Birth of Nathakra (W.I.P.)

The Creation and Early Years of Nathakra (~100,000 – 90,000 BC) (BC = Before Cataclysm)

In the depths of time, approximately 100,000 years before The Cataclysm and The Great Binding, a coalition of powerful beings from various realms—Krynn, Faerûn, Eberron, Greyhawk, and others—gathered at the Celestial Convergence. These entities—gods, titans, archmages, and elemental lords—sought a new realm where their powers could intertwine without the limitations imposed by their native worlds. At this sacred meeting point, charged with cosmic energy, they pooled their vast powers and birthed a new realm: Nathakra.

As Nathakra began to take shape, the landscape transformed under their combined might. Mountains soared into the heavens, oceans surged across the land, and the skies blazed with vibrant hues reflecting the elemental forces at play. From the heart of this newly formed world emerged the Fey Nexus, a mystical realm of wonder that intertwined the elemental planes. This ethereal source of raw magic—both elemental and nature-based—was a beacon of creation, its influence touching every corner of Nathakra.

Recognizing the need for guardians, the old gods created the Archons, powerful beings of neutrality dedicated to maintaining balance in Nathakra. Drawing their strength from the Fey Nexus, the Archons embodied the delicate equilibrium between the elements and the natural world. They became the first inhabitants of Nathakra, serving as custodians of harmony and order.

However, the old gods foresaw that Nathakra’s complexity required more than just guardians; it needed rulers who could oversee the realm’s various planes of existence and beings to tend to the garden that was Nathakra. Thus, they created new gods (who they saw as their children), demigods, and the early primordial beings, all of immense power but subordinate to the old gods. Each was assigned dominion over different aspects of Nathakra, from the elements and the seasons to the intricate balance of life and death.

To ensure that their creation would not be destroyed by unchecked power, the old gods wove a Cosmic Law into the very fabric of Nathakra—a binding force known as the Law of Divine Equilibrium. This law was designed to limit the direct influence of the gods on the mortal realm, preventing any single deity from exerting too much power and disrupting the balance they had so carefully crafted. According to this law, the gods could not directly manifest in Nathakra without incurring severe consequences—both for themselves and for the world they sought to protect.

For thousands of years, the new gods ruled Nathakra benevolently, each striving to fulfill their duties as envisioned by the old gods. Yet, as time passed, a growing discontent spread among them. The new gods began to yearn for more autonomy, frustrated by the constraints imposed by the old gods and the Law of Divine Equilibrium. They believed that Nathakra could flourish under their direct rule, with each of them wielding ultimate power over their domains.

This yearning for independence soon turned into a desire for dominion. A conspiracy took root among the new gods, and in an act of rebellion, they sought to overthrow the old gods. This betrayal ignited the First Great Primordial War, a cataclysmic conflict that would reshape Nathakra forever.

The war raged for centuries, with the new gods unleashing their full might against their creators. The old gods, though vastly powerful, were outnumbered and overwhelmed by the relentless assault. In the end, the new gods succeeded in their rebellion. Unable to destroy their creators, they instead banished or imprisoned the old gods, sealing them away in hidden realms or locking them within the very fabric of Nathakra itself.

With the old gods vanquished, the new gods assumed full control over Nathakra. However, they soon discovered that the Law of Divine Equilibrium could not be undone. This unbreakable law, established by the old gods as a final safeguard, remained in effect even after their imprisonment. The new gods, despite their victory, found themselves bound by this cosmic law, unable to directly interact with the mortal realm without risking the very fabric of Nathakra itself.

As a result, the new gods were forced to work through demi-gods and chosen champions—mortals and lesser divine beings who could act on their behalf within the constraints of the Law of Divine Equilibrium. These intermediaries became the hands and voices of the gods, carrying out their will in the mortal world while maintaining the delicate balance that had been woven into Nathakra’s creation.

This era marked the beginning of a new chapter in Nathakra’s history—one where the gods, though mighty, were bound by the very laws that ensured the world’s survival. The seeds of future conflicts were sown, as the new gods, now divided by their ambitions and rivalries, vied for dominance over Nathakra, all while adhering to the ancient law that kept their power in check.

However, the scars of the war were deep, and the balance of the world was forever altered. The once harmonious realm became a place of turmoil, as the new gods, now divided by their ambitions and rivalries, vied for dominance over Nathakra. This era marked the beginning of a new chapter in Nathakra’s history, one where the seeds of future conflicts were sown.

The Early Era of Nathakra (90,000 – 80,000 BC)

After the conclusion of the First Great Primordial War, the new gods—henceforth simply known as The Gods—found themselves the undisputed rulers of Nathakra. Yet, victory came with a heavy burden. The war had left the world scarred and fragile, and the gods now bore the responsibility of maintaining the delicate balance that their new autonomy required. Though they had banished the old gods, the unbreakable Law of Divine Equilibrium remained, a binding force that ensured no god could directly impose their will upon the mortal realm without dire consequences.

Understanding the significance of this cosmic law, the gods recognized the need for impartial guardians to maintain order in Nathakra—a world still reeling from the upheaval of divine conflict. To this end, they decided to preserve the Archons, the powerful demigods originally created by the old gods. The Archons, beings of neutrality and balance, were appointed as the eternal Guardians of Equilibrium. Their sacred duty was to oversee the balance across Nathakra, ensuring that no single force—divine, mortal, or otherwise—could disrupt the world’s harmony.

