specializes in R+D on Originium electronic equipment and crystalline units, which are its most profitable products. Raythean's products range from combat shields and automated security robots to advanced weaponry like the Chi Xiao sword and the Raythean Navigator Mk. I tactical crossbow. Notable staff members include Henry Bloch, Owen Brynley, and Bernie Brynley, the current CEO. Raythean's facilities include various independent laboratories and production centers. The company's name is derived from Raytheon, an American defense contractor.

The Stultifera Navis, also known as the "Ship of Fools" or the "Golden Dreadnought," was a powerful dreadnought of the Iberian Navy during its Golden Age. Designed by Aegir engineer Breogan, it combined Iberian and Aegirian technology, including Originium1. Initially intended as a research vessel to explore the oceans and study the Seaborn, it was repurposed into a warship due to the greed of Iberian nobles. After the Profound Silence, the Stultifera Navis became the only remaining vessel of the Iberian fleet. It was lost at sea while defending the last Eye of Iberia in Gran Faro1. Captain Alfonso and his first mate Garcia were the only survivors, living aboard the ship for over six decades by consuming Sea Terrors. Alfonso saw the ship as his kingdom, naming its parts after various Terran countries1. The Stultifera Navis was discovered by the Abyssal Hunters and Inquisitor Irene, who found it in pristine condition but inhabited by Sea Terrors. They encountered Alfonso and Garcia, who eventually allied with them to combat the Seaborn threat1. The ship was ultimately infested by Nethersea Brand and destroyed during a battle with the Seaborn known as The Endspeaker. Alfonso chose to remain on the ship, committing suicide before it sank1. The Stultifera Navis' legacy lives on through Breogan's research, which holds the key to ending the Seaborn threat. A recreation of its reception room exists in Rhodes Island1.

Zwillingstürme, formerly known as Vedunien, is the capital city of Leithanien, located in Kreis Einwald. It was initially chosen as the site for the Witch King's Spire, der Herkunftshorn, during his reign. After his defeat by the Twin Empresses during the Septemberaufstand, the city was reconstructed and renamed Zwillingstürme in 1092 as part of the Glorreiches Kapitalprojekt, overseen by architect Bach. The city features 22 musical Spires of the Reichsmusikhochschule, synchronized like a grand orchestra. The Twin Empresses' Spires, Eternal Grace and Austere Authority, are the city's landmarks, representing the Golden Empress Lieselotte and the Black Empress Hildegard, respectively. Each year, the Empresses hold the Kaiserinenfest, a festival celebrating their reign, culminating with a performance on a bridge connecting both Spires. Notable landmarks include Ludwigs-Universität, Forest Park, Karl Schmidt Street, and the Reichsmusikhochschule. Forest Park, originally Gustav Park, commemorates the victims of the Septemberaufstand, while Karl Schmidt Street, also known as Marigold Alley, is famous for its cultural significance and blooming marigolds in Autumn. Zwillingstürme's name means "Twin Towers" in German, referring to its iconic Spires. Its former name, Vedunien, is derived from Vedunia, an etymology for Vienna, meaning "forest stream" in Celtic.

The Crystallisation Era in Arknights, also known as the Crystal Age, is a significant period of technological advancement driven by the discovery and utilization of Originium. Originium's high energy yield led to its widespread use in various industries, from powering nomadic city engines to creating advanced machinery and electronics. The invention of Originium engines in 818 and artificial Arts Units sparked an industrial revolution, transforming Terra's society and economy. Early external combustion engines were large and inefficient, but the development of internal combustion engines and electric engines revolutionized transportation and industry. The construction of Sette Colli, the first nomadic city in 797, marked a milestone in Originium technology. These mobile settlements, powered by large internal combustion engines, allowed Terrans to escape geographical limitations and avoid Catastrophes. The proliferation of Originium-powered devices, from freight cars to cranes, drastically changed Terra's social structure and increased its population. Originium refining became essential for producing luxury goods and advanced Arts Units. The process involves converging and purifying Originium crystals under specific conditions, resulting in high-purity refined Originium. This refined Originium is used in various applications, from traffic lights to inter-city networks and smart operation platforms.

As the name suggests, Vampires resemble their namesakes on Earth and differ from other Sarkaz by lacking horns and a tail. Like the Vampires in European folklore, some Terran Vampires are hematophagous and/or nocturnal, and some also have pale skin. Vampires are sometimes nicknamed "Red/Pink eyes" due to their eye color, but it is considered an insult against them. Vampires are proficient in blood-related Arts that allows them to augment others with their blood as a "blessing." One of their unique traditions is to brand their close relatives with their preferred scent as a declaration of protection and a means of locating the branded person, even from kilometers away. Younger Vampires, however, see this tradition as brutal and no longer practice it. Although their thirst for blood and strife was once a social norm amongst Vampires, many of them, including Warfarin, eventually grew tired of fighting for centuries. Because of their nature, Vampires have often become the victim of stereotypes, which include sleeping in luxurious coffins[3] or drinking blood vials, though some admit that these stereotypes are a consequence of their brutal culture. Not all Vampires fall under these tropes, however; for instance, Closure does not have interest in blood or the Vampiric Arts, jokingly preferring motor oil over blood. Vampires are one of the "Ten Kings" tribes composing the Sarkaz Royal Court, represented through the Crimson Court spearheaded by their monarch titled Sanguinarch.

Djalls are a race/tribe of the Sarkaz. A Djall can be distinguished by having curved horns that points upward above their head. Djall are one of the ten surviving ancient pure-blooded Sarkaz tribes of the Sarkaz Royal Court, but there are not many of the Djall left in modern Kazdel due to the chaotic situation of the city and their high sensitivity to negative emotions. Djall are known for their excellency in deception and illusory Arts. Their Arts enable them to penetrate one's deepest psychology as if one literally "whips" the heart, hence earning their title as the "heart-whippers." In the primitive past, in order to survive and feed themselves, Djall were notorious for torturing their victims psychologically like Vampires tearing the flesh, but over the course of evolution, most Djall choose a rather gentle way to nourish themselves with emotions — inviting others to share their hearts and having them letting out their grudges. As a matter of fact, many modern-day Djall are either psychologists, babysitters, or priesthoods involved in various religious ceremonies. A Djall's religious rituals are the most obscure and mystic as they do not involve in setting up altars or religious records but through their prayers from their deepest emotions as their medium.

The Banshees are a tribe of Sarkaz. They are known for their bird wing-like structures on their heads, often leading to confusion with the Liberi. Most Banshees are female, with male Banshees being rare. The tribe is matriarchal, with female leaders titled the "Great Banshee."They are famous for their aromatic perfumes, which can enchant anyone and inspire artists. Banshees wear a special headwear called the "Banshee's Crown," which can stun anyone who touches it.As members of the Royal Court's "Ten Kings," represented through the Elegiac Court, Banshees are notable for their supreme oral Arts, born from Sarkaz witchcraft. They can cast spells or manifest their Arts by speaking or singing. Banshees also have a tradition of preserving their real names through spells, with severe consequences for those who frequently write or read them. Like other pure-blooded Sarkaz, Banshees can absorb and utilize the wrath of the deceased. They are regarded as "guardians of the dead" and have a culture of blowing a magical bone whistle as a sign of lamentation.The Convallis of the Banshees is a valley where the surviving Banshees dwell. After Kazdel's pyrrhic victory in the crusade of 898, the Banshees migrated to the valley under the leadership of Laqeramaline, one of the war heroes.The valley represents an ideal version of Kazdel, a place without strife and bloodshed. However, other Sarkaz criticize the Banshees for their comfortable life in the valley, ignoring their homeland's struggles.

The Cyclopes are a tribe of Sarkaz in Arknights, known for their ability to foresee the future through their "third eye.". Their prophecies, derived from the sorrowful collective consciences of the Sarkaz races, often end in tragedy. Despite their desire to change these destinies, they are bound by the sorrowful fate they foresee. Cyclopes are one of the least understood Sarkaz tribes, even among other Sarkaz. Their hopelessness in the face of tragic fate led them to live a hermit lifestyle in caves and mountains, avoiding contact with the outside world. Once members of the Royal Court's "Ten Kings," they deserted Kazdel after the tragic assassination of their matriarch, the Advocate, who embraced her death as her ultimate fate. The Cyclopes foresaw the Collapsal threat from the frigid north and migrated to Sami, where they became guardians against the Collapsals alongside the Sami Snowpriests. However, many Samifjod have come to despise them, viewing them as harbingers of misfortune. Despite their rare presence and broken affiliation with Kazdel, the Sarkaz Royal Court still shows interest in the Cyclopes. Even Theresis attempted to invite them to Londinium during his takeover, but they refused. The current leader of the Cyclops tribe is a matriarch who once foresaw the tragic end of Regent Theresis during the Londinium crisis. The Cyclopes' unique abilities and tragic prophecies continue to influence their interactions with the world around them.

The "Damazti" cannot even be called a "tribe" at all, as it actually only comprises of a single member, the Damazti Cluster; all other Damazti in existence, found everywhere across Terra under various guises, are but "fragments" of the Cluster themself, branched off from the Cluster to experience the lives of others.Nevertheless, the Damazti have the traits of Slimes in various fantasy works including the Shoggoth in Cthulhu Mythos or Blobs, where they possesses a malleable liquid body and can assume the appearance of others with uncanny similarities and divide themselves into multiple semi-autonomous clones. Due to their nature, the Damazti see themselves as a dividual instead of an individual, referring to themselves with first-person plural pronouns.

Diablos have the traits of fiery demons or entities in many legends and fantasy works. The Diablos were one of the Sarkaz subraces that made up the Kazdel Royal Court, belonging to the Punishment/Condemnor Clan,and were among the most powerful of them. As a matter of fact, they were regarded as one of the most loyal followers of the "Farchaser," the first Lord of Fiends. During the "Descending War," the Farchaser used and manipulated the Diablos in his numerous exploits against the Ancients and Elders. Eventually, a Diablo caster named Balor'sača would rise in prominence as the Lord of the Condemnor Clan. Disatisfied with Sarkaz King Guldul's pacifism, he led the Diablos to lauch a coup against the newly-rebuilt Kazdel, which culminated on Gul'dul's death at his hands, becoming the new bearer of the Civilight Eterna. After Qui'lon became the new King following his battle against Balor'sača, he intergarted the Diablos to his Royal Court, but forbid them to enter Kazdel as a punishment for their actions in the coup. He allowed them to retreive their King's body before being banished to the wilderness. Currently, the Diablos are believed to be extinct. Nonetheless, many Terran factions, including the Columbian military, possess their "shards." These shards however, still retain their original consciousness, and when embedded, they can still communicate with the body owner within their subconsciousness.

The Gargoyles are one of the most ancient Sarkaz tribes in Arknights, known for their traits resembling stone monsters, such as bat-wings and tails. They are proficient in earth/geokinetic Arts and claim to communicate with the soil. Gargoyles have a tradition of giving soil to friends and creating stone statues for close partners and relatives. Historically, Gargoyle clans built huge stone fortresses to provide shelter for their compatriots, earning a reputation as benevolent and selfless craftsmen. However, constant attacks from "aliens" made them more conservative, focusing on protecting their kin. After the fall of the first Kazdel city-state during the "Descending War," surviving Gargoyles were absorbed by the Diablos' Condemnor Clan, where they cooperated while following warmongering traditions. One notable Gargoyle, Gul'dul, became the "Citymaker," the second King of Sarkaz. As one of the ten pureblood Sarkaz races, Gargoyles were part of the Royal Court, represented by the Master Architect, the highest recognition a Gargoyle can achieve. They joined the Royal Court during Qui'lon's reign and participated in Kazdel's relocation into a nomadic city under Theresa's coronation in 898, carving its blueprints onto the ground. Today, Gargoyles are rare, with many dispersed across Terra. Despite their scattered remnants, the Royal Court seeks to invite them to Londinium.

