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A Dwarven clan discovers the opal-laden sandstone cliffs along
Solhaven Bay's eastern end. Discovering natural caverns beneath
the cliffs, the clan establishes a new community within the
caverns, enlarging and embellishing the existing chambers and
mining the gem-rich strata.
c. 3775
A small Dwarven hunting party returns to the Solhaven caverns
to discover that their community has been wiped out. Only dismembered
limbs and great swaths of blood remain of the thriving enclave's
population. Rumors persist to the present day, but the true
nature of what slaughtered the Dwarven families beneath the
cliffs of Solhaven, if it is known, is a secret held by the
dwarves. The few survivors gather the remains of the deceased,
seal the caverns and inter the remains beneath a massive boulder
at the head of the nearby falls. Christening the waterfall "the
Cascade of Tears", the Dwarven survivors abandon the location
and return to the mountains to the northeast.
c. 3961
The Kannalan Empire, a loosely defined "empire"
comprised of mostly Halflings, Humans and Giantmen, falls to
the combined effects of internal strife and humanoid and barbarian
assaults. From the central territory south of the DragonSpine
and west of Ta'Nalfein, the humanoids drive the refugees westward.
An elven family fleeing the razing of the northernmost Kannalan
city of Ziristal finds refuge on a large island in the middle
of the Cairnfang River, near modern Solhaven. Drawn to the
relative safety of the island retreat, other refugees swell
the ranks of the settlement to the point that hostile humanoids
in the area begin to attack the island with increasing frequency.
The founding family, whose common tongue name has survived
as "Wildwood", organizes the defense of the island,
and the construction of a castle and extensive battlements
is begun.
A handful of isolated imperial outposts resist the crumbling
of the empire, while others are abandoned or overcome by various
foes. River's Rest, the Kannalan Empire's western port city,
struggles against the ensuing chaos, and the Kingdom of Elanith
holds as a place of refuge for those fleeing the anarchic
remains of the fallen empire. The commander of The Citadel
maintains his post and the surrounding territory falls under
his leadership. Seven other cities, including the empire's
capital city of Veng, fall as the empire crumbles. Only three
other western Kannalan cities survive the collapse: Toullaire,
Kedshold and Gor'nustre.
The influx of refugees bolsters the independent towns of
Elstreth, Kai Toka, and Tamzyrr greatly, as the refugees settle
in the areas surrounding the holdings. The remaining cities
of the former Kannalan Empire continue in a feeble trading
alliance, but the internal strife that preceded the collapse
of the empire continues and the alliance exists in name only.
The next 300 years are fraught with petty squabbles between
the cities and repeated assaults by humanoids. Scholastic
advancement during this period slows to a near halt.
c. 4011
After nearly fifty years of successfully withstanding the
chaotic aftermath of the Kannalan collapse, the last in a line
of several commanders of The Citadel is assassinated. The Council
of Mages, which had been appointed as an advisory council to
the commander, takes temporary leadership of the small territory.
4045
Founding of Voln's first monastery by Manor Lord Fasthr K'Tafali
near Kedshold, a surviving city of the former Kannalan Empire.
c. 4058
The Council of Mages' "temporary" control lasts
for roughly fifty years. Conflicting philosophies, incompatible
policy goals, racial animosity and clashes of personality and
ego all serve to divide the Council into constantly shifting
factions. These internal conflicts cripple the Council's ability
to act and govern effectively. Bands of marauding trolls and
orcs begin to raid territories once under the protection of
the Citadel. This rapid collapse deepens the Council's internal
strife, making it even less effective.
Increasingly aggressive trolls are joined in a temporary
alliance by some krolvin raiders, who have long, lingering
memories of the days when the Citadel represented a major
territorial power. Together, this alliance successfully overruns
and loots the Citadel compound, and as the people of River's
Rest flee the invaders, the Kingdom of Elanith falls. The
survivors of the attack flee northward toward Fairport, swelling
the seaport's population.
4168
Dark sorcerous forces inhabiting the wilderness north of Solhaven
Bay organize an attack by the disparate humanoid factions. Wildwood
family members stage a last ditch defense of the island as less
magically capable members of the community flee to the mainland.
Mystical energies blast the island and its fortifications throughout
the storm-wracked night. In the bleak light of dawn, no sign
of any survivors can be seen, and some form of powerful ward,
presumably raised in defense, prevents any sentient being from
setting foot on the island for centuries to come. Wildwood Island
survivors construct a makeshift fort atop the cliffs south of
the Cairnfang River, and under the fort's protection a fishing
village is built on the golden beaches below the cliffs.
4222
Tamzyrr enters a trading and defense alliance with Elstreth
and the city of Kai Toka on Kezmon Isle. The trading alliance
helps the three cities grow tremendously, particularly Tamzyrr,
as it is the port that the other two cities must trade through.
The defense alliance exists on parchment only and never results
in a cooperative military effort.
4240
The Kingdom of Torre is founded in the area surrounding Maelstrom
Bay. The capital city of Fairport accounts for most of the kingdom's
population, with the rest being scattered fishing villages and
farmsteads.
4270
Tamzyrrian Overlord Simlorn Anodheles dies, and his only daughter,
Selantha Anodheles, takes control of Tamzyrr.
4273
Elstreth is besieged by an army led by the Elven bandit-lord
Terilithian. Unable to repel the mercenary army alone, Elstreth
requests military aid from Tamzyrr; Overlord Selantha Anodheles
mobilizes her army to respond. Two days before Selantha's army
arrives, Lord Jestril of Elstreth is slain in his sleep by an
assassin. The Tamzyrrian army reaches Elstreth in time to prevent
the mercenary army from overtaking the city, and with Selantha's
victory the city of Elstreth declares her to be Lord Jestril's
successor.
Animosity towards Elven citizens is on the rise as word of
the Elven bandit attack on Elstreth is carried to the allied
cities and beyond. Humans have not forgotten that Elves once
kept them as slaves and there have long been hard feelings
between the races.
4274
Selantha bolsters the defenses of Elstreth with a permanent
garrison of Tamzyrrian troops to prevent another bandit attack.
As time passes, the merchants of Elstreth accept her rule since
it is no more restrictive than Lord Jestril's.
4276
Selantha offers her governance to the city of Kai Toka in
order to further solidify the alliance, "in the interest
of protecting the fair citizens of Kezmon and improving their
economic state". Kai Toka politely refuses the offer.
4277
Over the course of three months, nearly a quarter of Kezmon's
shipping is raided and plundered by pirates, resulting in a
food shortage for the isle. Overlord Selantha again makes her
offer to Kai Toka, and in a surprising public address, Lord
Gursten accepts. With Tamzyrrian escorts, merchant ship losses
become virtually nonexistent.
4278
The wizard Jaxillar presents the legendary blade Searswathe
to Selantha during her coronation as Empress of the Turamzzyrian
Empire, during which Tamzyrr is declared the capital city. The
"empire" at this point is little more than a small
collection of allied city-states, but Selantha's vision is to
bring many more of the surrounding cities under her control.
4280
Empress Selantha sends emissaries to the cities of Kedshold,
Lolle, Waterford, and Gor'nustre offering them her protection
from the Giantmen and human clans that assault the cities' caravans.
The cities all refuse the offers.
4281
Gor'nustre loses an entire caravan carrying expensive woods
in a particularly brutal massacre by Elven bandits. In a surprising
but irrational response, Gor'nustre publicly blasts Selantha
as being the instigator of the attack and claims that she is
using Elven bandits to try to force them into the Empire. Kedshold
and Toullaire join with Gor'nustre in open defiance of Empress
Selantha, creating the Kannalan Alliance, and they break off
trade with the Empire. Imperial emissaries sent to the three
cities are whipped and returned to Tamzyrr. Outraged at this
affront, Empress Selantha declares war upon the Alliance.
Negative public reaction towards Elven citizens increases,
and the underlying animosity rises to a more vocal level with
the news of the attacks on the Alliance caravans.
4282
The war between the Turamzzyrian Empire and the Kannalan Alliance
continues for six years, with little advantage being gained
by either side. Finally, Selantha advances upon Gor'nustre but
her six month long siege proves futile. The night after the
Imperial army retreats from the walls of Gor'nustre, a rear
scout brings news that the gates of Gor'nustre are lying in
rubble. Selantha's army returns to Gor'nustre and easily takes
the city, burning it to the ground. A wide variety of rumors
are begun surrounding the events leading up to the fall of Gor'nustre,
ranging from a magical accident (primarily supported by the
imperial court), to dragons, demons or wizardry (often "black
Elven wizardry").
4288
Lolle and Waterford are joined under King Thurbon with the
founding of the Kingdom of Hendor. Thurbon immediately begins
bolstering defenses around the two cities and along Hendor's
border. While Elven citizens are not as harassed in Hendor as
they are in the Empire, Elven spellcasters are treated somewhat
harshly in light of the accusations surrounding the defeat of
Gor'nustre.
4290
With Gor'nustre fallen, Kedshold eventually succumbs to Selantha's
army as multiple supply caravans to the city are ambushed and
destroyed. Lady Kemistara surrenders the city to Selantha, who
promptly beheads her and burns Kedshold to ashes.
With its two allied cities gone, weak as the alliance might
have been, Toullaire is now the nearest city to the humanoids
of the old empire, and fighting both Selantha and the humanoids
would be disastrous. In desperation, Toullaire concedes to
Selantha, but Archmage Hergios is never turned over to imperial
forces. Selantha's army burns the wizard's manor, leaving
the rest of the city intact. Hergios is never seen again,
though rumors persist that he is still a powerful force within
Toullaire.
c. 4293
Tension between Turamzzyr and Hendor increases as Selantha's
army has rebuilt after the recent war and seems poised to turn
its attention to the new kingdom. Trade relations are virtually
nonexistent as merchants going each way are treated harshly.
4294
Hendoran soldiers cross the border and attack a small group
of imperial soldiers, leading to Selantha's denouncing Hendor
for "aggressive action against the peaceful citizens of
the Empire" and declaration of war with the Kingdom of
Hendor. King Thurbon denies any attack, but the declaration
of war is not rescinded.
c. 4295
A series of battles with Hendor lead to small gains for Selantha,
but Thurbon's years of preparation prevent her from achieving
any major victories. The decade is filled with minor battles,
up until 4303. The drawn out conflict with Hendor prevents Selantha
from moving on to the Kingdom of Torre, which was likely her
next target.
