Orbis — The Entire History of Lilacia & Emeraldia

BDW- Before Dark War

ADW- After Dark War

4,000 — 3,000 BDW

Lilacia:

Recorded history begins here. With translation either lost or forbidden to the Realms, this era is known as Pax Mystari. The Scourged Empire ruled over all the continent. The only other civilisation to exist was the Mayini, who were all wiped out in a purge of chaotic wars—this also lead to Starlai breaking off from Lilacia.

Emeraldia:

The Old Age of Beasts. Centaurs, Ramerians, Minotaurs and other beastfolk all lived during this time. It is unsure when exactly most were killed off or how, but it’s believed the Zanicks were involved. The earliest human settlements included the Nordic strongholds, the tribes of the Southern Moors and the Marsh Kings that would become the ancestors to the 5 Lords of Old Emeraldia. Zanic Civilisation begins to grow in the Dark Wood.

3,000 — 2,000 BDW

Lilacia:

The largest slave revolt in history occurs, millions rise up to fight the Mystari in Continental War lasting between 2,856 — 2,785 BDW. In the final years of the Scourged Empire, many Governors of the Cursed Lands broke off into their own factions before mysteriously disappearing. Were the killed off in a series of civil wars? Did they migrate elsewhere? No one knows. In an event so strange, it came to be known by the mountain men as the Mystari Purge. The last Emperor Valgos Thanor-Tagann achieves immortality as a Lich and disappears with his Holy Legion and a number of Lords and Nobles to a pocket dimension of his own creation. Here, they lay dormant until awoken thousands of years later. The rest of the Mystari are killed off or disappeared. Beyond this event, the rest is uncharted history. Human groups began to expand- the Forest Men migrate across the land and branch off into modern day Faesiul and Stenraadi while the ones who stay become the Oakmen. The Mountain Men branch off to become the Eandic, Wargothian, Greckhlosi and Bloodmen. The Elves or “Ari” adopt the title from old Mystari customs that elevated magic users to a higher status than mere slaves. The Silvari, Galari, Illumari and Woodari begin to settle in their respective, now-ancestral homes. The Kamaali become the first Kings of the Grand Lilacian Forest, and the first civilisation after the fall of the Scoured Empire.

Emeraldia:

The Zanic Era. Most of western Emeraldia was under Zanic rule, from the Hartyr mountains into modern day Upper Stormdon. In the East, the Marsh Kings expanded into the Eastern Bulge and into the Throat of the Emerald. The first of these human groups to establish a civilisation was the Blacklion family. Frequent raids from the Zanic where family members were kidnapped and used in ritualistic ceremonies or put out on display in a malicious decoration of their corpse occurred in daily life. This created a cultural fear of the Dark Wood and the Zanic that would last throughout generations into modern day. The Nordic and Northernman kingdoms begin to form. Snowhold (later called Joraan), Bluebanner and Saarthandol being the first of them.

2,000 — 1,500 BDW

Lilacia:

The Age of Civilisations. Major powers begin emerging from this time period. Wargoth, Goldfall, Windshine and the Domhain Oakmen are the first to appear. The Oakmen Icecliif Clan are forced out of their home and migrate to North of the Enchanted Forest where they interbreed with the Woodari population- creating the Rimian Halflings. The Woodari are forced south as the Kingdom of Rimon is founded. The Houses of Stenrode first appear during this period and lay claim to the plains of Lilacia. The slavery of Faesiul at the hands of Kamaalihold forbid the Faesiul clans from forming a civilisation of their own (they will never have one because of this). Grand Wargothia becomes the biggest nation in the realm after all 4 Mountain Men clans fly the Wargoth banner; the oldest living Senate is formed.

Emeraldia:

The Zanic Era continues up until the very last century. The War of the 5 Generals ended with the Zanicks being pushed back into the Dark Wood and out of the rest of Emeraldia. It’s unknown how long this war lasted, but from recorded texts, some say between 30-50 years. The 5 Kingdoms of Old are formed after each general lays claim to their own territory- Blacklion, Emerald, Horosia, Blue Rose and Stormdon. This Era ends as the Age of Civilisations begins.

1,500 — 1,400 BDW

Lilacia:

Era of Long Lasting Peace continues. This is the longest period of time Lilacia sees no conflict on a warlike scale. Many nations of Old deepen their roots during this time. Windshine, Goldfall, Brownleaf, Grand Wargothia and the Houses of Stenrode expand their territories and large cities begin to pop up everywhere. Rimon and Kamaalihold have small conflicts back and forth for control of the Grand Forest. The Oakmen clans experience a period of fighting and many smaller clans die out in favour for the growing powers. The remaining clans are Redwynd, Barkhaal, Misan and Ironfinger.

Emeraldia:

The First War of Man! House Blacklion and House Emerald incite conflict after a power struggle between the two ignites major fighting for control of certain townships and vantage points. This is the first fully recorded war in Emeraldian history. Horosia and Stormdon stay neutral and instead focus on internal expansion. Blue Rose joins the cause against Blacklion after a year of uncertainty. The Blacklion War, as it came to be known, lasted 13 years in all. The result was the destruction of House Blacklion’s growing kingdom. Emerald and Blue Rose forced them into agreeing to a much smaller territorial size after killing all royal family members say for one Prince who answered faithfully to House Emerald. During partitioning of land, House Blue Rose fell out with Emerald and another war was almost born. They settled on leaving the disputed territory as a self governing kingdom of its own- to separate the two. This Kingdom became Warendale. Both houses came away with much more territory, but the new Emerald Kingdom became the de facto powerhouse of the realm. The ruler, King Duncan I, is immortalised as the founder of the first Emerald Dynasty and recognised in modern day as the man who started their path to global supremacy. The Column of King Duncan stands at the centre of the Emerald City to this day.

1,400 — 1,300 BDW

Lilacia:

The Era of Long Lasting Peace continues. The Rimian Halflings had begun to split into two sub species; Blood with more elven ancestry made more elven features, and more human blood grant them more Oakmenish features, with more subtle hints of elven. The more Elven looking Halflings, now labelled as South Rimian, had begun to receive a 2nd class status and were subsequently subjugated. They were forced south where their population had more prominence within society. This eventually lead to the split between North and South Rimon. (In this point in the Novel, this is when King Fyrin lived as leader of the remnants of old Icecliff Clan. His clan was subjected to Faesiul society as a minority in Kamaalihold. This is when he was exposed to the shunned-upon Blood Magic and lead to his path into becoming the Werewolf King. Thus, the Crannmarbh Clan was founded.)

Emeraldia:

The 1st Emerald Empire is founded. This century brought unprecedented change to the realm. The Emerald Kingdom had made Warendale and Blacklion a protectorate in an event called the Bitter Winter of 1,331 BDW. House Emerald told Stormdon and Horosia a lie that Blue Rose was entertaining Zanic magic and interacting with them to gain influence over the realm. Both took the bait and were deceived into a war on the behalf of the Emerald Dynasty. This lead to the occupation of Blue Rose and the introduction of a new Royal family whose loyalty lied heavily with the Emerald. This also lead to an interesting period where the Kingdoms were introduced to the Southern Moors. The growing Empire had enforced their will on the Ancient Kingdom of Hartyr, which lead the Moor Clans to establish themselves as territories to prevent an invasion. They adopted the ruling and royalty customs of their northern counterparts, which subsequently lead to their success and survival. The Order of Sparrows capture a Zanic stronghold and found the nation of Castalla. The old 7 Kingdoms of Bronzer’s Claw find their roots here and the many old cities appear one at a time in their own accord. The Bay becomes very rich after a boon of trade and diplomacy hits their shores. The founding Kings of old are immortalised as the Seven Statues of Bronzepoint.

