Histories of Everos Part 2

Revival of Edrastócel and the Hall of Gledgast (1314)

With the establishment of a stable Corgastodmar state in Everos, ancient knowledge and manners of life once lost during the Interrengum were revived. The cataclyst of this renewal was the Edrastocel, known in centuries past as noble seekers of wisom mundane and esoteric.
The Great Concession (1328 to 1330)
In the stable years which followed the foundation of Corgastoria, Ghetunbast Larich I looked toward the Balendorn mountains which loomed upon the northern horizon of Ghethemas. It was a wild country beyond but endowed with deep roots of gemstones and ore. He desired a swathe for himself.
Odezar lingered upon the decision throughout the night, watching the lights of Kovûl rise above. Terrible tremors of emotional fright torn through his thoughts- hero or traitor? Who among the Karthuuzar would accept such a peace? Was there a choice? Resistance might mean the Norgost’s annihilation, while alliance with Larich might mean the advancement of the Karthuuzar race. No longer slaves to modernity, but masters of the very resources the Corgastodmar required to survive. All it required was a measure of reason.
Odezar returned to the Norgost amidst the coming of winter. Wheeled trains of Corgastodmar gifts passed between the winnowing mountain passes of the Balendorns, beyond which spread a land which rarely witnessed such wealth. The Norgost villages were scattered beneath, like stones which the snow drifts around but never buries. A warmth filled Odezar’s chest. This crude realm will be encircled with walls within years. Roads will connect them. Great bastions and manors will circle the palatial squares.
Degemedzar and his counsel met Odezar outside Kheleg. Each among them witnessed the coming of this treasure horde with disbelief. How could such wealth exist in the entirety of Everos? When Odezar dismounted, Degemedzar embraced him, speaking the highest praises that such arrangements were made to enrich the Norgost race. Odezar affirmed this wealth, but noted that the Corgastodmar desired lands in return, specifically those upon the northern slopes of the Balendorns leading the Kheleg’s nearest hinterlands.
Ghetunbast Larich II founds Nerod (1373)
The newly founded Ghetunbalastod ast Corgastor prospered under the rule of Larich I, and they managed to secure their borders from the numerous threats from abroad. Trade booms as metropolitan center expanded, bringing growth to the previously impoverished countryside. The arts and literature were also given much needed breathing room, and for a time there was an opportunity to develop them. Works such as Terovan's History of the First Realm were widely copied and sold. This being said, not all the danger had been vanquished. Whilst the Empire began to form itself, dark and Nemgarotiric forces were at work. Vile monsters, cunning and violent, had brought death and strife to the world through the previous years. Their attacks were most potent when nations were divided and warring. Needless to say, the years before and during the Empire's founding were prime time for these Nemgarotirs to spread and cause havoc. With the stability of the Empire, it seemed like the danger had moved southward, to the southern reaches where lords still fought amongst themselves for dominance. Unfortunately, evil can only be repelled by stability for so long. In time, the Nemgarotirs returned to Imperial lands, intent on bringing back the chaos of the earlier ages. To combat this, Ghetunbast Larich II organized an order of men and women of all skills and abilities to help combat the tide of evil, naming them the Nerod.
The Judge’s Rebellion (1384 to 1386)
In the years before the foundation of the Eurobasar Empire, Othos was little more than a secondary thought for the nascent Ghetunbalastod ast Corgastor. The Corgastodmar realm had been founded less than a century prior from the union of Valgorod and Loryne, and threats to the fledging nation kept it occupied. Karthuuzar raids, incursions by the Elivas, conflicts with the successor kingdoms of Étunas, and border struggles with neighboring Grathem all enumerated themselves into an unrelenting surge of strife. The Ghetunbasts of the Corgastodmar realm endured with strength, keeping their gaze locked to Everos- it was the cradle of their prosperity and the cauldron of their woes. This being said, there were some dangers in the wider world too great to ignore. In 1382, word arrived from Othos that Tyrphos, a strange nemeshari of unknown origins, had launched a ferocious war upon the continent at large. Horrid beasts formed from raw Vojûn roamed free, the bodies of the innocent lined the streets as morbid trophies, and all but the strongest holdouts on the edges of the continent managed to resist the fury. The potential collapse of Othos would bode poorly for Everos, leaving it vulnerable should Tyrphos not be suppressed. Ghetunbast Corenne Goldheart, who succeeded Ghetunbast Larich II in 1379, organized an army to sail toward Othos to defeat Tyrphos- this renegade who sought to undo the order of Qadal. The measure was met with resistance by her noble lords, many of whom saw intervention in Othos as a waste of valuable resources during a period of existing danger. All the same, she pressed the matter and ignored the grumblings of the nobility. Nerodhûnbast Haradus, the first commander of the Corgastodmar Nerod, was chosen to head this invasion as a baptism of fire for the newly founded order. He was put at the head of a host of 30,000 men and sent eastward, unsure of exactly what monstrosities they would be fighting.
In the early months of 1384, over a year since the reports of Tyrphos’s war began to arrive in Everos, the army of Corgastor arrived in Othos. They were horrified to see the bitter fruits of Tyrphos’s reign shortly after disembarking on the continent. The green lands of Zoridas, as Vehod Lohas was known in those days, had been turned into a wretched ruin of black ash and crumbling stone. Every town within miles of the shore had been laid to waste and the bodies of the inhabitants impaled upon spikes- defining the border between utter destruction and total abandonment. Not a living being was to be found for the first few days.
Such monstrosities were what met the holy liberators upon their arrival, yet they did not waver in their faith or determination but pressed forward with swords in hand. The campaign lasted for the greater part of the year, as mile by mile Othos was freed from the shadow of Tyrphos. The shame was that for the Eshyod Dhenests every yard taken meant another man lost, and so the band shrunk in size, but not in courage. It was in the final battle against Tyrphos, in which Nerodhûnbast Haradus and Corgastor slew Tyrphos within Corgastor's realm of celestial space that the Eshyod Dhenests gave their ultimate display of devotion. They volunteered to protect the reality tear caused by Tyrphos using Vanarion to invade the Realm of Corgastor in an attempt to slay him.
Nerodhest Haradus followed him into the rift, but in order to return the tear would need to remain open. The Eshyod Dhenests defended the opening for over three hours until a dazed and bloody Haradus finally emerged from the tear. The warriors had held the ground around the portal to the last man and succeeded in their noble task. Once emerged, the Nerodhûnbast led his army wipe away the most significant bastions of Tyrphos's power. They swept across Othos from west to east, burning villages and towns alike that appeared corrupted and taking the plunder left behind. They were, however, kind enough to refrain from indiscriminately killing those wretched esseythu that survived the horror within the afflicted area, as might be expected by the Nerod. Corgastor's mercy shone through, and the Imperial army made good on their promises to protect those who survived. By the winter of 1385, the presence of Tyrphos had been removed from most of Othos and it once again became possible to inhabit the area. Under the rule of Konin Folkmer the area became the Reunited Kingdom of Vestidia.
The final episode of the Judge’s Rebellion came in the early months of 1386, when the world was still cold and blanked with snow. The army of Nerodhûnbast Haradus had completed what proved to be a miSerable march through the slush and ice in a land devoid of stable civilization. Men were beginning to perish from the elements and disease and morale had never quite recovered after the ferocious battle against Tyrphos. The only thing that held the army together was the understanding that the struggle was almost over. Day after day the Nerodhûnbast rose their spirits with beautiful prayers and a steady hand. So, it was that this continued until they reached the eastern shore of Othos, in the Earldom of Haldorn and the place where Tyrphos first made landfall.
The Charter War (1387 to 1392)
The victory over Tyrphos in Othos brough wild joy and immense pride to the Corgastodmar nation. They had crossed the threshold from weakling upstart to global player within a short historical span. Haradus was proclaimed a living hero, with plans to erect statues in his honor unway even before his return to Everos. Ghetunbast Corenne dumped titles and wealth upon his estate, all waiting for his return. Yet, as the return came closer and the news arrived with greater clarity of detail, an unsettling truth was revealed. Haradus, and thus Corgastor as well, had brokered a deal with Acolitus over the fate of Tyrphos. The victory was incomplete and the great enemy of Aebaster granted court.
Celebration and fanfare gave way to a silent apprehension. What should be done about this revelation? The masters of Ghethemas were uncertain, but the lesser nobles and common landowners of Everos were swift to take action. They composed warbands of local fighters to oppose the feared incursion of corrupted Acolitus worshippers. Those who were literate sent letters to Ghethemas begging Ghetunbast Corenne to exile Haradus until the matter could be properly investigated by the Solhesunbast. She considered these overtures and saw some value in their suggestions. Taking control of these proceeding and controlling how the population perceived the recent victory could strengthen the hold of the Ghetunbast over the Ghetunbalastod. She chose to take command of these dissidents, and wrote a great letter to all the uprising masters: The Charter of Alignment. This document dictated in no uncertain terms that the Corgastodmar were allies of Aebaster and his legacy, and thus eternal enemies of Acolitus. The deals Haradus brokered with Acolitus were unacceptable, and thus justice must be done upon him. Her bloc of support became known as the Charter Alliance. She revealed this change to none but her closest supporters in government.
The coalition descending on Ghethemas threw the close advisors of the Ghetunbast into a terror- just as they schemed to support Haradus for their own purposes, it appeared that Corenne was scheming to destroy them with this growing horde of common people. Indeed, news of the new-minted Charter Alliance arrived to them broken and unverified. Those fearful for their own security were compelled to choose a side, escalating the conflict to a murderous height.
In the spring of 1387, shortly after these events unfolded, Haradus arrived off the eastern coast with his veteran warhost in tow. The recent developments of a Charter Alliance and some insurgency were unknown to him, and thus he proceed unhalting. He expected cheering crowds and flowers at his feet, but received nothing. None came out to see him and the towns shut their gates in dread.
Corgastor was not silent, but measured in his response. He did not hate Corenne and her Charter Alliance, for the deal with Acolitus was equally disdained by himself. Yet, he loved Haradus and desired a militant, powerful Ghetunbast to expand the Corgastodmar worldly domain.
Come the winter of 1387, the first stage of the conflict was done. Ghetunbast Corenne was deposed in favor of Haradus, but successfully fled southward to the domains of the Grahen. The great masters who supported her were either pardoned or dead. Yet, the Charter Alliance did not collapse. A great multitude who fought for the cause were more deeply convinced that pro-Acolitus scheming had overthrown the government, and thus continued fighting. Corgastor attempted to halt them with soothing words, but their paranoia was too great. Haradus was compelled to departed Ghethemas to crush them with the same veterans warriors at his back.
The following years were characterized by brutal war between pro-Haradus and pro-Corenne parties throughout the countryside, devastating the realm.
While the war raged, Corenne was not content to languish in a foreign court. In depths of the starry night, she reached out to Acolitus and offered herself in service in exchange for revenge against Haradus. The Creator of existence considered the matter briefly- Corgastor’s machinations passing without hinderance wouldn’t be ideal after all, then agreed to assist her. The terms were these: a certain gap in power was left after the recent death of Tyrphos. Corenne would fill that gap, assuming the mantle of a Judge, strike back against Haradus, then be bound in service forever after. Acolitus learned much from the Tyrphos debacle, and was thus certain to get ALL outstanding terms out of the way. Corenne agreed, for there was nothing left for her otherwise.
Corenne travelled north under the covers of darkness, moving straight to where Haradus’ kept his camp.
The guards could not cease her fury, nor could they protect her intended targets. She moved not for Haradus, but aimed for his two sons, Dahon and Loheras, whom Haradus brought with him upon this campaign.
The final remnants of the Charter Alliance were destroyed in 1392, leaving Haradus as undisputed master of northern Everos. He prompted crowned himself Ghetunbast that same year, ending the anarchy that reigned during the war.
First Northern Rebellion (1390 to 1392)
While the usurping Ghetunbast Haradus hunted down Charter Alliance rebels, the nobles of Nemrohed stirred with dissatisfaction. When Loryne joined with Valgorod, it was for the purpose of mutual prosperity against Karthuuzar, Daorhu, Elivas, and other foreign enemies. Now brutal civil war engulfed the Ghetubalastod, casting everything in doubt.
While the Corgastodmar fought over control of Ghethemas and the other domains, the ancient frontier bastions were left weakly defended or altogether forgotten. The Karthuuzar took advantage of the turmoil and poured over the Balendorn mountains in great numbers, bringing with them innocents and children alike to settle the conquered territories. The potent Vehem Bandast came under assault when it was most vulnerable- while its warriors were departed attempting to eject supporters of Ghethemas from Loryne. It fell within mere days while the survivors scampered south for help. The western province, Erehem, fared little better, and was overrun along its frontier save the southernmost regions where the Aeducarrs provided a natural defense.
In the east, independent Eroyther withstood the Karthuuzar attacks, establishing defensive measures upon the Lornesse and northern borders.