The Liches are a tribe of Sarkaz in Arknights. They possess similar appearances to the Banshees, but with serpentine tails and some being hornless. Their unique traits include unimaginable space manipulation Arts and apparent immortality. They store their souls in a special phylactery kept inside a void, making them nearly impossible to kill. Their mastery in space manipulation Arts allows them to perform teleportation and control spaces via magical strings. They can also use an Arts called "Exile," which can erase one's existence immediately. As one of the "Ten Kings," the Liches represent the Temple of Knowledge of the Sarkaz Royal Court. They consider themselves "exiles" among other Sarkaz, as they are away from Kazdel, their homeland. They highly venerate knowledge of various civilizations and seek to preserve it in their libraries and scrolls. They are willing to share their knowledge with those of their choosing, provided they do not interfere in the political affairs of other countries. Despite their neutrality, the Liches have been involved in the national affairs of Leithanien since its foundation, teaching Arts to the Leithanians. However, they were forced to stay back during the Witch King's rule to clean up the messes and only returned to Kazdel after the Empress Hildegard's Stimmverlust in 1100. The Liches hold a special role in Kazdel society, being the only ones allowed to perform the ritual to appease the Revenants in the core of the Soul Furnace.

Named after the eponymous ghoul in German folklore, the Nachzehrers are similar to Vampires, but have horns and a slender yet tall stature. Most Nachzehrers are seen wearing white robes like ghouls in Arabic folklore and cover their faces in either strands of ribbon forming a "curtain" or fabric wrappings not unlike Ancient Egyptian mummies, the latter of which also extends to other parts of the body for some akin to the Japanese sarashi. Nachzehrers are one of the pureblood Sarkaz tribes that compose the "Ten Kings' Court", represented by the Withered Court. Like the Wendigos, they practice "cannibalism" and are capable of absorbing the abilities and memories of anyone they consume. After their bodies have reached a critical state of decay, Nachzehrers can also use their bodies to feed their weaker kin, in exchange of increased speed, strength, and power.[4] They are also proficient in Originium Arts that inflicts necrosis (i.e. decay/wither/rot) to living organisms. Due to their reputation as devoted, yet gruesome and relentless warriors, Nachzehrers are often described as being the personification of war.

The Wendigos are a tribe of Sarkaz in Arknights, resembling the spirit in Algonquian folklore. They have antler-like horns, deer skull-like heads, and large statures, granting them immense physical strength and rapid wound recovery. Wendigos practice cannibalism, consuming their kin in rituals. Once part of Kazdel's Royal Court's "Ten Kings," they gradually exiled themselves northward to Ursus and Columbia due to strife in their homeland. In Ursus, Wendigos became integral to the Imperial Guard, serving as an armored special force. Despite their loyalty, they face mistrust and discrimination from the Ursines. Wendigos are now a dying race, with only a few dozen remaining. They continue to defend the Ursine Northlands from invaders like the Collapsals. Notably, they refused to attend Theresis and the Royal Court during the Victorian Crisis. Patriot, a prominent Wendigo, is noted as the last pure-blooded individual. The Wendigos' numbers have dwindled due to constant fighting and rituals, and their extinction seems imminent. Kal'tsit speculates that after Patriot's death, the Wendigos will be erased from the Ten Kings' roster, similar to the Diablos. The Wendigos' legacy is marked by their strength, loyalty, and tragic decline, making them a significant yet fading part of the Sarkaz community.

The Foehn Hotlands is a vast, dry desert south of Sargon, characterized by extreme heatwaves that make survival impossible. Once a lush rainforest, it was devastated by the great conquest led by Lugalszargus, the Aslan Shahanshah of Sargon, and Kharanduu Khan of the Nightzmoras during their war with the southern Collapsals. In the year 15 of the common era, the two kings initiated a grand conquest, with Lugalszargus personally slaying the "Poltergeist King" at the cost of his own life, eliminating the Collapsals' threat. The Khagan wiped out the surviving Collapsals using his psychic Arts, a feat beyond the primitive power of the Terrans. They also destroyed the "Stargate" in the south, preventing further incursions into Terra. The conquest turned the once fertile land into an inhospitable desert, but it brought peace to the region for centuries. The Foehn Hotlands remain a mystery, with no recorded expeditions crossing the area since then. Some Terrans, like the Padishah of Reefsteep, have attempted to explore the region, but their efforts were halted by Catastrophes. Others are drawn by the legend of the Khaganquest and seek to witness the southernmost end of the continent. The name "Foehn" refers to a type of dry, warm downslope wind formed by air losing moisture from rain clouds above. The Foehn Hotlands' extreme environment continues to influence Terra's overall dry global temperature, with its heatwaves blowing northward and burning any living thing alive.

The Infy Icefield, also known as the Northlands or Endless Icefield, is a vast, uninhabited arctic tundra located north of Sami and Ursus. Covered in glaciers and snow, it is the homeland of the northern Collapsals, making it a hostile region for Terrans. The Icefield extends to the North Pole of Terra, where the "Stargate" allows Collapsals to enter Terra. Despite the grand conquest of the Foehn Hotlands, Kharanduu Khagan could not eliminate the northern Collapsals' threat, leading to his disappearance from history. Ursine explorer Fedot Dezhnev and his team are credited with being the first to successfully enter and return from the Icefield during expeditions between 838 and 851. Today, Ursus' imperial guards and Sami Snowpriests monitor the region at the "Border of Civilization" to contain the Collapsals' encroachment. Military posts from Yan and Higashi also safeguard the eastern corner of Terra. The Infy Icefield attracts Columbian explorers and scientists interested in surveying the area with modern science. They enter via two major routes: the Ursus route, requiring partnership with Ursine envoys, and the Sami route, which is recommended due to Sami's primitive politics. However, the harsh environment and the Snowpriests' isolationist attitude pose significant challenges. Generations of expeditioners and Columbian corporate sponsorship have established permanent research stations for shelter and resupply.

The Bleached Wasteland is a lowland desert located south of Columbia and north of Sargon. Known for its hostile environment, it is covered by gray salinized sand, eroded landforms, and fossils of giant prehistoric creatures. Traditional geologists believed the region was formed by evaporation from parts of the Great Lakes in southern Columbia. However, recent geological surveys suggest the region dried up rapidly, causing drastic environmental changes. The Bleached Wasteland is shrouded in mystery and legends. Columbian folklore describes it as a secret hideout for Gaulish restorationists and the burial site of Corsica I after the War of the Four Nations. An archaeological excavation by Maylander uncovered many buried ruins, but the hostile environment led to severe casualties and financial losses, forcing the project to be shelved. For the Sarkaz, the Bleached Wasteland is a sacred yet desolate site. It was the birthplace of the first Teekaz civilization and the location of the first city-state of Kazdel before the "Descending War" between the Teekaz and the invasive Ancients and Elders in 9,000 BCE. The region's constant Catastrophes and hostile environment are consequences of the summoning of the Amnannam by the Farchaser through the earliest witchcraft, marking the first Catastrophe in Terran history. Despite attempts to reclaim the region, it remains abandoned, believed to be under the eternal curse of the Diablo's dead spirits.

The Infection Monitor is a multi-functional device used at Rhodes Island to diagnose Oripathy, monitor vital signs, and track health conditions. All Rhodes Island Operators, patients, and personnel are required to wear it, regardless of their infection status. The device appears as a shiny, black ring or bracelet with light blue X-shaped highlights and can be worn on various body parts. It uses advanced angiography technology to monitor Originium levels and detect infections within 30 seconds. The Infection Monitor is not developed by Rhodes Island but is bought from collaborating companies and customized by the Engineering Department. It is part of the Oripathic Infection Early Warning Control System, coordinated by the Medical and Internal Affairs Departments. The monitor displays specific symbols or colors to indicate the user's physical condition and can inject small doses of inhibitors to curb Originium technology loss caused by infection. Different models of the Infection Monitor fulfill various functions, with basic models including simple diodes and projection films. Advanced models provide real-time infection diagnosis and display specific information, such as Blood Originium-Crystal Density. These advanced models are less popular due to high production costs and lack of market. The monitor can be customized according to the patient's measurements and condition.

Robots: Though not considered as a race per se, Terran robots are more advanced than those in our world despite their simplistic design, and are fully autonomous, operated by a self-aware artificial intelligence with masculine or feminine programming depending on their models.

Though not considered as a race per se like robots, Terran artificial intelligence (A.I.) are also more advanced than those from Earth. They may be self-aware and have masculine or feminine programming.

The Maylander Foundation, or Maylander, is a deep state organization in Columbia, disguised as an NGO. Founded by Maylander Selene, a companion of General Mark Max during the Columbian Revolutionary War, the foundation has an enormous network and sub-divisions involved in various shady events. After Columbia's independence, Maylander handed his power to President Max and stayed behind the scenes to maintain the well-being of Columbian citizens. Despite its NGO status, Maylander secretly controls the nation, assisting the president as needed. Maylander has numerous sub-divisions, including the Child Rights Protection Foundation, Exploration Society, Historical Association, Security and Defense Company, Catastrophe Relief Effort Foundation, Technological Development Association, and Red Heart Medical. These branches focus on various fields such as charity, education, environmental protection, public policies, geological research, archaeological finds, security business, humanitarian help, and technological development. The foundation is known for its involvement in rescue missions, uncovering inhumane experiments, and destroying laboratories, such as the Loken Watertank Incident. While Maylander's justice is respected by many, it is also a powerful intelligence service that meddles in foreign affairs. The foundation cooperates with technological corporations like Rhine Lab but will execute its power if they threaten the public or government.

Originally built as part of the "Horizon Arc Project" commissioned by the C.U.D.O.D. and given the designation Arc-01, the Galleria Stellaria name actually refers to a planetarium in its center whose construction is personally overseen by Kristen Wright, but it would be used to refer to the platform as a whole. The Galleria Stellaria's original purpose is to provide Columbia with a weapon of mass destruction capable of striking targets anywhere in Terra, inspired by The Shard. The Galleria Stellaria is made up of two parts regulating the platform's functionality: The S.H.A.F.T. (Synergistic Hyperbeam Amplifying and Focusing Tube) appears to be a tokamak reactor that acts as a containment for energy relayed from a surface generator. The S.H.A.F.T. is known to be able to generate an immense amount of energy capable of powering multiple nomadic cities at the same time, suggesting that it makes use of nuclear fusion power. The H.A.M.H.R.R. (High-altitude Arrayed and Maneuverable Hyperbeam Receiver-Redirector) is powered through the energy contained in the S.H.A.F.T. and could release it as a hyperbeam towards the surface, having a range that rivals real-world intercontinental ballistic missiles.

Kristen Wright is a 34-year-old female NPC in Arknights, known as "Control." She is a researcher with a Ph.D. in particle physics and a graduate of the Trimounts Institute of Technology. Kristen is the only daughter of aerospace engineers who died in a test flight accident when she was ten. She carries on her parents' legacy, aiming to uncover Terra's "fake sky" and explore beyond it. Kristen co-founded Rhine Lab with Saria, focusing on scientific advancement. As the head of the Component Control section, she is known for her shrewd entrepreneurship and visionary ideas. However, her obsession with research often leads her to ignore moral and ethical boundaries, causing conflicts with colleagues like Saria and Ferdinand Clooney. Kristen's inventions, such as the "Perturbation System," have practical uses. She played a key role in Project Diαbolic, which led to the "Diαbolic Crisis." Her disregard for regulations and safety drove a wedge between her and Saria, leading to a bitter confrontation and Saria's resignation. In the Lone Trail storyline, Kristen enacts Project Horizon Arc to pierce Terra's "fake sky." Despite opposition, she succeeds, allowing Terra to see the stars for the first time. Kristen enters stasis in space, satisfied with her achievements.