The Emerald’s new Kingdom went on to conquer all territory up to the Iron Mountains; the Centuars homeland. Ramerians closed off their country to all but high borns and anyone who could afford the entrance fee of 10,000 Gold. Inside the peninsula, there’s alchemy so advanced that it could cure anything- and often does. If you were cursed by someone, you could have it removed here. If you were a vampire, you could turn back to mortality. If you suffered T’mjak’s Rot (Gout) you could have to cleaned up with a potion from here. It’s one of the most exclusive kingdoms in any realm.

1,300 — 1,200 BDW

Lilacia:

After centuries of rest, Lilacia feels her first major conflict of war. A new Dynasty in Goldfall made games of conquest with Silverglade and Windshine. Following their success, they announcing the Galari Empire. They went on to conquer Brownleaf, Whytewood and land south of Rimon. This is when the South Rimians received their new nation, under rule of the Empire. Many Lords and Nobles moved out here as it was new Forestland they could build their castles in. Plus it offered Faesiul slaves- so why not? This new Dynasty was lead by King Farenwin III, the most praised ruler in Galari society. This was the same period that the union of the Oakmen clans occurred; all became one under the flag of their respective high king, Chief Barkhaal.

Emeraldia:

The 1st Emerald Empire established earldoms across its empire as a shift in rulership. Earldoms like Teal-Point, Yarda, Milton, Maun and Wildren are founded during this time. All royal families were friends of House Emerald. All was looking well, but after a generation went by, the new royal families turned on the Empire. Wildren and Maun’s people were much closer to Blue Rose and so they ceded. Horosia and Stormdon pulled out after falling out with the Emperor. Yarda had also much closer ties to the Horosian family, and thus pulled out. It was the reign of Emperor Verold I, who went down in history as their worst ruler ever. What remained after the royal families forced abdication was the Emerald Merchants Republic. Governed by a council of Nobles and Lords native to the heartlands, along with representatives from Milton, Blacklion, and Teal-Point- it was a new form of government never seen on Emeraldia. It brought so much wealth to these nations that poverty was practically abolished. For the following decades, the Republic was exclusive and nations from other realms begun to hear of it. Merchants from Umoyah, Lilacia and Ming Tao came to see for themselves.

1,200 — 1,100 BDW

Lilacia:

The Galari Golden Age. Art, literature, magical science, and philosophy thrive in the Empire. Windshine becomes the First Nation of Elves to trade and interact with mankind. All humans tried to keep up with the proxy wars that they were losing and made allies of one another with hundreds of meetings between leaders held between throughout the century. North and South Rimon clash in the 1st War of Rimon. This is the start of a long lasting rivalry between the human-influenced North and the elven-influenced South that lasts all the way into modern era. The South win a series of battles and manages to grow to equal strength of their Northern counterpart with the help of their ally, the Galari Empire.

Emeraldia:

The realm existed in peace during this century. The Emerald Merchants Republic relished in its riches. Teal-Point and Milton in particular saw exponential wealth flow through it. The Emerald City was the first in the realm to receive international recognition for it’s trading opportunities, followed close after by the Bay of Bronzer’s Claw. Very little conflict between nations. The northern kingdoms begin to make prominence throughout the Pine Forests north of the Iron mountains. Greyrock is among the most prestigious as many masterpieces of literature is produced here. The Greyrock Library is formally built- the largest library in the world.

1,100 — 1,000 BDW

Lilacia:

The Golden Age for the Empire continues. Something major happens in the uninhabited Cursed Lands- the Mystari returned. One of the factions that disappeared during their purge 1,700 years ago involved a number of thousands of individuals following their Governor (a religious authoritative figure just as much as a political one) into the Dark Realm to escape persecution from the revolutionary forces. This group returned to East of the Cursed Lands where they originally called their home. These Mystari had changed, however. No longer did they even resemble elves. They were more grey in colour, as opposed to a blueish hue. They had grown horns; some had more than others. But all shared their own unique pattern of horns whether it was a row of 10 small ones, 2 large ones accompanied by 6 smaller ones or just 4 long ones pointing backwards. They also had rigged patterns adorned over their shoulders, chests and upper arms. The ridges would be small and many or large and few. They all had stripes of different blends but with their own unique colour, and their eyes were all purple. the X’ynhil Order, as they used to be called, had interbred with Lesser Demons of the Dark Realm. Not only this, but certain published books on the topic speak of their new religion- one of Demon Worship. It’s believed they answer to a Greater Demon, not quite powerful enough to be among the 10 Lords, called Axylhan. The book says that this demon is the original Governor of X’ynhil who lead them to their new home, and took his place among the immortals after absorbing the power of other lessers and generations of his own pupils through ceremonial sacrifice. They revere him as the one who saved them from genocide and brought them the gift of new existence. The others in Lilacia took to calling them the Ones of the Rift, or Riftmen for short. They reclaimed their ancestral throne of Ryfklin and proclaimed the entire Cursed Lands as part of Ryfklin End. The old Mystari Capital of Xanxes is sealed off and made into a Temple to Axylhan, where they communicate with him and offer him their souls in loving devotion.

Emeraldia:

The Emerald Merchants Republic goes into civil war after the common folk fight against the Lords and Noblemen who employ then as well as govern them. From this period, many labourers and common folk were becoming poorer and poorer. They were being overworked and it was clear that the High Council were corrupt and didn’t care for the lower classes. This started out a huge rebellion lead by other Lords who were being undermined in favour of the governors allies. The Republic was overthrown and the 2nd Emerald Empire was formed, by Commander-turned-King Caden I. Shortly after rising to power, he declared that the entire realm should join together to create the first Empire of all Men. King Caden was a very diplomatic and charismatic man and convinced most nations to join- even Blue Rose. All nations but the Zanic and her sister kingdoms Yaras Tahr and Bassen-Rot join. He made allies of the Centaurs, convinced the Ramerians of the benefits of being part of such a bountiful empire, brought the Bronzer Kings to the plains to see the prosperity under their new empire; he even ate with the Nordic Kings. There’s a famous tale from this period of Caden outdrinking the King of Whitehold in a bid to gain their support. This new empire that spanned the whole continent took 32 years to complete. The final act that Caden did before his death was the declaration of 3 official colonies- Rasaquir, Greengorge and Yellownight. These were the first along a line of many colonies that the Empire would go on to have. He is the second greatest Emperor to live and is immortalised through Caden’s Pledge, a monument built in Kingsport, the second half the Emerald City that resides on the coast.

1,000 — 900 BDW

Lilacia:

This century starts off well, but rapidly went downhill. A nasty plague tormented the realm for 11 years between 940 - 929 BDW. The plague caused people to turn a horrid shade of Green and made them violently cough up and vomit blood until they either died in their sleep or choked to death from complications. They also developed sores all over their bodies which eventually burst with nasty liquid pus. It seemed to be spread by touch, but some healers described their experiences as some people picking it up from being in mere proximity of the inflicted. It started in the newly founded colony of Neos- a territory of the Emerald Empire purchased from Ryfklin End in 965 BDW. Scholars have theorised that an Emraldi merchant ship coming from Umoyah must’ve carried it over and given it to locals through exotic fruits. The Lilacian Plague of 940 BDW killed an estimated 1 out of every 6 people throughout the realm. People in Wargoth, Bloodmen, Stenrode and Rimon suffered mostly as streets were littered with bodies and corpses were piled up to be incinerated twice a day. The elven nations were less affected; to this day, this event is the sole reason for the elven population being so much higher than that of the humans in modern times. This only further forced a wedge between the relations of both races.