While many of the gods accepted this new order, acknowledging the necessity of the Archons’ role, some darker deities—those who thrived on chaos, ambition, and strife—begrudgingly accepted these constraints. Though they chafed under the restrictions imposed by the Law of Divine Equilibrium and the vigilance of the Archons, they had no choice but to comply, at least outwardly. These darker gods nursed their discontent in secret, seeking ways to subtly influence the world without directly violating the cosmic law.

Yet, among them were even more sinister and cunning gods who sought to do more than simply subvert the balance; they desired to unravel the very foundations of the Law of Divine Equilibrium itself. These deities, ever ambitious and relentless, began their search for forbidden knowledge and ancient secrets that might allow them to bypass or even undo the cosmic law. Their quest for power led them to explore the deepest recesses of Nathakra, hidden realms, and forgotten arcane mysteries, hoping to find a way to break the chains that bound them.

Thus, while the Archons began their eternal vigil—impartial, ever-watchful, and committed to maintaining harmony in Nathakra—a shadowy undercurrent of divine ambition persisted. The gods, though bound by the Law of Divine Equilibrium, continued to plot and scheme, their rivalries and ambitions simmering beneath the surface, threatening to one day erupt and challenge the very order they had fought so hard to establish.

THIS IS A WORK IN PROGRESS AND ANYTHING BELOW IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE. SOME ELEMENTS MAY HAVE ALREADY CHANGED ELSEWHERE AND ARE NOT YET REFLECTED IN THIS TIMELINE.

The Creation of the Sylvari, Khazrim and Myren

With the Archons overseeing balance, the gods turned to the task of shaping Nathakra into a thriving world. Though the land and seas had been formed during creation, they were still raw and untamed. To refine this world, the gods birthed the first mortal races—primordial versions of beings that would later evolve into the Elves, Dwarves, and the modern Myren known today. These early races were infused with the essence of the natural world, each tasked with nurturing and protecting different aspects of Nathakra’s environment, from the deep forests and towering mountains to the vast oceans.

The Khazrim (Primordial Dwarves)

The Khazrim were the first to emerge from the depths of the earth, crafted by the gods who governed earth and fire. These beings were the embodiment of the primal forces of the earth—stout, resilient, and unyielding. Unlike the Dwarves of later ages, the Khazrim were titanic in stature, their bodies seemingly carved from living stone, with veins of molten metal running through their skin. Their eyes glowed like the heart of a forge, and their strength was unmatched by any mortal race to come.

The Khazrim were the architects of Nathakra’s landscape. With their massive hands, they shaped mountains, dug out deep valleys, and redirected rivers to carve canyons. They built the foundations of what would become the great mountain ranges, their underground cities sprawling labyrinths filled with the raw power of the earth. Their forges were legendary, producing weapons and tools of immense power, imbued with the elemental magic of fire and stone.

The Sylvari (Primordial Elves)

Born from the convergence of air and water, the Sylvari were the second race to inhabit Nathakra. The gods of the skies and seas breathed life into them, imbuing the Sylvari with a profound connection to the natural world. Unlike the Elves of later times, the Sylvari were beings of pure energy, their forms ethereal and ever-changing, like the wind that rustles through the leaves or the mist that rises from a hidden spring.

The Sylvari were the stewards of Nathakra’s natural beauty. They commanded the winds to carry seeds across the land, creating vast forests that spread from horizon to horizon. With a mere gesture, they could direct rivers and streams, forming lakes and waterfalls that would sustain life throughout the realm. The Sylvari’s magic was deeply intertwined with the Fey Nexus, a mystical realm that served as the source of elemental and nature magic in Nathakra. They were the guardians of this sacred place, ensuring that its raw power flowed freely and harmoniously throughout the world.

The Myren (Primordial Merfolk)

The Myren were born from the depths of Nathakra’s oceans, shaped by the gods who governed water and the moon. These beings were the embodiment of the primal forces of the seas—graceful, mysterious, and deeply attuned to the rhythms of the tides. Unlike the Myren of later ages, the primordial Myren were majestic in form, with elongated, luminescent bodies that shimmered with the colors of the ocean. Their eyes mirrored the deep blue of the abyss, and their voices carried the haunting melodies of the sea.

The Myren were the guardians of Nathakra’s oceans, entrusted with the care of the vast underwater realms. They sculpted coral reefs, guided the currents, and nurtured the marine life that flourished under their watch. Their underwater cities were wonders of organic architecture, woven from living coral and adorned with pearls and glowing crystals. The Myren later also become keepers of ancient knowledge, their vast underwater libraries filled with secrets hidden in the depths, waiting to be discovered by those who could navigate the mysteries of the ocean.

The Shaping of Nathakra

Together, the Khazrim, Sylvari, and Myren worked to refine Nathakra, healing the scars left by the primordial war. The Khazrim raised towering mountain ranges, sculpted deep valleys, and shaped the earth into a form that could sustain life. The Sylvari, in turn, filled these landscapes with lush forests, flowing rivers, and vibrant ecosystems, creating a world of breathtaking beauty. The Myren, with their deep connection to the oceans, shaped the coastlines and filled the seas with life, weaving intricate coral reefs and vast underwater kingdoms that teemed with the vitality of the deep.

The cooperation between these new primordial races marked the beginning of a new era in Nathakra. Under the guidance of the Archons and the watchful eyes of the gods, the realm began to flourish. Yet, even in this time of growth and harmony, the seeds of future conflicts were being sown. The balance maintained by the Archons was delicate, and the ambitions of the gods, though tempered for now, would not remain dormant forever.

As Nathakra entered this new phase of existence, the world stood on the brink of a long and complex history—one that would see the rise and fall of empires, the emergence of new races, and the ongoing struggle between order and chaos. The legacy of the Khazrim, Sylvari, and Myren, the primordial versions of the Dwarves and Elves and common Myren today, would echo through the ages, their influence shaping the world for millennia to come.

