Ivalice

The Kingdom of Ivalice was an ancient civilization featured in the Return to Ivalice Alliance raid series, and the setting of a legend called "the Zodiac Brave Story." It allegedly existed on Hydaelyn in the lands of modern-day Dalmasca, and contained a number of cities such as Lesalia. For several millennia, records of the kingdom of Ivalice were predominantly lost to the ages, only surviving in myths and tales passed down eventually to families in the modern-day Garlean Empire.

Lore

Holy Ydoran Empire

A cruel and tyrannical empire that ruled over several Kingdoms, including Ivalice, from its capital city of Mullonde. It's primary religious organization was a polytheistic faith called The Church of Glabados.

Ultima, the High Seraph

See also: Ultima, The High Seraph

A "divine" entity that legends portray as an important servant of the Ydoran gods.

"The Zodiac Brave Story"

The name commonly used to refer to the original, popular legend about a band heroes who saved Ivalice. Versions of this legend were passed down over generations, which allowed it to survive and become popular among present-day Garleans.

The Zodiac Braves (as an organization) are considered synonymous with legends of Ivalice, this band of heroes opposed the reign of the Ydoran Empire. Led by the first Brave named Saint Ajora, they were the first to summon Ultima, The High Seraph, and used her to destroy Mullonde. In fear of Ultima's power, the braves sealed the ruins of Mullonde with her inside.
Later members, of the "second generation" of Zodiac Braves, would include the eventual king of Ivalice Delita Heiral, who would be framed as the legends' sole hero.

The Durai Papers

A set of documents written in the "High Ivalician" language, authored by a man named Orram Durai. The contents of these writings both support the claim that Ivalice was real, and dispute the accuracy of the legend, describing the events and actions of key characters very differently from their legendary portrayals. Most importantly, the papers claim that multiple heroes were responsible for the deeds that are credited in the legend to Delita Heiral, including Ramza Beoulve, who the Papers claim to be the true leader of the Zodiac Braves during that time.

Main article: The Durai Papers

The War of the Lions

Records also show that a great war, known as the War of the Lions, where many of the nations of Ivalice fought for dominance over the land. During this time, Ultima attempted to free herself, using the power of Auracite and the corruption of the leaders of each nation and the church to do her bidding.