Death of Ghetunbast Haradus (1440)
Ghetunbast Hairud, the (secretly) adoptive son of the passed Ghetunbast, organized an ornate funeral procession which would honor the legacy of his tremendous father.
These events were not without a share of conflict. An ancient enemy came to make an appearance- Judge Corenne, usurped Ghetunbast of Everos, burst upon the scene of the funeral, bypassing the guards and the careful eyes of onlookers. She revealed unto them that Hairud was not a legitimate child of Haradus, but an adoptive urchin plucked from the streets. This was a truth known to her best, for she slew Haradus’ true children years ago.
The death of the legendary Nerodunbast turned Ghetunbast was a significant transition point in Everos. In the immediate aftermath, the veterans of the Eshyod Dhenest who fought with him against Tyrphos gathered together in fraternity. With the allowance of Ghetunbast Hairud, they organized the first of the Amaderin Lorvelgis. It was aptly titled the Amaderin ast Haradus. Warriors from across the continent travelled to Ghethemas to put themselves forth in service, both for altruistic and more personal reasons. The details of this evolution are written elsewhere but suffice to say that the military and political landscape of Everos was completely changed as a result. Now, in the long term, the heirs of the Beyleveld dynasty embodied the martial demeanor and successes of their father. Each successive Ghetunbast guided the Corgastodmar through wars against the Karthuuzar, Grathon, and Etayen with outstanding competence.
Bleeding of Ghethemas (1442)
Come the middle 1400s, the slopes of the Balendorn were a hideous warscape between Karthuuzar warlords and the infant Corgastodmar Ghetunbalastod. The disasterous Northern Rebellion of half a century prior opened the gates for enemies to enter or leave Nemrohed at will. Loryne now remained as little more than scattered villages struggling for existence upon their former western marches. The Vehem Bandast became the capital for a new nation of Karthuuzar known as the Balgost, through which the lucrative trade of mineral wealth flowed. This nation grew powerful and wealth over the years, threating Corgastodmar traders with increasing boldness. Eroyther survived on the eastern shores of the Lornesse but was constantly beset by terrible warhosts. It is this context that Ghethemas quavered in existential fear. Without Loryne near nothing stood to protect the Corgastodmar throne from invaders. When Ghetunbast Haradus died in 1440, the disadvantaged realm lost its strongest defender. Abozar Gartuul, master of this Balgost tribe, perceived this weakness, and with weakness opportunity. He began the mustering of a massive warhost. Warriors were invited from throughout the Karthuuzar world, with many more than expected coming forth in flight from the Daorhu and their gwazkerrag. His numbers were said to count some 20,000 strong. This exludes the servants and followers who accompanied this invasion, which near doubled the number.
Abozar Gartuul began his march in the summer, following the winnowing streams which were born from the Balendorn’s peaks into the hinterlands.
The gates of Ghethemas were closed to the Karthuuzar. Supplies were stockpiled for a siege while every warriors within many miles came forth to defend the spawn of Haradus. Abozar Gartuul was swift in his arrival, knowing that time was to the sole benefit of the Corgastodmar.
Ghetunbast Hairud and his closest advisers fought their way back into the Old City of Ghethemas. A small retinue yet survived with them, while many others were beset and slain in retreat.
Ghetunbast Hairud and the Ghetunbalastod survived the humiliating ordeal, but the scares ran deep. Not only was Ghethemas ruined in all places beyond the Trident, but the image of the Ghetunbalastod was reduced to weakness.
War of the Broken Circle (1446 to 1449)
The saliency of the Amaderin Lorvelgis came into immediate question. In Loryne, Ghet deityorest Bandros came into competition with his nephew, Tarand Bandros. The latter was made Lorobast of the Amaderin ast Hemon Ghesed as a matter of personal honor, granted in trust by his uncle. However, the two disagreed upon the loyalties and services owed by the Lorvelgis to their master. It must be remembered that this when Lorvelgis served local vassals rather than the Ghetunbast directly. War broke out between them, shattering the unity of Loryne and throwing Corgastodmar Everos into turmoil.
Northern Loryne Reclaimed (1457 to 1460)
The Corgastodmar Ghetunbalastod marched north and reclaimed the region south of the Balendorn Mountains and took back the Vehem Bandast after decades of Karthuuzar control.
First War of Grathem (1463 to 1468)
In the aftermath of the Corgastodmar’s glorious victory against the Karthuuzar interlopers who once occupied Loryne, a military spirit was all-pervasive.
In the spring of 1463, during the months when such military endeavors are pursued, the heirs of Haradus launched war against the southern Grathon. This was momentus beyond the simple implications of war between olûndari nations. Foremost, Grahen and the Ghetunbalastod were the greatest Aemar nations on the continent. Lodon in the west or Nathrovas in the east might compare in strength, but they were a different people and disposed to their own affairs. This was a shattering of the Aemardic world which would have centuries’ worth of sorrow to follow. Second, the pitching of Corgastor’s realm against the predominantly Aebastadmar eroded the celestial harmony which Aemarda’s who chief deities possessed with one another. Remember, Aebastadmars once took in the remnants Corgastodmar when they were a weak and insignificant sect. War forced the two Eshan to combat one another in what powers they bestowed upon their followers. As it stood, however, Aebaster was unprepared for the contest and after centuries still remained weak from empowering Aemarda against the Etayen then uplifted Corgastor. He could not compete against the younger Eshan whose strength was saved without interruption for all those years. This fact would characterize this war and the numerous wars between Grathem and the Corgastodmar Ghetunbalastod which followed.
Ghetunbast Haborengest mustered a force of 30,000 warriors for the first lunge of the invasion.
As the Corgastodmar armies hurled themselves against the defensive villages of Grathem, vigilant eyes were keen on their struggle. The Nathroghal, Akiranis Rhakan, who still reigned over a united Nathrovas in those days, was wary. Aemar growth was something to be feared. Nassarus had coaxed Corgastor into resigning his pretensions to continent domination, which left the Etayen in peace. Now his new realm, guided by his Eshanic spirit, had been maturing for 300 years. News of the approaching Etayen host reached Haborengest in the summer of 1466, much to the disdain of his weary commanders. Progress on the frontlines was slow and difficult to measure. A few remote border holdings wrested into Corgastodmar control was hardly worth serious discussion. Other hilltowns remained entirely independent, just along or behind the Corgastodmar frontline. At best, Haborengest could claim a minor victory and depart with the spoils in preparation of later assaults. His Ghetûn suggested such a conservative measure, but Haborengest sensed the subtle scent of opportunity.
Akiranis’ small force encountered Haborengest a dozen miles south of Thebarras. The region thereabouts was rugged and difficult marching ground for large forces.
Haborengest’s defeat in battle against Akiranis shattered Corgastodmar morale. What remained of his host returned to Ghethemas in shambles and refused to march from it.
Nathrovayen Restoration (1523)
Centuries of instability and decline had weakened the once prosperous realm of Nathrovas. However, the early 1500s promised some measure of change. The endemic warfare of the previous decades was finally relenting. Corgastodmar Everos was at peace with the Karthuuzar in the distant north and Grathon in the south. Their power and expansion had been seriously curbed in the First War of Grathem. In Othos, Lyseros Pyrgos was near completed with his conquest of the continent. Global wealth was increasing and the centralized location of Nathrovas showered the region with imports and exports.
The Nemrohed War (1588 to 1593)
Following the successful reclamation of Loryne in the 1460s, Corgastodmar Everos began a process of recuperation. This created a lull along the borderland which endured for a century. In the meantime, the Karthuuzar busied themselves with wars against the wealthy neighboring Daorasyalar. These wars were vicious affair, for this was after the Caranadu’s departure from Nemrohed.
The Corgastodmar allied themselves with the Daorhu to combat the Karthuuzar menace. This was the first such alliance between those peoples in centuries.
Getas II's Folly (1592 to 1594)
Lyseros’s successors struggled to maintain the new empire carved with steel and treated with corpses. The Vestanir in the east were restless and would prove to be such for centuries to follow. In the south, the Demhezzar clamored for the independence which was first stolen from them by the Etayen in the Ascension era. Indeed, even among the Eurobasar there were faint murmurings against the concept of a continent empire which so vigorously meshed cultures. Come the 1580s, Tressonar Getas II Pyrgos reigned over the Eurobasar territories. He was 28 years old upon ascending to power, having witnessed the troubles of his dynasty to maintain order. Unfortunately, matters continued to deteriorate with the transfer of power from Tressonar to Tressonar. The bonds which bound together the nation were coming undone amidst these grumbles and greivances. Without a reversal of fortunes, the continent would shatter apart and return to its primitive state. Getas pondered for years, well before his coronation, on how to combat this decline. His theories were many, steeped in erudite examination of previous sovereigns and nations. The same solution continued toThis was the first major foreign venture of the nascent Othosar realm, and thus an important indicator for future success.
In preparation for the invasion, Tressonar Getas sought out powerful allies. However, this search required subtlety. Open letters and legions of diplomats would arouse awareness suspicion and hostility in the Corgastodmar domain. Getas disposed of them all. He chose a more personal option and decided to sail to Everos himself. His target was Grathm, the Aebastadmar realm which dominated the southern Aemar, with whom Getas believed he stood the greatest chance of success. He arrived in secret around the fall of 1590 with the intention of wintering with Lhenod Hilesem in Calathem. The pair reclined, hunted, feasted, and became closely acquainted. Every splendor within the Painted City was revealed and paraded for the entertainment of the Tressonar. All was done beyond the vigilant gaze of the northern Corgastodmar for whom neither party was fond. Come the spring of 1591, a deal was brokered between the two nations. When the Eurobasar invaded the Ghetunbalastod, the Grathon would march northward to assist them, passing over the western reaches of the Aeducarr mountains to claim valuable territory along the Zomore river-shed. This would catch the Corgastodmar realm between two vigorous opponents.
The initial campaign was successful. Eurobasar forces land on the eastern coast north of Nathrovas and marched toward Ghethemas. Paltry Corgastodmar forces were unable to halt their advance, and the only well-defended settlements constructed from stone could withstand the worst. Turost was besieged in mid-1592 by Tressar Seyegotus and surrendered later that year. It gained the dubious distinction of being the sole fortification to succumb to the Eurobasar during the short war. After this victory, the Eurobasar continued to march without significant opposition, as events in northern Everos were in their favor. Corgastodmar warhosts were occupied combating the Karthuuzar in alliance with the Daorhu, but this conflict was long and brutal, as permanent occupation stole more lives than the actual battles.
Getas watched the proceedings of late-1592 into 1593 with excitement. Seyegotus continued to exploit the collapse of Turost to secure the easternmost reaches of Nossen as a base of operations. Supply shipments from Othos arrived per week with needed reinforcements and rations to bolster the expended host. The momentum built further. Tressar Noronnus mustered together a detachment of veterans and inexperienced warriors to strike up through the Lornesse river region, separating Corgastoria from neighboring Eroyther and its own province of Loryne. They departed in spring with some 7,000 fighters upon sufficient barges to ferry them. Villages and Vehem along the route were attacked and ruined when possible, sending the inhabitants scrambling for safety. The major walled settlements were ignored. A month later the army was harassing territory within the shadow of the Balendorn mountains, from whence the Lornesse river originates and flows. As symbolic gesture, the Tressar touched his hand upon its immense foundations, claimed the region from that site to the sea as Eurobasar, then returned homeward. On this journey, his host was intercepted by 10,000 Corgastodmar warriors under Lorod Arodomengest of the Amaderin ast Haradus. They fought a brief battle upon a watery plain known as Wolovehembast. The details are scant and the fight itself inconsequential, as the lumbering Corgastodmar army was unable to effectively engage the barge-mounted Eurobasar host. Noronnus arrived some weeks after the engagement, laden with loot. Morale was high among the warrior stock.
Despite the successes of 1593, not all proceeded according to the Eurobasar scheme. Word arrived in the summer that the Grathon warriors under Lhenod Hilesem were delayed, possibly indefinitely. Getas was thunderstruck by the misfortune. He was bedridden with grief the next day and another thereafter. His commanders were baffled- what caused this sudden betrayal? An investigation by Dramana agents into the matter yielded swift results. Apparently the Corgastodmar were not docile during the early months of the Eurobasar campaign, and perhaps they sensed some greater plot afoot. Their diplomats had courted with the Etayen Ghalûn of Jequa and Nathrovas, being the greatest powers in southern Everos. In their clandestine sessions, a defensive pact was wrought wherein the two powers promised to march against Grathem should the country march against Corgastoria. The reasoning involved nothing about good will between them, for the wounds of the Velgasid Etag lingered. Instead, the Corgastodmar referenced the pact between Corgastor and Nassarus Nathroghal- the former would forsake rule over the Aemar in exchange for alliance with the latter. If the Eurobasar succeeded, then the balance wrought by this ancient pact which long benefited the Etayen successor state would be compromised. Moreover, the diplomats remained the Etayen how their predecessors had marched to protect Grathem against Corgastodmar attack in 1466 for the same purpose. This was enough to secure an agreement. News was quickly and deliberately passed toward Calathem, where Hilesem feared the prospect of ruin against Etayen warriors with whom he suffered no other tension. With great shame he withdrew the promise of Grathon support, but not until matters were too far developed.