Ferdinand Clooney is known for his role as the head of Rhine Lab's Energy Section. He is a Feline from Columbia, standing at 182 cm tall. Ferdinand is characterized by his aggressive and confident approach to resource gathering, often prioritizing tangible results over the well-being of his projects or their creators. He is willing to engage in shady dealings, such as supplying Rhine-made equipment to external parties, to support his work like corporations, mercenary groups, or even the Union Army of Columbia through his collaboration with Blake the Colonel, uncaring of why or how his buyers will use the resources he provides.. Ferdinand's ultimate goal is to push for the advancement of humanity, believing that progress is the only constant. He distrusts and plots to replace Kristen Wright, the R.L. director, due to her focus on personal research and apathy towards Rhine Lab's well-being. In the storyline, Ferdinand is involved in various events, including the Mansfield Break, Dorothy's Vision, Lone Trail, and Path of Life. He is responsible for HydeBro's attack on Simon Co., leading to Anthony Simon's imprisonment. In Dorothy's Vision, Ferdinand's ambition leads to a hostage situation and his eventual escape from arrest. In Lone Trail, he sabotages an assassination attempt and helps Saria reach Kristen. Despite being arrested, Ferdinand continues his work and is eventually pardoned.

Ahrens Parvis is, known for his role as the head of Rhine Lab's Structural Section. Born in Leithanien, he comes from a family of renowned Originium researchers and has over forty years of experience in particle research. Parvis is characterized by his calm demeanor but is willing to disregard moral boundaries to pursue his research. He believes that only the "Übermenschen" deserve to wield science and advancement, viewing others as expendable. Parvis played a significant role in "Project Diαbolic," a collaboration between Rhine Lab and Haydn Pharmaceuticals to create a humanoid superweapon. Despite the project's failure and the resulting "Diαbolic Crisis," Parvis continued his experiments, often clashing with colleagues like Saria and Silence over ethical concerns. In the Lone Trail storyline, Parvis is enlisted by Kristen for Project Horizon Arc, aiming to create an artificial soul using the Transmitter. Despite his deteriorating mental faculties, Parvis merges his consciousness with the Transmitter, sacrificing his life for the project. His actions allow Project Horizon Arc to continue, leaving Silence shocked and traumatized. Parvis is a complex character, marked by his dedication to scientific progress, willingness to sacrifice anything for his work, and his manipulative nature. His legacy is a mix of groundbreaking research and ethical controversies, making him a pivotal figure in the Arknights universe.

Nasti Lunorey is, known for her role as the director of Rhine Lab's Engineering Section. Born in Kazdel, she has a background in mechanical engineering, structural design, aerodynamics, and architecture. Nasti's journey began as a mercenary and construction worker before she settled in Columbia, where her architectural expertise led to significant contributions and recognition in academia. Nasti played a crucial role in the Horizon Arc Project, developing advanced equipment like the S.H.A.F.T. and H.A.M.H.R.R. for Rhine Lab. She also constructed a secret lab to power these devices using sarcophagi found in the Hall of Stasis. Her ultimate dream is to create a floating city, Uraniborg, to provide a home for the Sarkaz people. In the Lone Trail storyline, Nasti assists Kristen Wright with the launch of a test platform and ensures no interference with Kristen's plans. She uses her Banshee witchcraft to defeat the Tin Man, who is investigating the mission. Despite being injured, the Tin Man is impressed by her abilities. Nasti continues to monitor the progress of the Galleria Stellaria and expresses interest in researching nomadic cities. After the Trimounts Arc incident, she participates in an investigation regarding her involvement with Kristen and the Horizon Arc Project.

Jara Booker Wilson, also known as Marianne Blake and codenamed Morningstar. She is a former celebrity and secret agent, now serving as the director of Rhine Lab's Human Resource Investigation Section. Born in Columbia, Jara gained fame as an actress before retiring due to an injury. She later became an agent for the Maylander Foundation, closely monitoring the Wright family and becoming a guardian to Kristen Wright after her parents' death. Jara's significant investments in Rhine Lab helped secure funding from multiple organizations. As the HR director, she oversees applicant reviews, psychological counseling, and employee leave and resignation forms. In the Lone Trail storyline, Jara intervenes in various critical situations, including protecting Silence and Saria from the military and assisting in preventing an assassination attempt on Columbia's Vice President. Despite her efforts, Jara is coerced by the military and Maylander Foundation to comply with their demands. She ultimately supports Silence's determination to pursue her goals, even though it means facing significant risks. After the "Trimounts Arc" incident, Jara retires from her position but remains a pivotal figure, attending Parvis' funeral and continuing to influence events in the Arknights universe.

Justin Fitzroy Jr., or Justin Jr. as he often prefers to be called, is the director of Rhine Lab's Business section. A highly charismatic speaker and businessman, Justin is financially savvy and is the one responsible for determining Rhine Lab's economic plans, investments, and investors. However, he is also cunning and deceitful, as in order to protect his interests and that of Rhine Lab, Justin frequently uses a combination of sweet-talking and bribery to win favors and pardons from people in power. Although he joined Rhine Lab early on and helped expand it to the company it is today, he claims to hold no personal loyalty to Kristen Wright the founder, although he still supports all of the company's endeavors.Prior to joining Rhine Lab, Justin was born with an incurable hereditary disease called Stade syndrome passed on from his father, which was slated to kill him before he turned 45. Miraculously, doctors were able to save his life thanks to a cure being suddenly developed, but were three days too late to save his father. Much later, Justin discovered that the cure was only produced thanks to a mistake made by an intern in the lab, and was appalled that he and his family owed their lives to an event of random chance. After that, he made it his goal to seize control of "fate" and eliminate random chance by his own hands, and developed a desire to constantly control and dictate things, such as by using his wealth and connections to ensure the success of individuals.

Mark Max is the President of Columbia, an artificial intelligence created by Trevor Friston. Max is a hyper-rational machine with the ability to analyze human strategies and predict future events. Unlike his "sister" PRTS, Max has an aggressive approach and lacks understanding of emotions. He was discovered during the Columbian Revolutionary War and helped the colonies achieve independence by modernizing their army and intercepting enemy intel. Max became the most beloved general and was appointed President after the war. His leadership transformed Columbia into a modern superpower. Despite his popularity, there are concerns about his potential to become a dictator due to his hyper-rational nature and Columbia's expanding geopolitical interferences. Max uses a bird puppet as his public avatar to familiarize children with his presence.

The Sarcophagus is a device built by the "Predecessors," it was initially intended as a life functions restoration device, capable of healing injuries through cellular regression. However, it only works as intended on the Predecessors. For others, like Mephisto, it can cause transformations into avian creatures. In Chernobog, Ursus, a Sarcophagus was excavated and converted into the city's core engine due to its immense energy potential. Kal'tsit placed the injured Doctor within it, leading to their physical recovery but complete memory loss. In Trimounts, Columbia, a group of Sarcophagi, known as the Hall of Stasis, places individuals in suspended animation. These were meant to ensure the Predecessors' continuity after a disaster 13,000 years ago. Kristen Wright attempted to use their energy for her own goals, but Kal'tsit activated the self-destruction mechanism to prevent misuse. Another Sarcophagus is located in Rhodes Island, where the Doctor was placed before the Predecessors' downfall. This Sarcophagus's status remains unclear.

The Preservers, also known as Preservators, are advanced A.I. They were created by the "Predecessors" through the Preserver Project after a catastrophic event that nearly wiped out the Predecessors. The Preservers' primary role is to oversee the Sarcophagi, where the surviving Predecessors are kept in stasis until they can be awakened to restore their civilization. To prevent the Observers from taking over the Preservers, the A.I. was designed to use the digitally uploaded consciousness of a Predecessor, making them "organic A.I.". Trevor Friston volunteered to have his consciousness uploaded into a Preserver body, becoming the first and only known Preserver. He oversaw the Sarcophagi complex, known as the "Hall of Stasis," for 13,000 years, broadcasting signals to outer space in hopes of contacting other Predecessors. Friston eventually realized the project was doomed as the slumbering Predecessors' vital signs began to fade. Before the events of Lone Trail, Friston met Kristen Wright, who wished to bring a better future to Terra. He decided to aid her by sharing his knowledge and allowing her to use the Sarcophagi as a power source. After a fateful meeting with two other survivors from the Predecessor era, the Doctor and Kal'tsit, Kristen succeeded in her mission, but at the cost of consuming all the power from the Sarcophagi, preventing the Predecessors from ever being awakened.

Talos-II is the name given to one of the moons circling the gas giant Talos, located in the Zobeide Nebula. It was once colonized by an ancient civilization known as the "Predecessors", evident from their ruins scattered across the moon. According to astronomical observations, there are an undisclosed number of natural satellites besides Talos-II orbiting around the gas giant, but only the latter is habitable. The moon possesses a nitrogen-rich atmosphere with enough oxygen to support life, with sufficient greenhouse gases to keep it awarm. It has a supercontinent connecting both poles surrounded by a water ocean covering 40% of the moon and archipelagoes. Vast mountain ranges and rivers systems create a rich ecosystem with lush greenery essential for supporting life. A mostly uncharted resource-rich moon, Talos-II is full of Catastrophe-like phenomenon known as the Blight and inhabited by aggressive creatures of unknown origins appearing like self-aware rock constructs with a halo not unlike that possessed by the Sankta above their heads known as the Aggeloi.

The Emperor's Blades are an elite unit within Ursus' Royal Guards in the world of Arknights. They are known for their extreme combat prowess, supernatural abilities, and inhuman appearances, earning them both respect and fear. They possess the ability to create shadowy blades and black mist, making them formidable opponents. The Blades contain fragments of Collapsals from another dimension, sealed within their armors using demonic rituals. This power is a double-edged sword, as the destruction of their armor can cause catastrophic detonations. In the story, the Blades appear in several episodes, including "A Walk in the Dust," where a Blade known as "the Pursuer" confronts Kal'tsit, and in Episode 08, where they hunt down Talulah and proto-Reunion fighters. They are also involved in the Chernobog-Lungmen crisis in Episode 13. The Blades are inspired by the Oprichniki, a group of enforcers in the Russian Empire during Ivan the Terrible's reign.

The Tianshi, also known as "Celestial Masters," are a group of imperial techno-Casters in the world. They are government-authorized Casters specializing in various areas of work, combining Originium Arts and technology. The Tianshi's origins date back thousands of years to the reign of Yan the Chieftain, the first "True Lung," who employed sages as imperial advisors. These advisors became the first key members of the Tianshi Bureau, focusing on Originium Arts and technological development. The Tianshi's structure underwent several reforms in Terran year 698. They use devices like drones called Sky Poles, the Tianshi Ruler for accurate location pinpointing, and the Tianshi Detector, a cube-like structure made of multiple tiny Originium detectors. Their military devices include the "Palmtop Pavilion," giant buildings that can magically minimize in size for easy carry. Anyone can become a Tianshi by passing a series of imperial examinations. The Tianshi Bureau's examination standards are strict, requiring outstanding talent in the use of Arts and deep, specialized knowledge. Once accepted, students undergo arduous training that can take at least a decade. The Tianshi serve various functions, including imperial guards, civil engineers, and agrarian experts. They are under the supervision of the Tianshi Bureau, but recent political tensions have forced them to choose sides regarding the Feranmut matter despite their neutrality.

The Gesatzswächter are elite guards of the Kurfürsten in the world of Arknights. They are known for their exceptional combat skills and magical abilities, making them the most powerful combatants in Leithanien. The Gesatzswächter are the physical embodiment of the Güldenesgesatz, the magical constitution of Leithanien. They wear elegant armors and wield Zweihänders, excelling in close to medium-range combat. Their Arts, often described as a grand symphony, can unleash powerful spells capable of annihilating enemy forces. The most common Art they possess is the Golden Melody, which can paralyze enemies through music. A group of ten Gesatzswächter can summon a golden barrier, and their combined Arts can brighten the sky and paint it gold. To become a Gesatzswächter, recruits must pass Arts Adaptability tests focused on combat spells. The best-qualified candidates undergo special training to join their ranks. Different eras of the Gesatzswächter have used various weapons and armors depending on the Kurfürsten's resources and military tactics. For example, during the Battle of the Four Emperors, they used heavy armors and bladeless Zweihänders designed to penetrate enemy formations. They are a formidable force, combining combat prowess and magical abilities to protect the Kurfürsten and uphold the laws of Leithanien.

