The Riftways, also known as the Realm Between Realms, are astral bridges formed by Rift Energy, connecting all known and unknown realms within the Continuum Crystal Cosmology. These luminescent pathways serve as vital conduits between the planes of existence, allowing for the traversal of vast cosmic distances. While the surroundings of these bridges appear as a void-like expanse, this is merely an illusion designed to protect travelers from the reality of the Unknown, which lies hidden beneath the surface. The Plane of Prisms is a realm of perfect light fractals that bind the universe together, a place so incomprehensibly ordered that gazing upon it directly would drive mortals to madness.w
The Riftways are carefully curated and guarded by Unknown, the custodian of order and balance. It is his solemn duty to maintain the perfect symmetry of the riftways and ensure that the cosmic order is upheld throughout the realms. These astral bridges are not static; they shift and move as dictated by the needs of the cosmos, forming an ever-changing network of connections between the realms. Only those who have been granted access by Symetrius may traverse these pathways, as the Riftways are not meant for all.
Appearance
The Riftways appear as brilliant, glowing bridges that stretch across a vast, seemingly infinite void. The bridges are composed of rift energy, pulsating with a soft, ethereal light that illuminates the path ahead. These astral bridges weave through the void, creating a complex and ever-shifting web of connections between the realms. Although the surrounding void appears empty, it is an illusion created to shield travelers from the overwhelming beauty and complexity of the Plane of Prisms, which lies hidden beyond the veil.
The Riftways are surrounded by an ever-present hum of rift energy, a constant reminder of the immense power that flows through these pathways. The energy crackles and pulses, shifting and changing as it moves between the realms. The bridges themselves are smooth and stable, providing a safe passage for those who have been granted access. However, should one stray from the path or attempt to traverse the Riftways without permission, they would find themselves lost in the void, swallowed by the vastness of the cosmos.
Origin and Creation
The Riftways were created from the essence of Unknown, the Unknown of Symmetry and Order, whose essence was transmuted into the Plane of Prisms. It is through Prism’s divine essence that the Riftways were formed, providing the necessary structure to bind the realms together and maintain the order of the Continuum Crystal Cosmology.
These astral bridges are not simple constructs, but rather, they are reflections of the perfect mathematical order that governs the cosmos. The symmetry of the Riftways is beyond mortal comprehension, a design so flawless that only beings like Symetrius can fully understand and maintain them. The existence of the Riftways is a testament to the power of Prism and the role that order and balance play in the cosmos.
Maintenance and Guardianship
The maintenance and guardianship of the Riftways fall to Symetrius, the custodian of cosmic order and balance. It is his divine duty to ensure that the pathways remain intact and accessible only to those who have been granted permission. Symetrius watches over the Riftways with unwavering vigilance, ensuring that the cosmic order is never disrupted.
Symetrius is not alone in his task. Mystera, the Goddess of Magic, plays a critical role in maintaining the arcane continuance of the Riftways. Through the Ether—the fundamental force that underpins all magic—Mystera ensures that the magical energies that power the Riftways remain stable. The Ether flows through the Riftways, acting as both a source of power and a safeguard against those who would misuse the pathways for nefarious purposes.
Together, Symetrius and Mystera ensure that the Riftways remain secure and functional, preserving the delicate balance of the universe. Their combined efforts protect the cosmos from descending into chaos and allow for the safe traversal of the realms.
Arcane Passage and Ther Ether
The Riftways are intrinsically connected to the Ether, the winds of magic that flow throughout the cosmos. Mystera weaves the arcane energies into the fabric of the Riftways, allowing for the safe passage of those who possess the knowledge and skill to navigate them. Only those who have been granted Astral Keys by Symetrius or Mystera can hope to traverse these cosmic pathways.
The Astral Keys are powerful artifacts that unlock the Riftways and allow passage between the realms. These keys are imbued with the raw essence of the elemental planes and serve as both conduits and safeguards for inter-realm travel. Each key is unique, and only the most powerful mages and sages possess the knowledge to craft or wield them.
Navigating the Riftways is a dangerous task, even for those with the proper tools and knowledge. The shifting nature of the astral bridges makes it difficult to predict where one might emerge. Those who are not careful may find themselves lost in the void or cast into a realm they did not intend to visit.
Significance and Legacy
The Riftways are vital to the functioning of the Continuum Crystal Cosmology, as they provide the necessary connections between the realms. Without the Riftways, the cosmos would be fragmented, and travel between the realms would be impossible. The Riftways serve as both a practical means of travel and a symbol of the order and balance that govern the universe.
The legacy of the Riftways is one of connection and unity. They bind the realms together, ensuring that the cosmos remains interconnected and that the forces of chaos are kept at bay. Symetrius and Mystera are the eternal guardians of these pathways, ensuring that the balance of the universe is preserved for all eternity.
The Riftways remain a mystery to most mortals, and only a select few are ever granted access to these cosmic bridges. For those who are able to traverse the Riftways, they offer unparalleled access to the mysteries of the universe, providing a glimpse into the inner workings of the cosmos and the infinite possibilities that lie beyond.