Solaris
Hidden aerial civilization
Story and background
The technologically advanced ruling power exercises control through political hierarchy, religious institutions and experimentation.
Events and connections in the series
The strongest feature is the way every apparently separate conflict gradually locks into a much older history. Fei's guilt about Lahan, the political rivalry between Aveh and Kislev, the secretive nation of Solaris, the Ethos, and the Gears each make sense in isolation before their meanings are radically recontextualized. The revelations are not simply bigger villains or higher stakes: they change what it means to be human in this world.
The next crucial recurrence unfolds during the conflict between Solaris and those who resist it. Elly is reborn as Sophia, the Holy Mother of Nisan; Abel's role is carried by Lacan, a painter who loves her but struggles with his own inadequacy. Krelian, a brilliant man drawn to Sophia, witnesses the suffering around them and becomes increasingly disillusioned with a god who appears indifferent.
An encounter between military Gears devastates Lahan. Fei enters Weltall in an attempt to defend the village, but the resulting destruction kills people he cares about and forces him to leave. Citan Uzuki accompanies him, and Fei soon meets Elly, a Solaris officer whose compassion clashes with her military role.
More in the lore
Explore the complete chronology for the surrounding events, relationships and consequences across the games.