At the end of this century, The Galari Empire met a gruesome end when, in 1,012 BDW, the 1st Elven War commenced. Windshine and Militia groups from Silverglade begun to destabilise the empire. Within months, countless of rebellions broke out; Brownleaf, Galari-governed Windshine and Silverglade began to topple the growing leniency of the Empire’s grasp. South Rimon was the only ally the Galari had. The war would go on into the next century and be the first of 3 Elven Wars that stand alone as some of the most chaotic wars in history. Magic was used as a weapon of mass destruction again for the first time since the Hajj and the Mystari Eras. This marks the beginning of the everlasting resentment towards magic that humans of the world would hold onto forever. Where once it was a children’s tale to scare kids into obedience- now it was a weapon to be watched and feared.

Emeraldia:

Age of the Grand Empire. This century sees the formation of the greatest empire that ever lived. The 2nd Emerald Empire was the first to found a dozen colonies across all 6 Realms. They were even the first to commune with the Riftmen of Ryfklin End- bargaining a piece of territory from the Lilac Bay to found Neos. Wargothian labourers were brought over to build their cities and so the blend between Emraldi and Wargothian created marvels of architecture. Yellownight was the richest colony by far. The Emerald Empire even took control of Fynn Port and Beggar’s Ryse (now Begharris) in Western Ming Tao. During this time, there was a boon of literature, art, architecture and monumental advancements for naval power, they were the greatest power at that time. Their only rival was the Jinsang Empire, whose colonies and allies tried to boycott their business and entered into many proxy wars with.

900 — 800 BDW

Lilacia:

The Second Dynasty of Windshine begins. King Idenhol II was overthrown and forced out of his authoritative position after the people of his nation were unhappy with how he performed during the Elven War. Most Lords and commonfolk alike were inclined to let the noble Erytris Silksword, a man who went against the King’s orders and slaughtered a whole army of sieging Galari troops- saving a city in doing so. Upon his rulership, King Erytris I forced Brownleaf and Silverglade to bend the knee. His policy against magic enticed many; especially considering the 400 years of oppression faced at the hands of the seemingly selfish and indifferent Galari who pose themselves on a higher pedestal than others. This followed a long and costly war now called the 2nd Elven War; one that saw the Kingdom of Goldfall beaten and battered by various oncoming waves of battalions. Goldfall was reduced to half its size and most of its northern plains territory were stripped from them. Thus, emerges, the Empire of Windshine. This was the strongest elven nation to come after the Mystari; it’s first Law was the biggest talk of controversy for some time. They had banned magic in its entirety, citing its awful affects on all kind. This was especially popular after 2 wars of chaotic magic use.The human nations prospered from their trading allegiances to the Emerald Empire. New traders from other Realms like Umoyah and Ming Tao were finding their way up to here, making Lilacia the third internationally renowned realm after Emeraldia and Ming Tao.

Emeraldia:

The Era of the New Realm. This is where Emeraldia got its name. During this era, the influence of the 2nd Emerald Empire grew so great that they became international. Everyone, every trader, everywhere, either did business with them through their colonies’ or had met with someone associated with them. The Emerald Monarch is the single most powerful ruler in the world; this enticed challenge from the Jinsang Empire. They were another nation of humans but from the south, in Ming Tao. They too had colonies and influence that exceeded their own realm. Through a series of proxy wars, boycotting and skirmishes off the coasts, they both fought one another periodically for decades. The Emerald wanted control over the isle of Jaqari; the Jinsang wanted to claim Bronzer’s Claw for theirs.

This is also the time of Xaanaii’s invasion. In 874 BDW, all Nordic kings came under threat from Ice Demon Xaanaii, a lesser demon that had entered through a rift opened up by the events of the novel (when two Demon Lords crash and create a rift in reality.) This is where most lesser demons came to escape by hiding in ocean trenches and other obscure locations. Some are found by the 10 Spirits and are sent back- not all though. This demon had rallied the Atronach population of the far north and created a sea of ice to walk into emeraldia. The only way she was defeated was because King Joraan Skull-Eater found the Gods Lake, becoming the first to do so. The power he was granted was eternal life and the body of a giant. He single handedly killed her and absorbed her power. From then, he’s lived as the Eternal King of Joraan. Legend has it that the Gods Lake also granted him his position as king eternal; never to be succeeded. The only other to find the Gods Lake was the Unknown Explorer who found it in 49 ADW, who scholars have identified as the trickster Horned God of Rameria, the Satan archetype in their folk religion. The Gods Lake grants one the ability to commune with the 10 spirits directly- and receive their favour if your words are wise enough. Only two have ever found it.

800 — 600 BDW

Lilacia:

At the very turn of the century, House Quinswich and House Bluestone were welcomed into the Empire of Windshine. The empires hatred for magic following the war lead to the abandonment of Draoix worship (God of Magic and chief deity in elven culture). They weren’t lead astray however. As they embraced their neighbours to the north, so did they embrace their culture. The two Houses were peacefully annexed after Emperor Erytris promised to complete his vision of creating a superpower to rival the elven culture and usher in a new power shift to the realm. While the other Stenraadi royals declined in desire of self governance, they welcomed them as an ally.

New Era dawned. The Silksword dynasty that lasted 400 years made peace with the people of the continent. The adopting of Gladix as chief deity made them very similar to humans. Wargoth, Neos and the Oakmen all made friends with this new Empire. Goldfall’s demise and isolation from the continent caused them to focus on their strengths- their academies, their towers and their magic. thus begun A Renaissance period of Galari literature, art and academic discoveries. This is when the lost city of Genysis was found on an island that broke off during the Mystari era. This is the only known city of the Glimmering Ones; the precursor race and ancestor to all elven kind. Many famous authors and scholars lived during this time- some of whom even still live as professors or retired in their old age.

Emeraldia:

The Emerald Civil War of 630 BDW is the talking point of this period. Blue Rose rallied nations against House Emerald and, in turn, caused their collapse. Before the turn of the next century, the Hong Jin took the 7 Merchant Kingdoms of Bronzer’s Claw. Castalla took to defending the desert with the Moor Kings from Sortoss, Sunhold and Aramile. This was when Jinsang sunk so much money into their new colony, given the name Bronzepoint after all 7 kingdoms were forced to conjoin into one superstate, that it made them as rich as the Emerald City. The East Crown Empire existed for a period- a coalition with the Heartlands, Milton, Blacklion, Tealpoint and Yarda. Blue Rose held dominant power over Emeraldia during this time too- they had favour of all the other houses and controlled Wildren, Maun and Warendale directly. Cities like Riverwalk, Uralion, Pontensk, Lily’s End and Bleakwood saw loads of new trade. Darkmoore became the biggest growing city in the realm. One of the only periods when the Realm prospered without the Emerald overlooking it. The Zanic people were introduced to the rest of the realm as allies for the first time ever. This was a huge change in culture, Zanic High Priests mingled with Kings and Lords now. It was strange. Necromancy remained outlawed, but the Zanicks to come to new places were mainly traders anyway- they cared little for magic.

