In the world of Ember, the Primes are revered as the epitome of their species’ potential. They are not merely the first; they are the pinnacle, embodying the highest virtues and strengths of their kind. The annual event, known as the “Dance of the Primes,” is a sacred ceremony where the veil between the mundane and the divine thins. It is a time of renewal and rebirth, where the Primes are selected not just for their prowess but for their spiritual resonance with the world’s life force: aether.
In the late springtime each year, places of power appear scattered around Ember. These sacred sites are overwhelming fonts of aether, and the very air glows brightly with magical radiance. It’s at these special areas that species gather to identify those who will take over the role of Prime for the coming year. Potential candidates step into the most concentrated spot of aether, and if they are not overwhelmed by the intense power, they are then considered accepted as a Prime. They become temporarily attuned to the planet, boosting all of their elemental affinities.
The Primes are set apart by their rare ability to channel the raw essence of Ember, the world’s lifeblood, during the breeding process. This essence imbues their offspring with heightened abilities, making them more robust, agile, or wise than typical breeds. However, this power comes at a cost: the Primes can only sustain the life force flow for a limited time before it overwhelms them, hence the need for their roles to be temporary and their breeding restricted.
To ensure the vitality of the species and prevent the dilution of this potent essence, the Primes’ breeding is a rare event, shrouded in ritual and celebrated with grandeur. It is a time when the future of each species is written anew, and the legacy of the Primes is passed on to a select few, ensuring the continuity of Ember’s diverse and vibrant life.