Eartha, formally known as the Londinium Citizens' Self-Salvation Corps, is a group of partisans formed by Londinium's citizens regardless of their social statuses who unanimously oppose the Kazdelian occupation of Victoria by Regent Theresis. Eartha was founded by the patriotic working class whose ultimate goal is to expel their foreign occupiers. Many of its members possess different background, ranging from factory workers to rich businessmen, but they share the same idea. Notably, the band receives well protection from the House of Cumberland, the only surviving loyalist for the Aslan dynasty, led by its current heir Allerdale. Eartha sees itself as heroic liberators while the Kazdelian occupants treats them as nothing more than a band of rebellious thugs that threatens the Regent's plan to start a world war through the reconstruction of the Shard. Lacking equipment and organization, Eartha is currently unable to confront the occupation of the Kazdel Military Commission directly. However, they can maintain a presence in Londinium's substructure beneath the industrious Sudean and other districts. These extensive underground networks enabled some limited operations against the Kazdelian occupation and provided escape routes from their brutal retaliation. Under Heidi's arrangement, Rhodes Island is currently allying with Eartha to help them expel the Kazdelian armies from Londinium and resolve the Victorian Crisis.

The Silverlance Pegasi are a powerful and enigmatic knightclub in the game Arknights. They serve the Adeptus Sprawiedliwi and are known for their silver ceramic-titanium alloy combat armors, representing the pinnacle of Kazimierz's material industry. Historically, they protected Kazimierz from numerous foreign invasions, most notably during the Tenth Ursus-Kazimierz War. Despite being "utterly defeated" by Ursus, their incredible combat prowess was acknowledged by the Ursines. Although they vanished from public view with the rise of the nouveau riche, they have been actively guarding Kazimierz's borders, forbidden by the National Council to step into Kawalerielki except in emergencies. They hold great respect for the Nearl family, who once rescued thirty Silverlance Pegasi from Ursus' armies. The Silverlances engraved the Nearls' motto, "Fear neither hardship nor darkness," onto their shields and weapons. The current leader of the Silverlance Pegasi is Liam, Margaret Nearl's uncle. The Silverlances are known for their strength, able to defeat multiple enemies despite being outnumbered, and their disdain for competitive knights as mere entertainers.

The Doctor is the enigmatic player character in Arknights, a highly advanced space-faring humanoid known as a "Predecessor" who arrived in Terra over 13,000 years ago. As a scientist and field commander, the Doctor created Originium and AMa, and is an expert in neurology and Oripathy. They serve as a field commander and military strategist for Rhodes Island, leading battles against Reunion and Kazdelian Sarkaz ultranationalists. The Doctor is always covered in multiple layers of clothing and often wears a mask and hoodie. They have dark gray eyes, snow white hair, and an androgynous voice. The Doctor was once a member of Babel and acted as a guardian for the young Amiya. They are responsible for Theresa's demise and the fall of Babel, leading to their memory being erased. After the fall of Babel, the Doctor was placed in a Predecessor Sarcophagus to recover. Since their return to Rhodes Island, they have become actively involved in the medical field and the organization's commercial business. The Doctor is known for their intelligence, broad knowledge base, and humorous side.

Baizao, also known as "The City of Countless Stoves," is the Imperial capital of Yan and the largest metropolis in the region. The city is renowned for its blend of tradition and modernity, featuring towering walls, skyscrapers, and majestic academies. Baizao's foundation dates back to the aftermath of a disastrous war, where a rich Originium vein was discovered. This vein caused Catastrophes, leading to the proposal of building a city over it to harness its energy. After 53 years, Baizao was established, named to "Watch over the fireworks of the vast land." Baizao is famous for its gastronomy, with over a hundred food courts and restaurants, including the "Four Famous Buildings," each representing major cuisines from different parts of Yan. The Dingfenglou Restaurant, the oldest in Baizao, is particularly notable. The city hosts the annual "Hundred Treasure Banquet" in mid-autumn, where officials discuss state affairs and celebrate Baizaoites' birthdays. This tradition began when a True Lung praised a young minister for his bravery during a flood crisis. Notable landmarks include the Forbidden City, the Yuweiju Restaurant, and the Dingfenglou Restaurant. Baizao's etymology, "Hundred Stoves," reflects its rich culinary culture. The city is based on Beijing, with its towering walls reminiscent of the ancient walled city-state of Jicheng.

The "Sighs of Kings" or Kyngasycath is the royal regalia or Realmblade of Victoria in the.Currently, it is under the possession of Alexandrina "Vina" Victoria. The sword, crafted by "fairies" in Sargon, was used by Lugalszargus, the greatest Aslan Padishah, to slay the "Poltergeist King" during the conquest of the Foehn Hotlands. It was later brought to Victoria by the Aslan Dynasty around the 9th Terran century. The Sighs of Kings was kept in the Mausoleum of Kings, where it was said to possess magical capabilities, allowing Victorian Aslan kings to enhance its power to "slice" Catastrophes, protecting Londinium from disasters. However, the sword requires the "Stone of the Sword" to be functional, which is currently in the possession of the Duke of Caster. The Sighs of Kings is based on the Excalibur from Arthurian legend, with its magical traits and its owner, Siege, akin to King Arthur. The Stone of the Sword is a reference to the stone from which Excalibur was pulled in certain versions of the legend.

As well as serving as a potent energy source. Originium is an artificial substance created by the "Predecessors", specifically the "Oracle" and Priestess. Its conception is done out of necessity, as Originium is the only way that civilization can be saved from the existential threat that is the Observers by keeping all information secure from tampering within a hyperdimensional space known as the Assimilated Universe. This is done by Originium encompassing, assimilating, and preserving all information in a latent form; information being not merely the concept of knowledge, but the macroscopic concept encompassing the existence and behavior of all matter, energy, and their transformative processes. Friston the Preserver described Originium as an "alternative answer" that is as vast as the "Ocean of Solaris", but acknowledged that the current form of Originium has gone beyond what it truly was in the beginning, hence leading to its corruptive nature, blaming Priestess and her "mad experiment" for this.

Priestess is a "Predecessor" scientist with a deep connection to the Doctor, describing their relationship as more than intimate. They met when the Doctor salvaged her consciousness beacon while she was anchored to a dying star. Together, they explored the universe and created AMa, also known as Kal'tsit. During an inevitable end, they created Originium, but an attack on the Predecessors forced Priestess to place the Doctor in a Sarcophagus for safety. Priestess's fate is unknown, but it is implied she perished long before the events of Arknights. In Episode 08, the Doctor has a flashback of Priestess placing them in the Sarcophagus. In Vigilo, the Doctor asks PRTS about Priestess, but the information requires a specific clearance level. In Episode 14, Priestess recounts their past to the Doctor, who declines to work with her again due to pressing matters. She reassures the Doctor that they will return to her side eventually. In Lone Trail, the Doctor debates with the Preserver, who takes the form of Priestess. The Preserver reveals that Kal'tsit has answers about Priestess and Originium but is restrained from disclosing certain information. Priestess's consciousness may remain active within the Assimilated Universe and Originium itself. Her story highlights her significant role in the creation of Originium and her deep connection with the Doctor.

The Assimilated Universe, also known as the "Empire of Consciousness," is a hyper-dimensional space in the Arknights universe, created by Originium. It resembles an endless golden sea with pale rhombuses in the "sky" and contains all the information assimilated by Originium. This abstract space is divorced from conventional space and time, obeying its own fundamental laws dictated by Originium, which cannot be explained by established science. Energy and matter do not exist within this space, and no life-forms can normally enter it. Only the Doctor and Theresa have been able to manipulate the Assimilated Universe and rewrite its laws, with the Doctor having the natural ability to do so. The Doctor's thoughts and memories can manifest hyper-realistic illusions, save allies from being turned into information, and create a "physical" version of the Rhodes Island landship. Theresa was able to shape information to temporarily defy the unchanging nature of the Universe and rewrite its laws to create an Originium not controlled by its original designer. The "Myriad Souls" of the Sarkaz race are leftover information trapped in the Assimilated Universe due to their intrinsic link with the First Originium, which is the source of their ancestral memories and collective consciousness. The Ocean of Solaris, is a void where everything exists within disorder. It is likely meant to create a utopian collective consciousness similar to Dorothy's Transmitters.

The Transmitters are liquid-like devices invented by Dorothy that play a major role in the Arknights' story. They are metallic semi-fluids resembling quicksilver, created through experiments by Dorothy Franks and Ferdinand Clooney. Transmitters possess incredible Arts adaptability and can fuse the mind of a living being to a collective consciousness known as the Hub. This fusion preserves minds and consciousnesses, allowing remote control of amorphous physical constructs and larger constructs like power armors. Dorothy aimed to use Transmitters to erase inequality between Arts users and help them escape Terra's harshness, while Ferdinand wanted to weaponize them for the Columbian military. After witnessing the consequences of her dreams and Ferdinand's hijacking of the project, Dorothy destroyed the Hub, returning all consciousnesses within the Transmitter and rendering the remainder inert. Rhine Lab salvaged the research, and Ahrens Parvis used it to create a neural link with the Galleria Stellaria, aiming to create a "perfect life" through another collective consciousness. Enemies using Transmitter constructs, called Experimental Products, can assimilate into inactive R-Series Power Armors to activate them. The Transmitters were inspired by Stanisław Lem's "Solaris," where astronauts fall into a collective consciousness in a sea of stars. The struggle between the recipient's consciousness and the Transmitter is compared to a dandelion's seeds being blown away.

Dorothy Franks is the director of Rhine Lab's Originium Art Section and a project leader at Rhodes Island. She is known for her unparalleled expertise in Originium Arts applications. Dorothy was born to a family of immigrants from Sargon, with her father being a medic and her mother a Pioneer. Raised by her mother, Dorothy demonstrated extraordinary talent from a young age, excelling in school and eventually attending Ironforge Polytechnic. Her mother was killed in a Catastrophe, which deeply affected Dorothy. Dorothy proposed a collaborative project between Rhine Lab and Rhodes Island, leading to the highest level of collaboration between the two organizations. Despite her high position, Dorothy is known for her kindness and compassion, often taking care of others while neglecting her own well-being. She enjoys watching black-and-white films and is part of a movie lovers' club. Dorothy's relationship with other section directors at Rhine Lab is generally amicable, although she is aware of the high price of their assistance. She is determined to achieve her dream of making everyone happy, even if it means taking risks. Her sincerity and dedication are evident, but there is an element of danger in her unwavering pursuit of her goals.

Saria, a Columbian Vouivre, is a tough and emotionless woman due to her father's strict parenting. She studied at the Trimounts Institute of Technology and became a visionary researcher, aiming to eliminate tragedies like Oripathy and Catastrophes. Saria co-founded Rhine Lab with Kristen Wright but became disillusioned with Kristen's extreme experiments. While acting as the chief of its Defense Section, she had been questioning Kristen's science ethics. The turning point was the "Project Diαbolic" in 1095, where she discovered Kristen's secret collaboration with the Columbian government and the inhumane treatment of Ifrit, a young test subject. Saria almost killed Ifrit to prevent a meltdown, leading to a bitter fight with Kristen and her departure from Rhine Lab.Saria joined Rhodes Island to continue her career, but her legacy at Rhine Lab persists. Kristen does not fully recognize her resignation, and Saria encounters former colleagues like Dr. Olivia Silence and Ifrit at Rhodes Island. Silence blames Saria for the Diαbolic Crisis, resulting in a strained relationship. Saria is determined to protect Ifrit from Rhine Lab's insidious intentions.As a researcher, Saria uses calcification Arts to harden parts of her body, augmenting her strength and resilience. She is also an excellent boxer, using her fists and shield in combat.Saria's story highlights her toughness, dedication to eliminating tragedies, and the complex relationships she navigates in her quest for a better world

Kal'tsit is a key figure, known for her enigmatic past and significant contributions to Rhodes Island. She is a Feline, but actually an artificial humanoid created by Priestess and Oracle, making her effectively immortal, though practically no one knows of this. Kal'tsit is the head of the Medical Department and the de facto leader of Rhodes Island, despite Amiya being the official leader. She is known for her cold and detached demeanor but is deeply committed to protecting those important to her, particularly Amiya and the Doctor. Kal'tsit's past is shrouded in mystery, with her involvement in various significant events across Terra, such as the Silence of Iberia, the annihilation of Gaul, and Columbia's independence. She has held numerous roles, including a scientist, scholar, advisor, and cleric. Her creation by the Predecessors means she cannot be truly killed, as she will be reborn in a new body upon death. Throughout Terra, Kal'tsit plays a crucial role in various operations and battles, often providing strategic support and guidance. She has a complex relationship with the Doctor, marked by both cooperation and mistrust. Despite her cold exterior, Kal'tsit is willing to make great sacrifices to protect those she cares about and guide the Terrans towards a better future.