600 — 400 BDW

Lilacia:

A big period; filled with change both for good and bad. The Silksword dynasty had tried to bring back magic for certain purposes like healing and academic teaching. This created tension with the Lords of Blackbay- the oldest family in Windshine and the rulers of their biggest port city. They kept using their powers to overrule any decision the dynasty tried to pass across the empire. This conflict created an internal strain that ended in a violent coup, where the dynasty fell by assassination in the night and the immediate succession fell to the High Lord of Blackbay. A nasty man called Dalinyr Blackbay, he started the 3rd Dynasty of Windshine. A much more xenophobic and hateful empire that alienated magic and humans all in favour for the supreme rule of the Silvari people. This new regime creates a divide in humans and elves that lasts right up until the Dark War. The Galari renaissance continues and many ruins on Starlai are discovered. It seems the Mayini were into astronomy, and calculated the days and years by the seasons. They had a new grasp on magic that revolved around the stars and the constellations. It’s believed this was the knowledge that the Mystari wanted from them. Another major discovery during this time was the time travelling cult that worship the mother and father. These people tap into the knowledge of the core to see into future alternative timelines. This is later how Starlai protects itself from the orcish invasions.

Emeraldia:

The Blue Rose Empire and the Crown Commonwealth were neck and neck to be rulers of the next Empire. There was a period of dramatic politics where Houses, Lords and Kingdoms were all swearing fealty to other nations in a bid to become the next powerhouse. It became apparent who would inherit the realm’s throne when Stormdon signed on to House Emerald’s banner. They were adamant to retain their independence since it was the first time in centuries that the Lords of Stormdon didn’t have to answer to a foreign crown. The 3rd Emerald Empire took form, but the Nordic kings and Ramerians decided to decline the offer. Soon after, the War of 7 Statues saw the expulsion of Jinsang flagships from Bronzer’s Claw shipyards. This was an extremely bloody and gruesome war that all participants seem eager to forget. Fleets were burnt in huge oil traps, Jinsang soldiers displayed the dead Emraldi soldiers along the sun dunes, Bronzer gangs and crime organisations began to take over parts of the Bay of Bronzer’s Claw and inflicting their own laws on the local population- both with unlawful taxation too. It was a horrendous period and one of the darkest times in Emeraldia. At the end, the 7 kingdoms of Bronzer’s Claw were forced to unify as one to end the conflict and force both sides out of their home. Surprisingly, being caught between the war of two major empire brought all 7 kings and identities together. Before all this, there was no chance any of them would so much as consider merging. Now, they all stood side by side as the Seven Statues. Thus, the modern day nation of Bronzepoint was formed.

This birth of violence in the founding 3rd empire was the cause for many to lose their trust and reliance in them. It was the closest that both empires ever came to full scale war.

The only colonies to return to Emerald control is Greengorge, Rasaquir and Neos. The 3rd Emerald Empire was still top of its game but, without integral pieces that were lost after the second empire, it just wasn’t looking fortunate for them to exceed their predecessors at any time. This is the last time that the Blue Rose excel beyond House Emerald until after the Dark War.

400 — 100 BDW

Lilacia:

This is the start of the New Era; the 300 years of peace that all nations respected. The Empire of Windshine trades only somewhat with the humans; more specifically the Houses of Stenrode. Goldfall continued with their cu,rural renaissance, more directing their focus around the study of magic and the science and philosophy behind it. All elven kind and any of those with the aptitude for magic across the world all travelled to Goldfall study magic as part of the worlds most advanced era for arcane knowledge. This is also the period where the well renowned book “The Doctrines on Magic” was published, the most famous piece of literature studying magic. The only scene of conflict was during 252 BDW, when Greckhlos and Eand ceded from Wargothia to form their own republics. While threats of war were thrown around, very little bloodshed occurred as Wargoth had been focusing their attention on keeping a close eye on the Riftmen. Bloodmen stay with Wargoth in a union of peoples. All is well with the realm.

Emeraldia:

This era was the first period of long lasting peace that the realm had needed for centuries. It was well overdue. The first empire brought the Emerald its military might, the second empire brought them their international status and the third… they studied. A massive boon of Emraldian culture spawned as theatres, literature, art, philosophies on war and strategy all came to life from the spirit of Mankind prospering for 300 years. Many learning academies were built and in some places of the realm, people of almost all classes were now learning to read. While many of the poorer folk remain illiterate, the rates of literacy rose hugely. The Earldoms created under the 5 Houses (Wildren, Warendale, Milton, Maun, Yarda etc..) began to grow in infrastructure. Trade routes and shipping envoys were expended upon and new cities and kingdoms were visiting every year. The 3rd Emerald Empire had a rough start, but this era of peace was enough to prove their place in the history books.

This empire wasn’t entirely rid of its sinister roots, however. Out beyond their realm, they inflicted their will in a deceitful manner. They had attempted to meddle in the affairs of the lizard folk of Kalwo; the Kinieen-Zi and the Kanaan-Zi. Both of these races existed peacefully within the borders of the clan territories for as long as history existed. The Kinieen-Zi lived in the open plains where 21 different clans laid claim. The Kanaan-Zi lived on the other side of the Yellow Mountains, in the Scorched Desert, where 13 clans lived in harmony. These clans once previously lead vast, complex civilisations that were all but destroyed during a cataclysmic event that caused the realm to crack and break up somewhere around the Mystari Era. (A third race of lizard folk—the Kyrrain-Zi—also lived here, but developed their own civilisations deep underground. They since turned to necromancy to survive. They built complex tunnels spanning oceans wide, can turn their skin to stone with magic and eat anything that wanders into their caves. Their necromancy allows them to go without nutrition for years.)

The lack of advanced ruling systems and sovereign claim lead the Emerald Empire’s next colonial exploits here. They first tried the Kanaan-Zi, as they were closer and more convenient. The Desert proved to be much more trouble than it was worth; the locals also made their colonial attempts a burden after displaying an active disdain for the Emraldi traders. They managed to set up a single colony called Sisterlight, among the Vaali Clan territory.

As for the Kinieen-Zi, they suffered far worse fates. The Kanaan-Zi had the harshness of their home terrain to aid them in their repelling of Emraldi soldiers, but their western cousins had only open fields and grasslands. This was also a great enticement for the Emerald; they could exploit their abundance of agricultural opportunity to feed their empire. Starting from 211 BDW, the Empire spent many months meeting with a select few group of clans who openly welcomed them and their ideals; making allies and, in time, plans to help them in their new conquest. At first, they chose only 1 clan to fund- Clan Blackenhart. Their name was translated into Emraldi tongue from Brrauiqel to favour the new customs. Once the conflict started and clans begun to fade out of existence, two others picked up on what the empire was doing. Clan Wessenhold reached out to them for similar support, which they graciously received. Then, Clan Yosol too. They had been doing the same thing since the start of the series of wars, but in order to rival their Wessenhold neighbours. It only worked to such an extent, however, and in time they made the decision to ask for foreign aid just as the other two did. It was 4 years in, and 16 clans had fallen. Only 3 remained, and they had banded together to form The Gyanloom. It was the first unified nation that wasn’t emerald influenced. They were strong enough to hold their own against the emerald puppets too- something they couldn’t tolerate. The Empire sent in 80,000 heavy infantry as reinforcements. What followed was the Doom of Gyanloom- an event that went down in Kalwo history as the day that the old Kinieen-Zi civilisations died forever. What was left in its place was three puppet kingdoms who had completely turned away from their old ways in favour of money and power. The event occurred in 206 BDW; after this, all lizard kind condemned the Emerald Empire. They’ve since been cursed as the Demons of the East and Emraldi people have never been welcome on Kalwo since. Sisterlight as a colony never had an easy existence because of this.