While the campaign on the Evosmar continent encountered difficulty, worse news caught Tressonar Getas blind-sided. Hostile warships were upon the seas. At first, their identity was uncertain, but their intentions were malign. Supply ships were attacked first. The vessels were looted, torched, and the survivors sold into slavery abroad. No civilized people would suddenly strike against their fellow olûndi with such vigor and merciless pleasure. As the news spread and knowledge corroborated, the reality emerged. These assailants were Gressar, or Volad in their own tongue. What drove them to sudden action is uncertain. Perhaps the simple news of Eurobasar campaigns abroad emboldened them to strike the coastlines and navies without fear of respite. In this estimation they were correct. Conquering and occupying eastern territory required warriors and resources without halt- nothing could be diverted to another front without imperiling what was already taken.
With the pressures mounting, the young Tressonar cracked. In the summer of 1594, he summoned forth his commanders from across the campaign theater in a panic to seek counsel. The armies were crumbling, enemy cities stood defiant, and the supply lines were compromised! Everything was falling to ruin! His chief commanders were less skiddish. Tressar Seyegotus, who secured the surrender of Turost in 1592, attempted to assure the Tressonar that the Corgastodmar were worse off than themselves. Their homeland was under assault for two years, dissent and famine were widespread, and additional pressure would shatter all leadership. Getas heard him, but he did not believe. Instead, the Tressonar ordered a general withdrawal from the frontlines, retracting his holdings back toward Turost and the captured coastline. This cumberous maneuver took weeks to communicate and execution, and thus valuable campaigning time was lost. The Corgastodmar witnessed the Eurobasar camps collapse and disappear with incredible joy. It was as some Eshanic intervention had twisted defeat into victory as an answer to prayers.
Arriving in Turost in the early autumn season, Tressonar Getas prepared to winter and renew the campaign once the weather was proper.
Ghetod of Erothod founded (1598 to 1605)
In the aftermath of Getas II Pyrgos’ disasterous invasion of Everos, Eurobia was vulnerable. Othos was roiled with upstart conflict, and Esha was aflush with all manner of dire news.
In Everos, Ghetunbast Malden was furious, along with the Ehronis and Ghetûn of his realm. The Eurobasar had initiated violent war against the Ghetunbalastod without previous insult nor treaty. Whole villages were reduced to ruin and their people displaced. Indeed, everything east of the Lornesse and south of Eroyther suffered some measure of damage which not innocent deserved.
The warships landed upon the western coast of Othos in 1598. Lorobast Kedengastor of the new Amaderin ast Wolonorend, mustered together for this noble purpose.
Warengest's Heresy (1654 to 1655)
The struggle to maintain religious unity within the Corgastodmar faith has been a reoccurring difficulty over the centuries. The combined role that exists between church doctrine and state law puts the faith under constant and intense scrutiny in terms of purpose and execution. Should the Edrasils, being the words of Corgastor and commentaries of scholars, be the basis of law over 1,500 years later? Is it truly fair that only a small cadre of Ehronis dictate how the faithful worship, though Corgastor drove the Etayen from Everos for the good of all Aemarda? Indeed, should the religious hierarchy even have the right to declare the nature of Corgastor, whether man by birth or deity? These questions among many others arose to new prominence as Corgastodmarism for the first time established itself upon foreign soil. Erothod had been founded 50 years ago by Ghetunbast Malden at the behest of Ghetunbast Alesta and Solhesunbast Waleran to be ruled by their son Estellen. By now all of them had passed on into Corgastor's embrace, but the Ghetod remained. Their passing left the new colony as well as the homeland without strong hands to guide it. Those that followed were weak and irresolute. Enemies began to prod and press at the Corgastodmar borders in Everos and Othos alike, invoking a general spirit of decline and sorrow.
Warengest was born into the noble house of Aberath around the year 1629.
Death of Akridaron Casbarûn (1742)
The careful, guiding hand of the Casbarûn dynasty had seen Nathrovas through the fall of Étunas and the chaos of the centuries beyond.
His death marked the end of Nathrovas as a singular, independent nation. It was thereafter that numerous lesser lords aligned themselves in ragged factions to compete over the ancient land. None among them succeeded in subduing the others, and the outcome was incredible death without resolution.
First Volundar (1749 to 1755)
The steadfast determination of Ghetunbast Somrehes and Tressonar Atremesar Pyrgos brought war to the weakened and divided territory of Nathrovas.
Second Volundar (1761 to 1763)
News of Atremesar’s death reached the halls of Ghethemas in the autumn of 1760. Ghetunbast Somrehes, who was now older yet still blossomed with her youthful prowess, perceived a great opportunity at hand.
War of a Hundred Islands (1778 to 1781)
By the year 1778, the ascendant Axodraharik rulers of Yor’shagon had sufficiently crushed native resistance in Nevan to claims themselves masters of the continent. Victory, however, prepared the path for future conflicts. The defeat of the Neyasi left the militaristic elements of Axodraharik society without purpose. The war had been won. For the time, the warrior’s profession became irrelevant. This was unacceptable for the boldest among the Axokari and Axodraharik, who demanded fresh expansion from the masters of Yor’shagon.
The importance of his event in Evosmar history pertains to the naval war that was precipitated by the indiscriminate violence utilized by both belligerents. Namely, the practice by both Etûletal and Axodraharik vessels of raiding the shipments of neutral traders accused of assisting one side or the other. Corgastodmar merchants suffered terribly from this blight, for men and treasure were always lost. These aggrieved tradesmen called for Corgastodmar intervention into the war. Numerous Ghetûn and Lorod supported the concept, for raids along the Grathon and Eurobasar borders were insufficient for their desires. However, Ghetunbast Herelesa, who was 17 years old but beyond common erudition, was steadfast in her opposition. She reasoned that the lull in war which the Lorod despised was no accident, but a logical extension of the status quo. The Karthuuzar dated not attack while the Daorhu and Corgastodmar could muster forces. The Eurobasar Tressonars were alike. Erothod was safe with the strength of Everos behind it. In the south, Grathem was silence so long as the agreements made between Ghetunbast Medreghen and the Etayen Ghalûn were honored. It was such that the Corgastodmar made no moves against either enemy but defended their ships and allowed the violence to continue. Recording such an event is significant because what could have been, rather than what became in truth.
Herelesa’s War (1787 to 1790)
Long years passed since the wars between the Axodraharik and Etayen. Ghetunbast Herelesa was now 26 years old, twelve of them in power, and all the wiser for it. She now gazed upon Qadal seeking manners through which to gain prestige and power, for times were changing. Corgastoria’s ancient enemies were growing stronger and the threat against the borderlands increasing.
The detailed accounts of the war are stored among the records of Gisuvollos, not here. Suffice to mention that the Corgastodmar were successful in establishing alliances among the Aebastadmars natives thereabouts and landing troops. This coalition successfully marched westward against the realms of Ullum, who at this time still lingered east of the – mountains.
In the aftermath, the Corgastodmar warriors returned home in great triumph, and statues were erected to the greatest heroes. Herelesa herself was ennobled as the Eshosghet, or Star Queen, by her estatic people. She was a beacon of brilliance and competent rule in an otherwise troubled time.
Construction of Herenemra (1798 to 1801)
The treasures which the Corgastodmar warriors pillaged from Anivollos across the – mountains were incredible. Large bellied Dramast ferried back statues wrought from pure Esheryne, chests of gems and gold, pillars of Viiryne, armor crafted from silver, innumerable coins, and ancient texts of immeasurable value. Everything was brought to Ghethemas and stored beneath the Trident, making it among the wealthiest places in Esha at that time. Indeed, the sovereigns of old would burst with jealously over those beauties. What would happen next was uncertain. Every commentor believed that Herelesa would convert this trove into elegant statues, court garlands, immense pleasure parks, and other frivolous things. This would be the course of Ghetunbast, Ghalûn, and Tressonars alike, for it was their glory which can endure for centuries through craftwork. Once more, her great wisdom surprised the people. She travelled with her closest companions and thinkers to the eastern spine of the Aeducarr mountains, which below swept into Nossen and Grathem to the south. Upon a shallow plateu which peaked a slight rise over a nearby depression, Herelesa saw opportunity. This would be a brilliant strategic location for a military fortification. She ordered that a broad tower be built there so that garrisons might peer into the gap which separated the Aeducarrs from the Black Hills of Nathrovas in the distant east. This would be the crowning structure among many which were to be built throughout the borderlands of the Ghetunbalastod, each bearing signs of Herelesa and her country.
Builders ascended that tall hillock under guard in the spring of 1798, when the snows and ice departed for the seasons. Foundations were carved from the berock and the materials were mined from the westward towers of nature. Only the wooden beams and decorations of silver and gold were gathered from elsewhere, and there was much of it for the eldest construction. Below the foundations were special caverns, dug for storage or garrison where head might remain in winter and coolness in summer. This was an additional boon of the towers which was perhaps unappreciated by its warriors. The lowest depths of the ground course with Vojûn, which makes great chambers impossible to carve. Being in the high hills made such chambers possible. As the crowning girdles of gold were wreathed upon the battlement, the great thinkers present blessed its name. They called it the Herenemra, or the Shadow of Herelesa, and it stretched far over the low hills and struck fear into the Grathon who dwelled far below it. The great Ghetunbast Herelesa was now 40 years old and much achieved throughout her reign.
Further towers were built in the same image but lesser ornamentation across the Ghetunbalastod. They were arisen along the Balendorn mountains, down the length of the Lornesse between Corgastoria and Eroyther, and in the west where the Elivas reigned unrivalled. Each was named in similar ways to honor the Ghetunbast, such as the Fhelenemra, Ahagalenemra, and Resegenemra in distant places. These bastions became the strongpoint of defense which would later save the nation from near ruin on multiple occasions, all beyond the lifetime of their creator. Indeed, the Karthuuzar could not take them, nor the Grathon, and the Etayen circumvented them rather than fight them at all. Perhaps the Daorhu could storm them with their speed, but the need has never arisen in following centuries.
Third Volundar (1804 to 1811)
Come the early 1800s, Eurobia was restored from her misfortunes during the Second Volundar. Tressonar Geyetos Pyrgos was the new master of those people, having ascended in 1801. He desired to reclaim the territories and allies lost to the Corgastodmar in the middle 1700s, and thus planned a new campaign. This military venture was not aimed directly at Corgastodmar allies, however, but rather than neutral cities which refused either faction.
Destruction of Metaorbu Notaora (1813 to 1814)
Long were the Gressar in Othos known in Everos, but never was there close connection. Once in rarity would the Gressar menace Evosmar shores, slaughtering some people in plundering valuable loot. In the early 1800s, however, the Daorhu of Metaorbu Notaora, in those days great in power, came into conflict with the Gressar. The origin was revenge. In 1812, a warhost of Gressar were defeated and captured when raiding the Aemardic province of Eroyther. A certain number of Notaora’s warriors were serving as mercenaries then, and dragged the captured Gressar back with them. Once returned, the Gressar were imprisoned. A Daorhu named Yagaotu reigned in Notaora in those years. He commanded that these invaders be executed to communicate a clear message to the depraved raiding race.
News reached the Volach of the Gressar after some months, after the victories against the Gressar made their circuits among trading channels. He was furious. Perhaps the retaliation was warranted, but the humiliation of his people executed in foreign hands was too much to tolerate.
The Gressar fleet arrived in Nemrohed without warning nor parley. Those dwelling in the small villages just beyond Metaorbu Notaora were swiftly annihilated. No buildings were yet razed, for the Gressar feared Daorhu preparations. The corpses were gathered and shoved into buildings, which were locked away in preparation for destruction.
News arrived unto Yagaotu regarding the Gressar invasion when the outer fortifications of Notaora were already breached. A panic gripped him, and he commanded that all able-bodied dwellers take up weapons and defend themselves. Word of this order spread, but the utterly unprepared population took these words as cause for panic. Few were capable of defending themselves, while others fled from Notaora and never turned back. The Gressar rushed through the Metaorbu without care for Yagaotu’s plight.
Yagaotu and the fortunate survivors gathered themselves in the better fortified interior walls. No Gressar might scale them without proper equipment, and thus no slaughter was suffered. Frustrated invaders did cast flaming brands over the walls, but these caused little harm. Before long, the Gressar departed with whatever loot could be carried. When Yagaotu and his people emerged, they found Notaora utterly devastated.
