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'''302 AF:'''
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The island beneath which Sartan lies imprisoned becomes the scene of mysterious and disturbing manifestations. Chief among these phenomena is a stalagmite, located inside the island's mountain. Sartan's followers begin, like lemmings, to repeatedly impale themselves upon the object, their purpose unknown until some few reveal that they have been told that thus may they purchase the release of the Evil One from His bonds, with their blood and life essence. Others, through divine trickery, are told that impaling themselves upon the thing is a way of ensuring His continued imprisonment. Those who do not believe the lie, led by the Church and Oakstone work to prevent the continuous serial impalements, but their efforts are largely fruitless. Soon a miasmic, roiling, blood red fog begins to spread about the island, consuming vegetative life. Eventually the fog, growing in power and evincing an eerie quasi intelligence begins to spread to the continent, belching forth foul demons who terrify the populace of Sapience. Gaia, the Earthmother, becomes alarmed and, seeking to stem the horrific tide, causes an earthquake with which She hopes to sink the island, apparent source of the evil haze. Alas, the fog only spreads with renewed vigour. Adding insult to injury, the event seems to crush the bonds of Sartan, allowing Him release from His prison, whereupon he sets forth forming a new body from the now plentiful supply of
The island beneath which Sartan lies imprisoned becomes the scene of mysterious and disturbing manifestations. Chief among these phenomena is a stalagmite, located inside the island's mountain. Sartan's followers begin to repeatedly impale themselves upon the object, their purpose unknown until some few reveal that they have been told that thus may they purchase the release of the Evil One from His bonds, with their blood and life essence. Others, through divine trickery, are told that impaling themselves upon the thing is a way of ensuring His continued imprisonment. Those who do not believe the lie, led by the Church and Oakstone work to prevent the continuous serial impalements, but their efforts are largely fruitless.  
demonic fog. His new body is a horror to behold, mutilated, scarred, as though the evil once held deep within His heart, was now worn upon His face and form. Rejoicing in His newfound fortune, Sartan proclaims Himself Sartan the Malevolent. He takes control of the island that was once His jailer, imbuing its very stones with His essence. In an act that promises dire fortune at some point in the future, the Malevolent One calls His faithful unto him, brings into manifestation a monstrous edifice called the Baelgrim Fortress, and endows an organization calling itself the Maldaathi Knights upon the former, humiliated Infernals. Kaelin is appointed as leader of this new guild. With most of Achaea now at peace for the nonce, discussion and debate on the natures of so-called Good and Evil once again dominate the public news boards ad nauseam. Lately, debaters on the subject of the true nature of Chaos, oxymoronic as such a subject must perforce be, have also entered the fray. Achaea abides.
 
Soon a miasmic, roiling, blood red fog begins to spread about the island, consuming vegetative life. Eventually the fog, growing in power and evincing an eerie quasi intelligence begins to spread to the continent, belching forth foul demons who terrify the populace of Sapience. Gaia, the Earthmother, becomes alarmed, and seeking to stem the horrific tide, causes an earthquake with which She hopes to sink the island, apparent source of the evil haze. Alas, the fog only spreads with renewed vigour. Adding insult to injury, the event seems to crush the bonds of Sartan, allowing Him release from His prison, whereupon he sets forth forming a new body from the now plentiful supply of demonic fog.  
 
His new body is a horror to behold, mutilated, scarred, as though the evil once held deep within His heart, was now worn upon His face and form. Rejoicing in His newfound fortune, the God of Evil proclaims Himself Sartan the Malevolent. He takes control of the island that was once His jailer, imbuing its very stones with His essence. In an act that promises dire fortune at some point in the future, the Malevolent One calls His faithful unto him, brings into manifestation a monstrous edifice called the Baelgrim Fortress, and endows an organization calling itself the Maldaathi Knights upon the former, humiliated Infernals. Kaelin is appointed as leader of this new guild.  
 
With most of Achaea now at peace for the nonce, discussion and debate on the natures of so-called Good and Evil once again dominate the public news boards ad nauseam. Lately, debaters on the subject of the true nature of Chaos, oxymoronic as such a subject must perforce be, have also entered the fray. Achaea abides.




'''304 AF:'''
'''304 AF:'''


Sartan consolidates his power on the Isle of Evil and within Mount Mhaldor, which lay underneath Baelgrim fortress. Using this location as a magnet of evil, He acquires control over all of the landmarks, and destroys the one that most closely represented Chaos, the Cave of Golgatha. Finally, he renamed the Fist of Dameron as the Fist of Sartan. In a gesture of spite, he forever cut off the flow of essence to the Occultists Guild.  
Sartan consolidates his power on the Isle of Evil and within Mount Mhaldor, which lay underneath Baelgrim Fortress. Using this location as a magnet of evil, He acquires control over all of the landmarks, and destroys the one that most closely represented Chaos, the Cave of Golgatha. Finally, he renames the Fist of Dameron as the Fist of Sartan. In a gesture of spite, he forever cuts off the flow of essence to the Occultists Guild.


The Occultists, reeling from their loss of Necromancy, begin looking into their own past. Through the study of the Burning Times, they learn of an ancient power their predecessors wielded, and seek to reclaim it. Concurrently, the Church began their own investigations of their records of these times, worried what the Occultists may be up to. The result the discovery of a ritual in the past, that through some mistake had forever cut the Occultists off from their latent power. Through carrying out this ritual in the present, Shakti, Silverstorm, and Saruman led the Occultists to bridging the gap across centuries of the Great Occult Work, anchoring the two times, and giving the modern Occultists back the power of Occultism.
The Occultists, reeling from their loss of Necromancy, begin looking into their own past. Through the study of the Burning Times, they learn of an ancient power their predecessors wielded, and seek to reclaim it. Concurrently, the Church begins its own investigations of their records of these times, worried what the Occultists may be up to. This results in the discovery of a ritual in the past, that by some mistake had forever cut the Occultists off from their latent power. Through carrying out this ritual in the present, Shakti, Silverstorm, and Saruman lead the Occultists in bridging the gap across centuries of the Great Occult Work, anchoring the two times, and restoring the lost art of Occultism.




'''306 AF:'''
'''306 AF:'''


Gaia gives up her coherent consciousness to the forests, and nine forest spirits are formed. However, shortly after the forests became sick and diseased. Groves became unable to function, plant life began to die out, and animals became disturbed, to the point of bunnies becoming rabid. The forests themselves began to attack those within, and the spirits of the forest became distressed that without assistance or the Mother, the forests would soon die out completely. Following a Dreaming, and a later ritual, those of the forest were able to coax the Gaian Tree at the behest of Urania of Darkenwood to give up it's essence to the gathered spirits to empower them, thus making the Gaian Tree the Great Oak, as it lost his power. Balance was restored to nature, for the time, and a new Spirit of Nature was born to watch over the forests until such time as they had a stronger protector.
Gaia gives up her coherent consciousness to the forests, and nine forest spirits appear in the aftermath. Shortly afterward, the forests become sick and diseased. Groves cease to function, plant life begins to die out, and animals grow disturbed and rabid. The forests themselves attack those within, and the spirits grow concerned that without assistance or the Mother, the woods will soon die out.  


Rain and snow cleared out the rubble blocking the way to a monastery north of Jaru. Shortly after, the explorers discovered the ghostly monks roaming it's halls.
An extended Dreaming is held, and as a result, the forest folk use ancient potions to heal the spirits. At Urania's behest, the forestals coax the Gaian Tree into giving up its essence; in doing so, it becomes the Great Oak. Balance is restored to Nature for the time, and a new spirit is born to watch over the forests until such time as a new protector arises.
 