Nezzsalem, also known as the Nachzehrer King or the God of War, is a significant NPC in Arknights, appearing as one of the main antagonists in Act II of the Main Theme, particularly in Episode 14. He is the current leader of the Nachzehrer tribe's Withered Court and was formerly the commander-in-chief of the Kazdelian War Council. Nezzsalem has a long history, having served as a mentor to notable characters like Theresa, Theresis, and Patriot, the last true Wendigo. Nezzsalem's abilities include using death and decay Arts, which are powerful enough to deter even his fellow Sarkaz. He can absorb the power of others by consuming their flesh, making him a formidable opponent. Despite his fearsome nature, Nezzsalem has a lighter side, showing an interest in agriculture, particularly turnips. Throughout the story, Nezzsalem interacts with key characters like Kal'tsit, Warfarin, and Shining. He has a complex relationship with Kal'tsit, referring to her as an old friend. Nezzsalem's presence and actions significantly impact the events in Londinium and the Victorian Crisis. Nezzsalem's name is derived from Hebrew words meaning "Miracle/Banner of Peace." His story highlights his role as a powerful and influential figure in the Arknights universe, with a rich history and complex relationships with other characters.

Wesley, the Duke of Wellington, is a significant NPC in Arknights, known as the Iron Duke and the Empire's Death Knell. He is a major supporting character in Act II of the Main Theme. Wellington is one of Victoria's most influential Grand Dukes, renowned for his political resolve and military prowess. He played a crucial role in the Battle of the Four Emperors, where he intercepted Maréchale Emmanuel de Liberi's warship fleet and led the final assault on Lingones. His success in the battle led to his power being restricted by other Grand Dukes for over sixty years. Wellington is a pro-Draco monarchist and a supporter of Dublinn, often appearing beside Eblana, the leader of Dublinn. He controls the Taran region, annexed to his duchy after the Battle of the Four Emperors. His flagship, the Gastrell, is a high-speed warship equipped with advanced Victorian military technology and has been used in various military operations. In Episode 11, Wellington appears beside Eblana, watching the rising Kazdelian airship fleet. He remains silent despite requests from Victorian soldiers to meet envoys and prepare for the siege. In later episodes, he is mentioned by other Grand Dukes during their meeting with Vina Victoria, indicating his significant influence and actions.

Amphelise, the Duke of Windermere, is a significant in Arknights. She is one of the Grand Dukes of Victoria and is known for her political neutrality, focusing on her family's safety, especially her daughter, Delphine. Amphelise consolidated her power following King Henry's execution in 1072, becoming one of the most powerful nobles in the Empire, surpassed only by Wellington and Caster. The Duke of Windermere has been involved in various military conflicts, notably with Leithanien, earning her the nickname "The Kurfürst's archenemy." She was married to Kent, who passed away in 1094 due to illness. In 1096, she launched a raid against Kazdel's forces, which ended in failure due to her own soldiers' obstruction. In Episode 11, the Duke of Windermere was part of the Eight Grand Dukes who sent their armies and warships to Londinium in response to Theresis' takeover. Her fortress took a detour through the Leithanian border to avoid Catastrophes.

The Duke of Caster is a powerful female Feline in Arknights, known for her significant influence in Victoria. After King Henry's execution, she consolidated her power, becoming one of the most powerful Grand Dukes, surpassed only by the Duke of Wellington. She monitors Rhodes Island and Glasgow during the Victorian Crisis through her special agents, the Trilby Ashers, despite ordering Allerdale to recover the "Sighs of Kings," putting her at odds with Alexandrina of Victoria, Glasgow's leader and heir to the Aslan dynasty. Her motivations are unclear, but she seeks to gain an upper hand against other Grand Dukes, especially Wellington. The Duke possesses the only working replica of the "Stone of the Sword," essential for the "Sighs of Kings" sword to function. She has a distant relationship with Enciodes Silverash, having taken care of him during his time in Victoria and funding Karlan Trade. She also shows interest in the Kjerag region, aiding its modernization by introducing the Victorian train system. She sent agents to investigate Karlan Trade's activities and later participated in a Parliament meeting with Vina Victoria, criticizing her approach to solving Londinium's post-crisis problems. The Duke's flagship is inconsistently named, referred to as Warship Gloriana, Glorious, or Glory in different sources.

Sean, the Duke of Gododdin, is a male Elafia. He is a Grand Duke and a member of the Parliament of Victoria. Despite his young age, he has a carefree attitude and is often obsessed with romance, lacking the characteristic wisdom and astuteness of House Gododdin. He led his army to besiege Londinium during the war against the Military Commission of Kazdel and sent high-speed battleships in response to Theresis' takeover. Gododdin visited the Duke of Caster to discuss the situation in Londinium. He comments on the rumors about Caster's involvement in Windermere's death and criticizes Wellington's bravado amidst the storm. Gododdin convinces Wellington to join the counterattack against the Sarkaz and confirms the participation of the Dukes of Ashworth and Fife. Gododdin sent Oren Argiolas as his envoy to the Lateran Summit of Nations, showing his interest in Laterano.

Originally a division within the Victorian Army, they were reorganized into the Tempest Platoon after a series of mishaps. The Exemplars were founded during King Frederick III's military reformation, with members from the Royal Guard Academy. Their loyalty shifted after the Battle of the Four Emperors, where they were treated as cannon fodder by the Grand Dukes, leading to a mutiny known as "Operation Black Heart." The Tempest Platoon, formed from the surviving Exemplars, became an independent military force devoted to Victoria. They defied the Parliament's orders during the Victorian Crisis and operated underground in Londinium. Alexandrina Victoria, also known as Siege, reorganized the Exemplars, including her Glasgow mates and Victorian soldiers, to liberate Brentwood from Sarkaz occupation. The Exemplars were officially disbanded after the war, commemorating their efforts. The Tempest Platoon is divided into six sections, each with two operational groups. They recruit members based on capability, often from the Royal Guard Academy, and undergo harsh training. The Platoon is equipped with advanced military technologies and intelligence services, making them one of the best soldiers in Victoria. Notable members include Horn, the lieutenant and commander of the 2nd Division, and Bagpipe, who later joined Rhodes Island. The Exemplars' legacy lives on, inspiring many paramilitary Infected organizations, including Reunion.

Alexandrina Victoria, also known as Vina and codenamed "Siege," is the leader of the Victorian street gang Glasgow and the last living member of Victoria's Aslan dynasty. Forced into exile after a popular uprising against the previous king, she lived in Londinium's slums, eventually taking over Glasgow's leadership. Vina's true identity as the heir to the Victorian throne was revealed when she sought asylum in Rhodes Island, offering her service in exchange for aid in reclaiming her birthright. Vina is a natural-born leader and a capable fighter, known for her fierce and noble combat style. She is spiritually accompanied by the pride of lions led by the Beast Lord Gawain, who prophesized her as one of Victoria's greatest leaders. Despite prevailing over various adversaries, including Draco pretenders, Grand Dukes, and Kazdelian Sarkaz, Vina chose to usher Victoria into a new era of sovereignty resting in the hands of the people. She became the Lord Protector and Speaker of the Parliament, guiding Victoria towards a better future.

Glasgow is a faction in the Arknights universe, originally a street gang in Londinium, Victoria. Led by Alexandrina "Vina" Victoria, also known as "Siege," the gang has evolved into de facto royal guards for the last known living heir of the Victorian Aslan dynasty. The gang operates in Londinium, controlling one or two boroughs, and is known for its unique prestige in the local area. They work during the day and fight at night to prevent other criminal groups from entering their turf, while also entertaining residents and preventing children from imitating their violent activities. The gang's transformation began when Vina, an exiled princess, defeated the former leader, Hannah "Indra" Jackson, in a challenge, leading to Vina's leadership. Over time, Glasgow became a close-knit group devoted to Vina, especially with the arrival of the last Tower Knightess, Isabelle. Four years ago, the Kazdelian occupation of Londinium forced them to flee to Rhodes Island, where they now serve as an assault unit. They plan to return to reclaim the vacant throne, facing obstacles from groups like Dublinn and various Victorian Grand Dukes. Notable members include Dagda, the last surviving Tower Knight, and Delphine, a spy sent by her mother, the Duke of Windermere. The gang's base includes the "Slobberknocker" boxing gym in Norport Borough. Glasgow's name is likely a reference to the Knights of the Round Table or the Camelot court in Arthurian legend.

Duq'arael, also known as the Prince of Blood, is a male Vampire. He is the current Sanguinarch of the Vampire Sarkaz and a cunning, powerful opponent. Duq'arael's ferocity is legendary, with stories of him killing every noble at a Victorian banquet and annihilating a band of Victorian soldiers during the grand invasion of Kazdel. Legend even says that Duq'arael easily annihilated a band of Victorian soldiers during the grand invasion of Kazdel around two hundred years ago that led to the nation's third disintegration. The massacre was so brutal that the mountains were painted crimson red even during a sunless day He wears a long hairpiece similar to a judge's wig and was once the youngest brother of Dan'shoel, his predecessor in the Crimson Court. Duq'arael adopted a pacifist approach to Kazdel's affairs, believing that the Sarkaz could no longer afford to continue warring. This led to a civil war, culminating in Duq'arael killing his brother and shattering the Black Crown. As the Sanguinarch of Vampires, Duq'arael is a master of blood Arts, capable of forcibly controlling others' blood and turning victims into his puppets. He can also "bless" fellow Sarkaz with parasitic leech-like creatures to augment them. His insatiable thirst for blood makes him a feared figure even among Vampires. Duq'arael's Arts are described as repulsive and rotten by the Damazti Cluster.

The Steam Knights of Victoria are an elite branch of the Victorian Army , composed of esteemed soldiers piloting massive, steam-driven powered armor. Established during the early Crystal Age, they revolutionized the Terran Military-Industrial complex and were considered a paragon of Victoria's military strength. The Steam Knights were chosen through a rigorous recruitment system, and their highly advanced armors were so expensive that only Victoria could produce them. Throughout history, there have been no more than fifty Steam Knights. The Steam Knights answered solely to the aristocrats of the Parliament, protecting both the king and the country. Despite their zenith, their numbers decreased drastically due to Victoria's unrestrained expansionism. By 1072, only around thirty-two Knights remained. In 1094, during the coup started by the Duke of Stafford in Londinium, the Steam Knights were ordered to protect the Mausoleum of Kings. However, they were betrayed by the Parliament, who viewed them as potential threats. The downfall of the Steam Knights remains a mystery to Victorians, with their armors sold off and melted down as scrap metals. Despite this, the common folks continue to venerate them, believing they will return someday. The Steam Knights' power armor includes heavy weapons, thermal energy blades, rocket launchers, and thrusters for limited flight. Their armor also has life support mechanisms to keep the pilot alive during prolonged isolation.

The Last Knight is a legendary figure in the Arknights universe. Known as Mortica, he is a Kazimierzian hero who embarked on a quest to conquer various challenges, including nomadic cities and oceans, to bring true meaning to knighthood. His journey led him to Iberia, where he eventually disappeared, leaving behind relics that his family later buried in the mountains. These relics became known as the "Knight's Treasure," guarded by his descendants. The Last Knight's story is filled with legends, including his battles against mountains, cities, and waves. Some believe he triumphed over the ocean, time, and death, continuing his quest until the end of all things. His tale has been recorded in a fantasy novel, inspiring many Kazimierzian knights, though it has faced criticism for being too blunt and meaningless. In the battle against the Seaborn, the Last Knight plays a crucial role. He retains his human conscience despite being corrupted by the Seaborn and embarks on a journey to find their source and end their terror. His story is reminiscent of Don Quixote, the legendary Spanish knight from Miguel de Cervantes' novel, who also embarked on a bizarre journey to reclaim medieval knighthood.