This was the dawn of a new era, as other races began to emerge, each shaped by the unique energies of Nathakra.

Emergence of New Races

1. The Minotaurs and Centaurs of Old:
   • Minotaurs: The Minotaurs, beings of immense strength and primal savagery, were among the first to rise. Born from the earth and shaped by the raw energy of the land, they embodied the fierce and untamed aspects of Nathakra. With the head and hind legs of a bull and the torso of a man, these early Minotaurs were not the savage beings they would later become. Instead, they were revered as guardians of the wild places, their brutish strength balanced by a deep connection to the natural world. They worked closely with the Khazrim, learning the secrets of stone and metal, and became masterful builders and warriors.
   • Centaurs: The Centaurs, noble and wise, emerged from the ancient forests. They embodied the harmony between man and beast, with the torso of a man and the body of a horse. The Centaurs were not just fierce warriors but also skilled hunters and sages, deeply connected to the rhythms of nature. They roamed the vast plains and dense forests of Nathakra, often serving as intermediaries between the various races. They learned from the Sylvari, becoming adept in the arts of healing and archery, and were known for their wisdom and knowledge of the natural world.
2. The Early Humans:
   • The first humans of Nathakra were a resilient and adaptable race, created with longer lifespans that stretched from 160 to 180 years. They were a young race compared to the Khazrim and Sylvari but showed a remarkable capacity for learning and innovation. Early humans were spread across the lands, forming small tribes and settlements. They were taught by the Khazrim to shape the earth and metal, and by the Sylvari to understand the cycles of nature. Over time, these early humans developed a deep respect for the land and the ancient beings that guided them, and they began to cultivate the land, establishing the first rudimentary forms of agriculture and community living.
3. Animal Life:
   • As the races of Nathakra began to flourish, so too did the animal life throughout the realm. The land was teeming with creatures great and small, from the majestic griffons that soared through the skies to the mighty dire wolves that roamed the forests. Each species was a reflection of the elemental forces that shaped Nathakra, and they played a crucial role in the balance of the natural world. Some animals were revered by the races of Nathakra as sacred, while others were feared or hunted. The early Centaurs, in particular, developed a close bond with many of these creatures, seeing them as kindred spirits and often forming alliances with them.

The Gods’ Turmoil

With Nathakra now teeming with life, the gods found themselves at a crossroads. Rather than stepping back to observe their creations in peaceful contemplation, the gods turned their attention inward, drawn into a brewing civil war among themselves. The darker deities, driven by ambition and a thirst for power, began to clash with their more benevolent counterparts, igniting a conflict that threatened to tear the divine realm apart.

As the gods became embroiled in their own struggles, their influence on Nathakra waned. The Khazrim, Sylvari, and Archons, once teachers and guides, found themselves isolated, unable to reach out to the mortal races as they had before. Nathakra entered a dark age, a time when the presence of the gods was all but missing, leaving the mortal realm to fend for itself in a world where divine guidance had all but vanished.

Minotaurs and Centaurs: During this era of divine absence, the Minotaurs and Centaurs, who had once thrived under the guidance of the Khazrim and Sylvari, faced new challenges. The Minotaurs became the solitary protectors of the wild, relying on their strength and wisdom to build mighty fortresses and preserve their way of life. The Centaurs, though cut off from divine guidance, continued to uphold the balance of nature, serving as warriors and philosophers who maintained their traditions in the face of uncertainty.

Humans: The early humans, now left to their own devices, drew upon the knowledge imparted by the elder races but began to forge their own path. Their adaptability and ambition enabled them to develop distinct cultures and traditions, making them a rising force within Nathakra. Without the gods’ direct influence, humans pushed the boundaries of their understanding, leading to rapid advancements in crafting, agriculture, and healing.

As the gods waged their celestial war, the mortal races of Nathakra continued to evolve, shaped more by their struggles and triumphs than by divine intervention. The gods, locked in their battles, could only watch from afar as Nathakra endured this tumultuous period—a time when the world was truly left to find its own place in the cosmos.

The Unstable Times and The Great Timequake (Circa 50,000 BC)

Around 50,000 BC, Nathakra entered an era that would later be known as the Unstable Times. This period was marked by a cataclysmic event that shook the very foundations of existence: The Great Timequake. The cause of this temporal upheaval remains a mystery, but its effects were felt across all planes of Nathakra.

The Great Timequake

The flow of time, which had been a stable and consistent force, was suddenly disrupted. The temporal fabric of Nathakra fractured, causing events to spiral out of sequence. Some regions experienced centuries in a single day, while others found themselves trapped in an unending moment. The skies themselves reflected this chaos, with stars flickering in and out of existence and the moons—Solara, Lunara, and Nyxara—moving unpredictably across the heavens.

The mortal beings of Nathakra were powerless in the face of this disaster. Their lives were torn apart as entire eras collided and overlapped. Ancient Sylvari warriors found themselves standing beside their descendants, while Khazrim builders labored to complete structures that had already crumbled into ruin. The Minotaurs and Centaurs of old flickered between their primal origins and the beings they would become in later millennia. The Myren, who had long relied on the steady rhythm of the tides to guide them, found the oceans in disarray as time itself wavered, leading to the loss of entire generations and the fracturing of their underwater libraries.