The flooding of Lake Vundamere from the rains has caused a lot of the rubble to be washed away as it receded, allowing exploration of the area around it.


Rain and snow clear the rubble blocking the way to a monastery north of Jaru, called Shala'jen. Shortly after, explorers discover ghostly monks roaming its halls. The rain also floods Lake Vundamere, which washes away debris and allows exploration of the area surrounding it.


'''309 AF:'''
'''309 AF:'''


Aegis and Eris fuse the divine essence of their realms together into a sphere of energy and plant it atop the Golden Dias of Creation, causing the sphere to soak up the primal chaos around it and grow into The Eileithyian Tree. Sapience watched with baited breath to see what may come of this union, the likes of which had never been seen before.
Aegis and Eris fuse the divine essence of their realms together into a sphere of energy and plant it atop the Golden Dias of Creation, causing the sphere to soak up the primal chaos around it and grow into The Eileithyian Tree. Sapience watches with baited breath to see what may come of this union, the likes of which had never been seen before.


The tree blossoms with twins, a boy and girl, but before the couple could admire their new children, a slash tore across the sky, and an entity entered into the realms from beyond them. Killing the thing of chaos that was the children's guardian, the entity stole the boy god and returned to beyond the skies.
The tree blossoms with twins, a boy and girl, but before the couple can admire their new children, a slash tears across the sky, and an entity enters into the realms from beyond. Killing the thing of chaos that was the children's guardian, the entity steals the boy god and returns to beyond the skies.


Later, The Eileithyian Tree offered up the young girl, and an overjoyed Aegis and Eris named their daughter Pandora. The day could not remain happy, however, as the sky tore open again, and the entity returned to try and steal the fledgling goddess as well. The entity was revealed to be none other than the one-time ally of the Triumvirate, Prince Slith. In a rage, Aegis chased Slith back through the tear in the sky, the rift between the worlds sealing behind them.
Later, the Eileithyian Tree offers up the young girl, and an overjoyed Aegis and Eris named their daughter Pandora. This joy is marred, however, as the sky tears open again, and the entity returns to steal the fledgling goddess as well. The entity is revealed to be none other than the one-time ally of the Triumvirate, Prince Slith. In a rage, Aegis chases Slith back through the tear in the sky, the rift between the worlds sealing behind them.


Cree founds the Arcanist guild in Cyrene.
Cree founds the Arcanist guild in Cyrene.


'''310 AF:'''
'''310 AF:'''


Pandora steals the Caduceus of Castigation from Sarapis while he was on a trip out of the realms. Upon his return, he questions her to explain herself, only to be told cheekily that it had bored her and next time she would steal something more interesting. Instead of fury at this indignation, Sarapis laughed, until it became apparent that the artefact had become fused to her hand from the over-use she had given to the realms in Sarapis' absence. The only way to recover the artefact was to sever the Goddess's hand, which was done. For ger actions, Sarapis named Pandora the Goddess of Mischief, and Phaestus crafted Pandora a new hand made of silver to replace the one she had lost.  
Pandora steals the Caduceus of Castigation from Sarapis while he visits other realms. When questioned, Pandora responds with cheeky indifference. The Caduceus has fused itself to her palm from overuse, however, and can only be recovered by hacking it off at the wrist; Phaestus crafts her a new hand, made of silver, to replace the old. For her actions, Sarapis names Pandora the Goddess of Mischief.
 


'''311 AF:'''
'''311 AF:'''


The wall of power that had kept explorers from venturing to the farthest northern reaches had been lifted. This led to Rick discovering the village of Kamleikan, and Senans discovering the village of Aran'riod.
The Wall of Power, which keeps explorers from venturing into the far northern reaches, shifts northward. Rick Stormcrow discovers the village of Kamleikan, and Senans discovers Aran'riod.
 
Following the upsets within the forest, a path had cleared up that was eventually discovered by a dryad servant of Queen Titania, leading to the stronghold of Forest Watch, rumoured to be one of the first human settlements outside of Ceylon, before the Buckawn overtook it.  


Following the upsets within the forest, a path is uncovered by a dryad in the Northern Ithmia. Queen Titania calls for Oakstone's aid, and the explorers return with stories of Forest Watch, an ancient human settlement long since overtaken by buckawns.


'''312 AF:'''
'''312 AF:'''


During a construction project in Hashan, a ruined temple was uncovered. The temple however, was not empty, and those nearby were overcome by the angry, hate-filled spectres of the former inhabitants. Upon searching the temple, a journal was discovered detailing the former cult and their focus, and how their cult had split into three sects. One dedicated to the Night, one to Darkness and the Lunar power thereof, and the last dedicated to Dreams. The journal held many secrets, not the least of which was how the cult had decided the balance of power. Each sect had planet in the stars that embodied their power, and by using an ancient device, they measured which of these stars were in the prominent alignment with Achaea. That planet's sect then ruled the cult.
During a construction project in Hashan, a ruined temple is uncovered, and the angry, hate-filled spectres of the former inhabitants overwhelm those nearby. Explorers discover a journal detailing the former cult and their focus, and how their cult had split into three sects: one to the night, one to darkness, and one to dreams. Each sect worshiped a planet embodying their given belief, and by measuring the alignment of these planets, they determined which sect would rule the cult.


The device was intended to 'cycle' to the next planet every two decades. However, when Hubrisian and the Dream faction were in control, it did not cycle as it should, and Hubrisian's dreams of grandeur were realized as he claimed this Divine Right that his sect should continue to lead, armed with his Herald Siren who had foretold this in his dreams. This same dream creature sealed Hubrisian within the temple with the other two sects, his arrogance laid bare as they stripped his powers of Night from him. The entire Dream faction was cursed and destroyed for their treachery, at the machinations of this Siren, none other than Alp the Nightmare Siren.
The device was intended to 'cycle' to the next planet every two decades. However, when Hubrisian and the Dream faction were in control, it did not cycle as it should, and Hubrisian's dreams of grandeur were realized as he claimed this Divine Right that his sect should continue to lead, armed with his Herald Siren who had foretold this in his dreams. This same dream creature sealed Hubrisian within the temple with the other two sects, his arrogance laid bare as they stripped his powers of Night from him. The entire Dream faction was cursed and destroyed for their treachery, at the machinations of this Siren, none other than Alp the Nightmare Siren.
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Gack arrives in Mhaldor, offering to set up a slaving business, to which Mhaldor promptly and happily agreed. The fortress of Moghedu was raided, and it's citizens captured to sell into slavery, and the deal was profitable, up until Mhun scouts began to invade Mhaldor's isle to look for their missing brethren. The Mhaldorian reprisal was swift, laying waste to the forces and launching on Mhoghedu, while the Mhunna had plans of his own, digging tunnels under Mhaldor to enter the city and take their own revenge.
Gack arrives in Mhaldor, offering to set up a slaving business, to which Mhaldor promptly and happily agreed. The fortress of Moghedu was raided, and its citizens captured to sell into slavery, and the deal was profitable, up until Mhun scouts began to invade Mhaldor's isle to look for their missing brethren. The Mhaldorian reprisal was swift, laying waste to the forces and launching on Mhoghedu, while the Mhunna had plans of his own, digging tunnels under Mhaldor to enter the city and take their own revenge.