4302
Empress Selantha Anodheles I dies in Tamzyrr. Her son, Bezzender,
ascends to the throne.
4303
Emperor Bezzender leads a valiant assault against Hendor,
but he is unable to penetrate the defenses of the well-prepared
Hendorans.
4307
Members of the House of Lampion poison Bezzender and his heir
with Luukosian deathwort in an attempt to wrest control of the
throne from the Anodheles family, killing both. The House of
Kestrel has a witness to this treachery, however, and presents
it to the leading families of the empire. Lords Calthus and
Megron Lampion are executed for treason, and Chaston Kestrel
ascends to power as Regent for young Verdel Anodheles, Bezzender's
nephew.
4309
Imperial soldiers capture and behead Ehranon, the grandson
of the bandit-lord Terilithian, whom they claim confessed an
alliance between the Anodheles family and the "sylvan devils".
Verdel Anodheles' family is forced to flee Tamzyrr and the regent
is crowned emperor.
[Note: The other powerful families did not actually accept
this as proof, but there was little incentive to attempt to
refute the regent. The term "sylvan devils" is used
to mean Elvenkind in general, not the Sylvankind. The typical
imperial citizen does not differentiate between the Elven
races: In human eyes, Elves are Elves.]
4310
Chaston declares that all citizens of Elven descent are prohibited
from owning land or businesses. Elven holdings are seized by
the empire, and large emigration of Elven citizens begins. The
Elves migrate easterly into the Wyrdeep Forest, and north, with
many travelling to Hendor. After prophesying a terrible curse
upon the Isle, the Elven archmage Inar'ru leads a group of over
two thousand Elves and half-Elves away from Kezmon in nearly
a score of ships, sailing westward. They are never heard from
again.
[Note: The Wyrdeep Forest is considered within the Turamzzyrian
empire, but the forest is largely uninhabited by civilized
people; the Elves that flee there are generally left alone.]
4312
Thurbon II of Hendor signs a treaty with the Empire, ending
their war. The recent years had only been minor skirmishes,
but this treaty makes the end of the war official and clears
the way for Chaston to look elsewhere for expansion.
c. 4314
Imperial troops march into the foothills of the DragonSpine
mountains, engaging in repeated battles with barbaric Giantmen
clans. Unable to defend against regimented military tactics,
the scattered tribes fall back further into the mountains. Fighting
continues for nearly ten years, after which the imperial army
is finally stopped at a narrow mountain pass. The imperial outpost
of Kragsfell is founded in the southern mountains to mark the
new border of the Empire.
4317
Increased piracy on the shipping lanes between Kai Toka and
Tamzyrr causes an uproar amongst merchants in both cities. The
famed pirate captain Bloody Malovor taunts the imperial government
with his brazen attacks, gaining notoriety by sending any imperial
soldiers and diplomats back to Tamzyrr in gruesome, mocking
displays. Attached to each of the murdered messengers is a bloody
cross over their imperial insignias. Unable to ignore such an
open challenge to himself and the safety of the empire's commerce,
Chaston is forced to focus his attention on developing a stronger
navy for the Empire, which to this point had been largely unnecessary
with the lack of a seafaring enemy.
[Note: The krolvin were a known seafaring threat, but they
seldom raided far enough south to give the Empire concern.]
4319
The flagship of the navy, The Sea Drake, is sunk in a battle
with sea raiders. Due to the increasing necessity for a naval
force, Chaston postpones his designs on the lower DragonSpine
Mountains, though a handful of mines begin operation under the
protection of the imperial army. Over the course of the next
century shipbuilding becomes a major source of income for Tamzyrr,
rivaling the famed shipwrights of Kezmon Isle.
c. 4320
Battles with pirates between Kai Toka and Tamzyrr continue,
with a few legendary pirates becoming very wealthy from their
trade. As the imperial navy gains experience in combating the
raiders, however, buccaneering dwindles. By 4328 the sea raids
have become almost nonexistent, though Malovor is never captured.
4324
Rebel Elves harass imperial citizens and destroy several caravans
as they travel to remote eastern provinces. Imperial troops
respond, crushing the rebellion and forcing the brigands to
flee eastward into the Wyrdeep Forest.
4327
Mount Ysspethos erupts in a violent, fiery display, rocking
the city of Tamzyrr. The imperial palace is badly damaged as
pillars topple and ceilings crush the royalty within. Emperor
Chaston is killed in the catastrophe, as are both of his daughters.
His young cousin, Immuros, ascends to the throne as the closest
surviving heir.
4328
Immuros sets about restoring the shattered city of Tamzyrr,
gaining popularity among the citizens of the empire as he directs
workers to repair public buildings and many of the town's neighborhoods
before allowing them to work on his own palace.
c. 4330
In a drastic change of policy from his predecessors, Immuros
reduces the standing imperial army (though he keeps the navy
intact). Over the next five decades, Immuros institutes programs
for the creation of an empire-wide irrigation system and improved
roads for transportation. Economically, the Turamzzyrian Empire
improves dramatically under his rule.
4332
The town of Krestle is founded near the site of the destroyed
Kedshold.
4335
Immuros initiates a trade agreement with the Kingdom of Hendor,
further solidifying the peace treaty that had been signed twenty
years prior. Hendor sends timber and furs to the Empire while
receiving cloths and crafted goods in return.
c. 4339
With the improved economy and reduction in tension, Hendor
begins expanding northward, conquering orc, ogre and hobgoblin
forces in taking the territory east of the Sea of Fire over
the course of a two-decade campaign. For the first eighteen
years of this campaign only minor gains are made as the Hendoran
army struggles with the great numbers of humanoids in the area.
The "monstrous" horde is led by a shaman lord, Hrg'golg,
and with a well-positioned citadel guarding a major pass leading
northward, Hendor's troops find it a difficult task to oust
the defenders.
4343
Imperial workers begin building the city of Immuron on the
site of fallen Gor'nustre.
4354
An assassination attempt on Immuros fails, and the House of
Urleth is blamed for the treachery. When Harlond Urleth commits
suicide as imperial troops advance on his estate, Immuros makes
a surprising political play in which he declines to officially
punish the surviving members of the family. Instead, he appoints
Xerrem Urleth as lord of the distant Highmount province, trading
imperial lands there for the Urleth estate and holdings. Whether
due to humble acceptance of Immuros' mercy or due to an inability
to pursue further treachery from such a remote location, Immuros
is not threatened by the House of Urleth for the remainder of
his rule.
4357
General Pfelstev of Hendor defeats a combined army of orcs,
hobgoblins and ogres in the Battle of Mensyl Pass, during which
Lord Gyles of Lolle slays the great ogre shaman Hrg'golg. This
battle is a major victory in that it allows human armies to
advance farther north than they have been since the days of
the Kannalan Empire. (Individual Humans have forayed into the
Northlands, but never a large group such as this army).
c. 4359
The emigration of the magically inclined Elves has dramatically
reduced the number of magically trained citizens within the
Empire. In an attempt to reverse this significant decline in
practitioners of magic, Immuros orders the founding of a school
for the study of the arcane arts.
Many of the emigrants have immigrated to Hendor. Hendor is
a predominantly Human nation, yet, and Elven citizens there
are still discriminated against. For the most part segregation
is encouraged, though some miscegenation occurs over time.
4362
The Hall of Mages is founded in Tamzyrr, and the initial response
exceeds Immuros' hopes. The number of imperial spellcasters
increases markedly over the remainder of Immuros' reign.
4367
Immuron is declared the new capital of the Honneland province
with a major festival in honor of the emperor.
4375
Death of Immuros in Tamzyrr leads to the House of Kestrel
splitting into multiple factions. His eldest daughter, Celeste,
is the expected heiress, but her brothers Keilthar and Lurrion
both challenge for the imperial throne. In the first year of
the fighting, Celeste's loyal forces capture Lurrion and he
is executed by her own hand.
4377
As it becomes evident that he cannot topple Celeste from her
throne, Keilthar persuades Elstreth to secede from the empire,
declaring themselves a free city-state. Keilthar is appointed
to Overlord and the imperial garrison at Elstreth swears allegiance
to their new leader after a brief period of infighting. Celeste
declares the city of Elstreth as rebels against the imperial
throne and sends several legions to lay siege to the city.
4378
Lord Keilthar's forces are unable to withstand the imperial
army and they surrender after Keilthar drinks poison to commit
suicide. Celeste orders all officers of the Elstreth garrison
executed (over 200 officers total); the remaining soldiers are
taken back to Tamzyrr as slaves. As a final statement of her
unquestionable authority, she places the eldest child of each
aristocratic family of Elstreth in the imperial dungeons in
Tamzyrr.
While her statement of authority has impact in Elstreth,
Celeste's hold on the throne remains tenuous.
4379
The military is rocked by the Elstreth secession and the loyalty
questions that arise from the split. A sense of self-mistrust
ripples through the forces in the face of such treason, leading
to a heightened call for imperial loyalty being ingrained in
the army training. Additionally, with the loss of several thousand
soldiers to slavery the military is weakened and requires years
to rebuild. Celeste is unable to increase taxation in order
to bolster the military due to her own tenuous hold on power.
While none of the aristocratic families are ever quite powerful
enough to challenge for the throne, they do see a notable
increase in their power within the empire.
As a result, Celeste is a relatively ineffective ruler. With
a weakened military and uncertain strength on the throne,
she spends the bulk of her reign engaged in political maneuvering
to retain her position. To her credit, she does manage to
hold her throne until her death, which is no small feat considering
the state of the empire.
4402
Celeste Kestrel dies when her ship is lost in a storm as she
returns from a trip to Kai Toka. She has no children of her
own and her brothers' children are the children of traitors
to the throne. The House of Kestrel was already teetering on
the throne, and this is the event that pushes them over the
brink. Through the recent years the House of Burzost has been
moving into position for this very event, since it was well
known that there was no clear heir to the throne. With only
a small amount of conflict, Jasdurel Burzost is declared Emperor
of Turamzzyr.
4405
A great wave of Giantman barbarians pours from the DragonSpine,
attacking the Highmount province. Yunnag Stormthrower leads
the massive horde to a quick victory over the fortress of Kragsfell,
during which the entire House of Urleth is slain. Kragsfell
is sacked and burned by the barbarians.
The imperial forces have been itching for a war for decades,
seeking a means to regain the honor that was lost at Elstreth.
Jasdurel sends four legions out to Highmount to engage the
barbarians.