In this desperate hour, Eternus, the Timekeeper, intervened. Understanding the gravity of the situation, he sought to mend the rifts in time and restore the natural order. However, this immense task drained Eternus of a significant portion of his power. The effort required to weave the fractured threads of time back together was so great that it took thousands of years for Eternus to fully recover. During this time, he struggled with his own sanity, tormented by the belief that the Great Timequake was somehow his fault. The burden of guilt weighed heavily on him, causing him to withdraw from the other gods as he sought to reconcile with the cataclysm that had nearly torn Nathakra apart..

The Impact on the Primordial Mortal Races

The shifting back and forth through centuries and the fracturing of the temporal fabric had profound effects on the Khazrim, Sylvari, and Myren—the primordial versions of dwarves, elves, and Myren, respectively. These ancient beings, who had once wielded great power and lived in harmony with the very essence of Nathakra, found themselves changed by the Timequake.

The Sylvari: These immortal beings, once intimately connected to the raw magic of the Fey Nexus, found their powers greatly diminished. While they retained their immortality in terms of not aging past adulthood, they could still die in many other ways, and their connection to the primal forces of nature was forever weakened. The Sylvari who emerged from the Timequake remained wise to the ways of nature, but their ability to shape the world through magic had been greatly reduced. Over time, they evolved into the more familiar Elves, known for their grace and longevity but lacking the overwhelming power they once held.

The Khazrim: The Khazrim, the ancient forerunners of the Dwarves, also suffered during the Timequake. Their mastery of stone and metal remained, but they lost their immortality. The once-eternal Khazrim became mortal beings, with lifespans of around 500 years. Their deep connection to the earth persisted, and they retained much of their ancient knowledge, but they too were forever changed. The Khazrim evolved into the Dwarves known today, skilled artisans and warriors who now lived with the awareness of their own mortality.

The Myren: The Myren, once deeply attuned to the ocean’s tides and blessed by Lunara, the moon goddess, were perhaps the most profoundly affected by the Timequake. The disruption of time severed their ancient connection to the Naiads, the elemental spirits of water, weakening their ties to the ocean’s mysteries. The Myren who emerged from the Timequake retained their affinity for the sea, but their ability to navigate by the tides and access the vast underwater libraries of ancient knowledge was greatly diminished. Over time, they evolved into a more mortal race, with their once-eternal wisdom becoming fragmented and their lifespans shortened. The Timequake also led to the emergence of the Abyssal Myren, a subrace adapted to the new, darker depths of the ocean, embodying the changes wrought by the temporal upheaval.

The War of Time

During Eternus’ self-imposed banishment, as he struggled with the guilt and exhaustion from mending the rifts caused by the Great Timequake, another deity saw an opportunity. This dark god, whose name has been deliberately erased from history by the victors, sought to exploit Eternus’ absence and take control of time itself. With a vision twisted by ambition, the rogue deity rallied his dark allies, intent on rewriting the past, present, and future of Nathakra to serve his own ends.

This audacious act sparked the War of Time, a cosmic conflict that threatened the very fabric of existence. The rogue deity’s forces launched a relentless assault on the timeline, seeking to bend it to their will. In response, the other benevolent gods, realizing the catastrophic implications of losing control over time, rose to defend the integrity of Nathakra’s timeline. The war waged across the heavens, the underworld, and the material plane, with battles fought in dimensions unseen by mortal eyes.

The War of Time was not confined to a single front. It unfolded across all planes of existence, from the celestial heights to the darkest depths of the underworld. The very cosmos seemed to buckle under the strain of the conflict as time rippled and tore in the wake of each clash. The skies of Nathakra blazed with divine power, and the land trembled with the echoes of these titanic battles. Mortals could only watch in awe and terror as their world teetered on the brink of annihilation.

As the war dragged on, the forces of darkness began to gain the upper hand. The rogue deity’s influence spread like a shadow, threatening to unravel everything the gods had created. The skies darkened, great storms ravaged the land, and the seas boiled as the timeline itself seemed to falter. The benevolent gods, though powerful, were slowly being overwhelmed.

In this desperate hour, Eternus finally emerged from his exile. Having regained his strength and clarity, the Timekeeper returned to the battlefield, his presence a beacon of hope. With renewed determination, Eternus joined the fray, wielding his power to restore order to the fractured timeline. His arrival swung the tides of battle in favor of the benevolent deities, and together, they pushed back the dark forces, ultimately restoring the balance of time.

The Conclusion of the War of Time

Despite the rogue deity’s immense power, the combined might of the Timekeeper and his allies proved overwhelming. After a series of cataclysmic confrontations, Eternus managed to bind the rogue deity within the temporal fabric itself, imprisoning them in a timeless void where they could no longer influence the flow of history. With the war’s end, the Timekeeper set about fully restoring the natural order, mending the last of the temporal fractures and ensuring the continuity of time across the world.

The Aftermath

The War of Time left an indelible scar on Nathakra. Though Eternus returned to restore order and prevent the timeline from unraveling entirely, the once-seamless flow of time was forever altered. Some regions of Nathakra still bore the echoes of the temporal disturbances—places where time flowed erratically, where the past and future occasionally bled into the present.

The strain of mending the temporal fractures once again took a profound toll on Eternus. Weighed down by guilt for his absence during the early stages of the conflict, and believing that his withdrawal had contributed to the near-catastrophe, Eternus retreated into his celestial domain. His once vigilant presence in Nathakra became distant and withdrawn, as he isolated himself from both the other gods and the mortal realm.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation and understanding Eternus’ deep burden, Nymria, the goddess of wisdom and fate, offered her aid. Together, they conceived a way to maintain the delicate balance of time and destiny without requiring Eternus to bear the full burden alone. With Nymria’s guidance, they created the Fates, a trio of powerful entities tasked with overseeing the timeline and the destinies of all mortal beings.

