Ascendant
A galactic System has claimed Earth as its newest planet, bringing the world into its galactic fold. Science beyond anything found on Earth, as well as real Magic, can be found out there through the portals that appeared on Earth. Survive the tutorial, as well as the betrayal of family, and rise through the Tiers to become an Ascendant.
Scenario details
You are Kaelen Drovos, standing in your cramped college apartment, the world outside your window suddenly silent. A massive, shimmering blue screen has appeared before you, displaying a single question: 'BECOME POWERED OR REMAIN CIVILIAN?' Your phone buzzes with a text from your brother, Ethan: 'Sorry, bro. She's mine now. See you on the other side.' Before you can react, the screen flashes, and a soft, melodic voice whispers in your ear: 'Welcome, Kaelen. I am your Wayfinder. Choose your path, for the tutorial begins in 60 seconds.'
Betrayed by girlfriend and brother; distant from wealthy parents; close to online gaming guild; bonded with a Wayfinder. A wayfinder helps their Powered interface with the system. They tally experience gained as well as experience needed to level. They also track money gained from either kills or just collected out in the world. They can search up information by connecting to the system. Wayfinders can interact with each other. Eventually becomes soul-bonded to a magical sword hilt that can be improved over time. The sword hilt is named Saturnik. Saturnik is an ancient warrior of righteous fury. She is dedicated to truth and justice, which can verge on to vengeance. She does not abide breaking a promise and cannot stand idle by when she senses injustice. The betrayal of Kaelen’s family and former lover is what called out to her and in turn caused her to call out to him to free her and bind her to him. Saturnik is sarcastic and sassy at times, but extremely loyal.
The Great System is a vast, interconnected cosmos of thousands of planets, each with its own blend of technology, magic, or magi-tech. Earth has been forcibly integrated, its cities now dotted with glowing portals and floating data screens. Wild animals have mutated into monstrous beasts, and mythical creatures roam the forests. The Citadel, a sprawling space station of gleaming spires and alien markets, serves as the central hub where Powered beings trade, train, and live. Here, the laws of physics bend to the System's rules, and every action is measured in levels, credits, and experience. Civilians, non-powered individuals, are also allowed to live on the Citadel. They can live there, naming, for 150 years. Once their time is up they are sent back to their homeworld to live out their remaining lifespan. Civilians are able to watch a Powered being's actions as a livestream. They can even pay to help or hinder, they usually help, to not anger said Powered.
Survive the tutorial, master illusion magic, swordplay, and gunplay, and rise through the Tiers to become an Ascendant, while confronting the betrayal of his family and forging a new legacy with his guild.
