Avowed is an exciting new addition to the expansive universe of Eora, yet it is not the first journey through this fantasy realm. This universe first captured the attention of gamers through a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised $4 million, ultimately leading to the creation of Pillars of Eternity in 2015. Over the years, the franchise expanded with two main games and numerous expansions, enriching the complex tapestry of Eora with its diverse factions, engaging ideologies, intricate political landscapes, an extensive array of ancient deities, and intricate magical systems that often traverse the realms of both fantasy and science fiction.
Positioned on a distinct continent from its predecessors, Avowed acts as an accessible introduction for new players. The game features an innovative lore mechanism, enabling players to search for essential terms and names during interactions with NPCs by simply pressing a button. This functionality not only contextualizes the narrative for newcomers but also offers a deeper exploration of Eora’s lore for those eager to delve into its complexities, particularly concerning the vital element of Adra.
Understanding the Lore of Adra in Avowed
What Exactly is Adra?
Within the wonders of Avowed and the Pillars of Eternity universe, the concept of soul energy is paramount. In Eora, it is believed that upon death, a being’s soul essence is transferred to The Beyond, a mysterious realm inhabited by deities. Once the soul resides there for a time, it awaits a new physical vessel before re-entering the living world, a cycle termed “Berath’s Wheel.”
Adra plays a pivotal role in this intriguing reincarnation narrative. It typically manifests as significant green or blue crystals protruding from the ground, serving as conduits for soul energy. It is widely held that following death, a being’s soul is channeled to The Beyond through the Adra veins which permeate Eora.
Other Functions of Adra
While many inhabitants of Eora regard Adra with reverence, fearing disruption of its spiritual connections, others are unafraid to exploit its resources for various purposes. Adra is frequently mined for jewelry and artistic sculptures by some factions.
However, one of its most prominent applications is found in Animancy—the scientific exploration of soul energy. Animancers harness Adra to fuel their technologies that manipulate souls. This occupation is contentious, facing opposition from many religious factions that view the alteration of souls as a violation of Berath’s Wheel.
A rarer type of Adra, known as “Luminous Adra, ”can be discovered in the Deadfire Archipelago. This unique variant, identifiable by its ethereal glow, possesses an even greater affinity for soul energy and can be employed to formulate potent healing potions.
The Significance of Adra in Avowed’s Narrative
Players in Avowed assume the role of a customizable character termed a “Godlike, ”a being deemed blessed by one of Eora’s twelve gods even before birth. As the story unfolds, the Godlike discovers a significant link to the Adra pillars located in the Living Lands, through which their patron deity communicates, although the identity of this god remains a mystery at the game’s onset.
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