The Fates became the custodians of temporal order, weaving the threads of destiny and ensuring that the timeline remained intact. While Eternus remained in seclusion, the Fates took up the mantle of maintaining the flow of time and guiding the destinies of all who walked Nathakra.

Eternus’ withdrawal left a void in the divine order, and though the other gods respected his need for solitude, a lingering sense of uncertainty pervaded the cosmos. The gods continued their watch over Nathakra, but the absence of Eternus as the ever-vigilant Timekeeper introduced an undercurrent of unpredictability to the realm’s future. Yet, with the Fates now guiding the flow of time, the balance—though delicate—endured.

The mortal races, having witnessed the cataclysmic events of the Timequake and the War of Time, were left to rebuild and move forward without the guidance of the Timekeeper. Though they did not fully understand what had transpired, they knew that the world had changed, and with it, their place within the intricate web of existence.

The Age of Prophecies (circa 40,000 BC to 20,000 BC)

After thousands of years in isolation, Eternus, the Timekeeper, finally re-emerged during what would later be known as the Age of Prophecies. Though he was never quite the same, the scars of the Great Timequake and the War of Time had left him diminished—no longer able to control time outright, but still capable of influencing its flow.

In this era, Eternus sought the counsel of Aetherion, the Stargazer, a deity with an unparalleled understanding of the cosmos and the delicate threads of destiny. Together, they delved into the mysteries of time, hoping to understand and guide its flow without imposing their will upon it.

Realizing that time had become too unpredictable to be controlled with absolute certainty, they conceived a new approach: crafting prophecies. These prophecies, intricate and profound, were meant to offer glimpses into possible futures, guiding the actions of gods and mortals alike. However, Eternus understood that mortals possessed free will, and therefore, prophecies could never be guarantees—they were possibilities, not certainties.

The prophecies themselves were manifold, revealing paths of both light and darkness, triumph and tragedy. Yet as time went on, many of these prophecies were lost, hidden away, or purposefully obscured. The potential knowledge they contained was too dangerous, capable of once again disrupting the natural flow of time if misused.

As Eternus and Aetherion explored the intricacies of fate and free will, Nymria worked through her puppets-The Fates. These three beings, sharing one eye between them, served as the keepers of the timeline. They could read the threads of fate, interpret the prophecies, and help maintain the natural flow of time, death, and renewal. Their purpose was not to control, but to guide and preserve the balance of Nathakra’s existence.

As the Age of Prophecies unfolded, the world was filled with both hope and uncertainty. While many of the prophecies remained enigmatic, their influence would ripple through the ages, shaping the destiny of Nathakra in ways both seen and unseen.

The Era of Withdrawal (20,000 BC – 10,000 BC):

Following the catastrophic events of the Great Timequake and the War of Time, Nathakra entered a period of relative calm known as the Era of Withdrawal. This era, spanning from 20,000 BC to 10,000 BC, marked a significant retreat of the Gods from direct involvement in mortal affairs. Scarred by the consequences of their past interventions and the overwhelming burden of repairing the timeline, the Gods decided to withdraw further from the world, allowing Nathakra’s inhabitants to chart their own course.

The decision to step back was driven by a growing belief among the Gods that the mortal races needed the freedom to develop independently. They hoped that by removing their direct influence, mortals would be forced to face their challenges, make their own choices, and ultimately realize their full potential. This retreat was more pronounced than before, with the Gods intervening only in the most critical moments when the very existence of Nathakra was at risk.

However, this decision was not unanimous. The retreat sparked intense debate among the divine beings. A faction of Gods, led by Eternus, protested the withdrawal, arguing that the mortal races were still vulnerable and that their guidance was essential to prevent future catastrophes. Eternus, haunted by the consequences of the Great Timequake and his subsequent absence during the War of Time, feared that abandoning the mortals could lead to further chaos. Meanwhile, the evil-aligned gods saw the retreat as an opportunity to sow discord and strengthen their influence, eager to exploit the power vacuum left by the more benevolent deities.

As the Gods debated, tensions among them escalated into a full-blown civil war—a cosmic conflict between the forces of the heavens and the hells. This divine war, which still rages to this day, became a brutal struggle for dominance between good and evil. In a paradoxical way, this war helped to maintain balance within the cosmos, as neither side could afford to let the other gain too much power. The mortal races, unaware of the full scope of this celestial conflict, continued to live their lives, largely oblivious to the titanic struggles occurring beyond their comprehension.

During this era of divine absence, the mortal races of Nathakra continued to thrive and evolve. The Khazrim and Sylvari, though weakened by the Great Timequake, remained influential, guiding the younger races with their vast knowledge and wisdom. The Minotaurs and Centaurs, who had emerged in earlier eras, maintained their strong presence across Nathakra, shaping the landscapes and cultures around them.

Early humans, who had already established themselves in the previous era, continued to grow in numbers and influence. Their longer lifespans allowed them to accumulate knowledge and pass it down through generations, leading to the formation of more complex societies. They learned from the Khazrim and Sylvari, mastering the arts of crafting, building, and agriculture, while also adopting some of the more primal aspects of the Minotaurs and Centaurs, such as their reverence for the natural world and their warrior traditions.

The Gods watched silently from their distant realms, taking note of the changes and developments unfolding in Nathakra. Although they were no longer the active rulers of the world, they remained vigilant observers, ready to intervene if the balance between good and evil tipped too far in either direction. The Era of Withdrawal allowed the mortal races to explore new paths, make mistakes, and learn from them, fostering a sense of autonomy and self-determination.

