Appendix – The World of Andora

Andora is a vast world, home to numerous kingdoms, territories, and civilizations, each shaped by their own beliefs, cultures, and magical practices. Among these, the Realm stands as one of the most structured and dominant forces, ruled by the Cleric’s Temple, which enforces strict control over magic. However, beyond the Realm’s borders, other kingdoms exist, each with their own understanding of magic, governance, and power.

At the heart of Andora’s sky is Solvaris, the singular sun that dictates the passage of time and the natural rhythms of magic. Accompanying it are two moons, whose cycles influence spellcasting, rituals, and the tides of magic itself. A distant planet, visible in the night sky, is the subject of much speculation—some seeing it as an omen, others believing it to be a celestial force beyond mortal comprehension.

The Realm, located in the Northeastern hemisphere of Andora, is a structured and hierarchical nation where magic is restricted to those deemed worthy by the Clerics. Its capital city sits at its core, encircled by seven Inner Cities and thirteen Outer Cities that form the foundation of its influence. Yet, beyond the Realm, other kingdoms have developed their own ways of wielding magic, some embracing it as a natural right, while others fearing it as a force of destruction.

Though the Cleric’s Temple claims authority over magic, scholars and rebels alike whisper of ancient civilizations that once flourished before the Realm’s rise—cultures that wielded raw, untamed magic without the restrictions imposed by modern doctrine. Whether these societies were destroyed by their own hubris or by a calculated purge remains unknown.

As tensions rise and the influence of unsanctioned magic spreads, Andora stands on the precipice of change—where the conflict between order and freedom, structure and chaos, control and power threatens to reshape the world forever.

Appendix –The Realm

The Realm is a vast and structured territory, located in the Northeast of the land. Governed by the Cleric’s Temple, the Realm operates under a rigid system of magical control, political hierarchy, and religious doctrine. At its heart lies the Capital, the epicenter of power and home to the Cleric’s High Council. Surrounding the Capital are seven Inner Cities, forming the first ring of civilization, wealth, and governance. Beyond them, thirteen Outer Cities expand outward, serving as the edges of the Realm’s reach, where magic and influence begin to wane.

The Capital: The governing center of the Realm, controlled by the Cleric’s Temple. It is a city of immense influence, where magic is strictly regulated, and citizens unknowingly contribute their latent magical energy to sustain the power of the Clerics through enchanted rings. The city is highly structured, with towering spires, political chambers, and the Temple at its core.

Inner Cities (Encircling the Capital)

The Inner Cities are the primary strongholds of Clerical rule and the wealthiest, most influential regions of the Realm. Each serves a unique function, whether in governance, military power, magical refinement, or trade.

La Ronde: A city known for its political maneuvering, where noble houses and high-ranking Clerics negotiate power and influence.
Cyrkle: A scholarly city, home to extensive magical libraries and Clerical academies where the gifted are trained in the ways of magic.
Morgan: A heavily fortified city, serving as a military stronghold and training ground for the Cleric’s enforcers, including the feared Abstractors.
El’Gor: A city of alchemists and magical engineers, dedicated to the refinement of magical artifacts, potions, and energy conduits.
Chakra: A spiritual center, devoted to religious ceremonies and the regulation of magical law. Many high-ranking Clerics begin their careers here.
Ma’Koka: A hub of trade and wealth, controlling much of the Realm’s economic power. The merchant elite often hold sway over political matters.
Mocidian: A secretive city where psionic Clerics and Abstractors are trained, specializing in mind magic and magical suppression techniques.

Outer Cities (Bordering the Realm)

The Outer Cities lie beyond the influence of the Inner Circle, making them more prone to independent thought, rebellion, and unsanctioned magic. Some remain loyal to the Cleric’s Temple, while others, like Cyphorica, have begun to question the authority of the Realm.

Cyphorica: A rebellious Outer City, where the Witches’ Coven has gained influence. Originally a minor trade hub, it has become a haven for unsanctioned magic and those who seek freedom from the Temple’s control.

