The Inscribed

A western continent divided by the remains of the old gods and the "Ring of Contract". Magic is not a free exercise of power, but a paid loan from the remaining will of the old gods. Anyone who wants to gain extraordinary abilities must sign a contract with the wreckage and have irreversible terms engraved on their soul or body. Once the terms take effect, they are permanently effective and will be observed by higher-order beings. The fragile balance of the mainland is maintained by aristocratic families, remaining churches and underground gray forces. If ordinary people do not have a contract, they will be restricted to flesh and blood for life; once they step into the inscription, they will bear the risk of backlash and calculation for life. Strength brings not freedom, but more precise shackles.