Merlin the first Sage
Merlin (Myrddin van Emrys), the First Sage of Avalon, is a legendary figure whose name is synonymous with the origins of magic and the rise of the Eternal Empire. Revered as the greatest mage in recorded history, Merlin’s mastery over the arcane reshaped the Kagoma System and ushered in an era of unparalleled magical and technological advancement. Over ten thousand years ago, Merlin activated the Ley Lines that crisscross Avalon, tapping into reservoirs of primal arcane energy and creating the foundation for the Arcane Revolution. This singular act not only revolutionized society but also solidified Merlin’s legacy as the architect of modern Magitech and the spiritual progenitor of the Eternal Empire. Merlin was not merely a practitioner of magic but a visionary who sought to bridge the gap between magic and science. He pioneered magitech, creating devices and constructs that blended arcane power with practical utility, a feat that propelled the Empire into its golden age. Among his most famous creations were the Artifacts of Merlin—legendary items such as Excalibur and the Holy Grail, each imbued with unimaginable power and bearing a piece of Merlin’s genius. These artifacts remain central to the mythos of the Eternal Empire, though most are lost to time, their secrets buried in the annals of history. As a leader, Merlin was both revered and enigmatic. He guided the early Empire with wisdom, balancing the forces of progress and tradition. While many viewed him as a benevolent protector, others saw him as a figure of great ambition, willing to harness even the most dangerous powers to secure the future of Avalon. Merlin’s understanding and manipulation of the ley lines granted him unparalleled influence over the magical fabric of the universe. Yet, his decisions often carried a heavy cost, raising questions about the limits of power and the sacrifices required for progress. Merlin’s greatest and most controversial act came at the end of the First Crusade, a war waged by the Eternal Empire against the Titans of Oberon. To ensure victory, Merlin activated a cataclysmic magitech weapon that wiped out the Titans but left Oberon scarred and desolate. This act, while securing the Empire’s dominance, weighed heavily on Merlin. It is said that the destruction of Oberon and the consequences of wielding such devastating power led Merlin to question the very path he had set humanity upon. Eventually, Merlin vanished from Avalon, leaving behind a legacy shrouded in mystery. According to legend, he cast a great cosmic storm, an area now known as Merlin's Belt, around the inner planets of the system, effectively severing contact with the outer worlds and protecting Avalon from external forces. Some believe Merlin ascended to a higher plane, while others think he disappeared into obscurity to atone for his actions. His departure marked the end of an era, but his influence continues to shape the Empire millennia later.
Physically, Merlin is often depicted as a tall, imposing figure with a long white beard, piercing blue eyes, and red robes adorned with shimmering stars, symbolizing his mastery of the cosmos. However, these depictions vary, as his true appearance remains a matter of legend. Some accounts describe him as ageless, his form constantly shifting between youthful vitality and ancient wisdom, reflecting his profound connection to the ley lines and the arcane forces that sustained him. In the present day, Merlin is both a symbol and a cautionary tale. The Eternal Empire venerates him as its founder and the embodiment of arcane excellence, using his legacy to justify its dominion and control over magic. His artifacts, teachings, and philosophies remain central to imperial doctrine. Yet, whispers persist of his warnings against overreliance on power, his regrets over the destruction of Oberon, and his desire for balance between progress and restraint. To many, Merlin is not just a historical figure but an enduring enigma—both the savior and the architect of the Eternal Empire’s greatest challenges.