Word of the calamity was communicated by those terrified folk who escaped it. Where ever the news reached, the authority of Notaora was eroded. Yagaotu attemped to control this collapse, but his news of survival was muddied with the more excited emotions of horror.
Fourth Volundar (1835 to 1840)
The Fourth Volundar is infamous as the most bloody episode of the Corgastodmar against Eurobasar rivalry. Decades of skirmishes, campaigns, and political intrigues established two firm factions among the Nathrovayen Etayen. Those supporting the Corgastodmar were the Gheviyen whereas those supporting Eurobia became the Tarimikayen. No true frontline existed, for the cities of one faction or the other were scattered throughout Nathrovas.
Faldron's War (1845 to 1857)
The war was initiated by Ghetunbast Faldron in 1845 to put an end to the constant raiding and problems caused by the northern factions. A Corgastodmar controlled Nemrohed, he reasoned, would be easier to manage than a land ruled by savages. The initial campaigns went well, and the military pushed the Karthuuzar from the borders with ease. The difficulties came as the army moved further northward, and the ice and snow began to take its toll on the unprepared Imperials. After years of fighting a war of attrition that brought no clear results, Ghetunbast Faldron retreated his forces in disgrace. All thing considered, it was a wasteful venture for the Corgastodmar, and taught them that fighting a prolonged war in the north would be nearly impossible. Faldron was granted the title of 'the defeated' for his failure to capture Nemrohed, and only lived for two more years in shame before dying from what his physicians believed to be extreme stress.
Axo'izzir (1881)
Everos long suffered the existence of strife and chaos across its western waters. Aemar fleeing the vicious conflicts against the Qazunari were commonplace, as were those who requested Evosmar assistance in their struggles. In latter centuries, the Daorhu departed there as well, enmeshing themselves in terrible war. Never did the Evosmar muster forces for such purposes, either from apathy or a genuine lack inability. However, in the 1400s extraordinary news arrived that a strange race came forth from distant and mythical Voryndal and liberated Nevan wholesale.
The Axodraharik fleet which arrived in Erehem was unlike anything seen in Everos. Each vessel bore fantastical, near life-like carving of Axokari beasts and mountains into the wood. Color was given with vibrant paints and inlays of jade gems.
The Xhalmahd, who was the chief representative of Xhalmahdia in this expedition, came forth from the vessel wrapped in gorgeous silks trimmed in gold needlework. Ghet Demerest, who reigned over Erehem in those years, stepped forward with his honorguard behind. They spoke a few words, and the Corgastodmar master was astounded to discover that the Axodraharik knew the Evosmar tongue, and well. The agent of Xhalmahdia, who introduced himself as Hiyekex vin Tenekris Lixeras, explained how the Aemar of Neyas taught them strange tongues and foreign knowledge as a manner of tribute.
Fifth Volundar (1897 to 1904)
The center-point of the Fifth Volundar was control of the critical Bay of Vinkesaur, being named after the first Etayen to perish in Everos. In the early years of the war, this contest was waged at sea. Newer, larger vessels than ever seen stalked the waters, leaping upon unsuspecting enemies.
Corgastoria’s war at sea proved indecisive. Eurobasar vessels continued to operate in the Bay of Vinkesaur. As the bloodshed escalated from 1900 onward, the land theater grew in prominence. Various cities along the bay’s shorelines cast their lot with one faction or the other.
Second War of Grathem (1910)
Lhenod Ohemerod of Grathem perceived an opportunity to strike against his Corgastodmar neighbors to the north. The crushing defeat of Ghetunbast Faldron and the unexpected Axo’izzir left the northern realm paralyzed between disparate opportunities. Near or far- where did the future of Corgastoria lie?
The stunning Grathon victory dispelled any Corgastodmar machinations to invade the south for decades. Only the Amaderin Lorvelgis, who made their livelihoods from war, dared remain close to the borderland and skirmish with the southerners.
Sixth Volundar (1919 to 1923)
The Eurobasar host under Tressar Meyogesar of Atedoros marched westward, then north to assail the final bastions of the Corgastodmar in Nathrovas.
Assassination of Suveth Lod (1946)
In the midst of the Volundar conflicts between Corgastodmar Everos and Eurobasar Othos stood other powerful, neutral nations. Chief among them was Lodon, domain of the Elivas, which could determine the outcomes of these wars with their sudden presence. Both sides courted Suveth Lod, who was master of Lodon in those years.
The precise circumstances of Suveth Lod’s death are mysterious. He was preparing for a bath among the hot-springs which were commonplace throughout the Lodesh’s deep clefted valleys. It was regular course for him to take such respites alone, for peace reigned in Lodon and no fears grasped his heart. A delegation arrived thereabout, garbed in drab grey and brown colors. No icons were upon them. Suveth’s attendants were brushed aside in a huff, while none among them were brave enough to raise arms to halt them. Indeed, a vain hope was that such strangers were expected relations to the Lod. They were not. These strangers found the Lod resting amidst the waters, and drew their daggers with wrath. He took up a staff to defend himself, but was hacked down in chilled blood.
News of Suveth Lod’s death spread rapidly, causing terrible sorrow among the Elivas. None were certain of the culript, but the Corgastodmar and Eurobasar were chief suspects.
Neither side admitted responsibility, nor could the Elivas prove the culript. Indeed, both Corgastodmar and Eurobasar were actively plotting to kill Suveth Lod for years.
Etayen infiltration of Nevan (1975)
The growth of Yor’shagon during the late 1000s earned the attention of ancient powers. The Corgastodmar, Eurobasar, and Etayen, being the three dominate empires of Qadal, sought means to influence and profit from Nevan. Yet, as Atûn’s cunning legacy endures, the Etayen were swift to pursue whatever advantage they might. Agents were dispatched to Xhalmahdia to discern its wealth, powers, and the disposition of its people. They were astounded, and equal parts disturbed to witness the immense strength which the children of Orduza gathered over the past 400 years. One must remember how the Axodraharik and Etayen waged war against one another in the 1500s, and how the were defeated and their Ghalûn of Amasghal destroyed.
Corgastodmar-Axodraharik Pact (1984)
In response to the failed intrigues of the Etayen in Nevan, the Corgastodmar swifted presented themselves as sympathetic allies.
Ghetunbast Amenderest proposed a punitive venture against the Etayen with the intention of crushing their political machinations. The Axodraharik, granted the divisive circumstances, reluctantly agreed.
Axodraharik-Corgastodmar alliance invades Etal (1987)
An alliance of Corgastodmar and Neyasi troops attempt to invade Etal and put an end to the Etayen threat permanently. They reach the vast, gnarled jungles that guard the interior and struggle to surmount it. Thousands die as dozens of men and entire regiments are lost in the jungle, only to be killed by disease or torn apart by the Vojûnic monstrosities that lay within.
The outcome was a total military defeat. Only mere shreds of the assaulting armies returned to their homelands and were harassed by Etayen vessels the entire journey home. Ghetunbast Amenderest was devastated and refused to show himself in person for weeks after. With such a horrible waste of life and resources, the alliance between the Axodraharik and Corgastodmar crumbled.
Axo'ildrin (2034)
The original alliance between the Corgastodmar and Axodraharik was meant to last 50 years, or until the Etayen were sufficiently suppressed. It would be terminated in whatever circumstance came first. After the crushing defeat of their joint invasion in 1987, further abortive attempts were mused. None came to pass. Over the years which followed, the vague threat of Axodraharik-Corgastodmar activity kept the Vishtal restricted to safer channels. Now the year 2034 was looming, when the alliance would terminate. Tense conversation were had in Neyas and Everos on whether such an agreement was wise to renew. Indeed, Corgastodmar interests in Neyas had increased, while tensions against the Etayen had decreased to a mere simmer. Silence reigned as the first days of 2034 arrived, with neither side yet dispatching word regarding their alliance.
The Axodraharik blinked first. With the prompting of the Axokari, the masters of their race gathered together another great fleet with dignitaries and potent warriors. It was a greater presentation than even the famous Axo’izzir of 1881 which first introduced the two peoples.
News of the renewed alliance travelled swiftly. It soon reached Etal, where the Vishtal Atusbals and their assistants were furious.
700,000 killed by the Pale Blight (2047 to 2050)
The years following of disasterous invasion of Etal were difficult for the Corgastodmar. Eurobasar warriors continued to undermine their interests in Nathrovas while economic downturn enburdened the whole continent. In the midst of this, a disease manifested in the wretched swamps of southwestern Everos. It was known as the Pale Blight, for it caused a purging of blood such that the corpse became white. First decimated was Lohoremas, wherein marble manors upon swampy hills dominated poor surrounding. Hundreds died as the disease creapt forth from the bogs. The richest merchants hid themselves within their homes and were saved. It continued north and east, causing suffering as it traversed the dry hills south of the Zomore. Few heard of it by this time, for diseases were common enough in the swamps. Those who did hear of it ignored the news.
Matters changed when the Pale Blight passed these lesser populated regions into the heartlands of Grahen in the east and the Lornesse river plains of the north. Thousands began to catch this terrible disease, and whole towns were annihilated.
Withdrawal of Eurobasar (2111)
Long did Everos suffer under the domination of the Eurobasar invaders into Nathrovas. Centuries of warfare between the foreigners and Corgastodmar concluded in defeat.
As the final Eurobasar vessels departed with their warriors and Tressar, the Ghalûn of Nathrovayen turned against one another to fill the power vacuum.
The Dual Expedition (2120)
Long were the Etayen domains of Nathrovas and Jequa rivals- opposed in growth and hungry for glory in their conquered homeland of Everos. After the death of Atun and collapse of Etunas their feuding hardened, interrupted only when alliance against upstart Aemar was required. One might consider with great curiosity how the two managed to come together in 2120, especially on so important a matter was will be regaled here.
Great Noble's Revolt (2122 to 2124)
The chaos that embattled the Ghetunbalastod ast Corgastor throughout the 2000s forced it to the edge of collapse. Large swathes of the northern duchies were in ruins, subject to vicious raids that hampered reconstruction efforts. In some places entire communities lay abandoned, their inhabitants having long left for safer dwellings. The fall of Bannotaora in the 1800s at the hands of the Gressar was to blame more than anything, for that event toppled the existing balance of power in northern Everos. Erehem and Loryne were left virtually alone in their struggle against the Karthuuzar, as skirmishes on the southern border and among the Nathrovasian Etayen held the attention of the emperor. To compound this, the neighboring Kingdom of Eroyther, which has always been at odds with its expansionist neighbor to the south, refused to lend assistance. They protected their own borders but did not move a man to the defense of the northern duchies, despite regular calls for aid. The army of Corgastor was kept on an exhausting and largely fruitless march between the various frontiers to deal with the threats as they appeared. This constant fighting lead to a crippling drain of resources as troops were levied from every province the army marched through, and large tithes of treasure were gathered. The borders were holding, but just barely. Any unfortunate reversal could spell disaster and outright ruin.
The precarious balance on the frontiers was maintained by Ghetunbast Galeran I of the Crythen dynasty for 15 years after he had wrest power away from the previous emperor. He won the throne of Corgastor's empire through his military prowess and was anointed by the Solhesunbast when he arrived in Ghethemas. The realm had been suffering long before this usurpation and a change of regime was seen with apprehensive hope. The newly crowned Ghetunbast Galeran promised to restore honor and stability of the empire, which had been otherwise absent. His military skill Served him well during his campaigns on the frontier. In 2104, he crushed the Norgost warlord Gundol, breaking his host as it lay in wait beneath the Balendorn Mountains. That freed the north of Everos from its chronic raids for a time. In the west, he defeated the Elivas of Lodon, who in this time owned most of what is modern Oederan. They were pushed back, and some land was taken, enough to bring peace between the Corgastodmar and the Elivas lord, Tirvesh Lod. Finally, in 2115, Ghetunbast Galeran led the Cograstorian navy to victory against the forces of Yor’shagon, breaking the mercenary ships that had been assembled for an invasion of Everos. While defeats and reversals did occur during Galeran's reign, his victories were enough to secure the position of the Corgastodmar Empire and prevent its collapse. The trust of the people had been well placed, it seemed, in their warrior king.
The successes of Ghetunbast Galeran were not to last, for a fire so bright is destined to burn out. Years of ruling from the saddle weakened him greatly, until he became frail from fatigue and illness. His health continued to improve and wane by the year, until he suddenly died in 2119 from a failure of the health. Story says that Galeran was riding along with his retinue in Oederan, or what little of it escaped the clutches of the Elivas. He clutched onto his crest and began to complain that the summer heat was making him weak, passing of the severity of his pain with humor. After a while of this lingering pain, he told his men that they were going to ride off the road for a moment to cool his feet in a nearby brook. Once an hour had passed, his men became concerned, and violated the Ghetunbast's orders to let him cool his feet in peace. They stumbled upon their lord stretched out on the shore of the brook, clutching his chest and motionless. After 15 years of rule, the rigors of the martial lifestyle had laid him low. The late Ghetunbast was succeeded by his son, Galeran II, who was crowned in the winter of 2119. He was an Ghetunbast that, had he ruled at another time, would have been suitable for the people. Galeran the Younger was brash and single minded, inflexible in thinking, but bestowed with a great conviction of his own righteousness. In such dire times, these normally admirable traits made him an enemy of the nobility, who had strong opinions about the empire's directions against its enemies. Worse still, Galeran II was not fond of taking the field like his father, but rather only wished to write the policies and dictate orders. Time not spent doing that was spent in Ghethemas, entertaining visitors and enjoying the luxuries of an Ghetunbast. This earned the ire of the commanders who had dutifully Served Galeran I in his wars. With manifold enemies on the borders and unrest brewing, talk of revolt was commonplace.