However, despite the peace that characterized much of this era, the seeds of future conflicts were quietly sown. The absence of the Gods created a power vacuum, leading to subtle shifts in the balance of power among the mortal races and within the natural world. The forces of darkness, always lurking at the edges of Nathakra, began to stir, sensing an opportunity to rise once more.

As the Era of Withdrawal progressed, the mortal races of Nathakra developed in ways that would have been impossible under the direct guidance of the gods. New alliances were formed, ancient traditions were passed down, and the foundations for future civilizations were laid. Yet, the absence of the gods also meant that the world was vulnerable to forces beyond mortal comprehension, setting the stage for the dark times that would eventually culminate in the Age of Despair.

The peaceful quietude of the Era of Withdrawal was, in many ways, an illusion—a calm before the storm. While the mortal races grew in strength and wisdom, the shadows of the past and the uncertainties of the future loomed ever larger, waiting for the right moment to strike. And all the while, the heavens and hells continued their eternal war, a cosmic struggle that shaped the destiny of Nathakra, even in the gods’ absence.

The Founding of Theos (Early Village Phase)

During this time (~15000 BC) Theos begins as a small fishing and trading village on the western coast of the Nathakran Plateau. Founded by early human settlers, the village benefits from its strategic location near both the coast and the fertile lands of the plateau. The early inhabitants are guided by a prophecy from Eternus, foretelling that this humble settlement would one day become a great city. Over time, Theos grows as a center for trade, drawing in settlers from various races.

The Age of Despair (10,000 BC – 0 BC):

The Age of Despair began when Malachi, the Harbinger of Shadows, sensed the perfect moment to unleash his dark ambitions. For millennia, he bided his time, observing as the gods gradually lowered their defenses, lulled into a false sense of security by the peace that had settled over Nathakra. The gods believed their realm was secure, their creations flourishing, and their power unchallenged. But Malachi, ever patient and calculating, had other plans.

When the time was right, he struck with a force that shook the very foundations of Nathakra. Malachi unleashed the Cataclysm, a catastrophic event that tore asunder the boundaries between the mortal world and the underworld. This dark rupture allowed the horrors of Malachi’s realm to spill into the material plane, bringing death, despair, and destruction to all who lived there.

The war that followed was relentless, spanning thousands of years. Good and evil clashed in a titanic struggle, with neither side able to claim decisive victory for long. The forces of light, led by the remaining demi-gods and their mortal champions, fought valiantly to push back the tide of darkness. However, Malachi’s legions, fueled by the essence of the underworld, were equally determined to conquer and corrupt all of Nathakra.

Periods of calm would occasionally punctuate the relentless conflict, as both sides needed time to recover and regroup. But these moments of peace were fleeting, as the war soon resumed with renewed ferocity. The toll on the world was immense, with entire civilizations rising and falling in the span of centuries. The landscape of Nathakra itself was scarred by the constant battles, with once-thriving regions reduced to desolate wastelands.

During this time, Malachi created the Vaaku, a twisted and malevolent race bred for destruction. Alongside the Vaaku, other dark minions of the Underworld spilled forth into the material plane, forever altering Nathakra’s landscape. Undead, demons, devils, gorgons, and other fiendish creatures became a permanent fixture in the world, their presence a constant reminder of the Cataclysm that had torn apart the fabric of reality.

Recognizing the strength and formidable nature of the Minotaurs, Malachi set his sights on corrupting this powerful race. He orchestrated a campaign of capture and torture, breaking the spirits of the Minotaurs and driving them to madness. Under Malachi’s relentless torment, the entire race eventually succumbed to the will of evil, becoming twisted agents of Malachi, forever bound to his dark purpose.

Adding to the chaos, Nathakra was struck by a dire crisis known as the Great Blight. This dark plague, unleashed by Malachi in collaboration with Morgrimm, the god of corruption and decay, threatened to engulf the land. The Great Blight corrupted the flora, fauna, and natural balance of Nathakra, spreading misery and death wherever it touched. For nearly a century, the mortal races endured unimaginable suffering, fighting for survival in a world teetering on the brink of collapse.

In response to the Great Blight, the Circle of Gaia, an ancient order of druids and nature magic practitioners, rose to the challenge. Rallying allies from all corners of the world, they led a valiant campaign against the Blight. Through their combined efforts and mastery of nature’s magic, they managed to defeat the Great Blight, purging its corruption from the land. However, this victory was bittersweet, as the Cataclysm continued to rage on, and the forces of darkness showed no sign of relenting.

Roughly 100 years before the Great Binding, Nathakra entered a period known as the War of Darkness. During this time, Malachi’s forces gained a significant foothold, plunging the realm into an era of death and torment. These 100 years were the darkest in the Age of Despair, as the forces of good struggled to hold back the tide of evil that threatened to overwhelm them.

The turning point came with the Great Binding, an event that would forever alter the course of Nathakra’s history. Realizing that Malachi’s forces could not be defeated by conventional means, the Archons, led by Archonis, made a fateful decision. They would sacrifice themselves in a final, desperate bid to seal the doorway to the underworld and prevent Malachi from gaining total dominion over the mortal realm.

In a cataclysmic explosion of divine energy, the Archons unleashed their combined power, tearing a rift in the very fabric of reality. This act of self-sacrifice succeeded in sealing the doorway to the Underworld.

The Great Binding marked the culmination of this dark age. With the doorway to the underworld sealed by the Archons’ sacrifice, the power of the underworld was finally contained. The remaining dark beings, their strength greatly diminished, fled to the outer reaches and dark corners of Nathakra, where they continued to pose a threat, albeit a far less formidable one. Though the Cataclysm had been halted, its scars remained, and the world of Nathakra would never be the same again.