4406
Imperial forces are better trained than the barbarians, and
even outnumber the mountain tribesmen, but the barbarians are
truly at home in the mountainous terrain. After the first few
engagements teach the imperial forces that Yunnag's horde is
a sincerely dangerous foe, the legions respect the barbarians
hold on the area surrounding Kragsfell and set their goal upon
holding the remainder of the Highmount province.
Yunnag proves to be a shrewd leader and the tribes regard
him as the son of one of their deities. Over the course of
the two decades after the defeat of Kragsfell, his fervent
followers are able to push the imperial troops from the mountains
that comprise the eastern half of Highmount.
c. 4410
After two centuries of relative peace, Solhaven Bay's curse
once again rears its head as the thriving fishing town is laid
waste in a single night. The community's future becomes tenuous
as the same calamity befalls the town three times in as many
years. Piecing together the evidence and the distorted accounts
of those who were able to flee each time, visiting sages from
the east conclude that the opal-flecked beaches, which the town
is built on, are a "nesting" ground for kracken. Whether
eggs were actually laid at some time in the distant past, or
whether the sands somehow cause the creatures to simply spring
forth from the ether, the conclusion is that rebuilding the
town will be a waste of time unless all of the sand is removed
first. During the extensive examination of the beaches at the
base of the cliffs, the sealed entrance to the Dwarven caverns
is discovered. An envoy is sent to the nearest Dwarven outpost
to request information and the dwarves' guidance as to whether
the site is sacred and how they might regard the community's
plans and proximity. The envoy returns with a fairly complete
account of the Dwarven enclave's unfortunately brief history
and the assent of the dwarves that the community is welcome
to the beach, the caverns and the cliff top. It is at this time
that the Dwarven name for the falls becomes known and is adopted
as the falls' "real" name. Also, the dwarves' comment
regarding the cliff top fortress is communicated verbatim, and,
although those claiming knowledge in the Dwarven tongue debate
whether "vorn ahvis" means "high sanctuary"
or "high tomb", the name sticks. The cliff top defenses
are expanded as the town is rebuilt high above the beach, and
a decades-long task is begun to excavate all of the sand from
the base of the cliff and haul it a safe distance to the south.
4417
The Kingdom of Torre is annexed by the Turamzzyrian Empire.
4424
Death of Jasdurel. Trynius is crowned emperor.
4431
Yunnag Stormthrower dies. Krulgon the Bear takes control of
the barbarian tribes. While not as much of a tactician as Yunnag
was, Krulgon is still a strong leader and the barbarians remain
steadfast in the mountains for several years.
4437
After a shaman from his clan foretells of great victories
for the barbarian horde, Krulgon leads a large force from the
mountains and into the forested hills of Highmount. General
Reminord lures the barbarians into a large open vale and crushes
them with his well-trained troops. The Battle of Wefter's Vale
is a decisive victory for the imperial troops and Krulgon is
forced to retreat back to the mountains with a severely reduced
force. This battle marks the turning point in the campaign.
Over the next 20 years the imperial forces are able to regain
the mountainous region of Highmount, though they make no more
progress than the border had been in the days of Kragsfell.
4451
Emperor Trynius, the despotic son of Jasdurel, has two wealthy
Turamzzyrian aristocrats executed for an ill-timed jest. The
high-class citizenry go into an uproar, but Trynius' military
is able to keep them from open rebellion.
4459
The fortress of Kragsfell is rebuilt by imperial troops at
the mouth to Lost Soul Pass. (No relation to the creature, the
name is associated with the idea that anyone who enters the
pass travels beyond the protective reach of the gods... a 'lost
soul'.)
While the war with the barbarians did not go as well the
military would like, it has led to an economical boost to
the nation as its citizens work hard to support the effort.
Some Elven and half-Elven citizens have begun to create 'underground'
organizations that provide services to human fronts. The Humans
that work with them provide the Elves with land and/or buildings
in which they can foster small communities, though all holdings
are still technically in control of the Humans.
Elven communities within the Wyrdeep have begun sending lumber
and furs to within the empire, with the aid of human intercessors.
The imperial attitude towards the Elves within the great forest
has been to largely ignore them. The Elves are technically
in violation of Chaston's Edict, but there is little incentive
to send troops into the forest to deal with them, and the
typical imperial citizen is just happy that the Elves are
far from his doorstep.
4461
At the age of 71, Emperor Trynius takes Ryani, a sixteen-year-old
tavern dancer, for his wife. The upper class citizens are again
incensed.
c. 4467
The imperial territory around Kragsfell has been largely uncivilized
until this time, as claiming the territory within the empire
and claiming it to be safe are two entirely different things.
However, Turamzzyrians continue to expand their settlements,
moving eastward under the aegis of Kragsfell and other outposts.
Dwarven traders begin coming to the mountain fortress to trade
their metal goods and ores.
4473
A rival magical school is started in the city of Toullaire
under the guidance of Llaeron and Meddria Roelas. While not
as large as the school in Tamzyrr, many students choose Toullaire's
school for the less restrictive education that is provided.
c. 4476
Excavation of the beach below Vornavis is completed, and the
Dwarven caverns are unsealed and explored. A group of Dwarven
elders sent to observe the activities are greeted with deference
and ceremony, and the official return of dwarves to the area
is touted as a landmark occasion by the ruler of Vornavis. Clerics
of a number of Liaboan deities ceremonially cleanse the caverns,
and work is begun to connect the caverns to the town above.
Despite forecasts of doom by vocal naysayers, nothing occurs
that might suggest a continuance of the dwarves' misfortune.
Work is also begun on facing the entire cliff below Vornavis
with granite so that the beach cannot re-form.
4479
After a 55 year reign, Emperor Trynius dies in Tamzyrr at
the age of 89. Three would-be rulers take the throne over the
course of the next two years, none of which last more than nine
months. The last of these three, Emperor Roginard, amends Chaston's
Edict during his short rule, adding restrictions on other non-Humans.
These Ordlyn, as they come to be known, are prohibited from
attaining positions of influence in guilds or other civilian
organizations. Ordlyn, like the Elves, are prohibited from attaining
leadership positions in the military as well.
Ordlyn - Non-Humans, except Elves
Hathlyn - half-Elves - Generally outcast and treated as full
Elves by the empire, while treated as Humans by the Elves.
4482
Emperor Levian Chandrennin ascends to power. Levian is a very
hedonistic, decadent ruler, and in the fashion of Trynius is
a tyrannical leader over the influential families of the empire.
Levian has little interest in expanding the borders and is actually
kept busy just maintaining his grasp upon the throne. Nine leading
members of powerful families are assassinated during his reign,
and while the accusations are never voiced publicly, the rumors
are that Levian is behind the murders.
4486
Hendoran expeditions into the Sea of Fire make contact with
the Tehir, nomadic people of a tribal culture that have adapted
to the extremely harsh environment within the great desert.
A handful of Hendoran merchants begin trade with the Tehir in
exchange for rare animal products and herbs, but due to the
harsh territory and the fact that the nomads only gather in
large groups every few years, the volume of trade is never very
great.
c. 4492
Imperial citizens begin to resettle the area around the mouth
of the Tempest River on Maelstrom Bay. The new village of River's
Rest is built upon the ruins of the old. The community remains
small for centuries, as most people are drawn to the larger
port city of Fairport to the northwest.
4504
Under the reign of King Bethellick the Bold, Hendor undergoes
a quarter-century transformation into a feudal nation. While
it is still nearly two centuries until the Empire makes this
change, the aristocratic families of the Empire begin to press
the emperors for more rights and power.
4519
Dwarves build Doggoroth Keep near modern Talador. The citadel
allows the Dwarves to begin working mines in the area and withstand
the onslaught of humanoids.
4547
The Hall of Mages, controlled by the House of Kestrel, becomes
involved in a serious dispute with The Arcanum, the magical
school in Toullaire. Led by the wizardess Hyla Kestrel, an official
complaint is lodged with Empress Eschylle that The Arcanum is
allowing reckless use of magic. No official action is taken,
but many students turn to the Hall of Mages, favoring structure
and reason over the recklessness espoused by the Arcanum.
4565
A major magical catastrophe destroys the city of Toullaire,
causing a devastating earthquake that damages Krestle, Immuron
and Elstreth, and even shakes the city of Tamzyrr. The disastrous
combination causes several volcanoes to erupt, hurling a huge
cloud of dust and ash into the air that covers the region for
several months. Dust falls as far away as the Kezmon Isle. Imperial
historians call the territory the Wizardwaste, but the citizens
of Krestle and Immuron call it "Ba'Lathon", which translates
to "Land in Pain" in the elder Kannalar tongue.
Faced with the clear proof of the folly of irresponsible
and unrestricted magical training, Empress Verranna passes
a law requiring mandatory registration of all wizards and
sorcerers within the Empire, and to require all elemental
magic instruction to be approved and guided by the Hall of
Mages. Casting of elemental magics (Minor Elemental, Major
Elemental, Wizard, and Sorcerer Circles) without registering
leads to imprisonment, and using elemental magic against another
individual is punishable by death.
The House of Kestrel now controls all legal magical education
within the empire.
4579
Doggoroth Keep falls to an orc horde. The few surviving Dwarves
flee into Hendor.
c. 4586
Legend of Koargard becomes a common passion for explorers
after barbarians pass the old legend on to adventurers near
Kragsfell. Over the next four centuries, many search through
the DragonSpine Range seeking the great mountain and the residence
of the King of the Gods. Expeditions often do not return, and
none find the legendary site.
4593
An expedition of warriors into Ba'Lathon discovers the Breach,
which is the great crater created in the destruction of the
Toullaire. The extent of the desolation is roughly forty miles
in diameter, with the Breach being just under two miles wide.
The area has become a desolate wasteland that is uninhabitable
due to the heavy ash and dust that have smothered the land.
Permanent storms continue to plague the territory, with odd,
supernatural effects. Whispered gossip is that the land is cursed
by the damned souls of those who sought too much power.
c. 4596
Once bitten, twice shy - the inhabitants of Vornavis encourage
the repopulation of the land at the base of the cliffs near
the town, but appreciative of the safety of their own location,
few are inclined to move their homes or families down to the
bayside. With the increasing commerce with the inland Turamzzyrian
provinces, the need to foster the growth of the fledgling port
is recognized. Vornavis invests the resources to construct an
extensive wooden platform over the rocks and tidal pools left
as a result of the "removed" beach.