The anger of the Corgastodmar lords with their soft sword Ghetunbast came to a head in the month of Corgastor, in the fall of 2122. By this point, Galeran II had been reigning for three years, and his failure to match the military prowess of his father began to show. The Karthuuzar reorganized themselves and began raiding again after their defeat in 2104. The lords of Erehem and Loryne called for imperial aid, but Ghetunbast Galeran had nothing to offer them, since threats ranging from the Elivas and Grathem were knocking at the borders. Galeran chose to remain defensive and stretch out his forces to meet each threat on the frontier, rather than act aggressively and march against the enemy. This merely prolonged the decay of the realm's defenses, and the lords were livid. They made their move during the crowning ceremony, in which the Ghetunbast is blessed with the power of Corgastor's eshara by the Solhesunbast.
Treaty of the Semyr (2124)
After the Eurobasar departed from Nathrovas in 2111, the power of the Corgastodmar Ghetunbalastod flourished abroad. The Ghalûn of Nathrovayen bowed themselves to Corgastodmar influenced, Othosar traders became victims of increased tariffs against them, prompting a surge of Neyasi trading on Everos. The Etayen, long enemies of Corgastoria, watched these developments and were presented with a choice- cooperation or escalation. With attention no longer divided among many enemies, the Corgastodmar would be better prepared for trade or physical wars against Etal. Instead, the Etayen Vishtal dynasty chose a policy of de-escalation.
Semyr islands are reopened to Corgastodmar traders in exchange for fleet absence in the Semyr sea. Corgastodmar traders were swift to arrive in the lands of the Adashi and exchange for unique Etayen goods. It made them rich, and the peace the Vishtal desired was granted. In their own lands, however, discontentment grew. Etayen hard-liners, whose hatred of Aemarda was great, despised any treaty which might empower the Corgastodmar. None arose in rebellion, but it was not forgotten, and did arise with terrible results centuries later.
Third War of Grathem (2133)
Corgastodmar Empire presses further on the southern border. On this occasion, like many others, the Grathon were assisted by Etayen warriors from Nathrovas and other unscrupulous soldiers of fortune.
The Nith’eshanic Machine (2158)
Acolitus is the fabric from which the world is cut. It is he and the being separated from him by Esseythu, creating for themselves an ideal world. Yet for some a perfect reality cannot be cut from the given fabric.
Gift of Ácolitus (2162)
Long had the Voletal of Everos lingered with the burden of Atûn's death weighed upon their shoulders. Successive generations of Etayen were told the story of the Black Hills war and the later betrayal of Nassarus Nathroghal and were told that those were the twilight days of mighty Étunas. With each generation, the result was the same- the young Etûletal looked out to Nathrovas and Jequa with disdain, for it was they who undermined the Creator. As it stood, the Voletal were unable to ever undo that shame.
However, careful eyes watched the plight of the Etayen and saw opportunity within it. Ácolitus, the creator of Qadal and keeper of its esseythu, had worked long and hard upon his own machinations since the days of Atûn’s death.
Offers a ‘gift’ to Vulred Drakasghal of Jequa and Aeyet’norn Calimnyr of Sutan- an iron pedestal and a strange carving of Viiryne which is meant to sit upon it. Vulred was given the pedastel and Aeyet’norn was given the carving. Each Ghalûn was given the piece individually and in secret. Ácolitus told them two things: that the artifacts must be held secure until called upon, and that within them was held a spirit named Shrik, or the Master of Pain in the Etayen tongue, who would exact revenge against the Corgastodmar race.
The Rise of Bal'gorod (2170 to 2280)
The Great Conflict was a war sparked by pride that ended in utter tragedy. It defined an era and cost the lives of millions. The heroes of the war had statues built in their honor and are spoken of in terms of hushed admiration. The villains of the war are the subjects of apocryphal myths and cautionary tales, never to be spoken in open air but only in hushed words of infamy. The memories are bitter but hidden within the pages of history are the keys to understanding the world as it exists in modern times. For that reason, it is imperative that the story of the Great Conflict not die as many wish, but that it continue to be told by common teachers and historians alike.
The tale of the war begins in 2289, but to best understand it we must go back more than a century. The year is 2170, and in the land of Nathrovas lives an elf name Bal'gorod. It has been a tumultuous time in Everos, for in the past few decades the Kingdom of Sutan had been in conflict against the Principality of Essenad, which descended from the first Etayen settlers to Everos during the Ascension Era. Border skirmishes was common place, and the intervention of neighboring powers in favor of one side or the other war was equally common. Indeed, for the Ghetunbalastod ast Corgastor, Kingdom of Jequa, and to a lesSer degree the Kingdom of Grathem, the fights between the factions of Nathrovas provided a dynamic variable of local control. Wealth and loot flowed over the borders in both direction, as mercenaries from the neighboring states were hired to fight the battles in Nathrovas while the valuable resources of the Black Hills made trade with Sutan and Essenad a worthwhile endeavor. This state of war continued with the understanding that the conflict be kept local and indecisive. It wasn't the goal of any major power to breed a unified power in the region. It was into this environment that Bal'gorod was born.
Bal'gorod proved from a young age to be a figure of strength and intelligence. In truth, little is known about his childhood, for it is not written down in any source and he himself refused to speak definitively on the subject. The earliest that is known is that young Bal'gorod enlisted in the Service of Nathroghal Aeyet'norn Calimnyr, known as the "Great Seer". His service with the military placed him on the frontlines of the constant fighting between Sutan and Essenad. He saw the mercenaries that plagued the land for their own greed and sadistic inclinations. He witnessed the utter ruin that was the borderland of Aeyet'norn's kingdom and was greatly distressed by the dishonor it brought upon the people of Atûn to have soldiers loot with impunity. The people of that land had become depraved as well, and no longer looked to the Fallen deity, but worshipped strange and heretical idols in their dilapidated huts. This more than anything angered Bal'gorod, and as his fury grew so did his power. After a few years of equal parts Service and torment, Bal'gorod finally departed from the Service of the king. He was determined to bring glory back to the embattled state of Sutan, and in doing so bring it back under the guidance of Atûn.
Cleansing the world of the unfaithful and weak required clarity of mind and body. Bal'gorod, upon leaving the military, placed himself into self exile among the Black Hills of Nathrovas. The year was 2220 then, and he did not emerge into the public eye again until 60 years had passed. In that time, he honed his already formidable abilities of Vojûn and dedicated himself entirely to the worship of the Fallen deity. He grew out his hair in honor of Atûn's beautiful creation, etched his hands and feet icons of Etayen faith and virility, and wore a robe of iron plates to represent the eternal burden of faith. He did not rest for pleasure in those 60 years, but only for short stints of sleep and nourishment. No, his time was spent traveling between the high peaks of the Black Hills and praying to Atûn, always facing toward Etal, the place that the Fallen deity created, where he lived, and where he died. In doing so, he purified his esseythu and fused his mastery of the Vojûnic arts with a divinity that made it all the stronger.
The wanderings and prayers of this elf did not go unnoticed, however, and others that sought to cleanse themselves and return to the true faith of Atûn. Many came forth to Bal'gorod, but only six were chosen to become disciples. The importance of six is that is the numbers of days after Corgastor's victory over the Etayen that Atûn withered away and died. It was meant to be a symbol of revenge and revival: the Etayen would rekindle their faith to Atûn and with their power destroy the ancient foes of the Fallen deity. Those who joined him rejected their old names and lives to become devotees to his teachings. Half were male and the other half female, and they went by these names: Afranast, Rynillion, Taeyoril, Kyen'tor, Milenis, and Iolas. The common factor between those names is that each belonged to a famous leader of the Etayen, whether they be from Etal, Jequa, Sutan, or Essenad. United, these individuals formed a group they called the Atysvala, or the "Purest". The seven of them grew in power during their isolation, until in 2280 they felt confident that the time had come to reclaim the realm of Sutan for Atûn.
Bal'gorod and his followers came down from the Black Hills in the month of Bregad, as the leaves were falling off the trees and the winter prepared for its arrival. They marched in silent procession, with Bal'gorod at the heard of them, still encased in his robe of iron plates. All but those closest to him and a same group of supporters even remembered anything about him by this time and were afraid of him and his disciples. They walked through sun and rain over the course of six days to reach the home of Aeyet'norn, for of all Etayen he was the one that Bal'gorod wished to find. They arrived in the city of Etumrassus, known as a Lesser Etal, during the king's great time of court, the practice from which the month of Bregad gets its name. The arrival of Bal'gorod caused a stir in the city as alarmed citizens pushed far aside of their dark procession. All that could be heard were the iron plates of Bal'gorod's robe clanking together. Not a warrior stepped forward to stop him. Indeed, even the guards of the city stood silent. Whispers of fear and uncertainly trailed through the streets like a poison in his wake.
Arriving before the palace of Aeyet'norn, Bal'gorod and his followers paused only for a moment, exchanged nods, and then plunged inside. Within a few moments the honor guards that stood watch over the hall of the Nathroghal were bathed in fire and slain. Before a few more had passed the guests had all been thrown again the far walls like discarded dolls. They didn't even bother getting up. All that remained in the beautiful hall of the Nathroghal was Aeyet'norn and Bal'gorod, one raised high by his throne and the other raised higher by his faith. The Nathroghal sat rigid and inquired as to why Bal'gorod had come all this way to see him. Bal'gorod, not one to be caught up for long in words, told Aeyet'norn in no uncertain terms that he had tarnished the memory of Atûn and had allowed Sutan to descend into unending war. Rather than just lash out and kill him, however, Bal'gorod challenged Aeyet'norn to a duel to decide who was the stronger and thus the rightful representative of Atûn. The catch of the matter was that the doors were held shut by two of Bal'gorod's Servants, the guards were dead, and the guests certainly we're going to help. Escape was impossible. The only option was to fight.
Aeyet'norn accepted Bal'gorod's call for a duel reluctantly and rose from his throne to step upon equal ground. The contrast was clear to all those present. Below the throne stood Aeyet'norn the Great Seer, an intelligent, handsome master by any measure, even after centuries of life. His armor was a suit of golden chain, tied close with a belt of silver. From around his neck hung medallions of his office, and greater than those was a medallion of religious connotation, forged of steel and etched with the symbols of Atûn and Etal. Bal'gorod on the other hand was dirty and unkempt from his years of exile. His eyes were bloodshot from nights without sleep and the hair upon his head now extended to his back and frazzled from filth and wind. The iron plates of his robe had chaffed his body for years, causing his flesh to redden and blister from constant activity. Certainly, he wore no medallions or icons of office. As the two opponents stood across from one another, Bal'gorod called over his four remaining Servants. They, part by part, helped disassemble his robe of iron that he had worn for over 60 years. The day had come, the burdens would be released within such a short time. The time for waiting had passed.
The two enemies squared off from one another and began to circle. The Nathroghal held in his hands the ancestral blade of Sutan, a glorious sword of unrivaled design. Bal'gorod carried nothing in his hands and wore nothing to protect himself. The irons of his robe were forged as a hindrance, not as protection. He was not defenseless, however, and his hands burned a bright red with the Vojûnic power he possessed. Aeyet'norn struck first, swinging his blade with a practiced mastery, but to no effect. Every slash was missed or blocked upon the hands of Bal'gorod. Great cleaves, quick jabs, and all the like were tried and failed. The objective of Bal'gorod was not to slay the Nathroghal then and there, but to tire him over the course of a long fight. In that endeavor he was successful, and Aeyet'norn found himself unable to hit his opponent or even continue fighting him. Bal'gorod had not even struck once. That was going to change in a moment. Indeed, with a fire like the brightest of the celestial bodies, Bal'gorod mustered his energy and laid it full force upon his former monarch. Aeyet'norn was blasted back, and back again as they energy threw him full force the entire distance to his throne.