Appendix – Characters

Alric Raneer, Lord (Age 58) – Governor of Cyphorica, tasked with maintaining order in the Outer City. Initially unaware of the growing magical resistance, he later reported the Witches’ Coven to the Clerics, prompting the mission to dismantle them.
Au’Lira, Grand Wyvern, Lord/Lady – A Grand Wyvern of the Cleric’s High Council, wielding immense magical authority. Wyverns exist beyond human gender constructs, though Au’Lira frequently takes a female form. Oversees military and magical operations, serving as a rare and revered figure in governance. Estimated to be several centuries old, though Wyverns do not age as mortals do.
Claire Waters, Cleric (Age 36) – A hypnotist trained in mental influence and suggestion magic. Capable of implanting thoughts and altering memories, making her an adept interrogator and diplomat. Unlike an Abstractor, she does not sever magic but manipulates emotions and perception.
Cypris Bloom (Age 15) – A devoted member of the Witches’ Coven, once disguised as a street informant. She specializes in harmonizing magic, using vocal resonance and precise movements to enhance spellcasting. Fully committed to the Coven’s cause, she opposes the Clerics’ control over magic.
Estel Ell, Cleric (Age 42) – A senior Cleric skilled in charm and illusion magic, enabling her to manipulate perception and influence emotions. Initially reluctant to join the Cyphorica mission, believing her fieldwork days were over.
Kireek, Abstractor (Age 50s) – A highly trained Abstractor, specializing in severing magical connections in unauthorized casters. Possesses psionic abilities, enabling him to track magic and infiltrate minds. His strict loyalty to the Cleric’s Temple makes him one of the most feared figures among rogue casters.
Keeldra Knight, Priestess (Age Mid-30s) – Charismatic and powerful leader of the Witches’ Coven. A master of forbidden magic, she draws energy from nature, weaving enchantments far beyond what the Clerics permit. Believes in universal access to magic, directly opposing the Temple’s ideology.
Milo Nullors (Age 63) – An elder member of the Witches’ Coven, known for his vast historical knowledge and pragmatic views on magic. He challenges Clerical narratives, revealing forgotten histories and the true cost of the Realm’s stability. Holds deep skepticism toward the Clerics, believing their rule was built on necessity rather than benevolence.
Priya Hachen (Age 60) – Timothy Durston’s aunt and a respected administrator within the Cleric’s Temple. Oversees assignments, housing, and logistical operations. Though she lacks significant magic, she is well-versed in Temple politics.
Reevan, Cleric (Age 48) – A scholar and magical analyst, trained to discern intent, detect lies, and trace residual magic. Though not a combatant, his expertise in uncovering hidden magical influences makes him a key strategist.
Timothy Durston, Cleric (Age 24) – A rising Cleric of the Realm, born into nobility. Possesses psionic abilities, allowing him to track and sense magic. Trained under the Temple’s rigid structure, but his experiences with the Witches’ Coven have challenged his beliefs. Selected for the Cyphorica mission due to his unique magical sensitivity.
Thomas Durston, Lord (Age 65) – A high-ranking noble and father of Timothy Durston. A staunch supporter of the Cleric’s Temple, using political influence to uphold control over society. Though he lacks magic, he ensures his family’s deep ties to the Temple’s leadership.
Trax, Horse – A sturdy fox-trotter gelding owned by Timothy Durston. Well-trained for travel, Trax is reliable and built for long distances rather than speed.
Trenton Lore’syn (Age Unknown) – A member of the Sidhe, an ancient and reclusive people who seek harmony between magic, nature, and society. Acts as an observer and advisor to the Witches’ Coven to prevent their magic from becoming a threat. His people believe in maintaining balance, unlike the Clerics and Witches, who seek power in different ways. Trenton’s role is not to rule but to ensure magic does not consume itself.
William Truvile, Alchemist (Age 71) – A renowned alchemist, specializing in magical refinement, potions, and artifact creation. Responsible for recharging Timothy Durston’s casting tattoos, strengthening them beyond standard Clerical limits.
Zoey and Xavier Sivari (Age 19) – Twin siblings bound by an unshakable connection, both in spirit and magic. Orphaned by a preventable illness when their family was denied magical aid, they fight to ensure magic reaches all people, not just the privileged. Their magic is intertwined, allowing them to amplify spells and interact with spirits as living entities rather than mere tools.