As the Mhaldorians reached the Mhunna, he stopped them saying he had a surprise for his evil enemies, at which point Gack could be heard shouting about Mhun invaders. And promptly silenced. During this time, allies of the Mhunna rallied in Moghedu, and when the Mhaldorians launched their attack on the Mhunna in retaliation, they were repelled. Gack was brought before the Mhunna, and though tortures, would not reveal the location of the captured slaves. His execution ordered, it had seemed his fate sealed.
As the Mhaldorians reached the Mhunna, he stopped them saying he had a surprise for his evil enemies, at which point Gack could be heard shouting about Mhun invaders. And promptly silenced. During this time, allies of the Mhunna rallied in Moghedu, and when the Mhaldorians launched their attack on the Mhunna in retaliation, they were repelled. Gack was brought before the Mhunna, and though tortures, would not reveal the location of the captured slaves. His execution ordered, it had seemed his fate sealed.
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The Goddess Demeter is brought into the realms from her slumber through the combined efforts of the forestals, having gathered ingredients and seeds from all over Sapience to perform the ritual necessary.  
The Goddess Demeter is brought into the realms from her slumber through the combined efforts of the forestals, having gathered ingredients and seeds from all over Sapience to perform the ritual necessary.  


The star Noxtra falls out of favour, as Lunastra rises into prominence. To mark this event, Twilight pulls back the darkness that had shielded the three stars of the ancient cult from mortal eyes. In respect of the cult, Seneschal Calla of Hashan ruled that the city would follow the traditions of the cult, changing it's ceremonial title of patron from the triad of Divine that ruled it to match whichever star was in prominence at the time.  
The star Noxtra falls out of favour, as Lunastra rises into prominence. To mark this event, Twilight pulls back the darkness that had shielded the three stars of the ancient cult from mortal eyes. In respect of the cult, Seneschal Calla of Hashan ruled that the city would follow the traditions of the cult, changing its ceremonial title of patron from the triad of Divine that ruled it to match whichever star was in prominence at the time.  


In honour of Demeter's arrival, Eris hosts a festival, followed by a party within the Black Forest, where Chaos Tequila flowed like water. When both Eris and Demeter grew divinely drunk, Eris decided to play a trick, slipping Demeter a goblet of pure Chaos which the goddess unknowingly imbibed. Realizing what had happened, Demeter was not to be outdone, and slipped Eris a goblet filled with the primordial matter of the Green. Both goddesses then left afterward to try and sober up, only to find this mixing of influences had profound affects on their realms. The treekin were born in the Black Forest, while the Tier of Primal Chaos in the Great Erisian Pyramid was overgrown with forest, treekin appearing there as well.  
In honour of Demeter's arrival, Eris hosts a festival, followed by a party within the Black Forest, where Chaos Tequila flowed like water. When both Eris and Demeter grew divinely drunk, Eris decided to play a trick, slipping Demeter a goblet of pure Chaos which the goddess unknowingly imbibed. Realizing what had happened, Demeter was not to be outdone, and slipped Eris a goblet filled with the primordial matter of the Green. Both goddesses then left afterward to try and sober up, only to find this mixing of influences had profound affects on their realms. The treekin were born in the Black Forest, while the Tier of Primal Chaos in the Great Erisian Pyramid was overgrown with forest, treekin appearing there as well.  
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Xerimor was not to be lost to the sands of time, however. The citizens of Mhaldor rallied to try and free him, and through vision, knew that the sacrifice of something holy being was necessary to finish the ritual. For this, they turned to the assistance of Azmodai the Pit Fiend. Using his powers, Azmodai summoned the priest Valeo and bound him to the room. The priest refused to help, but continuous torture and beating made it too much for his guardian angel to bear, who summoned herself to aid her master. Taking this chance, Azmodai bound her to the altar and sacrificed her, freeing Xerimor.
Xerimor was not to be lost to the sands of time, however. The citizens of Mhaldor rallied to try and free him, and through vision, knew that the sacrifice of something holy being was necessary to finish the ritual. For this, they turned to the assistance of Azmodai the Pit Fiend. Using his powers, Azmodai summoned the priest Valeo and bound him to the room. The priest refused to help, but continuous torture and beating made it too much for his guardian angel to bear, who summoned herself to aid her master. Taking this chance, Azmodai bound her to the altar and sacrificed her, freeing Xerimor.


Xerimor had plans concocted during his imprisonment, however, and immediately used the altar with it's now trapped angel to summon forth Morimbuull and create a mighty pathway to usher in hordes of daemons to do his bidding. Valeo was not indisposed, however, and forgotten during this rituals he regained his senses. And giving his all to heal his fallen partner, was able to revive the angel at the cost of his own life. The angel then took Valeo and attempted to flee through the only exit--Through the portal. The act of entering while Morimbuull was still leaving the portal caused a backlash of energy, sealing the portal and the two parties on either side.
Xerimor had plans concocted during his imprisonment, however, and immediately used the altar with its now trapped angel to summon forth Morimbuull and create a mighty pathway to usher in hordes of daemons to do his bidding. Valeo was not indisposed, however, and forgotten during this rituals he regained his senses. And giving his all to heal his fallen partner, was able to revive the angel at the cost of his own life. The angel then took Valeo and attempted to flee through the only exit--Through the portal. The act of entering while Morimbuull was still leaving the portal caused a backlash of energy, sealing the portal and the two parties on either side.


Xerimor had prepared for this, however, and used skills of necromancy, domination, and daemonology learned during his imprisonment to bind Morimbuull, demanding he impart his knowledge of the daemons and apostasy. The enraged Morimbuull refused, but eventually was forced to relent. And thus, Xerimor founded the Apostate guild, focused on the worship of Lord Sartan.
Xerimor had prepared for this, however, and used skills of necromancy, domination, and daemonology learned during his imprisonment to bind Morimbuull, demanding he impart his knowledge of the daemons and apostasy. The enraged Morimbuull refused, but eventually was forced to relent. And thus, Xerimor founded the Apostate guild, focused on the worship of Lord Sartan.
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A key found in the streets of Kasmarkin led an intrepid group of adventurers to the tomb of Overlord Gruul, leader of the Arcanian mercenaries. But also in the tomb was a coinbox, that reacted to coins being put inside. Once enough had been donated, it turned into a chest. Only accepting silver bars, when it was filled, it became a vault. Gold bars were necessary this time, and when it was filled, the group was transported to a small bazaar in Delos, and discovered an alleyway which led to the Temple of Wealth and Trade. Solving the puzzle to give entrance to those assembled, they stumbled upon Prospero, just finishing his meal. And thus, the mortals dined with him, and he returned to the realms with them.
A key found in the streets of Kasmarkin led an intrepid group of adventurers to the tomb of Overlord Gruul, leader of the Arcanian mercenaries. But also in the tomb was a coinbox, that reacted to coins being put inside. Once enough had been donated, it turned into a chest. Only accepting silver bars, when it was filled, it became a vault. Gold bars were necessary this time, and when it was filled, the group was transported to a small bazaar in Delos, and discovered an alleyway which led to the Temple of Wealth and Trade. Solving the puzzle to give entrance to those assembled, they stumbled upon Prospero, just finishing his meal. And thus, the mortals dined with him, and he returned to the realms with them.