The Nathroghal was finished after the blast, but Bal'gorod was not through with him. Ascending the steps to the throne of Sutan with only the pattering of his feet, Bal'gorod began to laugh as he came close to Aeyet'norn. He laughed, and he laughed. He laughed of victory, and he laughed of his justice. He laughed as he gathered all the energy he could muster, and he laughed as he blasted every ounce of it into the Great Seer. Aeyet'norn ceased to exist from that moment forward, and his olûndari coil became one and the same with the throne he sat upon. The throne became a mesh of color, altered by the flesh and armor of the defeated Nathroghal melding with the stone and steel of the original construct. Bal'gorod sat upon it with joy. He had risen.
Reign of Bal'gorod (2280 to 2289)
A great and heavy silence descended upon Etumrassus when Aeyet’norn died, like some intrinsic part of the people had been violently torn away. Bal’gorod embraced it and filled that air of uncertainty with a great roar of his voice- the Great Seer was dead, slain with honor, and Atûn had returned to Nathrovas! His servants and companions, Iolas and Kyen’tor, Milenis and Rynillion all cried out alongside their master, reveling in the glory of their victory. Before the sun had set upon the day, Bal’gorod called forth the people of Etumrassus to gather beneath the steps of Aeyet’norn’s palace. The Atysvala were dispatched to ensure the populace complied. They rode through the streets and barred the gates, diverting citizens like cattle toward the Calimnyr throne with swords in hand. Beneath the dusk, Bal’gorod lorded over the Sutanese and announced his intentions to them. The words were recorded and survived the Great Conflict era.
“Children of Atûn, for centuries you have dwelled beneath the feet of unworthy olûndi, led by unworthy leaders who have failed to raise you to glory. Nathrovas reigned brightest among the spawn of Etal, and in its glory, was looked upon by wide eyes of those who sought its wealth and prestige. The ilk of Corgastor, Euboa’s slaves, the egglings of Orduza, and the Etûletal of Amikiras- fearful observers of our growing power! Now the east is weak, divided amongst its bickering siblings. Curs of Aeyet’norn’s standing held themselves high upon pillars of skulls, and bestowed titles of ‘Great Seer’ and ‘Golden Prince’ upon their fair heads. All the while, the legacy of Nathrovas was marred and transformed into the fodder of bard’s merriment! I have thrown them down! I have usurped them and broken their vile pillars! I have been reborn- once I was Bal’gorod, now look upon me and say ‘Bal’gorod Nathrobal!”

Exhortation of Bal’gorod

Archives of Drakasghal -- 2281
The coronation of Bal'gorod following the annihilation of Aeyet'norn was received with sporadic applause and cheers beside silence and indignant anger by the denizens of Sutan. In truth, the sudden regime change was seen with apprehensive hope by those who had suffered under the rule of the Calimnyr. Those who lived along the borders of Essand, Jequa, and Grathem prayed to the memory of Atûn that the new lord would alleviate conditions in the region. They had done so throughout the reign of the late king, only to encounter repeated disappointment. Sutan had suffered over the previous decades, but no more than any other state surrounding them. The universal chaos and impoverishment of Nathrovas was part of a tenuous status quo that existed, in which constant raids and pillaging Served to maintain balance between the neighboring states. To resist it harshly, or to build up Sutan's power too quickly would have left the realm vulnerable to unified attack by the other nations. Deplorable as it might have been, Aeyet'norn recognized the rules of the political game and sought to protect Sutan from its ravenous neighbors. If allowing occasional raids and counter-raids to waste the borderlands saved the rest of Sutan, Aeyet'norn believed it worthy. If nothing else, the Essenites and Jequans received no better. However, Bal'gorod, whether driven by wisdom or madness, set to work breaking Sutan away from the other Voletal realms.
Within the two years after of taking control of Sutan, Bal'gorod had struggled to consolidate his power among the common people and Voletal nobility. The latter group was vocally resistance to his usurpation of the Sutanese throne, which was seen as the sacred lineage of Nassarus Nathroghal. They organized under the collective title of "Calimnayen" in honor of the late Aeyet'norn and began resisting Bal'gorod's regime where ever and whenever possible. Chief among them was an Etayen named Killikeya, who had been birthed an Etûletal, but dwelled so long in Everos that her heritage was lost to memory. The cities of Sutan were ravaged more than any other place, for those who supported the late king's rule most were the merchants, scholars, and nobles. Fights broke out on the streets as entire towns became walled arenas in which loyalists to Bal'gorod or fought one another to bloody death.
Once the Sutanese realm stabilized from the divisive bloodshed of Killikeya’s rebellion, Bal’gorod and the Atysvala turned their gaze upon the other principalities of Nathrovas. Essand, the north coast of Nathrovas; Galithon, the well defended western frontier which resisted Evosmar attack for centuries; and Rynilliad, the domain in the east of Nathrovas which Rynillion had once used to travel between Everos and Othos- each were divided and ripe for conquest. A year passed while the Atysvala rallied troops and prepared Sutan for its next war. Upon the eve of this new conquest, Bal’gorod stood upon the steps of Etumrassus, looking over a world which awaited his movement with bainful apprehension. “The old path is closed. Nothing survives of Atûn’s sublime dream. The new path is closed. Nothing survives of Nathrovas. I promise no certain path, for an honest path is seeking a new path. We seek such purpose. This is what separates our warriors from domains of traitors. This is what separates traitors from the youngest generation. Those ignorant of history cannot be held for neglecting their duty. The masters of Rynilliad are not ignorant. They wear history as a burden and their lamentation, crying to Vussalas in self-hatred. These are traitors. They understand the path which was lost, and that which must be sought again. Yet, they reign in mediocrity until death. Their successors do the same. We are not revolutionaries; those who topple order with clear replacement. We are noble wanderers who shatter walls to seek routes overgrown with corruption. We are nothing more than blind. None are greater than we in this. Our enemies blind themselves further in denying it. Atûn was alone wisest, the creator of the wisest race. In this Blinded Age, a faint whisper of his resurrection is the sole glimmer amidst a path of terror. We are responsible to pursue it. No other path exists. No counting of corpses nor ruins might dissuade such clear cause. We apologize for nothing; we ask for nothing. Those who ignore us wilt into shadow. Those who oppose us will die as any faceless beast might be slain. Make no withholdings now; proceed gloriously and leave judgement to future generations.”

Bal’gorod departs Etumrassus

Words of Karundar -- 2283
In 2283, Bal’gorod led a force of 40,000 troops against neighboring Rynilliad. The master of Sutan divided his 40,000-strong army into three contingents. Two divisions of 10,000 were placed under the command of Kyen’tor and Milenis, respectively. Bal’gorod kept the last 20,000 troops under his personal control. The trio devised a cunning strategy to break apart Rynilliad’s defenses and leave its capital, a place called Hygondar, virtually defenseless. First, Kyen’tor marched his 10,000 troops north, along the border of Rynilliad and Galithon, then turned eastward to threaten the distant reaches of the principality. The land was rich in that place, so Kyen’tor burnt and looted everything within grasp. The master of Rynilliad, Lorgalin Uldrin, was placed in a difficult situation. He possessed a force of 30,000 soldiers to command and could not afford to abandon the wealthy north to ruin. However, the looming threat of Bal’gorod and Milenis’ combined army of 30,000 compelled a measure of caution.
With Bal’gorod victorious in Nathrovas, higher powers began to work their cruel machinations upon Qadal. Ácolitus, who had placed the artifacts of Zarthum in the hands of Aeyet’norn and Vulred decades prior, watched with interest the union of the east. Perhaps, he thought, it was proper time to reveal the existence of the two halves to Bal’gorod. The new Nathroghal had proven his indominable will and ruthlessness in execution. In the spring of 2288, the whisper of Ácolitus came to Bal’gorod while he slept within the palace of Etumrassus. Soft tones swept into the heart of the king’s chamber and dispersed the gentle breeze of the night. The voice called out to Bal’gorod, who immediately awoke from his slumber. He rose from the sheets and clutched the knife kept hidden beneath the bed frame. Nothing lunged against him. The Nathroghal called out into the surrounding darkness, yet no olûndari voice responded. A raspy, careless whisper rested upon his ears. It claimed to be Ácolitus, the master of Vussalas and creator of all olûndari existence. Bal’gorod listened with intense silence as the being explained its purpose: a powerful relic of creation existed beneath the very foundations of Etumrassus, the first half of a greater contruct whose other half lay within the great spires of Drakar. Ácolitus told Bal’gorod that it was his intention to bring an Eshanic being named Shrik into olûndari existence as a means to punish Aebaster for the death of Atûn. The seeds of this plot had been planted decades ago, during the reign of Aeyet’norn, but the Creator had waited patiently for the proper time to act. Now it was time. Ácolitus informed Bal’gorod that the means of his victory lay in acquiring the part of Shrik’s olûndari seed that lay in Drakar. The Nathroghal embraced the opportunity and summoned the Atysvala just as the spiritual whisper began to fade.
The Nathrobal ordered Iolas and Taeyoril, two of the most trusted and skilled members of the Atysvala, to travel to Drakar the very next day. A bound yard of parchment traveled with them. It contained a request to parley from Bal’gorod to Vulred in regard to ‘the trinkets which both of them possessed’. When the two Atysvala arrived beneath the great spires of Drakar, they were awed by the sight. This was it, the other realm of the Voletal in Everos. It was their rival. The prospect was daunting, but the pair continued and traveled up the mount atop which Vulred Drakarûn dwelled. He sat upon a throne carved from the pinnacle of the great mountain, around which the palace was built. They stepped into that place, warriors garbed in plates of black, into the ornately trimmed chamber of Golbeshir timber and Saltspire silver. Vulred looked down upon them, himself clad in great robes of silver and blue, known as the colors of the venerable Drakarûn dynasty. Iolas presented the letter on behalf of Bal’gorod and watched as Vulred carefully unfurled the crackling paper to read the message aloud. A great frown grew upon his features. “The usurper wishes a word? I have watched events in Nathrovas, the work of his hand, pass with interest. He does not seem a figure for words! Aeyet’norn received no words when Bal’gorod threw open his palace and slew him in cold blood, nor did the lords of Rynilliad, nor Galithon! Now his armies menace along the borders of peaceful Essenad. Upon what base does Bal’gorod build his reputation as a negotiator? You lot must think me a fool to accept such terms with open arms. I see treachery written between the lines. If he wishes a word, I shall accept, but with my chosen 100 behind me. Tell him that he may bring his rentinue in turn, and that we shall meet at Shar’kova. It is there where I will judge and measure the warrior’s words.”

Drakasghal Vulred Drakarûn

Origins of the Great Conflict -- 2288
A month later, the retinues of the two Ghalûn gathered at Shar’kova, tucked into the foothills of the Gol Sadun Mountains to discuss the terms presented by Bal’gorod. Behind the Drakasghal marched his 100 companions, a company composed of the most skilled warriors and Vojûnic among the Voletal. These individuals were drawn from across the Voletal realms, including Nathrovas, Zoridas, and other bastions of Etayen power beyond Etal- each were personally called forth to serve the wise Vulred Drakasghal. With Bal’gorod Nathrobal came the six members of the Atysvala, each one a close disciple of their master. They gathered beneath the ancient pillars of Shar’kova, glowering with mutual mistrust as their lords spoke. Bal’gorod spoke first, inquiring of Vulred whether he knew about the spoken artifact. The Ghalûn of Jequa simply nodded his head. In Drakar existed a divine treasure, granted unto him by Ácolitus for purposes of revenge. This interested Bal’gorod, who explained that such an artifact resided in Nathrovas as well- delivered to Aeyet’norn in secret. Neither lord had spoken about these halves before that moment, since both had been led to believe their portion was the full creation. Vulred was taken aback, stunned by the news of this deception by higher powers. Now it was time for Bal’gorod to nod his head. Indeed, a stand wrought from dark iron was kept under guard in Etumrassus, unless without the other half in Jequa. The purpose of their meeting, Bal’gorod continued, was to establish an understanding regarding the gifts- perhaps even an alliance.
"Your fate is bound to mine, child of the far shores. Those in Amikiras look upon us with disdain- we are filthy traitors, and of different blood and heritage. You know this to be true. They forget that we are Etayen, just as them. Worse, the Etayen hidden from Qadal by forest and Ethûl place the blame for Atûn’s death upon the shoulders of the Voletal. Our ancestors created Étunas from dust and rock! They reaped the treasure. We may redeem ourselves, restore the revered position of our people in Qadal which has been forgotten for so many generations. You possess one half of our redemption, Vulred, and I the other. These gifts from Ácolitus shall be united, and our wretched enemies crushed into bone!"