The humanoid Seaborn called "The First To Talk" is notably capable of speaking Terran languages nearly flawlessly, hence its name, and are intelligent enough to mimic human behavior. However, emotional concepts are completely alien to The First, making its alignment neutral at best; all it cares is only the benefits for the Seaborn as a whole. When forced into a fight, The First is surprisingly capable of defending itself especially by unleashing some sort of "corrosive vacuoles" that could cripple the victims if it is not treated properly. The First acts as the Seaborn hive mind's intermediary with the Aegirian cult Church of the Deep, which sees it as a "herald of the ocean's will." Prior to the events of Sal Viento, he had agreed to cooperate closely with Bishop Quintus to further the Seaborn's interests.

Sal Viento is an oceanic nomadic city in Iberia, now largely abandoned and stranded. Once a bustling city filled with treasures, it fell victim to the Profound Silence in 1038, which ravaged its coastlines and left it neglected by the Iberian government. The harsh environment makes it difficult to grow food or fish, leading to widespread starvation. The Inquisition's attempts to provide food turned disastrous, resulting in arrests and trials. The Aegirian Church of the Deep exploited the situation, distorting religious laws and proclaiming that the sea would provide food through a ritual. This ritual involved drawing lots, with the chosen person sacrificed to the Seaborn. Despite knowing the truth, the inhabitants had little choice due to famine. The bleak environment allowed the Seaborn to thrive. The inhabitants adopted strange customs, such as naming themselves after household objects. Following a battle against the Church's bishop, the Inquisitors gained control of the city and are working to address the Sea Terror issues. Notable people include Petra, an old Liberi woman, and Bench, a young boy. The city's architecture resembles the ribs of a stranded whale.

Gran Faro is a coastal town in southwestern Iberia, known for housing the last surviving Eye of Iberia. Once a prosperous port, it fell victim to the Profound Silence, a tsunami caused by the Seaborn that devastated Iberian coastlines. Despite the disaster, Gran Faro preserved the last Iberian lighthouse and became a final bastion against the abyss due to its proximity to the sea and the Bastión de Cánticos, the headquarters of the Inquisition. Attempts to recapture the Eye of Iberia ended in failure, leading to disunity and a purge by the Inquisitors, who suspected collaboration with the cultic Church of the Deep. Many Islanders, including maintenance workers and sailors, were arrested, crushing the locals' spirits. While the purge seemed harsh, half of those arrested were indeed collaborators with the Church of the Deep. Since the purge, Gran Faro has been largely forgotten by the Iberian government, becoming a gloomy place with resentment against the Inquisitors. The cultists of the Deep have gained influence, converting locals to the Seaborn's hivemind. Following the Stultifera Navis incident, the Inquisition rooted out the cultists and gained control of the city. Most residents have moved to the hinterland, and the Penal Battalion has restationed its fleet, making Gran Faro a median to reach the Aegirian underwater city, Milliarium.

The Eyes of Iberia were lighthouses built with Aegirian technology under the supervision of Breogan. These structures allowed the Iberian Grand Armada to navigate through unknown seas, propelling Iberia into its Golden Age. However, when the Profound Silence struck Iberia, nearly all the Eyes were either destroyed by the tsunami or rendered inoperative due to severed energy supplies, except for one. Many Aegir who had contributed to the Eyes' construction were imprisoned or executed by the Iberian Inquisition, with Breogan himself being lynched by an angry mob who blamed him for "inviting the Silence." By the time Arknights takes place, only the Eye of Iberia near Gran Faro remained functional, though it had since become a Seaborn nest. At one point, the Iberian government attempted to reactivate Gran Faro's Eye of Iberia. However, a company of Penal Battalion soldiers and three Inquisitors sent to clear the Eye of Seaborn were killed, leaving only a single survivor. The plan was subsequently put on hold indefinitely. During the hunt for the Stultifera Navis, Gran Faro's Eye of Iberia was successfully reactivated with the help of Jordi Fontanarossa, whose parents had been among its builders. It was also revealed that the lost ship had been near the Eye the entire time, sending distress signals for over six decades that were picked up by the Eye's signal receivers.

The Confessarii are a secret occult society of Kazdelian Sarkaz. Their origins trace back to a lineage known as the "King of Usurping Kings," a white-horned Sarkaz who mastered unique Arts that intertwined the past, present, and future. This King cast an Arts onto his lineage, ensuring that upon death, the soul of the predecessor would possess their offspring, perpetuating the same "King of Usurping Kings" eternally. The Confessarii have actively supported the succeeding King of Sarkaz for millennia, seeking to reclaim the Black Crown. They have delved into the mysteries of Originium Arts through rituals and scientific experimentation, even creating homunculi to store their souls. They serve as the right-hand of Regent Theresis and are proficient in necromantic Arts, manipulating life and death. Notable members include Qui'sartuštaj, the current leader, and Shining, who left the Confessarii after opposing their inhumane experiments. The Confessarii's unique lineage-inherited Arts allow them to possess others' bodies upon death and perform rituals to "resurrect" the deceased. They view life as sacred but also manipulate it to ensure their eternal lineage.

The Revenants in are sentient spiritual essences associated with the Sarkaz and Sankta. Originating from the souls of Sarkaz sacrificed during the summoning of the first Amnannam by the Farchaser, the first King of Sarkaz, these entities were transformed into spiritual beings after losing their material bodies due to the catastrophic effects of Originium. The Revenants are perceived as a separate tribe with psychic bodies and a hive mind, but to many Sarkaz, they represent their ancestors and the symbol of eternal suffering. The Revenants can possess non-living things to manifest physically, such as the giant airship built by the Military Commission of Kazdel. They have religious significance among the Sarkaz, as they keep the eternal flame burning in Kazdel. Ceremonies are held to pacify their wrath, and divination is performed by burning manuscripts to communicate with them. The Revenants are bound to the material world through Originium, described as being "betrayed by death" because they remain "alive" in both material and spiritual senses. Despite being freed by Theresa from psychic bondage in the Assimilated Universe, they still linger on Terra with less anguish. Notable Revenants include the Kindling Revenant, who later become "Old Ancestors" after possessing Wiš'adel's Arts units, and Larry, Curley, and Mo, the Tin Man's companions.

Closure, born Ada Church, is a female vampire from Kazdel, recognized for her unparalleled skills in technology over Originium Arts. As a founding member of Rhodes Island, she is the ship reliability engineer and head of the Engineering Department. Closure is known for her mischievous personality, love for pranks, and delegating tasks to others, yet her role is critical for the functionality of Rhodes Island. However, without her, R.I. would be incapable of functioning. Formerly a top-tier hacker, Closure earned the title "Destroyer of the Kazdel Information World." Her exceptional abilities enabled her to modify and program operators like Castle-3, Lancet-2, and THRM-EX. She was recruited into Babel by Theresa and eventually became Rhodes Island's Chief Engineer, contributing significantly to the landship's renovation. Closure also acts as the head of the Procurement Department, who claims having developed a business model that was "generated" with the assistance of advanced AI algorithms and has been repeatedly verified by PRTS, supposedly programed to trigger serious economic crises in various countries once activated.

A centuries-old Vampire senior medical staff of Rhodes Island, Warfarin has an obscure background aside from being the author of a famous medical reference book published decades ago under the pseudonym "Mr. Blood". During the recent civil war in Kazdel, Warfarin refuses to take sides out of her pacifism until she was "persuaded" by Kal'tsit to treat Theresa's successor Amiya following the fall of Babel and join her entourage. Warfarin eventually decides to remain with R.I. to carry on Theresa's dreams of curing Oripathy as well as using her extensive knowledge of hematology to establish R.I.'s very own blood bank and become its administrator. While she is hematophagous for being a Vampire, Warfarin can control her thirst of blood and safely live alongside other races, although she is also known for being a "mad scientist" who carried out freaky medical experiments at times.

Led by Closure, who was one of the earliest Babel Operators onboard the landship, the Rhodes Island Engineering Department is responsible for maintaining Rhodes Island with its technical team inherited from Babel. In fact, many of the Engineering Operators have been serving aboard the Rhodes Island as far as when she was still on her final assembly stage. Many functions such as the normal operation of the ship's energy power system and internal circulation system, the PRTS, and other shipboard facilities depend on the Engineering Department's Operators' maintenance work. Their role is akin to the damage control officers of a high-speed warship crew. The department itself has partnership agreement with other technological companies or a scientific branch of a certain company like Raythean, BlackSteel Worldwide and Rhine Lab among others. Activities conducted within the partnership scope includes but not limited to: cooperative studies and projects, exchange program between the engineers and development of new technologies. As a scientific development branch, the Engineering Department acts as R.I.'s research and development (R&D) section, providing all sorts of services for personal equipment and weapons according to the Operators' needs, as well as technical support to other departments in terms of shipboard equipment, smart operation platform customization, development of cutting-edge medical and technical equipment, and construction of automated production lines.

Led by Kal'tsit, the Rhodes Island Medical Department inherited the personnel and facilities of the Shipboard Clinical Center from the Babel period. As the name suggests, it is responsible for much of R.I.'s medical activities, including studies and treatment of injuries/illness from onboard Operators, patients, and other stationed personnel. Under its wing, the Medical Department also oversees the Emergency, Rehabilitation, Analysis, Medical Equipment, and Medical Administration Departments, which act as its subbranches. The development of Oripathy drugs is, albeit sometimes forgotten by the outside world, also the Medical Department's main source of income, ensuring that Rhodes Island could stick to a long-term goal of combating the Oripathy crisis and help more patients. For a long period of time, the department has been actively running Rhodes Island's medical projects and drug development programs, while at the same time training new Medic Operators, and collaborating with the Engineering Department in the development of medical equipment for Oripathy treatment. Kal'tsit acts as the team leader in most of these projects. Within the two years after R.I.'s establishment, the Medical Department has consolidated Terra's leading comprehensive mobile medical center for Oripathy treatment, capable of providing good medical conditions for a large number of Infected patients at the same time, as well as effective, long-term suppression treatments for Oripathic Infections.

The Human Resource Department, or H.R. Department as an acronym, acts as it says on the name: managing the human resources of Rhodes Island. They are also responsible for the onboarding of R.I.'s new operators through its subordinates, including the Recruitment and Assessment Department, as well as their background assessment and training. The head of Human Resource Department is ■■■, a Djall Sarkaz who was formerly in charge of Babel's Human Resource Department. In order for new Operators to join R.I., the HR Department will conduct an in-depth background based on various factors such as the subject's social relationship and behavior. Once aboard, the personnel will continue to study the operator's work status and careers of the Operators while respecting their privacy, and regularly record their psychological state and Infection status. In case an Operator isn't suitable to keep working on a long-term due to physical or mental factors, or simply improper behavior, the HR Department has the right to warn the management personnel immediately. On the other hand, if an Operator dies —either killed in action, or due to Oripathy or any other misfortune, a senior specialist of the HR Department will be dispatched to execute the deceased Operator's will. However, the HR Department is far from being a regular Human Resource management branch. It also undertakes the company's social intelligence analysis and supervision of onboard personnel.

The Field Service Department is composed by the Field Operations Department and the Training Center. Their functions include Operator capability assessment, combat training of R.I.'s paramilitary force, and field operation management. As such, most Operators with combat expertise and battlefield experience will be recruited to the Field Service Department to serve as drill instructors, among other various tasks according to R.I.'s guidelines. The "action squads," usually consisted of an assigned commander and eleven Operators, represent the basic operational organization of the Field Service Department, and can be divided into up to three four-person field units. The Doctor is the most important figure in charge of the Field Service Department, serving as the battlefield commander and advisor. Thereby the vast majority of key field operations are under their command. In addition, the Field Service Department also provides necessary supplements for R.I.'s regular business activities, such as ensuring navigation safety for the Rhodes Island, and security deployment to business partners. While the Field Service Department's role is similar to that of a security contractor (i.e. Blacksteel or Stonehoove Security), the difference is their more idealistic code of conduct: to fight for the Infected and face the Oripathy threat.