4599
A fringe Elven community slays a tax collector sent by the
lord whose land includes the Wyrdeep Forest. Lord Gallard Wilke's
forces respond, destroying the small village.
4600
Other Elven communities within the Wyrdeep rebel, turning
back any non-Elves that try to enter the forest. Emperor Krellove
Chandrennin vows to deal harshly with the rebellion and sends
a small force of imperial troops into the territory to aid Wilke.
Just barely into the forest, the imperial forces are repelled
by a combined Elven effort that is surprisingly well trained.
4602
The Elven rebels give a little ground, falling back deeper
into the Wyrdeep Forest. The foul beasts of the forest and the
thick arboreal terrain prevent the imperial army from having
the success that it expected. Rumors of aid for the rebels from
the Elven Nations appear to have merit.
4604
Imperial forces destroy many of the fringe Elven communities
but are still unable to penetrate the Elven defenses further
into the forest. Late in the year, an imperial scout captures
an Elven courier from Ta'Nalfein. Emperor Krellove begins mobilizing
for war.
4605
The small army that has been fighting in the Wyrdeep builds
the stronghold of Gallardshold on the edge of the forest. Emperor
Krellove continues to send groups of soldiers into the forest
after the Elves. Elven communities deep within the forest struggle
to survive against the terrible forest creatures, but still
remain independent.
General Vaycero, Lord of Idolone, leads a great army eastward,
pushing into the neutral territory that provided a buffer
from the Elven Nations.
4607
Vaycero's army finds little organized resistance as it rumbles
through the eastern territory, easily beating the humanoids
and scattered Elven bands that it finds. The emperor gains confidence
as word reaches Tamzyrr of Vaycero's victories, but the truth
of the matter is that his army is on the distant frontier of
the Elven Nations, and the bands that it is defeating are only
small frontier guard posts.
Late in the year, Vaycero splits his army into three groups,
each headed by a field general, and advances in a triple-pronged
assault on the Nalfein borders. Generals Sykka and Rostelhoff
engage small Elven armies and achieve minor victories.
4608
Imperial forces meet an organized Elven army near what is
now known as Barrett's Gorge. General Vaycero's forces win a
decisive battle when General Sykka's army surprises the main
Elven archer contingent, and the survivors of the Elven army
retreat.
Vaycero's army is forced to halt its conquest as the supply
trains that support it are having difficulty staying with
the army. Barbarian tribes from the southern DragonSpine pillage
two supply caravans and orcish raiders decimate another. The
general has his army build a fortress to guard the gorge and
a contingent of troops is left to guard the fortress while
the rest of the army returns to western Turamzzyr.
4610
General Vaycero prepares another army for a continued expansion
into the Elven frontier. Many aristocratic leaders oppose further
campaigns, as the war is forcing them to train their own troops
for the protection of their lands while the main force of the
imperial army is on a distant conquest. A sickly, aging Krellove
refuses to listen and orders the army to proceed. Emperor Krellove
dies before Vaycero begins his march, however, and Toscus the
Fat opts against a continued campaign.
This marks the effective end of the First Elven War.
4613
A pelt hunter in the Sea of Fire discovers an ancient, crumbling
city deep in the heart of the desert. The city's prior inhabitants
and their disappearance are mysteries.
The Tehir have legends of an ancient people whom they fear
to discuss without constantly invoking their gods to ward
off dark spirits. According to Tehir legend, the city was
ruled by a trio of priest-kings. For reasons unknown, the
priest-kings fought with one another bringing down the wrath
of the gods. A dark shadow passed over the city and its people,
and all were slain, their spirits consumed to placate their
angry gods.
Over the next century great monoliths are discovered throughout
the Sea of Fire, all of which seem to be related to the ancient
city. Bir Mahallah, as the city is known to the Tehir, becomes
a place of interest for explorers and adventurers, though
interest wanes as many expeditions to the area do not return.
Those that do return tell of terrible undead and mysterious,
unseen spirits that can turn a man to dust in his sleep.
4622
A Nalfein messenger is captured after leaving Tamzyrr with
a message from Emperor Toscus. A great scandal erupts and a
member of the imperial guard assassinates Toscus.
4628
Witch Winter: An incredibly harsh winter falls over the western
continent, and the bitter cold causes many deaths. Against his
advisors' recommendations, Emperor Baeronnar sends General Sykka
with a large army to advance upon the Elven lands to 'catch
them by surprise'. Sykka's army reaches Barrett's Gorge, but
most starve to death over the winter. Cannibalism is rampant,
and less than one in five soldiers survive the winter.
Issyldra, the Ice Queen, appears in the DragonSpine. Great
creatures descend from the DragonSpine mountains during the
winter: ice hounds, glacei, giants, trolls, elementals, and
more. Hendor's army, paralyzed by the weather, is unable to
effectively defend against Issyldra's hordes. The Kingdom
of Hendor nearly falls as Lolle is devastated by the invaders.
King Erlister of Hendor calls upon Baeronnar for aid, but
with the bulk of the imperial army freezing in their ill-advised
campaign against the Elven Nations, Baeronnar is unable to
send assistance. Most of eastern Hendor is taken by Issyldra.
4629
Without support from Hendor, Mensyl Keep falls back into orcish
hands. The terrible winter is magically held over Hendor, causing
great starvation among its citizens. Only fringes of the Turamzzyrian
Empire are affected, but many refugees pour into the northern
lands, fleeing Issyldra's icy grasp.
4630
Hendor falls to Issyldra. Essentially, everyone in Hendor
either starves, fights and dies, or flees.
4632
A band of Turamzzyrian adventurers led by two highborn youths
penetrate Issyldra's frozen citadel, Rimefast, and defeat her,
ending the terrible winter over Hendor. Llaestal Anodheles and
Rasimm Roelas become great heroes for their part in defeating
Issyldra, in which they apparently used an artifact uncovered
in the Sea of Fire along with the blade Searswathe, which has
been passed down through the Anodheles line.
4635
The Turamzzyrian army engages large groups of humanoids as
it attempts to conquer the lands that once were Hendor. The
humanoids prove to be tenacious fighters, and outnumber the
imperial forces. However, over the course of the next three
years the imperial army takes the cities of Lolle, Waterford
and Nydds. Mensyl Pass remains as the greatest humanoid stronghold
left in the province of Hendor.
4644
In a great battle, General Jyllander captures Mensyl Pass,
reopening the northlands to Turamzzyrian expansion. For the
most part, Human settlers stick to the protected territory south
of the pass, resettling Hendor.
4651
The first expedition into the Wizardwaste in over half a century
discovers odd occurrences. The region experiences erratic magical
fluxes, and the chaotic effects are often catastrophic for the
caster and those nearby. As the expedition nears the Breach,
the magic becomes even more unpredictable, until the magic fails
completely within the Breach itself.
c. 4666
Humanoid raiders begin attacking imperial territory on the
edge of Ba'Lathon. Explorers into the wasteland discover several
tribes of creatures have taken residence there, mostly those
that dwell underground (where they can take shelter from the
constant storms). Over the course of the next several centuries
the land becomes a haven for the hardier humanoids and other,
stranger, creatures.
c. 4670
Pressure for a change in the political structure of the nation
rises dramatically as families from Hendor have been pushing
for rights similar to what they had before the kingdom fell.
Most leading families support the push for change, as it gives
them more power while reducing the absolute power of the throne.
4680
The volume of trade passing through the port below Vornavis
has grown, to the point that a group of savvy merchants form
the Mercantylers' Guild. The guild approaches the ruler of Vornavis
with a proposal of "free" status for the thriving
seaport. Although the process takes over a year to complete,
the ruler of Vornavis recognizes the opportunity and approaches
the Emperor Baeronnar II with a request for membership in the
empire, both for his city and for the free port. Wrestling with
the unenviable task of approaching the imperial throne with
a request of membership for a town still rumored by some to
be named, "high tomb", and a port that has simply
been tagged "the Port", the ruler of Vornavis presses
his advisors for an attractive name for the seaport that might
offset the questionable name of his own city. The name of Solhaven
appears on the official request presented to the throne.
4681
The Province of Vornavis and the free port of Solhaven are
accepted into the Turamzzyrian Empire as Emperor Baeronnar II
willingly accepts a significant increase in taxes with little
in the way of offsetting obligations.
4686
Intense political pressure from the powerful imperial houses
forces Emperor Baeronnar II to abdicate his throne.
Perrinor Rysus is crowned emperor. He has gained the support
of a large number of the wealthy houses of the empire by swearing
to address the outrageous precedent that the despotic Trynius,
Krellove and other recent rulers have set. He convenes the
Council of Lords, during which he takes counsel from the leading
houses of the empire. With a group of four advisors, Perrinor
begins scribing the Rysus Codex.
4694
Emperor Perrinor completes the Rysus Codex, a massive document
that details the laws of the empire. This text will serve for
all future emperors as the guiding document for the imperial
legal system. It includes the rights of every person in the
empire, from the emperor down to the field workers and beggars.
The most important part of the Codex is wherein it details the
emperor's obligations to the populace, and the rights of the
people (upper class) in the face of imperial mandates. For the
most part, middle class citizens and lower see little immediate
effect.
The Codex does not mention slaves, Ordlyn or Elves. There
is significant dispute among later rulers and nobles on whether
this equates slaves and non-Humans, or if it simply considers
'men' to be irrespective of race. Perrinor never clarified
his intent before his death later this same year. Slaves have
no rights under the Codex, as they are not people, they are
property. Even those that support the concept of 'men' being
a generic term do not consider Elves truly equal, as Elvenkind
are prevented from being high-class citizens through Chaston's
Edict. The Codex does not make Chaston's Edict obsolete.
Emperors tend to leave the interpretation of this aspect
of the Rysus Codex to the individual leaders for their own
territories. Naturally, races tend to migrate to territories
that are less restrictive.
With the establishment of the Rysus Codex as imperial law,
the empire begins the transformation to a feudalistic society,
and noble titles and holdings are bestowed upon the leading
families of the empire.
4715
Civil war erupts in the empire as Emperor Feadros Rysus dies
and his heir is assassinated before coronation. Several of the
new duchies, counties and baronies vie for the throne in open
battles. Two claim the throne simultaneously, as Duke Cassolus
Chandrennin and Countess Vicalle Mestyr make their assertions
of leadership. Regardless, neither has much support and neither
is considered a true ruler. Before the year is out, Cassolus
is assassinated.