Screams split the night air, as Urania, the spirit of Darkenwood, cried out in terror and pain. Dark demons called qlippah were devouring the forest, and attempting to devour her as well. Both Forestals and the Darkwalkers rushed to aid, and through forming a ritual with the advice of Kalleah, the spirit of Hazel, they attempted to call forth the dark being that had sent these lesser demons, to banish it once and for all. The ritual took an unexpected turn, as they summoned the creature, but were no match for it's power. It devoured those leading the ritual, and laid waste to the assembly. Urania was nowhere to be found by this point. Through sheer force of effort and cooperation, and many deaths, the ritual was performed and the beast locked away, but those assembled grieved the loss of Urania to achieve it. Putting together a second ritual, they attempted to pour forth their love and energy for the fallen spirit. The circle became disrupted, but Malkyr, the Oracle of Demeter, pushed on and sent the energy regardless. Green light and darkfire danced across the sky as a rift opened, and Urania stepped out, looking healthier than ever. The place the rite took place in, would be forever changed.
Screams split the night air, as Urania, the spirit of Darkenwood, cried out in terror and pain. Dark demons called qlippah were devouring the forest, and attempting to devour her as well. Both Forestals and the Darkwalkers rushed to aid, and through forming a ritual with the advice of Kalleah, the spirit of Hazel, they attempted to call forth the dark being that had sent these lesser demons, to banish it once and for all. The ritual took an unexpected turn, as they summoned the creature, but were no match for its power. It devoured those leading the ritual, and laid waste to the assembly. Urania was nowhere to be found by this point. Through sheer force of effort and cooperation, and many deaths, the ritual was performed and the beast locked away, but those assembled grieved the loss of Urania to achieve it. Putting together a second ritual, they attempted to pour forth their love and energy for the fallen spirit. The circle became disrupted, but Malkyr, the Oracle of Demeter, pushed on and sent the energy regardless. Green light and darkfire danced across the sky as a rift opened, and Urania stepped out, looking healthier than ever. The place the rite took place in, would be forever changed.




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The followers of Twilight would not be stopped, however, and using the qlippah to assault the young dragon, the citizens fought, but it wasn't enough. Blu was defeated, and faded away to another realm. All that remained was half of an amulet, that Twilight claimed was part of the artefact they were searching for. The Dark Lord used the amulet to put Darkenwood into stasis, halting the undead spread, but not fixing it yet.
The followers of Twilight would not be stopped, however, and using the qlippah to assault the young dragon, the citizens fought, but it wasn't enough. Blu was defeated, and faded away to another realm. All that remained was half of an amulet, that Twilight claimed was part of the artefact they were searching for. The Dark Lord used the amulet to put Darkenwood into stasis, halting the undead spread, but not fixing it yet.


Eris with the help of Feliss, Miriyan, Khalid, Estach, Shakti, Aneila, Karyn, and others began an experiment with the Living Spire. As the spire was completed, a bolt of power shot up toward the heavens, and Eris approached the vortex this created, her own power growing. The force imploded, however, knocking Eris from the sky as chaos spread across the land, and when this chaotic energy touched the Darkenwood, none other than Slith was revealed. Enraged, Eris threatened to burn the Darkenwood down if it meant retribution on the man that had stolen her son, but Demeter pacified her enough to allow the gathered mortals to handle the situation, lest things get out of control. Chasing Slith all over the Darkenwood, eventually defeating the Prince. With his dying breaths, he revealed he had been working for Sartan all along. After stealing the young god, he let Sartan split his being in two, one leading Aegis off beyond the realms while the other hid beneath the Darkenwood and siphoned it's essence.
Eris with the help of Feliss, Miriyan, Khalid, Estach, Shakti, Aneila, Karyn, and others began an experiment with the Living Spire. As the spire was completed, a bolt of power shot up toward the heavens, and Eris approached the vortex this created, her own power growing. The force imploded, however, knocking Eris from the sky as chaos spread across the land, and when this chaotic energy touched the Darkenwood, none other than Slith was revealed. Enraged, Eris threatened to burn the Darkenwood down if it meant retribution on the man that had stolen her son, but Demeter pacified her enough to allow the gathered mortals to handle the situation, lest things get out of control. Chasing Slith all over the Darkenwood, eventually defeating the Prince. With his dying breaths, he revealed he had been working for Sartan all along. After stealing the young god, he let Sartan split his being in two, one leading Aegis off beyond the realms while the other hid beneath the Darkenwood and siphoned its essence.


Sartan laughed at his pawn, and produced the child, binding him to the fissure beneath Baelgrim Fortress that had been storing the dark energies of the wood for some time now. Enraged, Eris tried to free her child, but the power of Chaos alone was not enough, and Sartan threatened that any further attempt would be met with the death of the child. Powerless to help her son, Eris turned on Twilight and Demeter, demanding to know why they continued their efforts in Cyrene while the Darkenwood was still being drained. They believed the cure could still be found in Cyrene, and continued to hunt it...and to the shock of mortal and immortal alike, Valnurana revealed herself and asked Eris not to blame them, as Sartan had deceived them with false visions.
Sartan laughed at his pawn, and produced the child, binding him to the fissure beneath Baelgrim Fortress that had been storing the dark energies of the wood for some time now. Enraged, Eris tried to free her child, but the power of Chaos alone was not enough, and Sartan threatened that any further attempt would be met with the death of the child. Powerless to help her son, Eris turned on Twilight and Demeter, demanding to know why they continued their efforts in Cyrene while the Darkenwood was still being drained. They believed the cure could still be found in Cyrene, and continued to hunt it...and to the shock of mortal and immortal alike, Valnurana revealed herself and asked Eris not to blame them, as Sartan had deceived them with false visions.


Valnurana was asked how Sartan could deceive another Divine in this way, and to the horror of all, she admitted to using an ancient artefact to help Sartan in his scheme to destroy Darkenwood. Sartan merely laughed at these revelations, hidden within his realm, while Valnurana explained her only desire had been to seek vengeance on Twilight, and was as horrified as everyone else when they became aware of Sartan's scheme involving the stolen child god. When she became aware, she stole the artefact back, the Eye of Proteus, and promised to help free the child. The Garden convened, looking for new ways to tackle this issue.
Valnurana was asked how Sartan could deceive another Divine in this way, and to the horror of all, she admitted to using an ancient artefact to help Sartan in his scheme to destroy Darkenwood. Sartan merely laughed at these revelations, hidden within his realm, while Valnurana explained her only desire had been to seek vengeance on Twilight, and was as horrified as everyone else when they became aware of Sartan's scheme involving the stolen child god. When she became aware, she stole the artefact back, the [[Eye of Proteus]], and promised to help free the child. The Garden convened, looking for new ways to tackle this issue.


Soon after, Demeter had a vision of clarity, and knew the other half of the amulet to still be within Cyrene. She came to the city, and demanded, angrily, that it's citizens allow her to look for it, while green lightning arced across the skies. None spoke against her, and pooling the lightning, she slammed it into the bridge she stood on, destroying it and frantically digging through the earth for the amulet. Finding it, she restored the damage as a token of thanks, before hastening to the Darkenwood. Both halves of the amulet whole again, Twilight gave his half to Demeter after they used it's combined power to return the arachnoi queen to normal, freeing her of the bonds of undeath. With the forest's decay stopped, it would take much to heal it. But at least it would have the chance to heal.
Soon after, Demeter had a vision of clarity, and knew the other half of the amulet to still be within Cyrene. She came to the city, and demanded, angrily, that its citizens allow her to look for it, while green lightning arced across the skies. None spoke against her, and pooling the lightning, she slammed it into the bridge she stood on, destroying it and frantically digging through the earth for the amulet. Finding it, she restored the damage as a token of thanks, before hastening to the Darkenwood. Both halves of the amulet whole again, Twilight gave his half to Demeter after they used its combined power to return the arachnoi queen to normal, freeing her of the bonds of undeath. With the forest's decay stopped, it would take much to heal it. But at least it would have the chance to heal.