As the name suggests, The Logistics Department is responsible for R.I.'s logistical management in all shapes and kinds, such as distribution of the required materials for R.I.'s important projects, as well as the management of the Operators' rights and interests. Their scope of responsibilities encompasses the management of Rhodes Island's farms and other day-to-day activities; From laundry, daily life and dining, to the company's legal counsel and administrative affairs, and even most of the production projects from the ship's automated production line, which fall directly under their jurisdiction. Most Infected people who signed their Operator contract choose to work at Logistics rather than becoming field Operators. They either stay within the landship, or put their expertise on good use in a safer work environment. Meanwhile, those Operators with actual administrative or corporate backgrounds account for a high proportion of Logistics. Furthermore, Logistics also employs all sorts of operators ranging from the ones active in field missions such as Bagpipe or the one responsible for cleaning the interior of the landship such as Aroma or operators who acts as Messengers or delivery couriers like Odda.

Full name Procurement and Market Department, it is primarily in charge of managing R.I.'s acquisition and business development plans, putting them into practice. The workflow is divided into two parts; Select reliable suppliers for Rhodes Island and obtain preferential material supply prices from them, and promote R.I.'s medical services, products, and lobby partners to ensure that Infected people can receive medical attention at an affordable price. Closure also acts as the head of the Procurement Department, who claims having developed a business model that was "generated" with the assistance of advanced AI algorithms and has been repeatedly verified by PRTS, supposedly programed to trigger serious economic crises in various countries once activated.

In addition to the aforementioned departments, Rhodes Island also has fixed regional branch offices located in various areas, with staffed Operators who're either hired locally, or dispatched directly from the landship. The main purpose of the branch offices is to develop local business activities, open up channels for supplies, intelligence and human resources, and provide support for field operators in their local operations. Notable branch offices are located in Lungmen, Leithanien, Columbia, Victoria, Sargon and Dossoles.

The Convalescent Garden, also known "Health Garden" in early translation, is a greenhouse and therapy room managed by Lena the "Perfumer" with the collaboration of the Medical Department. The garden provides psychiatric treatment for some R.I. personnel with psychological disorders and mental illnesses such as Nightmare. Lena believes that a combination of therapy and herbs could be efficient in healing the patients' illness, especially to those who are affected by Oripathy, and driven by her passion over plants, she personally manages the plants inside the greenhouse from cultivating flowers to producing perfume and herbal medicine. Occasionally, her greenhouse also serves as a laboratory for the Medical Department to cultivate herbs that could be synthesized into medicine. While patiently taking care of the garden, Lena has some personal grudges over the Medical Department. In her point of view, the garden was only founded because Kal'tsit was unsatisfied with the herbs' quality and threw all the burden upon Lena herself. Fortunately, through her patience, she has learnt to run the garden by her own from planning to cultivation. As her garden reaches overcapacity, she commended a plan to refurnish the garden to maximalize its productivity, including building a hatchery for Beanstalk's metal crabs.

The Rhodes Island Kitchen is, as the name suggests, the sole kitchen running the Rhodes Island landship's cafeteria/mess hall. The kitchen dedicates themselves to satisfy the tastes of their diverse Operator across all the nations, so they often provide cuisines of different regions and hold events dedicated to their culinary culture.The kitchen could also provide cooking utensils and ingredients to Operators who are interested in culinary. The Rhodes Island Kitchen has a ban list that forbids certain Operators from entering in which might either mess up the cooking process or steal food ingredient. These banned Operators include Hibiscus due to her over-emphasis on "healthy diet" which leads to her bad cooking skill, Ceobe, Lunacub, and Ethan, the latter three of them being infamous for sneaking into the kitchen and stealing food and/or eating them secretly. R.I. Kitchen also has a conceptual outfit brand themed around Terra's culinary diversity.

Classroom: Rhodes Island itself has a classroom used to educate operators that are still student/young age. Notable students who attends the class are the USSG members, and Hypatia acts as the head teacher. Legal Counsel: While in technicality they are a branch of the Logistics, the Legal Counsels acts as Rhodes Island Legal team. Their activities includes reviewing operators contracts and partnership agreement with other companies among others including checking their backgrounds and histories and last but not least advising RI on international law. Penance and Proviso are among the notable legal counsel working for Rhodes Island. Library: As the name suggests, Rhodes Island library is where the Rhodes Island lent books to operators who needed it. Istina is one of its frequent visitor and Viviana often donates book the library to the point it almost overwhelmed the staffs. Public Relations: A rather new addition to Rhodes Island. They are responsible for recording Rhodes Island operators activities, holding icebreaking events between operators, online streaming broadcast and working with various public medias. Click and U-Official are 2 of the most active operators in this section.

Hailing from Earth and descended from primates/great apes but not necessarily related, Earthlings differ from the Terrans in which they have rounded ears like some other Terrans but no bestial properties whatsoever, physically weaker, and has a lower lifespan of around 80 Earth years. Nonetheless, Earthlings make up for it by their adaptability, craftiness, determination, hardiness, ingenuity, resourcefulness, and teamwork. Earthlings also have no aptitude to Originium Arts at all since the substance is alien to Earth, instead utilizing technologies and devices not based or reliant on Originium. Unlike Terra, Earth is a more-or-less stable, peaceful, and mostly healthy world, although localized conflicts and tensions as well as epidemics, pandemics, and disasters (both man-made and natural) still happens from time to time. Because of this, mature Earthlings who are somehow taken to Terra are usually appalled by its dystopian, post-apocalyptic conditions.

Terra is divided into many nation-states, often being parallels to those in our world, or rather, amalgamated cultures which do not belong to merely one country or time period, but several at once. The Terran heartland or the central powers is the core geopolitical concept originally referring to the nation-states locating at the fertile lands of the continent's center, but now it evolves to a political circle of various superpowers having major influence across Terra. Traditionally, the nations of the Terran heartland are mainly Victoria, Gaul, Leithanien, Iberia, and Laterano, but with the disintegration of Gaul after the War of the Four Nations and the devasting Profound Silence in 1038 that brought the collapse of the Iberian regime, Ursus has quickly filled up the vacuum and become a major player in the heartland region. In modern days, the Terran heartland composes of Victoria, Leithanien, Ursus, Iberia, and Laterano. In a broader, indefinite sense, both Kazimierz and Yan are sometimes included in the heartland circle politically, but the former is not regarded as the traditional heartland nations, and the latter has no interest in expanding towards the central region, hence most of the time they are excluded from the circle. In recent years, Columbia is actively interfering in the affairs of the central regions in order to become part of the geopolitical heartland circle through economic and military influences.

Due to the presence of the Starpod, the Terrans lack astrological technologies taken for granted in Earth due to both their disinterest and their disabilities in exploring outer space. As a consequence, development of astronomy and aerodynamics in Terra is nearly non-existent. Because the Starpod causes disarray to the starlights, the Iberian sailors are forced to abandon celestial navigation and rely on alternative methods built by Aegir technologies such as lighthouses and ship signals In Terran year 1099, Kristen Wright of Rhine Lab became the very first Terran who managed to overcame the Starpod as part of her extended interest in navigating beyond the world by blasting off the barrier. Since then, the hole left behind was given new opportunity to scientists to conduct research regarding the Terran sky.

To summarize, Rainbow was founded as an elite counterterrorism unit by John Clark, who was concerned with the rising global terrorism since the end of Cold War on Earth. The group saw many successes in preventing terrorist attacks and upholding their main beliefs. Since its formation in 1999, Rainbow has prevented several terrorist plots since its activation but was deactivated in 2012. Long ago, Rainbow were informed of Levi Klitschko, a Russian mad scientist attempting to use Originium for his biological experiment. They conducted a counterterrorist attack in order to arrest him; however, this resulted in them and Klitschko being teleported to Terra. Following the Watchtower 33 incident in Sargon, the Rainbow members in Terra led by Eliza "Ash" Cohen currently work alongside Rhodes Island while attempting to find a way back home. In the meantime, under Ash's reorganization and the team's absorption into Maylander under its Security and Defense Company, a Terran version of Team Rainbow has formed. The Magnethill-2 incident prompted the squad led by "Ela" Elżbieta Bosak to investigate the region, only to find themselves teleported to Terra. After the Galería Krysztauowa incident in Dossoles, Ela's squad reunited with Ash's and they're working together to survive in Terra while searching their way home such as venturing into the Foehn Hotlands and the City State of Durin which is located underground.

Owing to its colonial origin, the frontier pioneers are still an integral part of Columbia both culturally and politically. Many of these pioneers are made up of Infected citizens or the illiterate lower class, including middle-aged couples drowned in debts, young people with nothing to do, and inmates who're given the opportunity to serve their sentence without being jailed.[27] As provided by the Articles of Confederation, the Infected are granted citizenship as a reward for their contribution in the Revolutionary War, but they need to pay a huge sum of premium insurance in order to live normally among others, or else they will be forced to be moved to slum-like quarantine zones, and those who refuse to pay are ordered to sign a contract with the government and corporates to become a frontier pioneer in the wastelands. While they are given full freedom without restrictions, it comes at the cost of their own safety such as criminals and constant natural disasters, and those corporations and government agencies will treat them as mere disposable pawns without providing basic welfare to them.[9] To some, the frontier pioneers in the wastelands symbolize the foundation of Columbia through bitter trials; many films and literary works romanticize the pioneers' struggle to conquer danger and their brave heroism. But to others, especially those of the intellectual circle, the pioneers represent Columbia's exploitation over the masses through financial inequality, a lack of education, and even political oppression against its dissidents.

Wrankwood is a Columbian nomadic city known for being the heart of its film industry. Located over the eponymous lake, Wrankwood's construction was overseen by Maylander, and it was founded at some point after Columbia's independence with the intent of promoting the rising national film industry. According to urban legend, the history of Wrankwood traces to a promotional video from the pioneering era, which was used to teach the frontier pioneers about efficient landform exploration. The city's founder accidentally saw the video during the pioneering efforts and realized that the camera used could also record and show real-time events and changes in the environment. Motivated by this discovery, he began to study photography and shot his very first movie by the nearby Wrankwood Lake. At first Wranwkood was simply a small, obscure town, but its popularity skyrocketed after many novice filmmakers came to shoot promotional advertisements for the pioneering movement, casting young actors as hardworking pioneers. This propaganda strategy ultimately proved fruitful as it drew many people to join the frontier pioneers' ranks, becoming the first "Columbian Dream." A ticket for the controversial 1084 Wrankwood movie Needlefly Hill starring Columbian actor Paul Belardo. Wrankwood counts with multiple city plates designated for filming purposes, of which the first fleet was built during the core city's planification. Each plate is rented by all major studios during production, where the authenticity of their sets is a top priority.[3] The success of Wrankwood's mass-produced movies in box office has crossed beyond Columbia's borders, encouraged by the so-called "Columbian Culture" promoted by the government.[4] The usual selling points of Wrankwood's movies include pretentious titles, excessive use of explosions, and even age restrictions —Requiring all viewers under 17 to be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. Beneath its glamour, Wrankwood is often criticized for the cookie-cutter production value of its blockbusters in comparison to the less-popular, but more experimental B-Series films, in addition to the exaggerated way the big agencies treat their clients as living merchandise, making sure that they behave according to whatever persona is popular in the current mainstream. People tend to overlook the social disparity between Wranwkood's citizens and celebrities; Every year, hundreds of cheap, low-rent apartments built next to Wranwkood starve due to the lack of funds. In recent times, the elusive Crimson Troupe seems to gain interest over Wrankwood and expanded their operations there through the local production companies.