Countess Vicalle had risked virtually all of her claim on
the hopes that other small baronies near her own would rise
up in support of her, largely on the contention that the larger
houses were all corrupt. However, in light of the recent establishment
of the Codex, what would have been a great rallying cry only
a half century before is now mostly ineffective.
The House of Mestyr is publicly accused of the assassination
of Duke Cassolus in separate claims by Count Greythane, Earl
Hurrst and Earl Feurstein. Vicalle attempts to call the Imperial
army to her command, but only those imperial forces local
to her county respond.
4716
A year of battling between Vicalle and the combined forces
of Hurrst and Feurstein brings them to a stalemate. Both sides
have seen heavy losses. Greythane's forces, while initially
numerically inferior to the others, are now the most powerful
army left in the Empire.
4717
As the year begins, most fighting is tentative, as each side
knows that a mistake will be fatal. The threat of Greythane's
forces keeps each side from any large military commitments.
Near midsummer, Vicalle Mestyr is found murdered in her bed.
Greythane's army immediately mobilizes against Earl Feurstein
and Earl Hurrst. A major battle ensues, and both armies are
nearly destroyed. Greythane emerges victorious, but in such
a weakened state that he cannot claim the throne with any
true physical authority.
Lady Lyssandra Anodheles voices a claim to the throne. While
the Anodheles family has been politically quiet for many years,
there is still significant support for the family among the
populace. Selantha's legendary leadership still evokes a powerful
nationalist emotion in the hearts of many imperial citizens,
and Llaestal's heroic role in defeating the Ice Queen has
not been forgotten.
4718
Lady Lyssandra Anodheles leads an army against Count Greythane,
and with her victory she asserts her claim to the throne of
Turamzzyr. A handful of noble families dispute her claim, referencing
the assertion that the Anodheles are influenced by the Elven
Nations. Enough families support Lyssandra, however, for her
to take the throne. Her position is fairly unstable, and the
recent civil war has led to significant intrigue and political
infighting between the powerful families of the empire.
4721
After a shaky three years of reigning as empress, Lyssandra
finally gains the support of Paltrach, Patriarch of Koar, and
with the backing of both the military and the church she finally
gains a measure of full authority over the empire. When the
unmarried Lyssandra becomes pregnant, rumors fly of an illicit
liaison between the empress and the patriarch, but no proof
is made public. The child is stillborn -- or so Lyssandra claims.
[Note: The Church of Koar holds significant power due to
its sphere of Law and Rulership. Having the blessing of the
priesthood is a major trump for Lyssandra, as many citizens
consider it to be divine concurrence with her claim. Future
emperors all seek a similar blessing.]
4725
Empress Lyssandra dies suddenly from a stroke, and her nephew
Rallick is crowned emperor since Lyssandra has no children.
4735
The imperial outpost of Jantalar is founded north of Hendor.
It is built to protect imperial settlers from attacks by Giantmen
and other "less human" races that dwell in the mountains,
forests, and wastelands to the north. Jantalar grows to be a
relatively large city, primarily due to the fertility of the
plains that it guards to the south and east.
4737
Declaration of Koar as the patron deity of the Empire. Over
the next several decades the Church greatly increases in power.
4754
A cleric named Harland claims to be the bastard son of Paltrach
and Lyssandra. While many people believe his claim, there is
little support for overthrowing Emperor Rallick, the nephew
of the 'childless' Lyssandra. Harland disappears suddenly.
4769
Reveling in his church's recent ascension, Prelate Fzendoor
of Immuron calls upon the Empire to drive into the eastern lands,
against the Elven Nations. Emperor Rallick the Valiant, a devout
follower of Koar himself, mobilizes the imperial army and marches
to Barrett's Gorge. Rallick breaks with previous tradition in
leading the imperial army personally.
4770
The Elven House of Nalfein sends an ambassador to Rallick
in an attempt to persuade the emperor to instead turn his army
towards Ta'Faendryl, thus seeking to kill two birds with one
stone. However, while Rallick contemplates his response, army
scouts bring news of burned farms and massacred human families
with evidence that it was Nalfein marauders.
The brutal attack forces Rallick to move against the Nalfein
nation. With his army fired by the burning passion of vengeance,
Rallick rolls through the first Nalfein army that greets him
on his conquest into the Nalfein nation.
4771
Rallick's army pushes on into the Nalfein nation, finding
only minimal resistance at first. Finally, near the great Susserlin
River, a second army engages Rallick. Emperor Rallick is again
victorious but takes a mortal wound from an arrow. As he lies
dying, Rallick calls Prelate Fzendoor to his deathbed and charges
him with continuing the conquest.
For two reasons the imperial army meets disaster after Rallick's
death. First, the army that they have just defeated was the
smaller of two Nalfein armies advancing to meet them. And
second, Prelate Fzendoor, who declares himself the new general
of the imperial army, is a charismatic, not a tactician. Three
weeks after Rallick's death, the imperial army is again engaged
in a great battle, and this time the Nalfein army nearly destroys
them. Less than one man in four survives the battle and the
Turamzzyrians are forced to retreat.
The Nalfein army harries the retreating Turamzzyrians, pushing
them all of the way back to Barrett's Gorge.
4772
Emperor Theron signs a treaty with the Nalfein nation, ending
the Second Elven War.
4790
Krolvin buccaneers land on Kezmon Isle and sack several small
towns. The imperial navy responds and is victorious. In an act
of defiant malice, the krolvin burn three villages that they
have sacked and pour barrels of salt into the irrigation ditches
before succumbing to the imperial forces.
c. 4799
The Church of Koar has grown tremendously in influence and
now rivals the power of the throne. This leads to an eventual
schism, with part of the clergy interpreting Koar's tenets to
say that they should be the ones to lead, while others feel
that they are there to support the Emperor. The rebellious priests
are in violation of the Rysus Codex, which clearly places the
Emperor above the priesthood, but they have just enough plausibility
to their interpretation to draw a strong following. (It's only
a slight twist to say that the Patriarch could be Emperor, and
thus be over the priesthood)
4800
With the support of roughly half of the clergy of Koar, Emperor
Ommindar the Stout overcomes the faction that seeks his throne
and reins in their power. From his rule forth, the Patriarch
of Koar is appointed by the emperor from Koar's high priests
and is imminently dismissible by the emperor. This essentially
gives complete control over Koar's church to the emperor. While
the clergy of Koar still enjoy increased stature over other
priests, they are in no way a challenge to the authority of
the Emperor.
[This leads to an interesting situation for future aspirants
to the throne, as overthrowing the throne often requires support
of Koar's clergy before success is possible. Therefore, a
challenger has to woo the priesthood to get into the seat,
at which point he has power over that same priesthood. The
opportunity for deceit and treachery is significant. This
is one of many reasons that there have been no successful
coups within the empire since this year.]
4814
Marriage of Selantha Anodheles to Garl Chandrennin. This politically
earthshaking event joins two of the most powerful families in
the empire, and solidifies the Anodheles' position on the throne.
(Selantha's previous husband, Prince Arne, was killed in a hunting
accident. At least as far as getting ambushed by a mountain
troll war party and eaten for dinner counts as an accident.)
4820
Death of Ommindar the Stout. Selantha Anodheles ascends to
the throne, taking the name of Selantha II.
4832
Selantha II avoids an assassination attempt by her son Valkern,
though Valkern succeeds in killing his older half-brother, Morlan,
with a drink poisoned with Luukosian deathwort. (Morlan was
Selantha's son by Prince Arne)
At the order of the empress, Valkern's feet are severed and
he is chained to a stone in the Tamzyrr harbor. The sharks
attracted to Valkern's wounds bring a violent and bloody end
to the traitorous young man.
Though she has no hard proof, Selantha II is very suspicious
of her husband's role in the attempted coup, and she has him
effectively exiled to the Chandrennin estates near Elstreth
as her Southern Sentinel. With the lack of activity in the
southern empire and its proximity to the Southron Wastes,
the position is the weakest of the three Sentinels. Selantha
declares her cousin, Wayrick Anodheles, her heir.
The Chandrennin family is reduced in influence with Garl's
effective demotion from Princeship, but they remain a politically
strong family. As time progresses they find themselves slipping,
since they have no blood ties to the ruling line, but they
are still a family of dukes and duchesses.
4841
Third Elven War: Major campaign against the Faendryl
Following a prophecy of great and magnificent times for the
empire by a proclaimed seer, Selantha II is determined to
be every bit the great empress that her namesake was and take
her glorious place in imperial history. A handful of her advisors
feed her visions of grandeur, and she sets her sights on none
other than the Elven city of Ta'Faendryl.
The Clergy of Koar fully support this endeavor, declaring
it the will of the Arkati that the Turamzzyrian Empire smite
the black-hearted fiends that cursed the land with foul magic
in ages past. At the same time, they rouse the spirits of
the empire by deriding the power of the Elves' dark sorcery,
using the lack of recent Faendryl political/military activity
as proof that the Faendryl are feeble in this age.
By late spring, the empire has formed an army at Barrett's
Gorge, and within weeks the army has marched to the fringes
of Faendryl territory. Eastern Sentinel Happersett halts the
army to build small fortifications from time to time, as support
for supplies will be required for an extended campaign, and
by early fall three strongholds are built on the route toward
Ta'Faendryl. The Turamzzyrian army engages small groups of
dark Elves. Initial conflicts are with minor dark Elven soldiers
and commoners and pose little resistance to the massive imperial
army.
After the completion of Harald's Keep, the third of the Turamzzyrian
strongholds, a small organized army of Faendryl engage the
imperial force. The Faendryl have a small number of sorcerers
with this army, and the dark summoners conjure a handful of
foul demonic creatures, but the sheer numbers of the Turamzzyrians
are sufficient to ensure a decisive imperial victory.
Morale for the Turamzzyrian army is at its peak as they believe
that the demons that they have just faced and defeated are
the worst that the Faendryl can muster. The army splits into
three groups, with the main force staying the winter at Harald's
Keep. The other two forces spend the winter season at the
imperial strongholds of Tedronne and Creyth.
4842
Thrilled with her army's early success, the empress appoints
the prophet Caerol to the position of Royal Seer for his great
wisdom.
Sentinel Happersett reforms his army as the spring comes
and once again begins marching toward Ta'Faendryl. Faendryl
reluctance to release the full force of their sorcerous art
upon the Humans results in another victory for the imperial
army at Gellig. Unfortunately (for the Turamzzyrians), it
is this victory that fully enrages the Faendryl.
