This classification system provides a framework for understanding how different presentations of an Idea can have subtle differences in manifestation and ability expression.
While not required for character creation, this guide may help in conceptualizing how an Edeia's relationship to their Idea affects their powers and identity. These categories are not mutually exclusive; some Ideas may reasonably fit multiple classifications depending on the individual Edeia's interpretation. Individual interpretation remains the primary factor, and this system is intended as a thinking tool rather than a rigid requirement.
There are two axes for consideration: Abstract ↔ Concrete (how removed the Idea is from physical reality), which can be considered as related to the grammatical structure of the Idea, and Concept ↔ Object (what type of thing the Idea refers to), which is related to the actual meaning of the Idea.
Each Idea class is described below.
These Ideas capture concepts that are not represented in physical reality. These are typical among Edeia.
When making Edeia with abstract Ideas, you will only be required to provide definitions/interpretations for ambiguous, obscure, or new terms, and you only be required to provide additional character details for "negative experience" Ideas. If your character Idea does not match the Edeia lore, alternative Ideas or adjusted character origins may be suggested.
The most typical category of Ideas. Pure abstractions with no concrete referent or subject being described.
The Edeia identifies as the abstract concept itself.
Abilities typically relate to influencing the world and other entities with their concept.
Examples: Joy, Kindness, Courage, Wisdom, Freedom, Justice
Ideas presented in the form "the [adjective]," describing entities that possess certain traits.
The Edeia identifies as the archetype of entities with these characteristics.
Abilities often relate to how the underlying concept manifests in individuals, and may involve influencing individuals to take on more characteristics of the archetype.
Examples: The Fearless, The Trustworthy, The Wise, The Corrupt
Ideas representing the abstract conceptualization of types of beings, entities, or intangible objects. They are typically in the form of a singular noun.
Identification tends to be with the abstract concept of what that entity/object is—"I represent the very concept of [Idea]."
Abilities tend to be general, relating to the conceptual understanding of the entity/object.
Examples: Dragon, Demon, Kami, Hero, Gremlin, Secret
Ideas representing abstract instances or collections of beings, entities, or intangible objects, typically presented as pluralized nouns.
Identification tends toward how their Idea exists or manifests in reality. "I represent the [objects] across the universe." Focus tends to be on instances rather than the abstract concept itself.
Abilities may relate to creation, manipulation, or influence over existing instances.
Examples: Secrets, Fears, Memories, Dreams
These are Ideas rooted in physical reality but approached through abstracted understanding. They range from less common to rare among Edeia.
When making Edeia with concrete Ideas, you will always be required to provide a definition/interpretation with an abstracted understanding, along with additional character details (how they came to identify and Actualize with that Idea). If your character Idea does not match the Edeia lore, your request may be refused.
Ideas representing observable physical processes or phenomena. These are relatively uncommon among Edeia.
Identification with the phenomenon through abstracted understanding of its nature and significance.
Abilities often involve both causing/manipulating the phenomenon and working with its abstracted meaning.
Examples: Freezing, Sound, Heat, Blooming, Combustion
Ideas representing the concepts of concrete, tangible objects that exist in physical reality. They are typically represented as singular nouns. These are very uncommon among Edeia.
Identification with the concept of the physical object through abstracted understanding.
Abilities tend to relate to the abstracted meaning of the object, rather than literal manipulation. personal expression often manifests similarly to the object's perceived purpose or significance.
Examples: Chair, Knife, Bottle, Mirror
Ideas representing instances of concrete, tangible objects that exist in physical reality. They are typically represented as pluralized nouns. These are very uncommon among Edeia.
Identification with the physical object as it exists in reality through abstracted understanding.
Abilities may relate to creation, manipulation, or influence over existing instances, typically relating to the abstracted meaning rather than literal definition.
Examples: Doors, Shields, Vessels, Mirrors