Twilight readied his troops for war, and Sapience waited with baited breath for what may come next.
Twilight readied his troops for war, and Sapience waited with baited breath for what may come next.
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A kris dagger appeared in the Mannaseh Swamp as a demonically female voice called out that it was time and demanding to be taken to the fissure. None were able to pick it up, save Stee, Knight of the Maldaathi, who promptly tried to take it back to the fissure. The forces of the Child's Army did battle with him, but eventually Stee was able to cast the knife into the fissure, where it struck the child god and revealed the true purpose of Sartan's plan. With the child struck with the kris, and the collected energies, he was able to revive Indrani the Demon Queen, who then fed on the essence of the child god to try and claim his power as her own. In the midst of this, Eris broke into the battle, and stealing her freed son away, prevented his death at Indrani's hands. Tucking her son into the Eileithyian Tree, she named him Pandemonium, and gave up much of her own divine essence to save his life, while he slept peacefully in the boughs of the tree once more.
A kris dagger appeared in the Mannaseh Swamp as a demonically female voice called out that it was time and demanding to be taken to the fissure. None were able to pick it up, save Stee, Knight of the Maldaathi, who promptly tried to take it back to the fissure. The forces of the Child's Army did battle with him, but eventually Stee was able to cast the knife into the fissure, where it struck the child god and revealed the true purpose of Sartan's plan. With the child struck with the kris, and the collected energies, he was able to revive Indrani the Demon Queen, who then fed on the essence of the child god to try and claim his power as her own. In the midst of this, Eris broke into the battle, and stealing her freed son away, prevented his death at Indrani's hands. Tucking her son into the Eileithyian Tree, she named him Pandemonium, and gave up much of her own divine essence to save his life, while he slept peacefully in the boughs of the tree once more.


Finally, using both halves of the amulet, Maklyr initiated a ritual involving those of many faiths, using the combined energy and power of those present to combine Urasia with Propasia, healing Darkenwood of it's evil taint. The forest now stands as a haven for both Nature and Darkness, as well as a reminder that no matter how grim the situation, mortal faith and Divine working can overcome it.
Finally, using both halves of the amulet, Maklyr initiated a ritual involving those of many faiths, using the combined energy and power of those present to combine Urasia with Propasia, healing Darkenwood of its evil taint. The forest now stands as a haven for both Nature and Darkness, as well as a reminder that no matter how grim the situation, mortal faith and Divine working can overcome it.




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Shortly after, reports came in from all over Sapience of strange happenings--reports of clothing squirming and talking, of towers rapidly decaying, of pillars walking, of rains of tiny ducks. Then, long established denizens of Sapience began acting unnaturally: the Black Boar began proclaiming himself a baker and seller of pies, a boy in Shallam proclaimed himself king, Epicurus himself tried to eat Ashtan, and Zsarachnor began planting tulips in Eleusis. What started as simple oddities began turning dangerous as all over the land toxic bubbles and even tendrils began arising, afflicting many throughout Sapience. And, finally, the denizens of Thera and Jaru began hideously mutating into twisted forms.
Shortly after, reports came in from all over Sapience of strange happenings--reports of clothing squirming and talking, of towers rapidly decaying, of pillars walking, of rains of tiny ducks. Then, long established denizens of Sapience began acting unnaturally: the Black Boar began proclaiming himself a baker and seller of pies, a boy in Shallam proclaimed himself king, Epicurus himself tried to eat Ashtan, and Zsarachnor began planting tulips in Eleusis. What started as simple oddities began turning dangerous as all over the land toxic bubbles and even tendrils began arising, afflicting many throughout Sapience. And, finally, the denizens of Thera and Jaru began hideously mutating into twisted forms.


Pandora attempted to quell the chaos of the spire, but unable to control it, it repelled her as well and the young goddess retreated to the Eileithyian Tree, crawling into it's branches next to her sleeping brother. Twilight appeared across the heavens with the Soulgem of Gladius, shouting his intentions of rewarding him. Throwing the soulgem at Twilight's own obelisk, the two merged, and the Obelisk rebuffed Twilight until he faded into Oblivion--an act the rest of the buildings of Hashan echoed support for.
Pandora attempted to quell the chaos of the spire, but unable to control it, it repelled her as well and the young goddess retreated to the Eileithyian Tree, crawling into its branches next to her sleeping brother. Twilight appeared across the heavens with the Soulgem of Gladius, shouting his intentions of rewarding him. Throwing the soulgem at Twilight's own obelisk, the two merged, and the Obelisk rebuffed Twilight until he faded into Oblivion--an act the rest of the buildings of Hashan echoed support for.
 


With three Divine now 'defeated' in driving back this threat, many turned to Belladonna's Keep in search of Gladius, only to find him and Dawn missing. Upon discovering this, Belladonna was furious and sent her minions into the realms to search for them, only to be met with the task forces of the Church intent on stopping them. The Church eventually pushed back to the Keep, wherein they slew Belladonna as well. The miasma in the air seeped into the abandoned Temple of Gaia as well, as the Great Oak uprooted itself and moved into the Great Grove, planting itself back down as the paths through the temple faded. The temple laying itself to rest.  
With three Divine now 'defeated' in driving back this threat, many turned to Belladonna's Keep in search of Gladius, only to find him and Dawn missing. Upon discovering this, Belladonna was furious and sent her minions into the realms to search for them, only to be met with the task forces of the Church intent on stopping them. The Church eventually pushed back to the Keep, wherein they slew Belladonna as well. The miasma in the air seeped into the abandoned Temple of Gaia as well, as the Great Oak uprooted itself and moved into the Great Grove, planting itself back down as the paths through the temple faded. The temple laying itself to rest.  


Dawn and Gladius were discovered on the rocks out of Shastaan, attempting to use the Eye of Proteus, despite the dangers such would pose to mortals. Ignoring the warnings of the Divine, they tried their hardest, but the artefact failed, becoming inert as the chaotic taint roamed unchecked. It gathered together into a single cloud that struck out at each city in turn, but the artefacts created from the Eye for each city rose up in response, summoning guardians to combat the taint and protect the cities. Cyrene, however, had a special surprise as the font tore open the gateway that had kept it's beloved dragon, Blu, from returning home fully grown to combat the taint. One by one, the cities fought the taint off, though it only grew stronger each time. When it seemed as all hope may be lost, Dawn proved to be alive, and both calling and binding her spirit to that of the Phoenix she launched a counterattack on the taint, driving it deep underground and cleansing the realm of it's remainder...With the last of her strength, she returned Eris to normal, and resigned herself to perish, spent beyond measure.
Dawn and Gladius were discovered on the rocks out of Shastaan, attempting to use the Eye of Proteus, despite the dangers such would pose to mortals. Ignoring the warnings of the Divine, they tried their hardest, but the artefact failed, becoming inert as the chaotic taint roamed unchecked. It gathered together into a single cloud that struck out at each city in turn, but the artefacts created from the Eye for each city rose up in response, summoning guardians to combat the taint and protect the cities. Cyrene, however, had a special surprise as the font tore open the gateway that had kept its beloved dragon, Blu, from returning home fully grown to combat the taint. One by one, the cities fought the taint off, though it only grew stronger each time. When it seemed as all hope may be lost, Dawn proved to be alive, and both calling and binding her spirit to that of the Phoenix she launched a counterattack on the taint, driving it deep underground and cleansing the realm of its remainder...With the last of her strength, she returned Eris to normal, and resigned herself to perish, spent beyond measure.