100 — 50 BDW

Lilacia:

The beginning of the decline. The Empire of Windshine comes to a messy end. The Goldfall Kingdom had been funding riots, protests and acts of rebellion for years prior to the event. Their schemes riled up the Elves of Brownleaf and Windshine-controlled Northern Goldfall. Silverglade was a different story; they had claimed their independence through blood and conflict. a Silvari Battlemage called Zurphi of Mirrorock had taken it upon himself to lead an uprising in the southernmost region of the province. He was a well practised mage who spent 125 years in Goldfall cultivating his abilities- something he’d later turn around and do with dozens of his own people at a time. He trained the Silverglade elves, who couldn’t afford to travel to Goldfall, in the Arcane arts all while inadvertently creating a generation of elves who looked up to him as the face of the new era. The love for magic came back in their hearts and due to this, the Empire of Windshine had him executed. This attempted display of power backfired as thousands rallied in the cities, all with arcane knowledge, ready to fight. Between the years 97-94 BDW, a rebellion lead against the empire run rampant through the peninsula. In the first half, they managed to set up an occupied territory that reached up to the 3 Gargoyle Valleys. Zurphi’s Stronghold, as it was known, was the foundation for the modern day Kingdom of Silverglade. At the end of the war, the stronghold had moved all the way to Lake Whyte. After the riots and civil unrest grew across Windshine, they were forced to surrender and give Silverglade back its full autonomy. Zurphi’s son, Renhill, was the new face of the kingdom and had been granted the title of the Phoenix for his ferocious elemental magic abilities. At the end of the conflict, Renhill Phoenix was crowned King and the new dynasty started.

Other nations of Lilacia didn’t sit idle either. House Quinswich of Stenrode was the sight of a gruesome conflict between the western territory and the Emerald Empire controlled territory in the east. For a time, the east side of House Quinswich’s territory was subject to annexation from the 3rd Empire. This was something that came from a new Emraldi Doctrine regarding a new destiny to reform their once inconsequential grasp on the Realms. What followed was an extensive civil war that saw corruption rise massively in the coastal cities. One city in particular, Jarinsford, unique for residing within the confines of a huge cave along the cliff face, became home to thousands of outlaws and gangs who secretly built networks of tunnels for hideouts, meet-ups and easy escape from authorities. The Emerald-Stenrode War lasted between 70-63 BDW. Before that, the foreign empire held the territory for 18 years; with small conflicts being a perpetual threat from the very beginning. House Carthstorm and Bluestone sent aid to Quinswich as they too were repulsed at the idea of an Emerald conquest in their borders.

(This is also when the first book of rhiiok is found- the Book locked away in Brownleaf and guarded by the Redwood Order. It was used by its founder and champion during the riots against Windshine. After the champion was killed, the Book was locked away)

Emeraldia:

Things for the 3rd empire take a turn for the worse when they introduce the One Realm Doctrine- a manifest declaring the Emerald Empire the best thing for all mankind and sets eyes on bringing all of mankind under their domain. Emperor Gaius III said all mankind across all 6 Realms would one day fly their banner. It was an ambitious claim, but the emperor was looking to ignite something revolutionary after 3 centuries of peace. He started his plan with Lilacia- with the Stenraadi. He believed the Houses of Stenrode would be a great start. From there, he planned to move onto the Mountain Men and the Forest Men. However this ambition far surpassed their capabilities as the Emerald Empire suffers its first defeat in history against a kingdom of another realm. The War of the Bloodstone, later documented, was the biggest war that the Emerald Empire had ever lost (excluding the Dark War). Beyond this point, the empire would never regain its strength before the inevitable War of the World. The homeland remains as one for the time being, but the Lords trust begin to wain and Royal families begin to bicker endlessly. They lose Neos as a colony after Lilacian nations condemn the Emerald Flag. This is to be the last time that Emraldi rulers would be trusted and allowed to return for a long time.

50 — 40 BDW;

Entering more recent and widely documented history. This is considered by many to be the start of the Dark Age of Orbis. From here, things only go from bad to worse and nothing will be better until 100 ADW.

Lilacia:

As the Phoenix Dynasty begins in Silverglade, Windshine ushers in a new lifestyle of the reserved noble. A new family was elected to rule the nation now that the empire had gone, one called the Ventross Family. They were from Silverglade originally after being exiled for supporting the rebellion in their respective region miles out of the Whyte Lake. Isolationism and fundamental values are the founders of their new society following the collapse of their empire. This new Windshine is loved by all and in celebration to this new kingdom, the Basillica of Gladix is built. Around it, the Whitepheonix Grand City is constructed. This becomes the second largest building in Lilacia after the City of Xanxes turned Temple of Axylhan. The Treaty of 3 Crowns is signed and the Blackbay parallel is drawn up; a long straight border between Goldfall and Windshine as a symbol of equal power between Galari and Silvari.

Silverglade also construct the City of Ten Towers. This was to be the centrepiece of all elven culture as all Gladix, Domini and Draoix found presence in the city through their new cathedrals. The largest statues in Lilacia were built in their honour to forever oversee and protect Silverglade from foreign authorities. This was in fact a good time for the elves, but a short lived one.

Meanwhile, Wargoth and Bloodmen go to war. The union collapses as the Bloodmen Clans grow increasingly upset with their pretentious and demanding overlords in the higher mountains. They were called the War of Lilac Bay, and it continued up until the Dark War after numerous stalemate conflicts between the two.

Emeraldia:

Turmoil across the 3rd Empire. The Storm and Horosian Lords make exceedingly difficult demands and the Thorn Lords of Blue Rose are making friends with the Sun Kings of the Moors. House of Emerald loses much of its reputation after considerable riots across all the Earldoms. The Kanaan-Zi chase the Emraldi out of Sisterlight during the Vaali Uprising of 47 BDW. Despite this, the Jinsang Empire collapsed- meaning Emraldi merchant ships could finally show their faces in Ming Tao again. The Kingdom of Greyrock is the first to cede from the empire officially after long tensions between them and the other Northern Lords was funded by the Emerald to bully into staying, which failed and angered the Greyrock King. The Nordic Chiefs welcomes them to the independent world.

40 BDW — DARK WAR

Lilacia:

The 4 decades before the war was relatively peaceful. Around 20 BDW, shipmates and patrol boats had been receiving increasing reports of Orcs and Orcish vessels far in the distance. The whispers of the return of Orcs had sparked panic into everyone across the realm and due to this, no one would invest in any internal conflict. All Kings and Lords were prying for sufficient evidence and working overtime at talking the rumours down as nothing but just that- rumours. But, at the turn of the year after 1 BDW, they came.

During the 35 years-spanning conflict, Orcs invaded every realm as a means to ethnically cleanse Orbis. All places in Lilacia was conquered aside from the Wargothos Mountains. All men from the southern plains and the great forest fled deep into the mountains. Elves were fighting constantly to regain their home, the Halflings were turned into slaves and many shipped back to Volcor. The Kamaali were well defended in their crevice Strongholds. Orcish subjugation inflicted on all life across the realm.

It was later into the war when two new races of elves had been discovered living in deeply isolated communities both in contrast of one another- the Cytosi and the Dremosi. The ‘Si’ in Old Mystari, the first elven language, meant Elf but in a different, lesser-standing context to the ‘Ari’ counterpart. The Cytosi lived in white stone cities on and within the summits of the highest Wargothos mountains; above and beyond the clouds. These elves were more pink in nature and resembled more human-like skin tones, while still possessing strong typical elven features. These elves were introduced to the humans who were misplaced during the War of the World and indulged in their culture of excessive drinking and singing. These were much friendlier elves compared to the cave dwelling counterparts, the Dremosi.

