The Age of Ruin: Year 0-200
The Age of Ruin was a time devoid of divine presence, a bleak era in history marked by the absence of the gods. While some documents have been found dating back to before this time, it is during the Age of Ruin that anything of true importance related to the gods is discovered.
No records of gods exist from this era, leading scholars to speculate that either the gods never existed before this time or that they had perished, plunging the world into chaos. The Age of Ruin is infamous for the great strife between nations, widespread famine, devastating plagues, and a significant regression in technology.
Many artifacts from this time have been recovered, including architecture, weapons, and, most notably, books. These books are invaluable, offering glimpses into the cultures and traditions of a world struggling to survive in the absence of divine guidance. Through these remnants, we can piece together an educated understanding of the people who lived through this dark chapter in history.
According to scholars, many cultures of this era revolved around servitude, with people often reverting to crime, living away from any semblance of civilization, becoming mercenaries, nomads, or seeking refuge in the few remaining settlements. However, approximately a hundred years after the start of this era, interdimensional portals, now known as Nexus Gates, began to appear. Those who dared to enter these gates and successfully passed the challenges within were granted extraordinary powers.
The end of this age and the beginning of a new era is marked by the rise of the gods we know today.
The Age of Renewal: Year 201-532
The Age of Renewal marks a transformative period in history, characterized by the rise of the gods and the flourishing of major civilizations. Unlike the sparse records from the Age of Ruin, this era is rich with thousands of books, manuscripts, art, and music that provide detailed accounts of the culture, traditions, daily life, and most importantly, the gods themselves.
At the beginning of this era, the 13 Primordial Gods had not yet ascended to their thrones. Instead, numerous gods roamed the earth, each leading their own nations and influencing the course of history. This proliferation of deities also resulted in the birth of demigods and divine bloodlines among the population. These bloodlines bestowed unique abilities, which were further augmented by the extraordinary powers granted to those who ventured through the Nexus Gates.
As the era progressed, a significant shift occurred. Nexus Gates, once essential for acquiring extraordinary powers, became less critical as either the gods or the people themselves discovered a way to teach these abilities to those who lacked them. This process, now known as "ascending," was rudimentary compared to modern practices but represented a pivotal moment in history. It fueled the rapid expansion of nations and the rise of new gods in the years that followed.
However, the end of the Age of Renewal was marked by great strife. The increasing number of gods and the competition for power led to conflicts that escalated into wars, not only among humans but also between the gods themselves. These divine conflicts set the stage for the start of the third era, one defined by the aftermath of this tumultuous period.
The Age of Ash: Year 533-578
The Age of Ash, though the shortest of them all, is the most pivotal, as by its end, all of the Thirteen Primordials had taken their place as the Gods of Gods. This era was marked by relentless war and widespread death, as countless gods clashed in a bid for supremacy. As the world burned, most gods and their followers were forced to seek refuge, and that refuge was found among the emerging power of the thirteen Primordials.
In the face of this devastation, these thirteen deities stood apart, their strength and influence growing as they absorbed the remnants of those who had fallen. By the close of this era, they had ascended to their thrones, establishing a new order and marking the dawn of an age ruled by the Thirteen Primordials. The Age of Ash, with its flames of destruction, forged the very foundation upon which the divine hierarchy of the future would be built.
The Age of Enlightenment: year 579-700
The Age of Enlightenment is marked by revolutionary advances across all fields of study, from science to magic, philosophy to art. During this period, knowledge flourished, and scholars, mages, and thinkers sought to understand the world and the divine forces that governed it. It was a time of great intellectual awakening, where old traditions were questioned, and new ideas took root.
The Age of Enlightenment heralded a period of profound transformation, where knowledge and wisdom became the cornerstones of society. The Thirteen Primordial Gods, revered as the ultimate divine beings, each representing a fundamental aspect of existence, played a pivotal role in shaping this era. Their influence was felt in every corner of the world as their teachings spread through the newly established churches, which served as sanctuaries of knowledge, culture, and spiritual guidance.
These churches, dedicated to the Thirteen, became beacons of learning, where scholars, mages, and philosophers sought to unravel the mysteries of the universe and the divine. The gods, now firmly seated in their thrones, watched over humanity, guiding their followers through this time of intellectual and spiritual awakening. As a result, the Age of Enlightenment became synonymous with progress and discovery, a golden age where the wisdom of the gods illuminated the path to a brighter future.
As the world transitioned from the chaos of the Age of Ash, the Age of Enlightenment became a beacon of hope and progress, laying the groundwork for the thriving civilizations that would emerge in the centuries to come.
The Churches created during this time are as follows:
The Church of Odavir - Dedicated to the God of Wind, Autumn, and Winter.
The Church of Ithanhall - Dedicated to the God of the Sun, Spring, and Summer.
The Church of Osmose - Dedicated to the Goddess of Life, Fertility, and Earth.
The Church of Feith - Dedicated to the God of Sound, Harmony, and Art.
