Álarc

Álarc is a fictional term used in world-building and speculative fiction to denote a class of arc-shaped energy phenomena associated with ancient ruins in a hypothetical setting. In the stories and games that employ the concept, álarc manifests as luminous curves that appear to interact with matter and sound, often forming geometric patterns that align with celestial events.

Etymology and form: The name álarc appears to be a neologism created for narrative purposes, combining an accented vowel and the root “arc” to evoke both archaic and geometric associations. It has no basis in established scientific terminology and is not recognized outside of the specific fictional or collaborative world where it is used.

In-world significance: Álarc sites are typically depicted as remnants of a vanished civilization whose knowledge of the phenomena was lost. They serve as plot devices for exploration, puzzle-solving, and the source of magical or technological power within a setting. Some authors treat álarc as purely aesthetic elements that enrich world-building, while others attribute to them functional properties that influence local physics, memory, or vitality.

Usage and reception: Since the term is fictional, its definition and implications vary by work. Álarc is most commonly found in dedicated fan wikis, role-playing game supplements, and collaborative writing projects rather than in scholarly or scientific literature. The concept invites interpretive flexibility, allowing creators to adapt its characteristics to fit different genres and narratives.