The Faendryl send eight score demonmasters to bolster a force
of several thousand dark Elven soldiers. The imperial army
engages the Faendryl army in late spring, and while the Turamzzyrians
fight valiantly at the outset, they are not prepared for the
incredible power of the demons released by the great Faendryl
sorcerers. A horde of demons descends upon the imperial army
laying destruction to its mortal foes.
The renowned knight of the Order of the Crimson Fist, Sir
Gallestan the Mighty, and Sir Hughrond, The Golden Knight
of Kezmon Isle, each defeat a half dozen of the demons before
being struck down. With the combination of seemingly unstoppable
foes and the loss of two of their greatest heroes, the imperial
troops nearby lose their resolve and flee the carnage. The
fear ripples through the army, and within minutes the bulk
of the imperial army is fleeing the battlefield, running for
distant Creyth in a chaotic, panicked mass.
Scattered bands of knights attempt to rally the army and
stand against the demonic horde, but they are too few and
are crushed by the Faendryl and their conjured allies. Most
knights flee with the common soldiers. The humiliating defeat
becomes known as The Breaking.
The imperial army collects into a somewhat organized force
at the stronghold of Creyth, though they have lost a quarter
of their force to the Faendryl and another quarter have fled
past Creyth, heading for Tedronne or Barrett's Gorge. With
Sentinel Happersett missing and presumed dead, the leadership
of the army falls to Duke Nyrmont of Kezmon. While Nyrmont
is a respectable leader and tactician, he is unable to forge
the remaining army into a formidable force.
The stronghold of Creyth is a simple fortress, not a great
citadel. The harrying Faendryl army sends its demons against
the stronghold for a week, and though the stronghold is not
overrun, Nyrmont can see that he is fighting a losing battle.
The demons are simply too strong and the fear inspired by
their presence is having a terrible effect upon his men. Under
the cover of night, Nyrmont orders his troops to abandon the
stronghold, escaping through tunnels dug under the walls.
The army flees past the stronghold at Tedronne and does not
stop marching until it reaches the citadel at Barrett's Gorge.
The imperial force is less than one third of what it was only
a month prior. The Faendryl army does not pursue the imperial
soldiers beyond Tedronne, though some of the summoned fiends
continue to harry stragglers.
In a fit of rage upon hearing of the disaster at The Breaking,
Selantha orders the execution of Caerol for his false prophesy.
The empress, realizing that she will be remembered for this
foolish war, begins drinking quite heavily. She is rarely
seen in public over the next year, and when she does appear,
she is never sober.
The Third Elven War (by imperial reckoning) ends with no
treaty being signed. This is also known as the Faendryl War.
4843
Empress Selantha II dies, a victim of her alcoholic excess.
Her cousin, Wayrick Anodheles, is declared emperor per Selantha's
declaration years prior that he was to be her heir.
c. 4845
Foul beasts have taken the land beyond Barrett's Gorge, fiends
and heinous offspring of the creatures summoned by the Faendryl
in the war, along with scattered bands of desperate, unsavory
folk who wish to be beyond the arm of imperial law.
The unnatural offspring of the fiends and various indigenous
creatures raid the land around Barrett's Gorge often. While
the defenders within the fortress at the Gorge can handle
the atrocities, the beasts are smart enough to not attack
the fortification. Constant patrols are required, and it is
not uncommon for entire patrols to be overcome when they encounter
their supernatural foes. Several farmsteads are massacred,
and traders cease coming to the Gorge. Even most smugglers
cease working between the Elven Nations and Turamzzyr, as
the value of their goods cannot offset the risk.
4847
At Emperor Wayrick's command, imperial military and construction
laborers begin building the Demonwall. Finished in 4909, this
great wall stretches from the DragonSpine mountains to the Southron
Wastes, running along the canyon near Barrett's Gorge and ending
at Ba'Lathon. Its stated purpose is to provide a first line
of defense against the demons of the Faendryl. The only way
around is far to the south, through the Wastes.
4848
The Order of the Golvern Star is founded. This martial organization
was formed in response to the embarrassing loss at the hands
of the Faendryl. Sir Pyrrhon Von Kammersteyl, a knight from
Immuron, gathers a large following of warriors to his ultra-disciplined
ideal. The Golvern Star believes that had the imperial forces
been more disciplined, they would have been victorious at the
Breaking.
The Golvern Star grows quickly to number roughly 200 knights
and 600 squires, pages, and men-at-arms. The Order of the
Golvern Star is intensely loyal to the throne and their goal
is to attain glory for the empire. While largely autonomous,
the OGS accepts a role as an elite arm of the imperial military.
Unlike other military groups of the time, the OGS does not
answer to any of the Sentinels. The OGS is allowed to determine
its own goals and activities, though one thing has held true
for their entire history: whatever the throne asks, the OGS
does.
c. 4851
Constantly marauding beasts beyond the Demonwall have cost
the empire many laborers, and the project is moving more slowly
than anticipated. At Wayrick's request, the Order of the Golvern
Star sends 150 of its knights to the Demonwall to provide leadership
and inspiration to the soldiers there. From this year forth
there is a permanent force of 150 OGS knights assigned to the
Demonwall. With the addition of these knights, losses to the
workforce are reduced dramatically.
c. 4862
Imperial citizens begin settling around the Dwarven mining
town of Talador. The town is the site of a silver mine that
the Dwarves have been working for several decades.
4873
In the midst of a terrible storm, Kezmon Isle mysteriously
disappears, leaving no trace of its existence. Some rumors are
that it sank, others are that it was taken by the Curse of Inar'ru.
c. 4880
The Dwarven miners of Talador, mindful of the unusual regard
shown to their race by the people of Vornavis, have been directing
the majority of the silver trade from their mines westward.
In an official petition to the imperial throne, the ruler of
Jantalar details the loss of revenue to the inland territories
due to this racially based favoritism and requests that the
port's free status be revoked. The emperor chooses to do nothing,
since the throne is receiving taxes from the silver trade in
any case, but the first official instance of animosity between
Vornavis and Jantalar is documented.
c. 4883
Several gem and ore mines are founded within the DragonSpine
mountain range as imperial soldiers defeat orc, goblin and giantkin
forces that have laid claim to the territory. Small villages
of miners, farmers, and herdsmen crop up. The small northern
town of Mestanir is founded near a powerful religious site known
as the Crown of Koar.
4892
Founding of Wehnimer's Landing by adventurer Rone Wehnimer.
4895
Explorers into the Sea of Fire are slain by a group of Tehir.
As the territory is completely surrounded by imperial holdings,
Emperor Rallick II directs an imperial force to enter the desert
and conquer the Tehir.
The imperial soldiers setup two strongholds near desirable
oases within the desert, and there are limited hit-and-run
engagements with Tehir nomads. The imperial troops are able
to easily handle the nomads, but the harsh climate takes its
toll. Patrols often do not return, victims of the brutal desert.
4902
Rallick II recalls the bulk of the imperial troops from the
Sea of Fire. The lack of an organized enemy to confront has
confounded imperial efforts to conquer the Tehir, and the losses
to the harsh terrain and climate have made it a losing campaign.
The two strongholds remain, but only as minor outposts to support
pelt hunters and the rare trader.
4909
Completion of the Demonwall as it has reached the edge of
the Wizardwaste. By this time the Order of the Golvern Star
has grown to nearly 350 knights and 900 squires. The 150 knights
on the Demonwall no longer comprise the bulk of the order, and
the knights become more involved in other areas of the realm.
c. 4912
The economic boost from the increased development of resources
in the DragonSpine has increased the influence of the merchants.
Over the course of the next century, as merchanting becomes
more and more powerful, the demand for the high quality goods
provided by Ordlyn and Elves begins to overcome the racial barriers
imposed by Chaston's Edict and centuries of animosity.
4916
Emperor Rallick II dies of a heart attack. His son, Prentius,
is only nine years old and is not yet able to take the throne.
Rallick's brother, Baermar, is declared Regent.
4921
The House of Kestrel supports the claim of Trydall, a young
man whom they've raised, to be the true heir to the throne,
as he is a descendant of Lyssandra's bastard, Harland. Prentius
is enraged and demands that the Order of the Golvern Star be
directed against the Kestrels, but Regent Baermar refuses to
give the command. Instead, Baermar only states that he trusts
Koar's wisdom in the matter, and that through Koar's guidance,
the truth will be revealed. In an initial response, the elders
of the Church of Koar are as outraged as Prentius and declare
the claim false.
Over the course of the next two weeks, there is significant
political maneuvering as the noble houses of the realm move
to side with one heir or the other.
Two weeks after the Kestrels announce Trydall's claim, the
Patriarch of Koar makes a surprising statement of support
for Trydall! In search of guidance for this trying time, the
patriarch consulted Koar with a commune. To his surprise,
the commune verified that Harland was indeed the son of Lyssandra
and Paltrach, and that Trydall was the direct descendant of
Harland.
Per the law set forth in the Rysus Codex, if a ruler dies
with no legitimate children, illegitimate children may lay
claim to the throne. Naturally, it is very difficult to prove
if a male ruler sows his oats and sires a child. but in this
case it was an empress and many were aware that she was with
child. Lyssandra's claim that the child was stillborn is now
refuted by the Patriarch of Koar. With the blessing of the
Church of Koar behind him, along with several of the noble
houses, Trydall's claim to the throne is acknowledged.
An assassination attempt on Trydall in the hours preceding
his coronation fails, and the assassin is captured. Within
a few hours the assassin confesses to being hired by Prentius.
Prentius attempts to deny the fact, but the evidence is clear.
Realizing that he has been caught, and that the sentence for
an attack on the emperor is death, Prentius leaps to his death
from a tower window as imperial soldiers arrive to arrest
him.
Four noble houses had sided with Prentius throughout this
drama, and had even considered future political intrigue to
get Prentius to the throne (particularly the Chandrennin family,
as they had the most to lose). Emperor Rallick (the first)
was a heroic emperor in the imperial view. To now declare
that he was improperly on the throne does not sit well with
some, especially two centuries after the fact! Prentius' irrational
attack on Trydall causes any support for this branch of the
Anodheles family to crumble, though, and Trydall sees little
further opposition to his rulership.
While he himself was not a bastard, the common folk (and
many of the nobles, when they feel they can get away with
it) give the emperor the title of Trydall the Bastard due
to his lineage.