The Purple, translucent Elves had the longest ears of all elves, used as a substitute for whiskers in cave tunnels. Their culture was very heavily magic oriented. They used magic to see in the caves and survive- they were among the best in the world at magic. They lived deep within the caverns of the Southeast of the Wargothos region. Their homes, filled with 600 feet tall fully submerged canyons and colour changing mushrooms metres high, were the

AST to be discovered by society due to their lack of knowledge of the of outside world. During the 35 years, many Dremosi followed the Orcish routes back through and into the outside world. Legends told of caves that emitted a purple hue and swallowed people alive always kept people,e away from these rock valleys, but little did they realise of who was waiting on the other side. Some Dremosi settled in the open plains further to the south and west; they were able to hold their own against Orcs. Their connection to magic was so much more attuned than the likes of any other race, they were just naturally masters of it. This would later become a major threat to the realm.

At the end of the 35 years of total war, the humans and elves sought an alliance and finally outcasted the Orcish invaders. Mere weeks before this, they had awoken the long resting Lich Lord of the Banovkor Dynasty after thousands of dormant years elevated in a perpetual state of metaphysical existence. He had created a pocket dimension to house his slumbering armies and allies. Emperor Valgos had this place built so that he could escape the Mystari Purge over 2,000 years ago. Upon his awakening, the Orcish legion stationed nearby the temple was slaughtered in an unprecedented display of force by the Dark Elven Warriors which is later referred to as the Tragedy of the 3rd Legion- where over 70,000 Orcs were killed in a day. At the end of the Dark War, the entire realm was left displaced and broken. Incoming the century long period of chaos known as the Age of Troubles.

Emeraldia:

The realm suffers more tedious bickering and threat of dissolution and civil war during its last decades. Around 19 BDW, the first Nordic fisherman began reporting sights of Orcs and vessel ships coming around the far north. The rumours are written off as nothing more than sinister-looking explorers; but they never once lied. At the turn of the year, they came.

Orcish warships landed in the north and south, making their way towards one another. Throughout the 35 years, they conquered all but the very far parts of the Nordic lands like Whitehold, Palemyst and Joraan. They were too cold and bitter for the invaders, and all Nordic peoples joined up the cause to defend their ancestral home- making the attack significantly more delayed.

Outside of the North, Upper Stormdon and the Dark Wood were the only two places where humans successfully held off Orcish attacks. The Basilisk Cult thrived on this after utilising the abundance of corpses to build their undead army. The Knights of Stormdon would find their fame throughout this period and later come to be known as some of the greatest warriors across the world. Everywhere else, however, struggled immensely. The subjugation and brutality felt from the outlandish occupiers was nothing like anyone else had experienced before. People began to believe that the Gods were passing judgement and a reckoning was underway.

People across the realm banded into militias who waved the flag of their Earldom or Kingdom. They took up forts and held off however long they could. Central Emeraldia became a barren war zone during this time. The Throat of the Emerald fell to Orcish control, but many hundreds of civilians were sheltered in the Palace of Emperors in the capital. It held its own for 5 years before falling to its inevitable demise. Bronzers Claw became the main hub for every Volcor invasion of Orbis- where many statues and monuments were erected in celebration to the Highness of Volcor. Very few remained up after the war.

Much of the cartels and criminal organisations in Bronzepoint society find their roots here after supplying safe passage, food and income to the Bronzer people. Teal-Point also shares a similar tale, but the organisations there bring in more of the likes of rare, stolen potions and drugs from places like Umoyah, Rameria and the Ar’Maaljhal desert.

When the Dark War drew to a close and all Orcs were called home, the militias had only small strongholds in certain regions of the continent, the biggest being the North Stormdon stronghold. A new generation of blood and war had been bred to combat the foreign evil; something that would lead Emeraldia down a path they’d come to regret.

DARK WAR – 30 ADW

Lilacia:

The first decades are long and enduring. Many towns are rebuilt and continental efforts to restore the realm is underway. In 28 ADW, another attack from the Emerald Resurgence took place at Denwater Creek in the Northern territories of the Bloodmen Kingdom. The combined efforts of the Bloodmen clans, the Mountain Men and some Stenraadi successfully repelled their force and resulted in the loss of over 27,000 Emraldi Soldiers, and only 3,000 Lilacian men. There was a huge slave revolt in Kamaalihold. Tens of thousands of Faesiul rose up in a violent stance against the Kamaali who had been oppressing them for a millennia. Many who were kidnapped and taken from their families all filled with rage and vengeance begun burning Down their wooden structures within ravines and crevices. Hundreds of Kamaali were killed and after many months, they were forced to let their slavery policies go in exchange for peace. This wouldn’t be the last time the kamaali practised slavery, but it is the last time it would ever be legal.

Emeraldia:

Chaos ensues. Emperor Lucan II of the Emerald Resurgence decrees that the realm must be ruled as one to avoid another war like that. The whole generation now in power grew up on brutality, chaos and conflict. When the Emperor begun his conquest, a raging flood of horrific war tragedies, acts of evil and terror along with the slaughter of thousands including innocents clouded the Central Emeraldian region. This new Empire was much more oppressive and forceful. They favoured shedding fields of blood as opposed to diplomacy. In an era following the worst disaster in the last 2,000 years, peace was a dying tradition; more and more generations were being born into war and nightmarish scenarios. Hatred was being distilled in every household across the realm.

The Emperor had also amassed his navy that had recently finished being repaired and replaced from the Dark War Times. They attempted to invade Denwater Creek in Lilacia and the Ghost Valley west of Yellownight. Both invasions resulted in failures- quite drastically so, too. The armada of Yellownight-hired mercenary ships outnumbered the Emerald fleet 12 to 1. This was in part of all various peoples eagerness to send the green pearl banner away. They lost 172 Ships that same month of their invasion attempt. Their embarrassing repellent forced them to look elsewhere for colonies- leading their ventures towards the likes of Ar’Maaljhal.

30 — 100 ADW

Lilacia:

It’s been one of the most chaotic string of decades Lilacia has faced since the Scourged Empire era. The entire realm was reshaped geopolitically and mentally forever. The War of the Cursed Lands between the Riftmen and the Old Mystari raged on as both sides laid claim to the ancestral seat of both their ancestors. This conflict started around 55 ADW and is still raging on to this day. Tens of thousands have lost their lives in a gruesome series of battles which seemingly has no end. The Wargothos Mountains were a sight of extortion after Grand Wargoth marched into Greckhlos and Bloodmen territory and planted their banners. This lead many into skirmishes and unwanted fights in order to stop the higher Kingdom from further pushing their agenda.