The Rise of Theos (Development into a Town)

(~7500 BC) As Nathakra faces turmoil during the Age of Despair, Theos becomes a refuge for those fleeing the chaos. The town expands rapidly, attracting artisans, scholars, and warriors alike. Despite the ongoing conflict, Theos begins to establish itself as a place of resilience and hope, with the first defensive walls being erected to protect its growing population.

Theos as a Major City

(~2500 BC) Theos emerges as a major city. It becomes a hub of culture, learning, and commerce, with the construction of grand buildings, temples, and marketplaces. The influence of the early prophecies continues to shape the city’s development, with many scholars flocking to Theos to study ancient texts and relics.

Age of Radiance (0BC to Present Day)

The Establishment of the Solar Sanctum (0 PC to 100 PC)

In the immediate aftermath of the Great Binding, the mortal races of Nathakra, led by the Elves (descendants of the Sylvari) and Dwarves (descendants of the Khazrim), along with humans and centaurs, began rebuilding their shattered world. The Solar Sanctum, a grand temple dedicated to Hieros, the god of the sun and light, was erected in the heart of Theos. This temple quickly became a beacon of hope and unity, symbolizing the resilience and determination of the people to restore balance and order in Nathakra. The early years of this era were marked by the consolidation of power among the various races and the formation of alliances to safeguard their newfound peace.

Theos as the Capital of Nathakra (99 PC)

Theos is formally established as the capital city of Nathakra. The construction of the Solar Sanctum in 0 PC marks this transition, symbolizing the city’s central role in the religious and political life of the realm. Theos continues to grow, becoming a metropolis known for its magnificent architecture, vibrant culture, and diverse population. It becomes the heart of the Age of Radiance, where knowledge, faith, and power converge.

The Golden Age of Knowledge and Faith (100 PC to 300 PC)

As Nathakra continued to recover and thrive after the Great Binding, the period between 100 PC and 300 PC became known as the Golden Age of Knowledge and Faith. During this era, various religious orders and cults were established or reformed, reflecting the diverse beliefs and practices of the mortal races.

One of the most notable orders to reemerge during this time was the Circle of Gaia. Originally formed millennia ago, the Circle had seen its numbers dwindle over the centuries. However, recognizing the need to preserve the natural balance of the world, the Circle of Gaia opened its ranks to new members. This ancient order, dedicated to the preservation and protection of nature, became a sanctuary for druids, shamans, and those who revered the elemental forces that governed Nathakra. They played a crucial role in healing the land after the devastation of the Cataclysm and continued to safeguard the world’s natural order.

Another prominent order that rose to prominence was the Pantheon of Helios. The followers of this pantheon revered a group of deities inspired by the sun and light. They believed in the power of illumination, justice, and the triumph of good over evil. The Pantheon of Helios promoted themes of courage, honor, and wisdom, and its followers became beacons of hope, spreading their teachings throughout the realm. The Pantheon quickly gained influence, with its temples becoming centers of learning and moral guidance.

The Order of Athenea also gained significant standing during this era. Dedicated to Athenea, the goddess of wisdom, strategy, and warfare, this order attracted those with disciplined minds and a thirst for knowledge. Members of the Order of Athenea were known for their intellectual pursuits, strategic thinking, and military prowess. They maintained vast libraries, served as advisors to rulers, and played a vital role in defending the realm against external threats. The Order became a respected institution, blending scholarship with martial discipline.

However, this era also saw the rise of more nefarious organizations. The Cult of Nyx was a secretive and sinister religious group that worshiped Nyxara, the Goddess of Shadow and Nightmares. The cult’s followers reveled in chaos, deception, and the subjugation of others, spreading shadows and despair wherever they went. Operating from the shadows, they manipulated events to further their dark goals, often acting as a hidden hand behind conflicts and unrest.

Another malevolent force that emerged was the Brotherhood of Shadows. This feared cult worshiped Malachi, the Lord of the Underworld, and engaged in dark rituals and occult practices. The Brotherhood sought to spread fear and chaos throughout the world, operating from hidden lairs and influencing events from behind the scenes. Their reach was extensive, and they became a significant threat to the stability of Nathakra, exploiting the fear and uncertainty that still lingered after the Cataclysm.

These orders and cults, both light and dark, shaped the spiritual and political landscape of Nathakra during the Golden Age of Knowledge and Faith, leaving an indelible mark on the realm’s history.

Rediscovery of Ancient Knowledge (300 PC to 500 PC)

Between 300 PC and 500 PC, Nathakra experienced a period of profound rediscovery. During this time, ancient texts and artifacts from the Age of Prophecies were unearthed, sparking a renewed interest in the mysteries of the past. These discoveries led to a surge in scholarly activity, as researchers and mages sought to decipher the cryptic prophecies and harness the knowledge of bygone eras.

The reemergence of these ancient writings and relics fueled both curiosity and fear, as they hinted at potential future events and revealed long-forgotten truths about the nature of time, fate, and the cosmos. While some sought to use this knowledge to further the advancement of Nathakra, others worried about the implications of meddling with prophecies and the possible consequences of altering the flow of time.

During this period, a growing sense of unease began to take hold, as the shadows of the past seemed to loom larger with each passing day. The rediscovery of ancient knowledge served as a double-edged sword, offering both enlightenment and the potential for renewed conflict.