The Church of Tearus - Dedicated to the God of Law, Protection, and Truth
The Church of Divosi - Dedicated to the Goddess of the Moon, Silence, and Mysteries.
The Church of Ierunes - Dedicated to the Goddess of Water, Medicine, and Wisdom.
The Church of Ciher - Dedicated to the God of Battle, Conquest, and Courage.
The Church of Estures - Dedicated to the God of Food, Wine, and Pleasure.
The Church of Aunua - Dedicated to the God of Beginnings, Endings, and the Dead.
The Church of Vanicis - Dedicated to the Goddess of Love, Sleep, and the Mind.
The Church of Eraura - Dedicated to the Goddess of Beasts, The Hunt, and the Heart.
The Church of Paneiceus - Dedicated to the Goddess of Lightning, Peace, and Blood.
The Modern Age: Year 701-N/A
The Modern Age is marked by dramatic leaps in both technology and the mystic arts. This period has seen a remarkable fusion of ancient wisdom with cutting-edge innovations, leading to advancements that have fundamentally reshaped society.
Technological progress has reached unprecedented heights, with mechanized systems revolutionizing industries and improving efficiency. Digital realms have interconnected societies, allowing for instantaneous communication and global information exchange. Enhanced infrastructure and sustainable technologies have enabled impressive architectural feats and the development of modern cities.
In parallel, the mystic arts have also advanced significantly. Magic has been integrated into everyday life, with enchantments enhancing transportation, communication, and various other aspects of existence. The blending of technology and magic has given rise to new innovations, such as enchanted devices and magical interfaces. The study and practice of mystic arts have reached new levels, with a deeper understanding of ancient spells and rituals.
The driving force behind these advancements stems from a shift in human reliance. As the gods became less involved in the daily affairs of mortals, humanity turned inward, relying on their own ingenuity and skills to address challenges. This growing self-reliance has spurred rapid progress in both technology and magic, as people sought to fill the void left by the diminished divine presence.
Cultural shifts have accompanied these advancements, with interdisciplinary collaboration between scholars, mages, and technologists becoming commonplace. This era reflects humanity's adaptability and innovation, where the extraordinary has become an integral part of daily life. The Modern Age stands as a testament to the ability of individuals and societies to evolve and shape a future where the boundaries of possibility are continually expanded.
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"Interesting, so there were no gods in the first era, so the gods aren't needed... No, that can't be it; it all seemed to come crashing down then." Marcy's deliberation was interrupted by her realization that the figure behind her was drawing closer.
"What an interesting choice for a book on the Gods," a voice said suddenly.
Startled, Marcy spun around faster than she ever thought possible, only to find the store clerk leaning casually against the wall, a smile playing on his lips.
The man, seemingly unfazed by Marcy's surprise, continued with a nonchalant tone, "It's more about the Ages themselves, you know... Well, of course you know that, you just read it."
Suddenly, a wide grin spread across his face. "You know, there are a few things that book doesn't mention... Like what the Nexus Gates are used for now, or the ages before the Ruin... Or where did the Gods go?"
Marcy narrowed her eyes, shaking off the fright he'd given her. His casual manner and the way he hinted at deeper knowledge piqued her curiosity. "You seem to know about this stuff more than the books could tell me... Would you consider teaching it to me instead?"
Though it stung her pride to ask for help, Marcy knew it would be more efficient than sifting through countless books for answers. Besides, this man clearly knew more than he let on, and she needed to learn whatever he could offer.
"Oh, are you sure?" The man's grin widened, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "How much time do you have? What do you want to learn specifically? It seems like you're searching for something specific rather than a general overview."
Marcy hesitated for a moment, weighing her options. She didn't want to reveal too much, but she needed information, and this man might be her best chance at getting it quickly.
"Do you know anything about mysterious liquids?"
"If you're talking about what I think you are, you mustn't tell anyone or anything about what you have... No, even better, drink it."
Marcy's heart skipped a beat, her thoughts racing. "What—what are you talking about?"
The man didn't respond immediately. Instead, he held her gaze for a moment longer before abruptly turning and rushing down the stairs. Marcy stood frozen, her mind grappling with the sudden shift in tone. What had she stumbled upon?
Moments later, the man reappeared, clutching a small bottle that glowed with a faint golden hue. He held it up, the light from the bottle casting an eerie glow across his face.
"Does the thing your talking about look like this?"
Marcy seeing the vial, while a little different was similar enough got even more anxious at the answer, "Yes,. . . What is it?"
"Ambrosia. . .otherwise known as the blood of a God."
Marcy's thoughts spun wildly as she processed the man's words. "Ambrosia... the blood of a God?" Her voice trembled with disbelief. "But how... how does that even exist?"
The man's expression remained serious, though there was a flicker of something else—perhaps understanding, or maybe pity. "It's more common than you'd think," he began, his tone measured and calm. "Gods, when they want to leave behind something of themselves, something tangible, they infuse their own blood with power. This mixture, when combined with other ingredients—specific to their domain or the effect they desire—creates what we call Ambrosia."