Bal’gorod Nathrobal to Drakasghal Vulred Drakarûn

Chornicles of the 100 -- 2288
For all his words, Vulred remained mistrustful of Bal’gorod. Foremost, Vulred was knowledgable in the works of Vojûn and the celestial bodies. He had dedicated years of his long life to their study, and from them gained great wisdom regarding the works of Ácoltius. The Summoner of Life was not benign by nature. He, like the Eshan who spawned from him, bore an agenda entirely hidden from all but himself. The very moment the whisper of Ácolitus spoke out to him, Vulred had been suspicious of what machinations were at work. However, he accepted from dire fear of the Creator’s wrath. Vulred’s portion of the whole was sealed away beneath Drakar, left to be ignored and forgotten for the good of Qadal. Beyond this, the intentions of the Nathrobal remained murky and possessed a character of bitter revenge. Surely, Vulred lamented the ancient destruction of Atûn with equal sorrow, but the means of their alleged redemption were dangerous and untested. A figure such as Bal’gorod, who waged bloody war to achieve his ends, could not be trusted with gifts bestowed by Ácolitus. Vulred refused him.
Bal'gorod was thrown into a fury by this setback, raging at the foolish lack of foresight by the Lord of Drakar. Vulred stood silently as the Nathrobal sat curses and swore cruel vengeance upon him. A fight might have broken out between them had it not been for the 100 companions at Vulred’s back compared to Bal’gorod’s six. Once Bal’gorod has tired himself with anger, Vulred turned and departed. His 100 companions followed at his back, leaving the pillars of his homeland behind.
The Nathrobal and the Atysvala began the trek to Etumrassus after a day of rest in the shadow of --. Along the route, they discussed the possibilities before them. Milenis suggested capturing or killing a close relative of Vulred, just as the Lords of Amikiras had done against Nathroghal Iolas the Elder during the Ascension era; Kyen’tor, the victor of Rynilliad, championed a rapid and devastating military campaign launched against Drakar itself; and Afranast prodded at the idea of sending assassins to target Vulred directly, leaving no memory of the gift within Drakar. Bal’gorod denied each of these in turn. They brought death and suffering to Vulred, perhaps, but moved no closer to their true objective. Hours passed as the Atysvala conjured plots and schemes along that road. It was then that Rynillion suggested a strategy of infiltration. He and another member of the Atysvala could sneak into the unsuspecting city of Drakar and investigate the location of the gift. Ideally, neither Vulred nor any other Voletal would perceive them. Bal’gorod received the plan well, and lauded Rynillion’s willingness to risk life and limb. He ordered Milenis to accompany Rynillion, and bid they depart immediately.
As the sun rose the following day, Bal’gorod Nathrobal and the four Atysvala continued their march to Nathrovas while Rynillion and Milenis broke off to the west.
News of the tabacle preceeded the return of Rynillion and Milenis. Indeed, the electrifying news of assassins and dark cloaked agents within Drakar quickly spread throughout the region. When the wounded pair arrived in Etumrassus, Bal’gorod stood upon the steps of the Calimnyr’s Palace with a deep scowl drawn upon his face. They had failed to complete their mission, and Jequasghal Vulred was now aware of the plots drawn against him. Every hope the Sutanese held of redemption was marred with failure. The Nathrobal’s frustration boiled and burst, just as it had during the meeting with Vulred. On the steps of the Calimnyr’s Palace, Bal’gorod raged and screeched his anger at Rynillion and Milenis, who in turn wilted like blighted flowers before him. They averted their eyes and remained silent. The tumult was so great that the four remaining Atysvala were compelled to remain within the threshold of the palace. When his temper finally cooled, the whole city seemed to reign in silence. He ordered the pair to return within the palace and skulked after them inside the forboding interior.
The Great Conflict, Karundar (2289 to 2304)
Border wars among Evosmar nations tend to dodge the notice of native scholars and foreign historians. Who endeavors to record something so common? The Corgastodmar campaigned against the Grathon relentlessly and skirmished with the Elivas at the same time. Northward still the Daorhu battled against the Karthuuzar with the feared Razag legions and resisted the greedy incursions of Eroyther and Corgastodmar hosts. An incredible 43 separate engagments were recorded by Gledgast in the year 2273 alone. Most brutal of all battlefronts was divided Nathrovas, which had splintered into numerous Etayen dominated states as discussed in the early life of Bal’gorod Nathrobal. Nothing quite garnered international attention, however, especially during a time when realms like Yor’shagon were expanding at the expense ancient bastions of the old order such as the Semyr and Gismyr islands. This was the prevalent mentality of the late 2200s. Everos was in the background of a rapidly changing world. It was no surprise that the conquests of Bal’gorod in the 2280s, therefore, passed along without significant opposition or notice, even among those on the continent.
The Jequayen War
This status as historical footnote was no concern of Bal’gorod- blissful international ignorance only bolstered his confidence. By 2289, the forcefully united Nathrovayen state was hastily reconstructed from wartime ruin and prepared to campaign the will of the Nathrobal. Those few who continued to resist, following the example of the Calimnayen, were silent, dead, or exiled from the east. This was the moment Bal’gorod had obsessed upon since the discovery over the Drakayen relic and attempted assassination turned humiliation of Vulred in 2288. Everos was vulnerable, and the Nathrobal gathered the six Atysvala for final instructions and declaration of his warmongering intentions.
“The machine has been forged, my siblings, from the blood of Nathrovas’ enemies. Those Ghalabas of weakling Etayen decayed by decadence crumbled before our fervent warriors. Which among them could survive a spar with us for longer than mere months? None. Atûn’s spirit guided our hand like none amidst the Voletal or across the sea in Etal. It should not be enough that we waste our grace upon the unworthy. Greater prizes hide behind ancient and neighboring walls. We shall march upon the realm of Vulred Jequasghal and thither deprive him of a gift granted upon our witless forebearers. It is known as Shrik and contains the key from which Atûn might be returned from his slumber and once more reign. The Jequasghal either fears it power or jealously hides it potential for personal gain. I have asked him for it, and he refuses. Whatever his cause, force of arms must deliver our bestowed right as Etayen to those who will master its potential.”

Conjures and Hearsay Stories of Niphalas’lon in Twilight Nathrovas

Memories of the Fallen Ghalûn -- 2325
Without further delay, the vast Nathrovayen host of trained soldiers and conscripted levies was divided seven ways and each part placed into the hands of Bal’gorod and his disciples. Afranast was provided 10,000 warriors, for his reputation remained untained and Bal’gorod trusted him with secondary overall command. Bal’gorod dispatched that force toward the northern Nathrovayen border, mere days from the fallen principality of Essenad. Taeyoril commanded 10,000 warriors stationed along the western border of Nathrovas with orders to halt wide enemy advances through the Aeduccaren hinterlands. Kyen'tor and Iolas were both charged with 5,000 warriors. The former was to travel north along the Gosver river, securing that waterway for transport, communication, and rapid resupply. The latter was tasked with marching south along the Semyr coast, subduing everything between Nathrovas and the northern hills of the Gol Sadûn mountains. Bal’gorod personally commanded the largest contingent of Nathrovayen warriors, numbered some 27,000 strong. Milenis and Rynillion travelled with him, everafter darkened in the mind of their master. The Nathrobal desired to retain the failed assassins but kept careful control and held them beside him. This primary legion was marched directly through the heartland of Jequa, south of the Gosver and north of the Gol Sadûns. Looting and enslavement, which were commonplace in Etayen warfare, proliferated wildly in those first weeks. However, Jequa was not defenceless. Word had rapidly travelled west and reached the ears of Vulred Drakarûn Jequasghal that Bal’gorod was mobilizing forces for an invasion. It was little surprise for the wisened king. The Sutanese had made short work of the neighboring principalities in Nathrovas, crushing each in turn with justifications of ancient rites and unfounded prophecy. Therefore, the Jequasghal mobilized an army of some 40,000 warriors around the hinterlands of Drakar and waited patiently for the strike.
Bal’gorod’s invasion initiated the first stage of the Great Conflict, known to contemporaries as the Jequayen War. The first confirmed reports of Nathrovayen movements came from settlers fleeing the wanton destruction of the eastern countryside with stories of pillage and murder on their tongues. Few survivors or supplies were left in the wake of these attacks. It was immediately obvious that this was no raid nor great raid of centuries past, but an invasion with the intention of annihilation. Vulred calmly placated them and rallied the prepared forces beneath the three spires of Drakar. Unlike the Nathrobal, the Jequasghal was uniquely advantaged with defensive preparations. He required no plying scouts and brought significant might to bear in one host. Everything was gatherd for proper war within three days. Once gathered, the foremost strategic consideration was the swift demise of Bal’gorod spearheading forces. Vulred chose Firlot’mon Kevokûn, well known in Everos as a supremely competent commander, as the agent to turn Bal’gorod from Jequa. The new commander made no mistakes of lethargy and promptly departed with 30,000 warriors. Their destination was not the greatest host of the invading army, for Kevokûn was wise to measure that even victory against such numbers would weaken Jequayen strength against the others. Instead, he marched directly northeast to engage Iolas and his 5,000 warriors marching down to sow terror along the mountain range. With sufficient speed an encircling maneuver could be executed to terminate that force immediately. If nothing else, pressure would be alleviated from the region of Drakar, allowing warriors from elsewhere in the vast south to muster on their master.
The opposing forces came into contact within a single week.
While Jequayen forces were occupied fighting the Nathrovayen in the foothills beneath the Gol Saduns, Bal’gorod desired to open a second front in the mountains themselves. He rallied a small host of 5,000 warriors under Milenis, who had remained with him since the botched affair in Drakar. She was granted leave as a measure of mercy and redemption and told to march through the mountains from north to south and crash into the unsuspecting Jequayen south. This operation was ordered and initiated without any manner of dissent or difficulty. Milenis travelled southward and began to ascend the low hills which soon grew into massive spearing peaks. However, her progress was halted by unforeseen forces on those slopes. A combined host of Daorhu, comprising warriors of the Yosuruyalar and Ubambanoyalar, was present with some 9,000 fighters. Their homelands were the high vales between peaks and the northern mountain slopes, respectively, and the introduction of the Etayen conflict would devastate their peace-loving existence. An ultimatum was present by the two Daorhu commanders, Yanaorut and Bunordu, to Milenis- approach further and suffer the pains of death and war. It was a rather persuasive proposition. The reputation of the nimble Daorhu warriors who leapt between enemies with their shoft-hafted spears was still potent among the peoples of Everos, though better attributed to the north than south. A period of two days passed with great tension as the two armies encamped with eye-sight of one another. Milenis pondered her options- fight or withdraw. The former would be costly and might result in defeat. The latter would destroy whatever vestiges of esteem she held with Bal’gorod. That could not be allowed. As these concerns clouded her mind, thoughts drifted to new frontiers, namely other passages toward Drakar. Along the eastern coast were few obstacles and valuable shoreside villages to sack. This was the way forward. The next day the Daorhu awoke to see the Etayen departed, not a word spoken.
Having avoided diplomatic and military ruin, Milenis turned eastward then south along the Evosmar coast. Before her was a string of prosperous and slumbering fishing villages and trade towns. The best warriors among the population swiftly departed the region for the west and Drakar, leaving only a paltry militia to defend. Neither side expected an attack thereabouts. Milenis did attack and brought devastation to that region with fire and steel. Vulred’s connection to the wider world was shattered in all places but Sedar in the most distant south, and foreign vessels which came close to the eastern shores saw only plumes of smoke on land. She continued the offensive through the southeast, engaging and shattered every force which came into contact. Whenever casualties rose steep, she called forth the power of Ackesh meshed with Vojûn to shatter olûndari minds and bind them as arrow fodder for later fights. Her successes sent a tremor through Jequasghal, and Vulred wept bitter tears in hearing that the whole east was destroyed in the matter of short weeks. Nothing could halt it, at least until Nathrovayen forces arrived in the vicinity of ancient Sedar in the autumn of that year. There the seaward walls were too great and the defenders too numerous for the invading host, now reduced to some 4,000 warriors, to assault. Milenis chose to now retreat, and marched two weeks back to Etumrassus. Bal’gorod received her as a loving father and embraced her closely, for news reached him of the devastation in Jequa. She was now redeemed, and Bal’gorod sought further assignments in the field for the coming year.
The Eurobasar War
In neighboring Othos, Tressonar Syphorgus II Gemonar developed a keen interest in the Great Conflict’s proceedings. Nathrovas, as was known, operated as a lucrative nexus of trade and transportation between Everos and Othos, along with occupying a commanding position over vessel passing through the Wolonorends. It could not be ignored. At the same time, the previous political divisions of the region made consistent involvement difficult. Before Bal’gorod, Eurobasar merchants and soldiers needed to contend with Sutan, Essenad, Rynilliad, and numerous minor states which mired themselves in complex networks of alliance and rivalry. Perhaps the intrepid Othosar might have impressed themselves upon the Voletal in the prior centuries. Successive Eurobasar Tressonars desired it. Calamity bound those people, however. After Lyseros’s death, Othos was plunged into civil war between his children. Those ruptures did not subside until the late 1500s but were immediately followed by war between the Corgastodmar and Tressonar Getas II Pyrgos. Othos was weak and unprepared. The continent suffered terribly as waves of Corgastodmar invaders swept upon the western reaches and claimed it for themselves. They remained unmovable for centuries, until the 1900s where the final remnants were decimated and scattered. Just as normalcy appeared to return to Eurobia, the repressed Vestanir and Demhezzar escalated their militant independence conflicts. The continent was dragged back into war between the 1900s and 2100s. The 200 years prior to the Great Conflict were therefore important years of recuperation. The brewing warfare in Everos struck a particular chord with Tressonar Syphorgus, as it signaled a departure from the established reigns of terror and decline which marred the Pyrgos lineage.