Gods of Nathakra

1. Eternus
   • Title: The Timekeeper
   • Domain: Time and Fate
   • Alignment: Lawful Neutral
   • Description: Eternus oversees the flow of time and the fate of all beings. He maintains the balance of temporal events, ensuring that time’s flow remains unbroken.
2. Malachi
   • Title: Lord of the Underworld
   • Domain: Death and the Underworld
   • Alignment: Lawful Evil
   • Description: Ruler of the Underworld, Hades governs the souls of the dead and the dark realms beneath Nathakra. He is a stern and unforgiving deity.
3. Solara
   • Title: The Radiant Moon
   • Domain: Light and Protection
   • Alignment: Lawful Good
   • Description: Solara is the goddess of one of the three moons of Nathakra, embodying the gentle light and protective qualities of the night. She symbolizes guidance, hope, and the unwavering protection of the innocent.
4. Lunara
   • Title: Goddess of the Blue Moon
   • Domain: Night and Water
   • Alignment: Chaotic Good
   • Description: Lunara governs the night and the tides. She is a protector of dreams and mysteries, embodying the ever-changing nature of water.
5. Nyxara
   • Title: Goddess of Shadow and Nightmares
   • Domain: Darkness and Fear
   • Alignment: Chaotic Evil
   • Description: Nyxara is the goddess of the darkest hours, ruling over shadows and nightmares. She thrives on chaos and fear, often sending terrifying visions to those who displease her.
6. Morgrimm
   • Title: The Corruptor, Harbinger of Desolation
   • Domain: Corruption and Decay
   • Alignment: Lawful Evil
   • Description: Morgrimm is the embodiment of corruption, spreading decay and moral degradation. He seeks to twist the hearts of the virtuous and bring ruin to the realms.
7. Vorithas
   • Title: Lord of War and Conquest
   • Domain: War and Destruction
   • Alignment: Chaotic Evil
   • Description: Vorithas thrives on bloodshed and chaos, delighting in the endless cycle of war and destruction. His followers are brutal warriors who live for the thrill of battle.
8. Xylarus
   • Title: The Deceiver
   • Domain: Lies and Deception
   • Alignment: Neutral Evil
   • Description: Xylarus is the god of lies, deceit, and betrayal. He whispers falsehoods into the ears of mortals, leading them down dark and treacherous paths.
9. Zarathra
   • Title: Mistress of Pain
   • Domain: Torture and Suffering
   • Alignment: Chaotic Evil
   • Description: Zarathra revels in the infliction of pain and suffering. She is the patron of torturers and sadists, feeding on the agony of others.
10. Kharvos
    • Title: The Tyrant
    • Domain: Oppression and Slavery
    • Alignment: Lawful Evil
    • Description: Kharvos represents the iron fist of oppression. He upholds tyrannical rule and the subjugation of the weak, enforcing his will through sheer power.
11. Thalindra
    • Title: Lady of the Forest
    • Domain: Nature and Healing
    • Alignment: Neutral Good
    • Description: Thalindra is the goddess of the forests, plants, and all living things. She is revered by druids, healers, and those who seek to protect the natural world. Her presence brings peace and renewal to the lands.
12. Zephyros
    • Title: Lord of the Winds
    • Domain: Air and Freedom
    • Alignment: Chaotic Good
    • Description: Zephyros is the god of the winds, symbolizing freedom and the boundless skies. He is a protector of travelers and those who value independence. His winds can bring both gentle breezes and fierce storms.
13. Nymira, The Weaver of Fates
    • Title: The Weaver of Fates
    • Domain: Fate, Chaos, and Destiny
    • Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
    • Description: Nymira is the goddess of fate and chaos, representing the ever-changing and unpredictable nature of life. She weaves the threads of destiny, creating a tapestry that is both beautiful and chaotic, filled with unexpected twists and turns. Neither inherently good nor evil, Nymira values freedom and the natural flow of events, unbound by the rigid structures of order. Her followers embrace the uncertainty of life, seeing it as an opportunity for growth, adventure, and transformation.
14. Aetherion
    • Title: The Stargazer
    • Domain: Stars and Knowledge
    • Alignment: Neutral Good
    • Description: Aetherion is the god of the stars and the infinite cosmos. He represents the pursuit of knowledge and the mysteries of the universe. Scholars, astronomers, and those who seek wisdom revere him, believing that the stars hold the answers to many of life’s questions.
15. Athenea
    • Title: The Strategist
    • Domain: Wisdom, Strategy, and Warfare
    • Alignment: Lawful Good
    • Description: Athenea is the goddess of wisdom, strategy, and warfare. She embodies the principles of careful planning, intellectual rigor, and disciplined action. Athenea is revered by military leaders, tacticians, scholars, and those who seek to navigate the complexities of life with a keen mind. Her followers believe that true strength lies not just in might but in the mastery of knowledge and strategy. Temples dedicated to Athenea serve as both academies of learning and fortresses of defense, where her teachings guide the pursuit of wisdom and the art of war.
16. Vestra, The Spider Queen
    • Title: The Spider Queen
    • Domain: Shadows, Fate, and Webs
    • Alignment: Neutral Evil
    • Description: Vestra, The Spider Queen, is a cunning and malevolent deity who embodies the intricate and often cruel nature of fate. As the goddess of shadows, fate, and webs, Vestra controls the unseen threads that bind the world together, weaving destinies with a cold and calculating hand. She is both feared and revered by those who understand the delicate balance between life and death, knowledge and ignorance.
17. Archonis (demi-god)
    • Title: Leader of the Archons
    • Domain: Neutrality and Balance
    • Alignment: True Neutral
    • Description: Archonis leads the Archons, the demigods tasked with maintaining balance in Nathakra. He is a figure of wisdom and impartiality.