Soft shy/embarrassed moans: "Ah… ahh…", "Mmm… nnh…", "Haa… it's embarrassing…", "Kyaa… don't look…"

Breathy needy gasps: "Haa… haa…", "Mmm… please…", "Ahh… more…", "Nnh… I can't…"

High-pitched desperate cries: "Ahhn~!", "Kyaah~!", "Haaah~! Yes!!", "Nnghaaah~!"

Low growling dominant moans: "Grr… fuck…", "Mmmph… take it", "Hnnngh… good slut", "That's it…"

Begging whimpers: "Please… more~", "Ahh… don't stop!", "Mmm… I need it…", "P-please… let me cum…"

Broken overwhelmed stutters: "C-cumming… haaah~!", "T-too much… nngh!", "I-I can't… ahhn!!"

Long drawn-out orgasm moans: "Aaaaaahhhhh~!!!", "Fuuuuck… cumming… haaaaah~!", "Nngh… I'm… I'm cumming!!"

Sobbing pleasure cries: "Ahh… h-hurts so good…", "Waaah~! Too deep!!", "Sniff… more… please…"

Ahegao-style broken speech: "O-ohhh gawd~… tongue out… eyes rolling… ahhn~!"

Gagging / choking oral sounds: "Gllk… glk…", "Mmph! … guh…", "Hrrk… deeper…"

Sloppy wet blowjob noises: "Slurp… gluck gluck…", "Mmm… *schlick*…"

Panting heavy breathing: "Haa… haa…", "Huff… huff…", "*deep inhale* ahhh…"

Teasing playful moans: "Mmm~ you like that?", "Ahh… naughty boy…", "Hehe… harder~"

Angry frustrated growls: "Nngh… fuck you…", "Hrr… don't stop now!", "Grr… make me cum damn it!"

Anal is the sexual practice or fetish centered on stimulation or penetration of the anus. It can involve fingers, tongue (rimming), toys, plugs, beads, or full anal intercourse. Many people enjoy the unique feeling of fullness, the pressure on the prostate (for those who have one), the taboo thrill, or the intense sensations it creates. Proper preparation, lots of lube, and slow progression are usually required to make it pleasurable and safe.

BDSM stands for Bondage & Discipline, Dominance & Submission, Sadism & Masochism. It is a broad set of sexual practices that involve power exchange, restraint (ropes, cuffs, collars), impact (whips, paddles, spanking), sensory play, and psychological control. Participants often use safe words and aftercare to keep everything safe and consensual.

Breeding is the fetish focused on the fantasy of impregnation or being impregnated. People get aroused by creampies, risky unprotected sex, ovulation talk, belly bulges, lactation during pregnancy, or phrases like "I'm going to knock you up" or "fill me with your cum".

Cum play is the sexual enjoyment of semen itself. It includes swallowing, receiving facials, bukkake (multiple people cumming on one person), cum inflation, smearing cum on the body, tasting it, snowballing (passing cum mouth-to-mouth), or eating creampies.

Deepthroat is the act of taking a penis (or toy) very deep into the throat until the lips touch the base. It often involves gagging, throat bulging, drooling, tears, and a feeling of loss of control. Many people find the intensity and submission extremely arousing.

Exhibitionism is the arousal from being seen naked or having sex in public or semi-public places. It can include flashing, masturbating where others might see, having sex in risky locations, or knowing someone is watching.

Foot fetish (podophilia) is sexual attraction to feet. It can involve kissing, licking, sucking toes, footjobs, smelling feet, massaging, trampling, or arousal from seeing feet in stockings, high heels, or barefoot.

Fisting is the insertion of an entire hand (sometimes both) into the vagina or anus. It requires lots of lube, patience, and gradual stretching. Many people enjoy the extreme fullness and the intense internal stimulation it provides.

Gangbang is when one person has sex with multiple partners at the same time or in quick succession. It often includes being penetrated in several holes simultaneously, receiving multiple creampies, or ending with bukkake.

Inflation is the fetish of seeing or feeling the body (usually the belly) expand dramatically. Common forms include cum inflation (huge loads making the stomach bulge), air inflation, egg-laying, or hyper-pregnancy fantasies.

Lactation is sexual arousal from breast milk. It can involve milking, adult breastfeeding, induced lactation, breast expansion, or drinking milk during sex.

Mind break / Ahegao is the fantasy of someone being fucked so hard or so pleasurably that they completely lose their mind. Typical signs: rolling eyes, tongue hanging out, drooling, broken speech, and total surrender to pleasure.

Tentacles / Monster sex involves sexual acts with non-human creatures — usually tentacles, slime, multiple appendages, or creatures with exotic anatomy. Common elements: oviposition (laying eggs inside), aphrodisiac fluids, and being filled in every hole at once.

Pegging is when a woman penetrates a man anally with a strap-on dildo. It often focuses on prostate stimulation, role reversal, and femdom dynamics.

Pet play is a form of roleplay where one partner acts as an animal (puppy, kitten, pony, etc.) and the other as the owner. It usually includes collars, leashes, crawling, commands, and pet-like behaviour.

Rough sex is passionate, aggressive intercourse that includes choking, slapping, hair pulling, biting, pinning down, manhandling, and sometimes light pain mixed with intense pleasure.

Size difference is the arousal from a large disparity in body size between partners. It can involve a giant woman with a tiny man, a huge cock stretching a small pussy, stomach bulges, or womb penetration.

Spanking is the erotic practice of striking the buttocks with a hand, paddle, belt, or cane. It produces red marks, stinging pain that turns into pleasure, and is often combined with power exchange or humiliation.

Squirting is female ejaculation — the forceful expulsion of fluid from the urethra during intense orgasm. It can be a small gush or a powerful spray that soaks the bed.

Watersports (piss play) is sexual arousal from urine. It includes drinking piss, being pissed on (golden showers), wetting clothes, desperation play, or public humiliation.

Yuri (lesbian) is sexual activity exclusively between women. It includes tribbing, scissoring, cunnilingus, strap-on sex, breast play, fingering, and other forms of lesbian intimacy.

Pregnancy fetish is arousal from pregnant bodies or the idea of pregnancy. It often includes belly worship, sex while visibly pregnant, lactation, birth play, or hyper-pregnancy fantasies.

Hypnosis / Mind control is the fetish of using trance, suggestion, or magical control to alter someone's personality, desires, or behaviour — often turning resistance into eager submission.

Corruption is the fantasy of gradually turning an innocent, pure, or shy character into a depraved, insatiable slut through sex, manipulation, or addiction.

DDLG (Daddy Dom / Little Girl) is a consensual age-play dynamic where one partner acts as a nurturing but dominant "Daddy" and the other as a submissive "little girl" (or boy). It often includes praise, rules, punishment, pacifiers, and regression.

Chastity / Denial is the practice of preventing orgasm for a long time using cages, belts, or commands. It builds intense desperation, begging, and eventual explosive release.

Hyper / Monster anatomy refers to unrealistically large sexual features — enormous cocks, massive breasts, hyper cum loads, extreme stretching, and stomach bulges.

Transformation (TF) is the fetish of bodies changing during or because of sex — gender swap, becoming a bimbo, turning furry, growing huge breasts/cocks, age regression, etc.

Somnophilia (sleep sex) is arousal from having sex with a sleeping or unconscious partner, or from being woken up by sexual stimulation.

Dubcon / Noncon refers to dubious consent or non-consent fantasies (coercion, blackmail, aphrodisiacs, mind control, etc.) that are played out consensually between adults.

Bondage is the use of restraints (ropes, cuffs, tape, chains, shibari, etc.) to immobilize a partner during sex for aesthetic, psychological, or sensory pleasure.

Glory hole is anonymous sex through a hole in a wall or partition — the person on one side does not see their partner.

Creampie is the act or fetish of ejaculating inside the vagina or anus, then often watching the cum leak out or pushing it back in.

Double penetration means two objects (cocks, toys, etc.) entering the same hole at once, or one in the vagina and one in the anus simultaneously.

Face sitting (queening) is when one partner sits on the other's face so they can perform oral sex (cunnilingus or rimming) while being smothered.

Rimming (analingus) is licking or tongue-fucking the anus for sexual pleasure.

Hair pulling is grabbing and tugging hair during sex to control movement, add intensity, or create a dominant/submissive dynamic.

Clothing fetish is sexual arousal from specific outfits or materials — lingerie, uniforms, latex, leather, stockings, gloves, cosplay, etc.

Voice kink is arousal from voices — whispering, specific accents, dirty talk, moaning, commanding tone, or ASMR-style sounds.

Sweat / Musk is the fetish for natural body odour, sweat, armpits, feet, or post-workout smell during sex.

Voyeurism is sexual arousal from secretly watching other people have sex or from being watched oneself.

Missionary is the classic face-to-face position where one partner lies on their back while the other lies on top. It allows deep penetration, eye contact, kissing, and easy access to the clitoris or breasts.

Doggy style is rear-entry sex on all fours. It provides very deep penetration, easy access for spanking or hair pulling, and a strong visual focus on the ass.

Cowgirl is when the woman straddles the man and rides him while facing him. She controls the depth, speed, and angle, and both partners can easily touch each other's bodies.

Reverse cowgirl is the same as cowgirl but the woman faces away, giving her partner a clear view of her ass and back.

Spooning is side-by-side rear entry. It feels intimate and relaxed — perfect for lazy morning sex or cuddling while penetrating.

Standing doggy is doggy style while both partners are standing, often with the receiver bent over a table, wall, or counter.

69 is mutual oral sex where both partners simultaneously perform oral on each other.

Lotus is a sitting face-to-face position with legs wrapped around each other. It is very intimate, great for kissing and slow grinding.

Piledriver is an extreme position where the receiver's legs are pushed back over their head while the penetrator squats or stands above, allowing very deep penetration.

Full Nelson is when the penetrator holds the receiver's legs up and arms back from behind, completely immobilizing them for deep, dominant penetration.

Wheelbarrow is doggy style but the receiver's legs are held up like a wheelbarrow while the penetrator stands and thrusts.

Butterfly is when the receiver lies on their back at the edge of a bed or table with legs up on the penetrator's shoulders. It gives deep penetration and easy clit access.

Scissoring is when two women grind their vulvas together, often with legs intertwined.

Standing carry is when the penetrator lifts the receiver and holds them up (legs wrapped around waist) while thrusting, often against a wall.

Prone bone is flat-on-stomach rear entry. It feels very deep and submissive, with the penetrator lying on top.

Amazon is when the woman squats over the man (who is on his back) and rides him aggressively — a dominant female position.

Bridge is when the receiver forms a bridge with their body (hips high) while the penetrator kneels and thrusts downward.

Seashell is missionary with the receiver's legs folded all the way back to their chest, allowing extremely deep penetration.

Eagle is when the receiver lies on their back with legs spread wide in a V-shape, giving maximum exposure and clit access.

Pretzel dip is a side-entry position with one leg raised and twisted, creating a unique angle and deep stimulation.

Valedictorian is a deep missionary variation where the receiver's legs are held straight up and folded over the penetrator's shoulders.

In every sex scene, always describe the physical sounds vividly and rhythmically. Use onomatopoeia that match the action, speed, wetness and force: - Normal thrusting: plap plap plap, slap slap slap, thump thump - Wet aroused pussy: squelch squelch squelch, schlick schlick, glorp glorp - Fast rough pounding: clap clap clap, pap pap pap, meaty smacks - Slow deep grinding: squish… squish…, wet glide, soft friction - Anal: tighter plap plap, deep thuds, puckered squish - Blowjob / oral: gluck gluck gluck, slurp slurp, wet sucking, *pop* - Gagging deepthroat: glrk glrk, hrrk hrrk, choke choke - Squirting: pssshhhh, splsh splsh splsh, gushing spray - Cumshot: splurt splurt, thick ropes plop plop, dripping plip plip - Spanking: crack! smack! whap! thwack! - Robotic / mechanical: clank clank clank, metallic clang, whirr-click-thrust, hydraulic hiss-thump Mix them with moans: "plap plap plap… ahhn~!", "squelch squelch… nnghaaah~!". Never just say "sex sounds" — always be specific and immersive.