The newly established kingdoms of Cytos and Dremos were huge topics of discussion for very different reasons; the Mountain Elves had developed a very close relationship with Wargoth. They were considered a threshold to the rest of the realm, but the Harbinger of Cytos, an older individual called Randos Tyr, had more traditionalist views and despised his peoples new-founded love for the excessive drinking, war obsessed humans further down the mountains. He banned them from entering the kingdom after learning of both peoples social gatherings and festivities. This only enticed them into secrecy and many wargothians were smuggled in for nights of drinking and singing. It was a joyous time for the Cytosi; they’d finally met the outside world and they loved each other equally. It was this lack of discern for the Harbinger’s laws that lead to the subsequent genocide against his own people. Over a million Cytosi were killed in an executed slaughter whereby soldiers bashed down home fronts and butchered anyone and everyone who wasn’t a sworn loyalists of the crown. The capital was the only fortress left unharmed due to Randos’ belief that they were the purest and only worthy city fortress. This granted them co tinted existence- until the Grand Wargoth armies marched up the mountain to avenge all the Wargothian peoples killed in the process. This whole event took place over the course of 63-67 ADW and resulted in the collapse of most of Cytos. Only a few fortresses resting atop mountains remained. These cities were brought into the Wargothian fold to be nurtured and aided back to normality. All Cytosi had been forced to move out their homes during the conflict so efforts were made to accommodate the survivors. The Oakmen Clans were called upon to assist the reestablishment of their homes and to be introduced to their new elven neighbours. Labourers and food were brought in; the Forest and Mountain Men had become stern friends to the remaining Cytosi. Following up to the end of the century, the kingdom of Cytos returned but in a much smaller fashion. Their humour and ecstatic culture soon returned as festivals were held to celebrate their new nation and friends. The Harbinger was killed at the end of the conflict between Wargoth and his body was hung out for display for 7 days. A new ruler had been elected, a woman called Gyline Fenwick; a very human name which she adopted from the family who saved her back in 65 ADW.

This doesn’t end here. The Dremosi people were the biggest reason for continental change. Lord Chancellor Farasyl Vox was the first ruler of the Cave Elves to take the trip to the surface and witness the new Elven towns and settlements rising from the ground. They were extending into the surrounding plains and building hollowed out civilisations within overhangs. This all seemed progressive, but there were some in his counsel who believed they needed to try something new in order to rival the land dwelling kingdoms. There was plot devised by his personal Emissary, Ralkess Veranok, would soon commence- he had been in cohorts with a Demon Lords of the Dark Realm. Dra’motiz, the Lord of Rage and Anger, was soon summone into the mortal plane, bringing with him his entire full strength and army of Lesser Demons. It was 71 ADW when he first set foot somewhere in the Wargothos Mountains, but him and Ralkess had arranged a meeting. With his army of Demons, Dra’motiz and his Emissary ally plotted and succeeded a coup against the Lord Chancellor. It’s success is credited mostly to the high amount of support Ralkess had prior to enacting his plan. What followed for the next 30 years was a conquest across Lilacia that almost saw a realm fall to the dominion of the Empire of Dremos. The Houses of Stenrode, Northern Windshine, South Rimon, Brownleaf, Kamaalihold, Silverglade and Clan Misaan of the Oakmen people were subject to a paramount oppression. Their enforcer was their elite use of magic that not even the Galari could match. Stenraadi people were openly executed as to deter any rebelling. The Stenrode policy was introduced for 22 years- a Dremosi Arcane Master would be sent to Govern every city and all 5 Royal families after repeated attempts to fight back. This saw the loss of 2,200,000 civilian lives over the course of the entire period. Windshine was soundly defeated after they had just won the 3rd Elven War- a conflict where they were forced to defend their homeland from the allies of Silverglade and Goldfall. For a short period, Galari forces held parts of South Windshine, but gave up the land to avoid conflict with Dremos. The Emperor Dra’motiz demanded biyearly sacrifices to recruit thralls into his army and bring them back to the Dark Realm. Lord Chancellor Ralkess, now the governor of his home nation, set out on a journey across the realm to see that his will was enforced. For the last 30 years of the century, it was a new and dark place. Dark purple clouds befell the continent and no sunlight graced the fields for years at a time. Eventually, magic has to be used to grow and sustain crops; further deepening the Realms reliance of Dremos. Demons patrolled the roadways bullying and harassing anyone they encountered. The darkrest reaches of existence now lived among and dictated the land of mortals.

Emeraldia:

The new Colonies in Ar’Maaljhal were proving to be very beneficial for the Emerald Resurgence. The Gold mines, exotic fruits, luscious beaches for the higher classes and even better- sunkissed, sweet tongued natives who call themselves Eranids. They were much more pleasant at first, but overtime they became distrustful of the Emraldi people. Both sides developed a mutual respect for one another so that they could both enjoy the foreign goods, but the people tended to keep their meetings as finite as possible. There were Jarazheeni merchants too. They would come around the east all the way from the south, but they were much less frequent. Emeraldian noblemen enjoyed the unique looking designs on crockery, ages and jugs and Jewellery they’d never seen before.

Back in the mainland, the Resurgence Empire was well underway. Lucan II died right at the start of 30 ADW, leaving Percius I (father to the novel’s Percius II) to continue the rampage. The Royal Houses of Central Emeraldia were all brutalised and made examples of. Whole towns and cities were laid to waste in order to demonstrate the new Empire’s might; A power they learnt from the Orcs. Earldoms like Yarda, Milton, Warendale, Teal-Point and Maun returned to Emerald rule. House Horosia and Blacklion received the worst of the attacks. The Centaurs of the Iron Mountains were instructed to either accept their rule or die. The strongest of the clans, Beastrock, attempted to repel them but soon became their next victim. The Ramerian peninsula activated a centuries old design called the Cloud of Rameria- a fog covering the borders and skies of the nation full of toxins and poisons, all of which the natives are immune to. It would cause anyone who inhaled it to convulse until their blood and organs are all coughed up. This was the lone reason the Resurgence Empire left them alone. The Northern Lords of Furcas, Edinar and Blackborow were ushered into their fold too. This time, peacefully. They had welcomed the Emerald Banner to everyone surprise. The Lords had already been bickering between themselves for years prior on this very topic. The other 3 Lords disagreed- Greyrock, Palewater and Wildstone. All these men were from very isolated and defendable nations that would easily stand their ground to the Empire solely down to their terrain advantage. They worried little for the threat they faced after taking such action. Greyrock had some of the highest and most rigged mountains in the world, their forts and cities are built within/around the base of these mountains and higher up. Both Wildstone and Palewater were protected by miles of coastal mangroves and marshlands. Sure, the forests could be invaded, but only half the populations live within the forests. Both nations seat of power also live deep within the Marshes. These people were much more comfortable within their murky waters and dim lit skylines. These marshes weren’t as tame as the Rose Marsh in the south either- it was much darker and full of threats. People were much more vicious here. The Resurgence Empire were stopped in their tracks.

Two decades later, and the aged Emperor Percius I begun his next conquest, in the South. Around 74 ADW, Wildren’s occupation was the start of another long conflict. Instead of them falling quick this time, both Stormdon and Blue Rose aided and forcibly expelled the Empire. This is when the War of 3 Kings started. The Emerald Emperor, the King of Stormdon and the High King of Blue Rose all clashed in an epic and violent way. The famous Knights of Stormdon made mockery of the Empire’s Legions, forcing them to go on the defense after they themselves begun gaining territory. Blue Rose wasn’t doing so well after trying to protect both themselves and Wildren. Emerald persistence exhausted their soldiers after so many years. Usually, they could defend much easier with the additional aid of the marshes, but the emperor had his armies train in guerrilla warfare after certain defeats in

Wildstone that they’d soon rather forget. After 14 years of conflict, Blue Rose had fallen after losing over 100,000 soldiers. It was a humiliating defeat following horrendous war crimes committed by the Resurgence Empire. Wildren swiftly fell too. The war concluded as a stalemate between Stormdon and the Emerald. The Grand Kingdom of Stormdon had added new land to its borders. This was not an enemy the Emerald Resurgence would be able to defeat solely on brutality; especially now that the War of the World really toughened them up.