But Sarapis would not have this. Praising Dawn for her devotion, faith, and selfless courage, she was granted the gift of Immortality, and became the Goddess of the Sun, Mithraea, her actions earning her a place among the Divine.
But Sarapis would not have this. Praising Dawn for her devotion, faith, and selfless courage, she was granted the gift of Immortality, and became the Goddess of the Sun, Mithraea, her actions earning her a place among the Divine.
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Moghedu launches a plot against Mhaldor, digging tunnels beneath their city to cause it to crumble in on itself. Meeting with the leaders of Mhaldor, the captain of the guard delivered the Mhunna's demands. A release of all the slaves Mhaldor had stolen, recognition of Moghedu as having a right to exist. The Mhaldorians simply laughed, and as the attack was ordered, it seemed their city would be lost. That is, until a statue of Sartan came to life, protecting the tunnels underneath the city and attacking the Mhun forces there, repairing the damaged construction. Eventually, Mhaldor acquired more slaves from Moghedu to fill out the tunnels, and they were turned into the city's sewers.
Moghedu launches a plot against Mhaldor, digging tunnels beneath their city to cause it to crumble in on itself. Meeting with the leaders of Mhaldor, the captain of the guard delivered the Mhunna's demands. A release of all the slaves Mhaldor had stolen, recognition of Moghedu as having a right to exist. The Mhaldorians simply laughed, and as the attack was ordered, it seemed their city would be lost. That is, until a statue of Sartan came to life, protecting the tunnels underneath the city and attacking the Mhun forces there, repairing the damaged construction. Eventually, Mhaldor acquired more slaves from Moghedu to fill out the tunnels, and they were turned into the city's sewers.


In response, Mhaldor declares Moghedu under it's control, sparking outrage and a prolonged war as others in the realm rushed to Moghedu's aid. Mhaldor and the Mhun fought back and forth, at times victory seeming certain for either side, though after much bloodshed and death Mhaldor was eventually repelled and all entrances to Moghedu were sealed to keep the Mhaldorians out.
In response, Mhaldor declares Moghedu under its control, sparking outrage and a prolonged war as others in the realm rushed to Moghedu's aid. Mhaldor and the Mhun fought back and forth, at times victory seeming certain for either side, though after much bloodshed and death Mhaldor was eventually repelled and all entrances to Moghedu were sealed to keep the Mhaldorians out.




'''355 AF:'''
'''355 AF:'''


Moghedu attempts to move it's non-combatants to somewhere safe, enlisting the help of the alliance that aided them prior to defend Moghedu in their stead. Mhaldor captures a Mhun scout and in torturing him, discover the tunnels leading to Moghedu dug underneath their own city. Shortly after, Mhaldor launches an attack into Moghedu, and proceeds to tackle the defenders while raiding for treasure. However, when the Moghedu army returns from moving their citizens, they make quick work of clearing out the attackers and any stragglers, reclaiming the safety of Moghedu. After collapsing the tunnel Mhaldor used and compensating the defenders, Moghedu opened back up to the public--Though Mhaldorians were to be attacked on sight.
Moghedu attempts to move its non-combatants to somewhere safe, enlisting the help of the alliance that aided them prior to defend Moghedu in their stead. Mhaldor captures a Mhun scout and in torturing him, discover the tunnels leading to Moghedu dug underneath their own city. Shortly after, Mhaldor launches an attack into Moghedu, and proceeds to tackle the defenders while raiding for treasure. However, when the Moghedu army returns from moving their citizens, they make quick work of clearing out the attackers and any stragglers, reclaiming the safety of Moghedu. After collapsing the tunnel Mhaldor used and compensating the defenders, Moghedu opened back up to the public--Though Mhaldorians were to be attacked on sight.


Diamondesce hosts a monk tournament, with a mysterious figure approaching her to suggest a worldwide free-for-all be held as well. In a truly monumental event, Kir, Tenchu, Jupiter, Locus, and Diamondesce herself placed in the monk event while Rangor, Landon, and Kandor were the final three in the free-for-all, Kandor coming out on top. Following the battles, a ceremony was held, during which the mysterious figure was revealed to be the Scrula, Kaanvyr, and heralded the return of Matsuhama, the God of Combat. Matsuhama graced those present with congratulations on their victories, before retiring to the Garden to reacquaint himself with the realms.
Diamondesce hosts a monk tournament, with a mysterious figure approaching her to suggest a worldwide free-for-all be held as well. In a truly monumental event, Kir, Tenchu, Jupiter, Locus, and Diamondesce herself placed in the monk event while Rangor, Landon, and Kandor were the final three in the free-for-all, Kandor coming out on top. Following the battles, a ceremony was held, during which the mysterious figure was revealed to be the Scrula, Kaanvyr, and heralded the return of Matsuhama, the God of Combat. Matsuhama graced those present with congratulations on their victories, before retiring to the Garden to reacquaint himself with the realms.
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'''363 AF:'''
'''363 AF:'''


For the past two years, criminal activity in Sapience had spiked. Every city was feeling it's effects from regional criminals, and while Eleusis turned to violence, Cyrene and Ashtan turned to cunning to shut down their criminal operations and glean information. Shallam and Hashan, however, had been funding the criminals willingly, and none of the cities save Ashtan seemed willing to share what they knew. When the dust settled, the mastermind Felisse took to public pronouncements, sarcastically thanking the cities for helping her acquire all the gold she needed for some further plan, and criminal activity promptly lessened across the land.
For the past two years, criminal activity in Sapience had spiked. Every city was feeling its effects from regional criminals, and while Eleusis turned to violence, Cyrene and Ashtan turned to cunning to shut down their criminal operations and glean information. Shallam and Hashan, however, had been funding the criminals willingly, and none of the cities save Ashtan seemed willing to share what they knew. When the dust settled, the mastermind Felisse took to public pronouncements, sarcastically thanking the cities for helping her acquire all the gold she needed for some further plan, and criminal activity promptly lessened across the land.




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'''377 AF:'''
'''377 AF:'''


Eleusis was greeted by Tiglia of Moghedu, who had been out sightseeing around Sapience. When questioned where she would go next, she remarked that Bagwar's Copse sounded interesting. When told that area of the forest had long been overgrown, Tiglia responded that a shipment of iron had been sent from Moghedu recently, and the returning mhun had told of how peaceful the village was. Intrigued, those gathered left with Tiglia to where the area of the forest was to be, finding the path cleared and the peaceful village of Bogwar's Copse thriving in it's place.
Eleusis was greeted by Tiglia of Moghedu, who had been out sightseeing around Sapience. When questioned where she would go next, she remarked that Bagwar's Copse sounded interesting. When told that area of the forest had long been overgrown, Tiglia responded that a shipment of iron had been sent from Moghedu recently, and the returning mhun had told of how peaceful the village was. Intrigued, those gathered left with Tiglia to where the area of the forest was to be, finding the path cleared and the peaceful village of Bogwar's Copse thriving in its place.


Storm clouds over Ulangi turned into a full blown hurricane as adventurers arrived, culminating in a rock slide revealing a small southern beach. As the storm subsided, the moans of pirates where heard, who had been shipwrecked in the horrid weather. While those gathered questioned them, a ferry rowed out from their intended destination nearby, to check on his missing friends. Knowing a way to this pirate port was in hand, many boarded the ferry to Mysia without question, this small port near Ulangi previously unknown, but now bustling with swarthy activity.
Storm clouds over Ulangi turned into a full blown hurricane as adventurers arrived, culminating in a rock slide revealing a small southern beach. As the storm subsided, the moans of pirates where heard, who had been shipwrecked in the horrid weather. While those gathered questioned them, a ferry rowed out from their intended destination nearby, to check on his missing friends. Knowing a way to this pirate port was in hand, many boarded the ferry to Mysia without question, this small port near Ulangi previously unknown, but now bustling with swarthy activity.
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'''379 AF:'''
'''379 AF:'''


A portal appears in the Dardanic Grasslands, Zenui the first to discover it and experiment with it's effects. By the time others arrived, the portal shifted slightly, no longer allowing him access, but instead pairs of robed figures began to emerge in pairs. One was slain by Rocktamer, though the fallen figure's partner quickly absconded back through the portal and out of reach before anything could be done. Further reading may be found in the [[Vertani War]].
A portal appears in the Dardanic Grasslands, Zenui the first to discover it and experiment with it
 
s effects. By the time others arrived, the portal shifted slightly, no longer allowing him access, but instead pairs of robed figures began to emerge in pairs. One was slain by Rocktamer, though the fallen figure's partner quickly absconded back through the portal and out of reach before anything could be done. Further reading may be found in the [[Vertani War]].




