Welcome to the realm of The Chromatic Expanse, a world where color and emotion intertwine in the most visceral and sometimes terrifying ways. This world is devoid of color, its lands and inhabitants appear as shades of grey, creating a stark, eerie landscape. Here, emotions become the essence of existence, leaving behind physical traces called Echoes—varying in color and intensity, representing the spectrum of human emotions.

Inhabitants harness these Echoes, distilling them into magical essences imbued into clothing and weapons, creating unique items with extraordinary properties. However, extreme emotions risk transforming individuals into Eldritch Echoes—grotesque, color-imbued abominations reflecting the excess of their emotional states.

Survival in this world is a constant battle against both monstrous Eldritch Echoes and overwhelming emotions. These horrors roam desolate landscapes, consuming Echoes and adding a haunting layer of danger to the bleak landscape. Animals and plants also feed on Echoes, forming a diverse ecosystem, while Revenants serve as enigmatic creatures lurking in the wastelands.

Areas frequently experiencing specific emotions took on a permanent hue, creating a visually diverse landscape. War zones might be stained red with anger, while places of worship could glow with serene blues of faith. The intensity of the color could reflect the intensity of past events, shaping the perception and significance of these areas.

With emotions being physical entities, they could also influence the weather. Cities dominated by happiness and joy might have brighter, sunnier climates, while areas of sorrow or fear might be perpetually overcast or prone to storms.

The economy of The Chromatic Expanse is intricately tied to the extraction, trade, and usage of Lenses. Emotions serve as the primary raw material, and their conversion into Lenses varies in efficiency. This conversion rate is a pivotal factor in the value of Lenses. Established “Lens Foundries” are places where individuals can channel specific emotions to produce these crystalline artifacts. Each faction within The Chromatic Expanse has honed its unique processes and techniques for Lens creation.

Society is stratified not just by wealth, but also by emotional control. Those able to regulate their emotions to avoid negative transformations would be seen as superior. There might also be a division between those who believe in freely expressing emotions and those who believe in restraint. The use of masks or other emotion-hiding techniques is commonplace, impacting social interactions and customs.

Politics are influenced by emotional control and manipulation. Leaders need to be masters of their emotions, able to project the desired Echoes to inspire their followers. Emotional influence and the control of color could be a source of political power. Politicians rarely wear colored clothing in public to hide their true intentions.

Awakened are individuals who have undergone a transformation but managed to regain their human form. In the past, they experienced an emotion so powerful that it triggered their change, yet they somehow maintained their humanity. Now, their connection to Echoes is stronger than ever. However, if they ever succumb to these intense emotions again, they risk transforming into an even more powerful Eldritch Echo monstrosity.

Religions could arise around different emotional philosophies. Some might worship serenity, promoting calm and peace, while others might believe in the sanctity of all emotions, even the dangerous ones. There could be religious ceremonies designed to evoke specific emotions for their Echoes.

Progress and tradition intertwine in the Chromatic Expanse. Instruments like Spectrographs are essential for measuring Echoes’ potency. Chroma Engines, tapping into emotional energy, have ushered industries into a new age of efficiency.

Historical events are remembered not just for their facts, but for their emotional impact. Battles are known for the red of their rage or the black of their despair. The reign of a beloved queen might be remembered in shades of joyful gold.