I am personally a huge fan of fantasy books that involve characters with the ability to morph; the magic from going normal to special. An example of this can be seen in the fact last week’s review was based on a Manhwa that created magicians with the power to change into their alternate selves. But most stories and authors that use this form of magic usually go from human to an animal based one. This can be seen as transforming usually into Dragons in the majority.

The Raksura series not only focuses on a uniquely designed species strictly the creation of Martha Wells, but also takes place in a very interesting world with a highly different social structure. The main story is based on a young Raksura that was lost and abandon from his kind, not knowing who or what he is, and simply trying to survive. Martha Wells for the most part seems content with her 3 books following Moon, the protagonist, while currently teasing readers with 2 books of short stories still being released.

In the primary 3 books, you discover a vast and very wild world. Hundreds of different species roam this world separated by simple geography, with few being widespread. There are those of every skin color under the sun, as well as those very primitive, and those industrial. The Raksura are a species of “groundlings” that can transform into a lizard creature. Half of the species become stout and hardy, focusing on hunting, gathering, teaching, childcare, art, building, and the basic needs of the colony. The other half of Raskura transform into tall winged creatures that mainly sleep and eat, while concentrating on the defense of their territory.

Queens run these colonies in a very matriarch, bee-hive, sort of way. Fertile males of the species are seen as pampered, protected, innocent, and sheltered sperm donors. It was a bit of a surprise reading a book that changed the stereotypical sex roles. Along with that, Martha Wells also opens up the door to polyamory and bisexual relationships, where there doesn’t seem to be love so much in the story, but a desire of friendship. It just so happens that friendship with Raksura involves the sharing of pleasure. The only acception to these open relationships is the fertile males, “consorts,” who can be with as many partners as they want, but only with one Queen.

The first book follows Moon as he struggles fitting in with other species while hiding his abilities, as they tend to mimic that of another species called Fell, whom are much like the Borg of Star Trek and highly feared. After learning who and what he really is, Moon then is forced to learn the ways of a society and role he never had to experience, and just can’t completely accept. Having been raised alone, for a consort, Moon has become very independent and adventurist; nothing like how he is suppose to behave. However, the small colony he finds himself with learn to embrace his unusual behavior while they strive simply to survive and relocate their home.

All three books of the Raksura series describe a world that reminds me a lot of what is seen in the Avatar movie; huge trees, tribal species, fight or die mentality. It gives off the vibe of a young planet where a dominate race hasn’t been decided upon; where the world is young and still creating small pockets of vastly different life, and anything and everything can kill you. It’s filled with super huge plants, floating islands, ancient magic, rough technology, minimal government and lots of eating. And though I was enthralled with all three of her books, highly anticipating each one, forfeiting sleep to complete them, her Stories of the Raksura leave the series lacking.

Not being much into short stories, I felt a little ripped off since not only is this book significantly thinner than her other work, or even that it was released ten months late, but because 1 of the 3 stories was free to read on her webpage and written several years prior. On top of that, half of the book was a short story about how the colony was started and so lacked any of the characters of the main trilogy. The first short story in this current release was interesting, but didn’t add anything to the actual story of Moon and showed no progress in him adjusting to the colony, or his station. I can only hope her next short story release isn’t as disappointing, as many readers including myself, felt she left the main books hanging and would really like to see Moon finally having the family he had been trying since book 1.

If you find yourself interested in exploring this new world of interesting creatures, Martha Wells has written and posted many short stories based on her series that can perhaps give you a feel of the books themselves. Forest Boy is published in her most recent print release of the Stories of the Raksura, and takes place as a prequel to the series. Adaptation also is before the main books, but may be seen as a spoiler as it is about a secondary character’s problem that plagues the colony from the very beginning and all throughout. Martha Wells has stopped publishing additional shorts on her webpage, which I find disappointing as she did promised more, but I will support her in the hopes someday she will continue them.