All this week on social media, I’ve been posting a little bit of intel on the various factions of the Under! Now, it’s time to see where you fit in!
First, read through all the faction summaries. Then, either choose a faction that fits your vibe or use the video to randomly screenshot one on your device and let fate choose for you!
All art credit goes to the incredible minigemdoodles on instagram and tumblr. Thank you so much for making my vision come to life!
First up: The Fae
The Fae include fairies, pixies, dryads, satyrs and centaurs! They can use magic by pulling threads from the River (the flow of magic that exists in the world) and casting it as whatever form of magic it takes (often elemental or physical in some way).
They are led by the Fae Queen, one of the only true immortals in the Blanc LaBelle universe. She has nearly limitless power at a wave of her hand and wears a glamour that makes the viewer perceive her as “beautiful” (whatever that means to them).
Within the physical layout of the Under, the Fae live in Fae Town (the universal name for any of the Fae settlements within the Under) and sits at the center of the three rings that make up every Under City.
Next up: The Magi
The Magi come from the line of humans who had their bloodlines magically modified by Guardians. Their numbers include wizards, sorcerers, necromancers and other spell-casting “classes” of human-like magi, but also vampires, werewolves, dwarves, and elves. They cast spells by focusing magic through single symbol runes (using various languages to increase their ability.
They are led by the Magi Prima, who are in turn led by Aili Windstiller. She is a sorceress with many years of magical study and one of the few mortals who knows LaBelle beyond the surface level.
Within the Under, the Magi live in the middle ring of the Under Cities, though they name their cities individually. The Under City beneath Hedgefield is known as Brodal, known for the Victory Tower that serves as a base of operations for the Magi Prima in the Americas.
Faction Number 3: The Beasts
Dragons, trolls, harpies, sphinxes: if there’s a monster in your nightmares, it probably falls under The Beasts. Though animalistic in appearance and nature, the Beasts are a recognized and intelligent faction within the Under. They do not use magic, relying on brute strength.
They are led by the Great Dragons: six dragons of immense size and age, earning their places through violence and power. Among them, Extroan the Blue speaks for the interests of the Beasts. He and LaBelle are old enemies, a prophesy stating LaBelle will kill the dragon one day.
The Beasts live in the Outerlands beyond the limits of the magi cities. They serve as the last enforcement between the Under and the Above: ensuring no one sneaks in through the back door.
Our last faction: The Fold
When Underfolk go to the Above, whether by choice or as punishment, they seek out community. And when the Under meets the Above, you fold it! Underfolk of all factions living in the Above call The Fold their faction.
While they have no formal leadership, Dolly (a centaur) tends to run things in the Fold of Hedgefield. Whether you need a good meal, a place to stay, or somewhere to hide, Dolly is someone in the Fold with the means and connections. She and LaBelle are old friends, going as far back as when Dolly came up to the Above.
The Fold spreads out in the Above, finding small pockets and keeping an eye on Under Doors. Under Doors are established and carefully watched entrances to the Under: hidden in bookstores, 24-hour diners, laundromats, and other “strange” places.
Still can’t decide? Let destiny roll for you! Let me know what your faction is (or come up with a special character for the Under)!
I’ll also be carrying a special set of cards with me at events! If you ever happen to show up, I’ll have my deck handy if you want a slightly more tactile version of our little game!