The man stared for second before tossing the vial to her, "here, I can't use it and its better to take two than one isn't it."
Marcy stumbles a little to catch the vial of liquid. Marcy was dumbfounded, 'he was just saying how valuable this stuff was and I just met him today. I don't even know his name. That means he must want something. . . but what.'
Marcy looked him dead in the eyes, "What do you want."
"Oh, you catch on fast. . .I like that, that means I chose right."
the man then waved his hand. Marcy heard a creaking noise and suddenly she was thrown out the window that had opened, "Wha-what, shit!" Marcy in a panic from the fall curled up in hope that she would be fine, but when she hit the ground it felt as if she hit water.
Marcy's heart pounded as she stood in the alley, her thoughts a chaotic mix of fear, confusion, and suspicion. She clutched the vial tightly, her mind racing to piece together what had just happened. The man had given her something immensely valuable, something that could change everything—and then had thrown her out, quite literally.
She shook her head, trying to make sense of it all. "What does he want from me? What game is he playing?"
With no answers in sight, Marcy knew she had to get home, and fast. She took off, her instincts telling her that staying in this alley was a bad idea.
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Meanwhile, back in the transformed bookstore—no, now it was more than just a store; it was a labyrinth of endless shelves, each one filled with volumes that seemed to stretch on forever. The man, now seated at a grand desk in the center of the vast library, tapped his fingers rhythmically, his expression one of satisfied anticipation. His appearance had shifted, becoming something far more striking, more otherworldly. His features were now so refined, so perfect, that they seemed almost unreal, as if crafted by divine hands.
A grin spread across his face as he felt the presence approaching. The sound of footsteps echoed through the endless rows of books, growing louder until they came to an abrupt stop. The man looked down the hall, his eyes gleaming with a mix of delight and mischief.
"Long time no see, Vanicis."
In the dim light of the library, a figure emerged, her beauty so profound that it defied description. Every movement she made was like poetry in motion, and her very presence seemed to radiate an aura of ethereal grace. Yet, despite her divine beauty, there was a sharpness to her gaze as she looked at the man before her.
"Feith, what have you done?"
Feith, the God of Sound, Harmony, and Art, chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Oh, you know, the same as you, no?"
Vanicis, the Goddess of Love, Sleep, and the Mind, did not seem amused. Her expression remained stern, her voice carrying a weight of authority. "You've meddled with something beyond your domain, Feith. Do you know the consequences of what you've set in motion?"
Feith waved his hand dismissively, his grin never fading. "Consequences? You worry too much, Vanicis. The world needs a little chaos now and then. Besides, the girl... she's interesting, don't you think? A perfect canvas for something truly magnificent."
Vanicis took a step closer, her gaze never leaving his. "This is not a game, Feith. The balance must be maintained, and you're playing with forces that could unravel everything."
Feith leaned back in his chair, folding his hands behind his head, his grin widening. "And isn't that what makes it so exciting? After all, what is art without a little risk?"
Vanicis sighed, her expression softening ever so slightly, though her eyes remained wary. "You may find this entertaining, but remember, Feith... not all creations end in beauty. Some end in ruin."
Feith's grin faltered for just a moment, a flicker of something unreadable crossing his face. But it was gone as quickly as it appeared, replaced by his usual playful demeanor. "Ah, but we'll just have to wait and see, won't we?"
Vanicis shook her head, her expression filled with a mix of frustration and concern. "You're playing a dangerous game, Feith. Just remember, if this goes wrong, you'll have to answer for it."
Feith's eyes sparkled with mischief as he stood, spreading his arms wide as if to embrace the vastness of the library. "And if it goes right...? Well, then, we'll have created something truly extraordinary."
Vanicis turned away, her form beginning to fade into the shadows of the endless rows of books. "For your sake, Feith, I hope you're right."
As she vanished into the darkness, Feith stood alone in the vast library, his grin returning as he whispered to himself, "So do I, Vanicis... so do I."
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Pronunciations and the 13 Primordials( for reminder)
Odavir (O-Da-Veer), God of Wind, Autumn, and Winter
Ithanhall (Ithan-Hall), God of the Sun, Spring, and Summer
Osmose (Os-Mose), Goddess of Life, Fertility, and Earth
Feith (Fee-Th), God of Sound, Harmony, and Art
Tearus (Teer-Us), God of Law, Protection, and Truth
Divosi (D-Vo-See) , Goddess of the Moon, Silence, and Mysteries
Ierunes (Ear-Rune-nes), Goddess of Water, Medicine, and Wisdom
Ciher (Si-Hear), God of Battle, Conquest, and Courage
Estures (Est-Ur-Es, God of Food, Wine, and Pleasure
Aunua (A-New-A), God of Beginings, Endings, and the Dead(Spirits, Soul)
Vanicis (Va-Knee-See-us), Goddess of Love(Emotions), Sleep, and the Mind
Eraura (Er-Aura), Goddess of Beast, The Hunt, and the Heart
Paneiceus (Pa-Knee-See-Us), Goddess of Lighting, Peace, and Blood