Imladrys

Sylvius is an old continent, its battles fought, its wars settled. Long existing now in a state of peace under the watchful care of the Eternal Imperium and its leader, the living deity Evendim--the world's last surviving god--human society has proceeded much in the same for nearly two millennia. Two millennia of regular Imperium patrol and "wildlife pacification" operations have largely tamed all but the most remote regions of the land. Commerce and travel between cities and regions is widespread and prosperous.   Or so you'd be told were you to enter any city's Imperium Hall and ask the resident Imperator. And while they'd be mostly right, there's a bit more to it than that.   Through an ever rising grasp of magick (nowhere near the level of aptitude enjoyed by the elves) the innovative Hume have developed their own style of magical infusion and enchantment to create rudimentary technology, mainly employed in construction, industry, and ease of life improvements in residences and public functions. Imperium law largely prohibits the private use of magical enchantment in martial weaponry, however; the practice of enhancing personal arms and armors is on the rise in spite of this. Concurrently, many familial and fraternal cadres, especially about the Imperial City and other regional capitols, amass magical power and pour entire generational fortunes into magical research, with a few cadres having emerged as forerunners in different specializations and applications. (see Cadres)   Further removed from the Imperial City, however; most cling to the old traditions, discouraging and suspicious of emerging magical advancement. Many communities practice a loose religion encapsulating a muddle of old Elderkyn worship, and naturalistic spiritualism--viewing magick as an intrinsic property of nature to be respected and revered, only to be practiced in purity and for the direct, innocent benefit of humanity. Most of these communities have little more religious organization than a local Shaman or Healer/Herbalist, and annual festivals celebrating the seasons and elements.   Eternal Imperium spiritualism, in comparison, is far more dogmatic and structured. Largely practiced in a more centralized area to the Imperial City, the faith is built around the praise of Evendim and the Old Gods for bestowing their power upon him, and using these magicks for the glory and ascension of humanity. It employees ranks of priests and clerics to maintain order and provide security within the populace, and its own scholars to further magical research towards the boundaries of humanity's capabilities to handle it.   Meanwhile, far across the eastern ocean the Elves occupy the continent of Encaria. Held there by an oath long forgotten by the Humes of Silvius, they watch over the old lands, ever vigilant for any sign of the return of ancient enemy...