4922
Emperor Trydall bestows the hereditary position of Royal Magister
upon the patriarch of the House of Kestrel. The Royal Magister
governs the study of arcane arts within the empire, and serves
as advisor to the emperor. As the founders and leaders of the
Hall of Mages, the governance over arcane study is not a true
change for the Kestrels. What is significant, however, is that
with the appointment to a hereditary advisor position, the Kestrels
gain in political strength. The Royal Magister is an official
position very close to the emperor, on equal footing with the
Sentinels, with the additional advantage of always being at
the emperor's side, whereas the Sentinels must advise from a
distance.
With the bestowal of the Royal Magister position, the Kestrels
cede their lands local to Tamzyrr and Trydall grants them
a small earldom south of the city, including The Swale.
4926
An imperial expedition in the northern seas discovers the
Krolvin Isle, homeland to the krolvin, and returns to Tamzyrr
with this news. This is the first realization that the krolvin
are a sovereign nation, as all prior contact had been with scattered
krolvin pirates and raiders, and previous imperial expeditions
into the northern seas had never returned. Empress Geleena Anodheles
sends three emissaries to the isle, proposing peace between
the nations. The emissaries are butchered and returned in pieces,
and the empress declares war with the krolvin.
Great numbers of krolvin attack the northern coastal areas
of the empire, primarily Solhaven, Brisker's Cove and Wehnimer's
Landing. Highland reiver clans aid in the many battles against
the krolvin, battles that continue on for an entire season
and are known as the Krolvin War. After their war-leader is
slain, the krolvin are finally defeated and the bulk of their
forces are driven from the continent. Only small pockets of
the krolvin remain in remote areas.
4935
Earl Ander Kestrel persuades Emperor Trydall that the true
way to defend the empire against the threat of the dark Elves
is to encourage the study of magic within the empire. After
all, the military had not shown itself up to the task of defeating
their demonic foes.
Trydall agrees, relinquishing some of the restrictions on
elemental magics within the empire, save those of a sorcerous
nature. Registration is still mandatory, and crimes involving
magic are dealt with very harshly. However, pursuit of arcane
knowledge does not specifically require Kestrel approval.
The House of Kestrel founds the Imperial Drakes, a new branch
of the military consisting solely of skilled wizards. With
this organization, magical training for military mages could
be standardized and focused for specific military needs, and
a military officer would know what the minimum capabilities
of an allied spellcaster would be. Previously, allied spellcasters
had wide variances in capabilities, leading to battlefield
errors when one may not be able to perform as required.
4953
The Horned Cabal appears in the northern Wastes, a group of
5 liches that controls a powerful ancient necromantic artifact
known as the Sphere of Sorrow. The Sphere allows the liches
to summon a horde undead to do their bidding, and they move
their dark force against the southern border of the empire in
constant raids on smaller towns and villages. Battles tend to
be small, often including less than 200 undead. Smaller holdings
closest to the Southron Wastes are abandoned as commoners flee
the undead threat.
The Horned Cabal causes significant problems for the southern
empire from this time until the present.
4960
Southern Sentinel Urgland Hurrst struggles with the Horned
Cabal's undead minions for several years as they raid village
after village. When his request for aid garners only two hundred
soldiers and five Imperial Drakes, Hurrst enlists the aid of
a small brotherhood of Voln. With the aid of the brotherhood,
Sentinel Hurrst is able to regain some of the land that was
lost to the Cabal.
Over the course of the next century the Horned Cabal is a
constant threat in the southlands, and at least every decade
there is a significant engagement. Because of this, Voln's
previously minor following grows tremendously, though it never
rivals the greater deities of Koar, Imaera or Lorminstra.
Brigands that in the past had hidden in the northern parts
of the Southron Wastes have become virtually nonexistent.
4966
Discovery of copper in the Sea of Fire. Emperor Yarrowe sends
imperial troops into the territory to provide protection for
mines. Fighting with the Tehir increases as several tribes refuse
to allow their territory to be invaded by outlanders. The fighting
in the Sea of Fire has continued through to modern day, as the
Tehir hit-and-run tactics coupled with the harsh environment
make them a difficult enemy to defeat. At the same token, the
Tehir are unable to drive the outlanders from the mines, and
often their raids are ineffective against the well-guarded imperial
caravans.
4969
Sentinel Hurrst requests extension of the Demonwall to continue
from Ba'Lathon to the western coast. Emperor Yarrowe denies
the request, castigating the earl for his inability to handle
the Horned Cabal, "a mere nuisance". The Sea of Fire and DragonSpine
mines have the attention of the imperial troops, mostly because
they provide greater benefit to the emperor's coffers than does
the farmland of the south.
The Voln monastery near Elstreth is increasing, but the Cabal
appears to be matching their growth. The conflict along the
southern border continues, drawing Voln followers from throughout
the empire and even a substantial number of Ordlyn and Elven
followers from beyond the imperial borders.
4977
Forces along the Demonwall are embattled as Eastern Sentinel
Greythane defends against increasingly aggressive fiends. Airborne
fiends fly over the wall at night and overcome a remote wall
outpost, allowing their allies to enter through the captured
gate. OGS knights respond to the need and lead the imperial
army to victory, with the aid of Imperial Drakes to deal with
the flyers, but not before hundreds of imperial casualties are
inflicted by the attackers. The OGS contingent assigned to the
Demonwall is increased to 200 knights, and Imperial Drakes are
doubled to number nearly 200 as well.
4981
Imperial patrols pressing into the northeastern frontier encounter
strange denizens in a great forest, and several patrols are
lost. The specifics on the encountered creatures are unclear
as the handful of survivors from subsequent patrols had conflicting
reports, though they spoke of the forest becoming 'alive', and
apparently acting as a sentient entity. With the imperial armies
engaged in several efforts concurrently, further conquest into
the wildwood is halted.
c. 4993
The past several decades have given the empire new foes, between
the conflicts in the Sea of Fire, the southlands and the northeastern
forests. Nearly a century of reduction in tension between the
Ordlyn and Elven races and imperial citizens has significantly
improved relations, particularly in those cities most distant
from Tamzyrr. As the empire has grown and skilled workers and
crafters have come into demand, a handful of influential guild
positions have begun to go to Ordlyn. Dwarves are renowned for
their great ability with metalworking and stone working, and
landowners often select Giantmen for physical labor. Most cities
still deny non-Humans the right to own land or businesses, but
Lolle and Solhaven have ceased enforcing Chaston's Edict (with
respect to Ordlyn) unless it is to their benefit.
This is not to say that there is true integration, even in
the border towns. There are still a lot of strong feelings
between the races, and the non-Humans are often reminded that
they are not full citizens. However, as long as a skilled
Ordlyn worker works within the accepted social system, they
are generally treated fairly. Blatant harassment is often
dealt with by local merchant guilds, as they do not wish to
see a loss in their profits due to overzealous thugs.
Of the interior lands, Elstreth is the most tolerant of non-Humans,
primarily due to the efforts of Ordlyn Voln members in the
constant struggle against the minions of the Horned Cabal.
The slave market drops significantly in this period as well,
and within the next 60 years the only slaves remaining are
those who have lost their freedom as punishment for crimes.
4997
Founding of Kharam-Dzu by Ghorsa Borthuum. The town began
as a small Dwarven settlement to support the Borthuum Mining
Co.'s mining claim on the great peak known as Stormbrow. While
this was not an imperial expansion, trade with the Borthuum
Mining Co. was primarily with imperial merchants and provided
a small boost to the imperial economy.
5008
Syssanis, a powerful necromancer dwelling in a secluded stronghold
near River's Rest, draws the attention of Count Glavedd. With
the current struggle against the Horned Cabal in the south,
locals are fearful of the dark magic being practiced in the
necromancer's swamp fortress. Glavedd sends several companies
into the swamp, and each time the soldiers are unsuccessful
in overcoming Syssanis and his minions. The quicksand and quagmire
of the swamp couple with the ever-present heavy fog to confuse
the soldiers, and many are lost without ever engaging a tangible
foe.
Having lost many troops in attempting to overcome the necromancer's
undead minions, Count Glavedd reconsiders his desire to remove
this 'threat'. Since there is no real benefit to fighting
Syssanis, Count Glavedd simply withdraws his troops to Fairport.
Syssanis has no designs on taking River's Rest for his own
and is quite happy to be left alone in his swampland stronghold.
River's Rest becomes a haven for the more 'unsavory' folk
that wish to avoid the law in Fairport. Glavedd considers
the lawlessness of River's Rest to be acceptable as it keeps
many troublemakers out of Fairport, which is the economic
center of his county. Most riverboat traffic ceases stopping
in River's Rest, porting in Fairport instead.
As time passes and Syssanis dies, the folk of River's Rest
restore a semblance of law in their town, though it is never
as strict as a typical imperial town. Future counts have been
pleased to allow River's Rest to have a pseudo-independent
state as it relieves them of much of their duty to the town,
while the town does still pay taxes to fill the county's coffers.
County troops will patrol through the town from time to time,
but there is no official garrison present.
5020
A horde of Horned Cabal minions surges into the southern empire,
skirting the edge of the Wizardwaste as it progresses toward
Immuron. Elstreth sends a large force to flank the undead army,
and after the force leaves the protective walls of the city,
a second horde attacks Elstreth. Duke Eorlon Chandrennin turns
his army around to return to aid the besieged city, and as he
does the northern undead army turns to flank him. The southern
undead army moves northward, trapping Chandrennin's army between
the Horned Cabal's hordes. The Horned Cabal's minions attack
Chandrennin's army, decimating the outnumbered Turamzzyrians.
The duke is slain in the great battle known as the Battle of
Tyllan (after a small village nearby).
Having destroyed most of Elstreth's army, the Horned Cabal's
horde moves southward, toward the city. Chandrennin's army
held out long enough, however, for Southern Sentinel Kyr Calquinor
to march eastward with two thousand men from Ubl, joining
a legion of soldiers from Tamzyrr and The Swale north of Elstreth.
Calquinor's army engages the undead horde as the horde edges
along the mountains, and in a massive battle known as the
Battle of Skyreach, the undead are finally defeated after
four days of fighting. (Skyreach is the largest of the small
mountains east of Elstreth.)
The two great battles have left Elstreth and Ubl weakened
in their defenses, but the Horned Cabal is unable to capitalize
on their weakness, having lost a majority of their undead
minions in the final battle.