'''380 AF:'''
'''380 AF:'''


Silver light shone over the Temple of Justice, and from it the Goddess of Justice, Miramar, made herself known to the gathered throng. Among them, Aegis, Selene, and Makali were present. The Goddess of Destruction gave to Miramar the Sword of Judgement she had forged in anticipation. She offered it with words that may it destroy injustice and separate the just from the unjust. The Goddess of Beauty gave to Miramar a shimmering blindfold as a symbolic gift to the blind nature of Justice. That it strikes without remark to race, gender, or affiliations, instead being equally meted out to all. With this welcoming, she returns to the realms to take her place amongst the Garden.
Silver light shone over the Temple of Justice, and from it the Goddess of Justice, Miramar, made herself known to the gathered throng. Among them, Aegis, Selene, and Makali were present. The Goddess of Destruction gave to Miramar the [[Sword of Judgement]] she had forged in anticipation. She offered it with words that may it destroy injustice and separate the just from the unjust. The Goddess of Beauty gave to Miramar a shimmering blindfold as a symbolic gift to the blind nature of Justice. That it strikes without remark to race, gender, or affiliations, instead being equally meted out to all. With this welcoming, she returns to the realms to take her place amongst the Garden.


Following odd movements of the Blackrock dwarves, Mhaldorus grew more agitated with the city he defended, demanding they discover the Infernus Occulum, and sending them to Jirken the mad alchemist, who promptly sent them out to Vinia the Black. One long line of conversation later, they were given a journal, which eventually led them to a statue in the Northern Ithmia that held the necklace all along in secret. Recovering the Infernus Occulum, they returned to Mhaldor to put it to use. Following the visions were led to a small cavern the Blackrock had been digging out, without having any clue as to why. There, they witnessed the birth of the Goddess of Vengeance, Keresis, who proclaimed her realm to all of Sapience.
Following odd movements of the Blackrock dwarves, Mhaldorus grew more agitated with the city he defended, demanding they discover the Infernus Occulum, and sending them to Jirken the mad alchemist, who promptly sent them out to Vinia the Black. One long line of conversation later, they were given a journal, which eventually led them to a statue in the Northern Ithmia that held the necklace all along in secret. Recovering the Infernus Occulum, they returned to Mhaldor to put it to use. Following the visions were led to a small cavern the Blackrock had been digging out, without having any clue as to why. There, they witnessed the birth of the Goddess of Vengeance, Keresis, who proclaimed her realm to all of Sapience.
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Exerting his presence on the world above ground, Lirthak, the leader of a previously unknown race called the Gnoll, decided he wanted something fresh to eat. Dispatching slavers to the surface, the pair headed first to Minia only to be rebuffed, then to Actar, capturing Blossom. A motley crew of Cyrenians responded, and searching the hills of Sapience for any entrance to the Gnoll's home, they eventually found it in the Granite Hills. There, they confronted Lirthak who refused to release the girl, and resorting to more aggressive negotiations, slew the gnoll who tried to stop them from recovering the girl. Eventually Blossom and her aunt Merrygold were reunited, and Manara Burrow now clear to the whole of Sapience, where the gnoll had enslaved the mingruk, among others.
Exerting his presence on the world above ground, Lirthak, the leader of a previously unknown race called the Gnoll, decided he wanted something fresh to eat. Dispatching slavers to the surface, the pair headed first to Minia only to be rebuffed, then to Actar, capturing Blossom. A motley crew of Cyrenians responded, and searching the hills of Sapience for any entrance to the Gnoll's home, they eventually found it in the Granite Hills. There, they confronted Lirthak who refused to release the girl, and resorting to more aggressive negotiations, slew the gnoll who tried to stop them from recovering the girl. Eventually Blossom and her aunt Merrygold were reunited, and Manara Burrow now clear to the whole of Sapience, where the gnoll had enslaved the mingruk, among others.
'''389 AF:'''
Fak'trar, the Roulette Attendant of Shallam, leaves the city in search of exploring the rest of the world.