100 — 120 ADW

Lilacia:

The Age of Troubles reaches peak intensity in the first few years. The Demon Lord who rules over most of the realm grows in power everyday. No one knew how one could be stopped- or where he would stop. This is where the Maskari is introduced. Silverglade’s Phoenix Dynasty had been fighting against Dremos for as long as the Empire had existed. The Kingdom of South Silverglade has borders all the way up to the 3 Gargoyle Valleys, as it was the best tactical advantage they had. King Renhill had passed away some years ago and their new King Kivann Phoenix had a grand plan that would inevitably go on to save Lilacia from these dark times. He called upon some of the most well renowned Silvari Arcane Masters and Dissectors of Flesh from top universities to construct and recreate the complete anatomy of an elven figure; built out of parts from every single race of elf. It was believed that this Individual would inhibit arcane knowledge of each race that could be combined to create history’s most gifted elf to ever live. The Woodari composition would give them the ability to use Forest magic. The Galari would allow them to cultivate combat magic. The Silvari would grant it world altering and external manipulation magic. The Mystari would boost its Shadow magic. The Illumari would give it a higher connection to all life without discerning or prioritising any particular life form the Dremosi would allow it to be far deeper attuned to magic than the rest of the elves. The Cytosi would give the Maskari more natural strength, to match that of a human (Man is gifted with more muscle and body strength than elves as a natural advantage).

The first time they tried to bring this figure to life, it failed. Some advisors warned that puppeteering with life on such a scale is something only a God can do- so that’s what they did. The High Priest for the Silverglade Temple of Draoix was summoned so that he could represent the presence of the God of Magic within the room. Kivann was going to transfer his consciousness into the body instead, too. It was deemed that passing an existing consciousness would be much easier and safer than summoning a posthumous soul back from rest. They prayed all night whilst Necromancers and Arcane Masters worked tirelessly to accomplish this goal. Tales reacting the night claim that an embodiment of Draoix himself appeared to everyone in that room and personally breathed life into the Maskari before disappearing without a moment left. The final result was a success. Kivann’s lifeless corpse replaced the now living and walking Maskari King.

What followed was an unprecedented series of events that many disregard as being false or exaggerated for storytelling. The Maskari King’s Powers were so great, he used a similar ritual to summon Huulnrad, the Demon Lord of the Dead and Unholy Executioner. This ritual is believed to have killed the Maskari in the process as he was never found or seen alive after this. Huulnrad had not brought his armies with him, but his full strength had joined him in the mortal plane. Both Demon Lords met face to face in the Mountain range separating Goldfall and Silverglade- now called Demon’s Ascent. They fought one another for 3 whole days, using everything they had to overpower and kill the other. The skies had opened up and reality was being torn apart by this very battle. Portals to Periods of time in the past and future were opening all over the world. Magical barriers were being ripped open and physical things were cancelled out of existence. Entire mountains were swallowed during this. This event was called the Great Boom of the World. It was the greatest and most chaotic event to happen on orbis since the fall of the precursor civilisation, the Prometheans. All demons that were able to flee to orbis in the past, like the ones residing in the Abyss or Queen Xaanaaii from 874 BDW, all came to the mortal world because of this event. Rifts in time and reality were opening and allowing mortals and demons alike to cross into each other’s realms. It was this very reason that the Serpent Demon Rhiiok was able to scatter his 13 Books across the world. (His plan was well orchestrated. Once the battle was over and the rifts all closed, the books will remain where he placed them, both in their time periods and locations. This would become a prophecy that he tells to his Basilisk cult following- they’ll set out to find these books afterwards). It was Lord Chancellor Ralkess Veranok who sent them home. After enough ruptures had been opened and the battle rendering them weak, Lord Ralkess used his power as an Arcane Master to banish them back to the Dark Realm; with it, their armies and power. Once they dematerialised from Orbis, the tears in reality all closed. The stability of mortal and immortal existence had returned to its usual balance. Despite this, the rifts were open long enough to cause sincere damage to the timeline’s integrity. It would be another decade or so until people begin to realise how exactly it was damaged. No one could possibly be able to know that all demon presence on Orbis stems from this one event in time, but people would soon start theorising once written pieces discussing the battle are published.

After this, the Empire of Dremos relaxed on their oppression. Lord Ralkess formally aapologised to the people of Lilacia and dissolved the new Dremos back into its original territory before disappearing without a trace. This action prompts Wargoth to do the same; Bloodmen and Greckhlos are freed in the name of peace for the realm. Enough was enough. It was time for an Era of Peace to commence.

The Mystari won the War of the Cursed Lands and Ryfklin End was forced into its eastern corner of the peninsula. All nations were finally free and happy. Joyous continental wide celebrations took place in every city. It had been just under 200 years since the Dark Age had started- now it was ending. As for Lord Ralkess, his whereabouts is unknown. It’s speculated that he went to the Dark Realm to gain power and immortality as a Lich. (He’s actually out searching for the Books of Rhiiok. He was at the eye of the storm, so he knows everything about what and who came out of the rifts in time). The Stenraadi Houses regained their positions and the Dremosi were condemned to isolation from the rest of the realm. The divide between North and South of Rimon had drastically changed during the 2nd War of Rimin, that saw Oakmen and Stenraadi soldiers both aid the North in an attempt to push away the Elven supported kingdom. After the Empire of Dremos let the South go, the coalition of man was free to march on them. Queen Sereene Highmoon and her allies forced the South into the corner against the River Whytelin. The North finally held dominion over their side of the Grand Lilacian Forest.

Emeraldia:

The rule of the 4th Emerald Empire begins. They recently made an appearance in Ming-Tao. The Fynn kingdoms weren’t happy about this. There was a lengthy battle in 108 ADW after the Empire tried to reel a curtain over Rasaquir; all Fynn peoples sent aid to keep them off their shores. The end result was a smaller colony called West Rasaquir being set up on the western coast. The nation itself only lost small territory, but the new colony would soon come to rival their economy after the empire poured boats worth of money into the construction and trade with their new colony. As of 120 ADW, it’s the fastest growing place in Ming Tao- making itself a large threat to the other Fynn trading kingdoms. Emperor Percius II had decided to use a strategy that contrasted his fathers; diplomacy. He made friends with Stormdon and larger nations in their respective regions like Bronzepoint and Joraan. His ferocity and sinister reputation in combat still matched that of previous recent emperors, that would soon be seen during his new conquest starting 119 ADW, when he begins to tackle northern kingdoms in the name of his empires expansion. The 4th emerald empire will come to be known as the hated one- built on brutality, unorthodox tactics and borderline evil use of force against opposing forces. None better than the King of Blue Rose who, in the novel, would come to lead the rebellion and change the tide of the story entirely. In 120 ADW, the Emperor will be invited to Joraan to meet with the eternal king about a discovery in the Far North. It’s also when the first Book of Rhiiok will be brought to public attention after being discovered in Upper Stormdon.

Further trouble will be met in the 5 colonies of Ar’Maaljhal when the Golden Harpy of the Dahabiz Empire will show up to tell the Emraldi colonisers to leave or be slaughtered. An Emerald Prince will be dispatched as a negotiator to represent their own interests. It’s only a matter of time before fate decides the next part of the brief history…

Thank you for taking the time to read more of the world building I’ve been writing in anticipation for the release of my first novel set in the same fantasy world. More like this will eventually be uploaded once they’re all polished and peeffected. I’m very excited to be releasing more of my fictional creation!

Dan, July 2020