5030
As Talador's silver mine has been in significant decline over
the past few decades, many of the Dwarven miners have left in
search of new mines. As a result, the human population now controls
much of the business and politics of the town, though there
is goodwill between the races. Fear of humanoid attacks leads
the town to accept the imperial offer of protection, and Talador
is annexed into the empire at the request of its merchant council.
Ciaran Donnebrugh, the head of Talador's council, is bestowed
with a baronial position, though this title is of little importance
in Talador. The merchant council still controls the 'barony',
and when Donnebrugh retires from the council years later, the
new council leader is the true leader of Talador. The baronial
title, however, remains in the Donnebrugh line.
With the annexation of Talador, an imperial garrison is established
in the town to aid in defending against orcish raiders from
the nearby Doggoroth Keep.
Elven businesses begin to appear in outlying cities of the
empire. Since real power is tied to land ownership, businesses
are typically overlooked. Trade with the Elves in the Wyrdeep
increases as the need for human intermediaries decreases.
5048
In their greatest offensive in decades, the Horned Cabal cuts
off the trade road between Idolone and The Swale with several
thousand undead. Two key outposts along the road fall to the
dark forces, and it is three months before the imperial army
is able to regain control of the area. A company of heroes comprised
of Imperial Drakes and knights of Idolone are instrumental in
the final defeat of the spectral champion that leads the Cabal's
forces.
c. 5054
Student enrollment in the Hall of Mages has been steadily
increasing over the past several decades, partially due to the
enticing promise of adventure and fame brought by the Imperial
Drakes' recent success. The Kestrels had already built satellite
colleges in Elstreth and Nydds, but they are unable to support
the influx of students. At the Royal Magister's request, Emperor
Hannelas consents to founding five more arcane colleges, along
with five colleges dedicated to non-magical scholastics.
5074
After several years of only minimal encounters, a large horde
of many thousand undead presses into the southern dukedom and
baronies. Southern Sentinel Marcus Calquinor is assassinated
as he gathers imperial forces to combat the undead threat, and
in the chaos that follows the Horned Cabal nearly overcomes
the defenders. While a Luukosian cult is assumed to be behind
the assassination, there is no proof.
Duke Bannon Chandrennin assumes leadership of the troops
and is able to temporarily hold the undead horde in the hills
south of Elstreth, though it is obvious that the undead will
not be held indefinitely. Voln Grandmaster Allasander calls
upon distant brotherhoods to send aid, and nearly sixteen
hundred members respond to fall under Chandrennin's command.
Unable to await the arrival of additional imperial troops,
Duke Chandrennin leads his force against the undead. As the
armies become engaged, it is immediately apparent that the
Horned Cabal has a new weapon in their arsenal. The main forces
of the two armies battle for two weeks, and as each defender
falls, the Horned Cabal raises their erstwhile foe to enlist
in their undead legion!
Two thousand imperial troops from Tamzyrr, a hundred knights,
two score Imperial Drakes and a few hundred more Voln brothers
and sisters, including Patriarch Jaynus, Grandmaster of the
Voln brotherhood in Nydds, arrive to bolster the defenders,
and the imperial army narrowly averts being overrun by an
undead offensive. Jaynus reveals a ritual that, when coupled
with simple blessing of the dead, will prevent them from being
raised by the Sphere of Sorrow's power. Priests of every Liabo
denomination hasten through the battlefield performing the
ritual on the fallen to prevent them from being raised as
foes.
Even with the newfound knowledge the great battle is not
easily fought as the undead army has grown with the addition
of the newly dead, and the priests run low on the physical
component for their ritual, pure potions. Thousands of defenders
fall, and a small band of Voln monks that sought to slip past
the main force and challenge the liches of the Cabal directly
are defeated after slaying only a single lich of the pentarchy.
However, the efforts of the martyred band sufficiently disrupt
the Cabal to allow Duke Chandrennin's forces to overcome the
undead legion. The remaining four liches of the Horned Cabal
flee into the northern Wastes, taking the Sphere of Sorrows
with them. Spiritcry, the legendary greataxe wielded by the
martyred Grandmaster Allasander is lost, presumably also taken
by the retreating liches.
From this time until the present the Horned Cabal is fairly
quiet. Undead still roam the southernmost territory of the
empire, but no large or well-planned attacks occur.
5075
In light of the duke's victory over the Horned Cabal, Emperor
Hannelas appoints Duke Bannon Chandrennin to the position of
Southern Sentinel. Duke Chandrennin is very popular among the
people of the southern lands, and the imperial decision is welcomed
gladly. This marks the first time since the reign of Selantha
II that the Sentinel position is bestowed upon the Chandrennin
family.
5080
Southern Sentinel Chandrennin requests imperial aid in extending
the Demonwall from the Wizardwaste to the western coast of the
empire. Hannelas consents and construction begins. This work
is currently in progress.
5087
Jantalar defeats Talador with the aid of mercenary witch hunters,
capturing the nearby silver mine. Earl Weirlund, the Northern
Sentinel, expresses his disapproval for Baron Hochstib's actions,
even against a territory with no nobility. (The Donnebrugh family
still resides in Talador, but since they are not involved in
leadership of the barony they are nobles in name only, and the
other nobles of the north consider them of little significance.)
Talador's lack of noble leadership or significant representation
in the royal courts has proven to be of greater importance than
the merchant council foresaw, as the council is unable to gain
the support necessary to withstand Baron Hochstib's forces.
The Sentinel makes it clear that any actions against lords in
good standing with the empire will not be tolerated, but he
is willing to allow this incident slide.
5089
Jantalar defeats the orcs at Doggoroth Keep, removing one
of the greatest humanoid threats in the north. Once again, witch
hunters are integral in neutralizing the opposition's spellcasters.
A powerful being known as Tyrgh, the Chaos Lord, arises in
the Wizardwaste, leading an army of strange creatures out
of the chaotic badlands. The initial encounter with soldiers
from Brantur is a catastrophe, and the imperial defenders
are slaughtered. Fortunately for Brantur, the creatures are
apparently unable to survive outside of Ba'Lathon for long.
As a second, more organized, imperial force moves against
the Chaos Lord's army, they are surprised to discover that
many of their foes lie dead or ailing, seemingly chronically
ill. With his army withering around him, Tyrgh is defeated
by a trio of Imperial Drakes, and those creatures able to
run are forced back into the Wizardwaste.
5091
A merchant power struggle in Jantalar between Dwarven gemcutters
and Human jewelers leaves three human citizens dead. Enraged
citizens call for the enforcement of Chaston's Edict against
all non-Humans. Through this, Baron Hochstib is able to declare
hundreds of Ordlyn to be criminals, thus clearing the path for
their enslavement in accordance with current imperial policy.
Hathlyn (half-Elves) that live in the human community are treated
fairly poorly, though a few are treated as Humans, largely due
to Hochstib's compassion for others such as he.
5092
Earl Weirlund of Hendor dies, and before the emperor designates
a new Sentinel for the north, Emperor Hannelas dies as well.
Within a month of the Sentinel's death, Jantalar moves its forces
on Mestanir.
Mestanir is a small barony known for its practitioners of
arcane arts and for its important holy sites, the Crown and
Fist of Koar. Pilgrims of Koar make the journey to the King
of Liabo's sacred sites each year, and the Church of Koar
is a powerful influence in the area. For reasons unknown,
the Royal Magister makes no initial protest against the Jantalarian
invasion.
Empress Mynal'lyanna ascends to the throne when her three
elder siblings are each slain. Two die of a particularly virulent
disease that resists all treatment, and the third is spirit
drained by a great banshee that attacked him in the very streets
of Tamzyrr one evening! Mynal'lyanna avoids a vile fate through
happenstance, as she has spent the summer in Nydds.
Whispered hubbub is that Mynal'lyanna was behind the deaths,
but there is no evidence to support the rumor.
Surprisingly, the newly crowned empress does not designate
a new Northern Sentinel. Expectation had been that she would
select the late earl's heir, but Mynal'lyanna has other plans.
Per the Rysus Codex, the position of Sentinel is to be filled
within four years unless the empire is in a state of war,
in which case the ruler may decide to delay the appointment.
In the past, however, the appointment has traditionally been
made within a few months. Broadly interpreting the conflict
between Jantalar and Mestanir to be a true war, Mynal'lyanna
declines to designate a new Sentinel.
Initial conflict with Mestanir is inflicting great losses
on Jantalar's forces, as there are enough magic users of Mestanir
to overwhelm the relatively few witch hunters. Spells of mass
destruction are able to keep Jantalar's forces from easily
conquering the small barony. Realizing that the witch hunters
are not sufficiently effective against the numerous spellcasters
of Mestanir, Baron Hochstib petitions the young empress for
assistance, suggesting the use of an obscure crystalline artifact
known as a Mandis Crystal. (The Mandis Crystal is a dreadful
artifact that drains mana from its surroundings, preventing
all magic within its influence.) The Empress consents to Hochstib's
request, and with the power of the Mandis Crystal behind them,
the Jantalarian army easily conquers the mages of Mestanir.
Baron Hochstib expels all mages from the small barony, though
he allows the pilgrimages of Koar's faithful to continue.
With the use of the Mandis Crystal, the baron falls into disfavor
with the House of Kestrel, and actually finds them opposed
to his efforts, but he has gained the support of the empress.
5093
Empress Mynal'lyanna brings back much of the Turamzzyrian
pride within the empire, reviving the restrictions imposed on
non-Humans by Chaston's Edict. The infusion of racial pride
becomes most prevalent in the military and nobility, and in
cities nearest to the imperial capital.
The empress increases taxes to support a significant increase
in imperial troops, declaring her vision of conquest and expansion
into the corners of the world. Funding for the extension of
the Demonwall is reduced due to the greater needs of the imperial
army, and the burden of completing the wall falls on Sentinel
Chandrennin.
5094
Rebellion at Talador - Radical Dwarven rebels collapse the
mine, killing many Jantalarian soldiers and all of the prisoners
in the mine. Such desperate measures only prove how barbaric
the Dwarven rebels are, as they willingly sacrificed hundreds
of their own kind in order to lash out at a few score loyal
Jantalarian soldiers.
5096
Jantalar declares war upon barony of Vornavis and blockades
the Free Port of Solhaven. This extends Empress Mynal'lyanna's
procrastination in designating a Northern Sentinel as the northlands
are once again "in a state of war".
5098
Vornavis completes caravan road to Wehnimer's Landing, allowing
the barony to bypass the Jantalarian blockade to some extent.
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