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A mhun child was lost in the Mhojave desert, Calithandir, Ladydeath, and Shiro taking to trying to find the girl on behalf of her distraught, though Ladydeath for differing reasons. While the other two wished to return her safely home, Ladydeath wished her harm, and when Shiro found the girl in a scorpion cave, and helped her back out to her mother. The Mhaldorian attacked the group, who retreated with the mother further into Moghedu where it was safe. The trials brought to a close, Shiro was rewarded with a family heirloom of the mother's, created by a master mhun crafter, as thanks.
A mhun child was lost in the Mhojave desert, Calithandir, Ladydeath, and Shiro taking to trying to find the girl on behalf of her distraught, though Ladydeath for differing reasons. While the other two wished to return her safely home, Ladydeath wished her harm, and when Shiro found the girl in a scorpion cave, and helped her back out to her mother. The Mhaldorian attacked the group, who retreated with the mother further into Moghedu where it was safe. The trials brought to a close, Shiro was rewarded with a family heirloom of the mother's, created by a master mhun crafter, as thanks.
'''391 AF:'''
A small goblin made its way from the Northern Ithmia into Hashan, collapsing almost as quickly as he came. He cried for food and help, which Korben gave in the form of mutton and ale. Thanking his saviour, the goblin then proceeded to empty out the black contents of his stomach, and tell his tale. On a spiritual journey from his village in the Dakhota Hills, he traveled into the Eastern Ithmia when hunger set in. Finding ripe, black berries, the goblin dug in, only to find himself in paroxysms of pain and intense nausea. Korben traveled to the village to seek help for the goblin, while Bambi stayed to comfort the weary soul, and returning with a potion from the shaman of that village, the goblin was quickly nursed back to health as the poison was counteracted. The citizens offered to let the goblin stay for a while, but Grunik declined, and returned to his village post-haste.
Pouring his troubles out on passersby, a weary Vedel had had more than enough of the constant fighting of Elena and her father Vishengo, and left Manusha. Hearing his story, Mulisha and Shaadra offered to try to mediate the issue. When they arrived, however, they instead found Elena pleading with them for one thing. Escape. Concocting a plan, her partners distracted Vishengo, while Shaadra snuck Elena out of the village. Taking her to visit Tasur'ke, and eventually Delos, she was overwhelmed by all the sights to be had, and new experiences. In Delos, however, she was discovered by an infuriated Vishengo, who instead of yelling at his daughter once more...merely pleaded with her to come home. Eventually relenting, and intending to hold her father to the promise that when she grew to be 18 she could leave the village whenever she liked, she returned to Manusha, and the crowd began to disperse.
A dark whisper echoed out of Azdun, as though of darker intent were called to it. Discovering the source to be a Gargoyle trapped in a stone form, the creature spoke to those gathered, telling them it was cursed by an atavian shaman. He promised servitude, and great wealth, to any who would free him from his bondage...and the way to properly break the ritual, was to bring him atavian corpses. The shaman from Genji sensed something was wrong, but when he arrived he was slain before he could sleep by the gathered crowd, much to the dismay of several atavians among them. What followed was a grand hunt for corpses, which the shaman attempted to stop again, after having prayed to Sarapis for salvation. Before he could even finish collecting one portion of the salve he intended to use to destroy the gargoyle, those of dark intent slew him again, adding his corpse back to the growing pile. Shortly after, it happened. The gargoyle's bonds were loosened, and he rewarded those who helped him. By slaying them, those that stood against him, and everyone in his path, flying out into the countryside. Eventually, the dragon Garth put an end to his savagery, but what remains is a lesson in the dangers of trusting such things.
'''393 AF:'''
When those of Shallam in Lorielan's Order had visions of a great crystal army fighting a horde of undead, they sprang to action. Through following the words of Munin, a water nymph of Lorielan's Temple, they were led to Kasmarkin, and once there, to summon Sh'Fah to the material plane. In doing so, they drew the battle that was once there to this plane, as Slith, who had engaged Lorielan on Kx'Khrah, followed Sh'Fah to finish off Lorielan's general. His plot had nearly been complete, and no meddling mortals were going to keep him from it. The battle continued, and when it seemed as though Slith would have the upper hand, Lorielan intervened, though Slith stopped her cold, claiming he had prepared for this and could control her, brandishing an artefact that hummed with the same energy Lorielan gave off.
Using this opening, Sh'Fah struck out at Slith with one final blast of energy, taking the undead prince by surprise, and knocking the artefact from his hands. This one chance was all Lorielan needed, recovering the artefact and merging herself with the stolen essence of hers within it, thwarting Slith's plan for her. Still, he seemed undaunted at even this setback, and before he fled, left her with a chilling warning. That though he may not have the Goddess of Knowledge, the rest of the Te'serran Alliance was his to control.
Revisiting the past would make these events make more sense. When the War of the Divine Child raged on over Pandemonium, the part of Slith that had led Aegis into the realms beyond returned, hiding in wait and watching at how Sartan had treated his 'pawn'. What's more, he watched as Indrani grew to such power, absorbing the divine essence of Pandemonium. Seeing a plan, he laid in wait until Pentharian, the God of Valour, fell ill, and sneaking into the Te'serra Pavilion unnoticed, he stole a portion of Pentharian's essence. Just enough to use, at a later date. He could not directly control the Divine with as little essence as he had...but he could influence them, and laying a trap for Pentharian on another plane, it was he that planted the suggestion to leave the material plane in Pentharian's head.
The God of Valour was captured, and in experimenting on the god, Slith learned that Pentharian also held bits of essence from Lorielan and Mithraea as well. Using these, he could attempt to control the whole of the Te'serran Alliance...and as expected, he was again the cause for Mithraea's departure from the realms. Lorielan proved harder, as the Goddess of Knowledge was a mental fortress to his attempts. Eventually, he was able to convince her to leave for the Crystal Plane, giving him time to further his machinations before dealing with her. And thus he did, developing a plan to weaken her through battle to put her under his control. This is when he led his undead legions into Kx'Khrah, and this is when the mortals unknowingly intervened, giving Lorielan the edge she needed to resume control of the situation.
And this is when she returned to the realms once more.
A parrot lands in the middle of Shallam, holding a ransom note for Fak'trar. If 100,000 gold to be returned with the bird in exchange for his release. Unfortunately, the bird flew off immediately after. Taking to Mysia to rescue their citizen, Varick and the others of Shallam cornered one of the kidnappers who had drunkenly stepped out for more rum, and he was discovered when the parrot finally returned to Mysia...and to him. Making a mad dash for the safety of the hideout, the drunken pirate led the assembled there, and to their credit, they attempted a peaceful solution. Of course, the pirates grew bored, and killed the defenseless negotiator before he could react, which led to the rest of the assembled rushing in to kill the pirates and free Fak'trar, promptly bringing him back to Shallam.
'''394 AF:'''
A plague hit Sapience, forming in the manner of sludge in the rivers and streams, first seen affecting Ephialta, the Keeper of the Flame of the Zaphar. As she grew weak, so did adventurers who came into contact with the sludge, like Brandi Silverwing, though it was Blujixapug Lucoster who was the first to perish to the quickly spreading plague, that now threatened all of Sapience. Unbeknownst to those on land, deep within the Temple of the Sea, a single tear shed by Ourania as she had risen from the waters nine years prior was undergoing drastic changes. It grew, and pulling all the fresh water from Sapience into itself, it continued to grow, leaving the accumulated sludge in the dry riverbeds of the land. Once it had gathered only the purest water, it transformed into a young woman, Ourania and Neraeos came to the temple to behold their daughter...and Neraeos christened her Kastalia, proclaiming her dominion over all lakes and streams of Sapience. Ourania, knowing her daughter to be tired, took her to retire in the garden, but not before the fledgling Goddess handed a bulb to Greyda Corten, telling her to plant it within an enchanted spring. The Garden of the Dryads seemed the perfect place, and the bulb blossomed into a beautiful large, white lily. Using the petals of the lily, the forestals cleansed the realm of the sludge, effectively ending the plague, which began to recede.
Shockwaves deep within the Granite Hills were responded with cries of terror as fire wyrms poured from a newly gaping maw of rock deep within Manara Burrow, and proceeded to slaughter everything in their path, which included any adventurers. As they made their way to the surface, it became clear to Sapience as a whole that this was not a simple outpouring that could be contained. More wyrms appeared as quickly as they were slain, and days passed with no end in sight as cities and forests together felt the wrath of the rampaging wyrms. Imyrr Rousseau had an idea, however, and calling on the master demolitionist of the mhun in Moghedu, they gathered the ingredients he would need to create the required explosives. A large detachment came forth to protect the mhun as they traveled to the maw deep within the Burrow, and laying the explosives, they sealed the hole and thus where the wyrms came from. All that remained was a crack that one could barely slip through, to head into Nuskuwe below, the realm of the fire wyrms, and other strange creatures deep beneath the earth.
'''395 AF:'''
In a ceremony held at the Shrine of Ascension, Sarapis called Maya back to the mortal realms, and just as he was formed of Ayar and Proteus merging together, so did he merge Maya, the Great Mother, and Makali, the Goddess of Destruction together, and transfer the spark that he held as the crux of all Creation to her, passing the torch to new Maya, the Great Mother.
'''396 AF:'''
Aznahz, son of Morimbuul and the human Ravai, called Mhaldor together in the name of their Master. Sacrificing first Daitya, then Wulfen to read their entrails, he realized the answer to his questions was there, but just out reach. Next using daemonic magic on Wulfen's head that had been torn from the corpse, it began to sing eerily. Aznahz offered no answers to what this meant...merely stating, "So it begins."
As foretold by seers all over Sapience, Mhaldor was called together at the behest of Sartan, who made his plan clear. To better oversee the spread of Evil, he desired to be split back into the two gods that had been merged to form who he had become, Shaitan and Apollyon. To do this, he required the help of another, and the past of Keresis was revealed, her being one of his Dreadlords back during the Chaos Wars, and having fallen in battle, he laid her into slumber to recover. Acknowledging her past, though as Divinity she owed him no allegiance any longer, she did him one favor in response to his in saving her life. Tearing the great stalagmite from under Mount Mhaldor, she cleaved the god in two, and from those two halves, did Shaitan and Apollyon spring forth, returning to the realms.
[[Category:History]]
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