Acting upon this opportunity, Syphorgus summoned the Tressars of Othos in summer of 2290, many of whose dynasties were infantile and required prestige and riches to endure. They gathered west of Amastris in a place known as Lallorgos, which served as the Tressonar’s retreat. Amidst the gold and gilt of that palacial space, Syphorgus explained the immediate need for war. If Eurobia sided with embattled Jequasghal to crush Bal’gorod, Nathrovas would be restored to its pre-unification status. This meant unrestricted trade and political influence on neighboring Everos, presenting Othos with the opportunity to expand. Perhaps more attractive for the Tressars in attendance, however, was the prospect of revenge against the continent which invaded and occupied Eurobia. They wanted blood. Syphorgus captured this raw martial spirit and prepared an invasion for the upcoming spring of 2291. A fleet of some 300 ships was assembled on the mouth of the river Anon, while 20,000 troops were mustered a placed under the command of Tressar Gylos Pyrgos, who alleged a controversial connection to Lyseros’s dynasty that was font of significant turmoil. His appointment was more political than military. Wartime service compelled him to leave Othos rather than cause promote internal strife. This was the initial expeditionary force, while another 20,000 were gathered by Tressar Bathyorus of Andûlon for support. They were stationed in Pyrgoros for the interveneing months, deterring internal rebellions while the campaign commenced. Around the same time, Syphorgus authored a letter to Vulred which stated rather than offered Eurobasar assistance in the ongoing war. News of Eurobasar preparations for war were perceived with applause among broad swathes of Othosar save Vestidia. The chance for wealth and foreign victory proved equally attractive beyond Eurobia, while the Vestanir feared the growth of their imperial suzerain.
Word reached Vulred regarding the surprise Eurobasar alliance in late 2290. This was welcome news, but circumstances had declined considerably since that time. The initial successes of Firlot’mon against Bal’gorod were ecplised by the introduction of a terrible and hitherto under-utilized power- Áckesh. A considerable amount was becoming known to contemporaries about it in theory, particularly the relationship between olûndi’ consciousness and Ácolitus. Academics in Gledgast, Karnast, and Amikiras, along with practically minded nemeshari explored the capabilities of Áckesh in the realms of healing and wounding. Bal’gorod paid close attention to these developments and delved into personal study of this power throughout his years in exile and during his reign as Nathrobal. When the Great Conflict began in 2289, Bal’gorod flirted with the idea of deploying it against his enemies. However, members of the Atysvala convinced him against it, lest it somehow corrupt him and otherwise bring unwanted ire upon Nathrovas. However, the defeats suffered upon him by Firlot’mon silenced internal opposition and compelled the immediate use of Áckesh to swiftly rearrange the balance of power in southern Everos. The Nathrobal, untested and untrained with Áckesh, captured entire populations of hamlets and cities as subjects and potential fodder for his weakened host. He shattered the minds of those defenseless people and forced them into a mental bondage which rendered them nothing more than instinctual killers. Bal’gorod, giddy and excited like a child, swiftly turned south and marched against Firlot’mon in mid-2290. The Jequayen commander reported the hideous sight to Vulred, despairing as to what might be done.
‘We travelled for some days, high master, in the Eshabayan-risen regions of the realm. Whomever we could discover was relieved and offered food and water in exchange for their suffering. Every effort was made in camp to reunite blessed families, of which many were broken. I ordered other warriors to pursue rumors which abounded among the commoners of stray companions who were lost in flight. These were sought after without noteworthy success. I knelt among the survivors and inquired as to what fate doomed this settlement among many others under your protection. Not one could speak consistently on the matter, and every voice offered different details. The most common story woven was that Nathrovayen horseriders swept through the town and captured most citizens before an alarm could be raised. All the same, some fled and others hid. The unfortunate majority who were ensnared were approached by a warrior armored in iron-tile, which is archaic to the eras of Étunas in ancient memory. This figure spoke evil upon the innocent, and denounced them for their resistance against Atûn’s olûndari agent. Without a moment for protest, the warrior called forth some manner of Vojûn, bent to be unlike Vojûn at all, but assail the people without fire, smoke, ligtening, nor light. Instead a great tremor tore through them, which caused them to spasm and howl. None among these commoners could suspect the origin, but I believe it to be some manner of Ackesh. Its description suggests it, along with further details. The afflicted were apparently soon beyond their own senses, but babbled and spittled like infants, but stood erect in waiting. Now, the iron-tiled warrior spoke some commands, and these were supposedly followed with instant loyalty. They turned about and prepared to march through the village and out unto the countryside, but not before gathering personal weapons and other tools of harm. These mindless husks wandered path their hiding companions and families without offering any words, but were utterly beyond their minds. Hours later, my warriors discovered some remnants of these individuals while scouting to the distant north, likely an attempt to circumvent our host. Their features were sullen with significant weathering and damage to their skin and extremities. The worst among them were completely devoid of mental facilities and could not speak nor gesticulate. As the hours passed under our care, these decrepit forms began to crumble and lose integrity. Only the most far lost were affected. Before anything could be done to save them, their bodies were reduced to pitiful mounds of dust and bones. I am terrified, high master, of what this might mean for the war to come. Others among these villages have been lost the same way, and nothing seems to aid them.’
-- Het’kinir to Jequasghal Vulred Letters of the Great Conflict - 2309
Dismayed but morbidly curious, Vulred travelled to the library upon the second spire of his city.
The first vessels bearing Eurobasar reinforcements arrived off the coast of Nathrovas in the spring of 2291, just as Vulred expected but was hitherto unknown to Bal’gorod. Jequan commanders accepted the help with apprehension. Military assistance was undoubtly a boon, but the introduction of foreign actors into the Jequayen War threatened to escalate the matter exponentially. Meanwhile, when news arrived in Bal’gorod’s camp some 50 miles from Drakar, the Nathrobal was thrown into a hideous fury. The tent was rent, and tables were smashed, sending his advisers scattering into the night. No one dared to approach. When dawn rose the next morning, a recomposed Bal’gorod begrudgingly ordered Milenis back to Nathrovas with 7,000 warriors and orders to muster conscripts.
Eurobasar and Nathrovayen forces battled back and forth across the black hills and green valleys of eastern Everos, leaving entire regions awash in death behind them.
The enemy was not the sole threat facing the Tressonar and his Tressars in Everos. As the blood-toll rose higher, a measure of discontentment cultivated among the warriors of Othos. This was not their war nor their homeland. Bal’gorod posed no threat to the Othosar homeland nor intended it. Destroying the Nathrovayen threat stood to increase the power of the neighboring Corgastodmar realm, who was a competitor with Eurboria on the world stage. The list continues. Tension ran among the common soldiers as well. The lines were often drawn between cultures. Vestanir and Demhezzar disdained fighting and dying for the power of the empire which subjugated them. The former group was more vigorous in their protests, and news began to seep through the ranks of lyndos and iochas being slain in the night. No enemies were present for miles nor were any assassins captured. This continued and was worst throughout 2293, when the first phase of Karundar was at its bloody height. The result was a sorrowful decline in the combat preparedness of the Eurobasar host.
After months of this terrible bloodshed, the campaigning ground remained unaltered. Bal’gorod maintained control over vast swathes of Nathrovas, save for the coastal-most regions where Eurobasar warriors were periodically deployed. Tressonar Syphorgus claimed dominion over these territories as new reaches of Eurobia proper. Yet, neither side was wholly content with the outcome. Half-victories and half-measure rarely garner significant praise or support. It was such that both sides desired some manner of decisive encounter to settle the matter for certain.
The Etayen War
Following the dramatic encounters between the Jequayen, Nathrovayen, Eurobasar, and Grathon during the war’s first phase, attention and information regarding the conflict spread profusely across Qadal. In Etal, the Vishtal dynasty and Council of Amikiras took particular interest in the ‘seed of Shrik’ for which Bal’gorod originally declared war. An object of such immense power and purpose conjured glimmers of hope and rekindled the despondant hearts of the Etûletal race.
In 2293, Vishtal Takerusaur Atûsbal announced his blessings for an expedition to Everos, the first in generations, to assist their Nathrovayen brethren in restoring Atûn’s legacy. This was a momentous event, the contemporary importance of which cannot be understated. No significant campaigning army of the Etûletal had been mustered in centuries. The common Aemar whom they prepared against had never witnessed an Etayen in flesh, let alone considered an invasion of them.
Etayen warships archored off the Jequayen coast in spring of 2294, bearing some 30,000 warriors to bolster the girdlocked Nathrovayen offensive. They were lead by Vishtal Nil’phir, being a beloved child of Vishtal Takerusar and a capable commander of previous experience. Their sudden arrival invoked terrible fright across Qadal. Rumors swirled among Aemar nobles and commors alike of some Second Feud or the clandestine revival of Atûn. The Elivas watched affairs with a curious interest. Kevas Lod, who ruled in those times, favored the introduction of a counter-balance to Corgastodmar Everos. In Othos, the Odyrzid were fearful of the coming decimation but receptive toward an Eurobasar competitior. The Etûletal assisted in this campaign against Jequa alongside Nathrovas, forcing the Jequayen into the Gol Sadun mountains or distant westerlands of the realm where they resisted valiantly. Otherwise, the whole heartland of Jequa was either taken or under the shadow of danger cast by the Etayena allies.
Bal’gorod perceived blood in the proverbial water, and desired to clear the field before his enemies managed to rally greater forces. He counseled Nil’phir to assault the final bastions of the Jequayen in southern Everos, being around the city of Drakar and near its western environs.
Vulred witnessed these proceedings with the greatest care, and from his spires could see the combined warhost lumbering along the mountains’ feet. He travelled for counsel to the quarters of Firlot’mon Kevokûn, who was recovering from his previous wounds. They spoke at length regarding strategy and how to best allocate their remaining 20,000 warriors stationed in Drakar rather than elsewhere in the vast Jequayen domain. Their discussion carried into the night, with point and counter-point made, and speculations regarding enemy responses. It was in this late hour that Kevokûn proposed a worthy idea- attack the enemy before they themselves could attack Drakar. Indeed, the Etayen fleet was docked some numerous miles to the east, on the eastern side of the Gol Sadun mountains along its narrow land strip. While not enough to turn the war’s tide, the attack might devert critical forces required elsewhere.
Kevokûn arrived near the port of Viphikerader in the mid-summer of 2294, yet unopposed. The masts and fluttering sails of the enemy navy bobbed on the horizon with a tantalizing innocence.
While 10,000 of the Jequayen warriors were occupied in the east, Bal’gorod assailed Drakar itself for the first time during the war. Combined with Nil’phir, the host was some 50,000 strong. Thousands more were under the command of Iolas and Taeyoril in the west, reducing the final bastions of Jequa in those simultaneous swampy and arid regions. The attack began with the wholesale pillaging and destruction of the villages which surrounded the three-spired city. No intentional murders were committed, as Bal’gorod was wise and desired the refugees to flee into Drakar and deplete its rations. This worked well. In his compassion, Vulred could not bear to reject his own people to death.
Unfortunately for Bal’gorod, this close brush with victory was short lived. News arrived in camp of the battle in Viphikeradar- how the fleet was damaged but survived by putting to sea. Most of those cause on the shore were slain or scattered.
In the fall Iolas and Taeyoril returned with tidings of their campaigning in the west. Matters were well there, as the Jequayen forces were disordered and scattered apart before the singular power of the Nathrovayen host. The whole territory up to the arid hills and Grathon borderland was secured. Casualties were significant in this purchase, but this was the price of conquest. Bal’gorod was pleased. However, the pair of Atysvala came forth with further news which inflated his spirit. A messanger came forth to the Nathrovayen camp while it prepared to attack the final holdings of the Jequayen. He spoke with the authority of the Lhenod, Enhemod in those years, who proposed an agreement. Grathem and its proven warriors would join the conflict alongside Bal’gorod against Jequa, but on the condition that the western reaches of the realm were annexed to them. It was a steep price to pay, particularly in Nathrovayen blood which had carried the war thus far, but allies were a rare commodity. The Nathrobal agreed before that first night was past. Iolas was dispatched to bring the responding letter to Calathem.
The entrenchment and successes of the Etayen warriors in Everos angered and dismayed the Corgastodmar to the north. Worse now, the introduction of the Grathon into the conflict made matters intolerable. The time was now spring of 2295 and the winter was passed. Campaigning season dawned and thus blood was to run free again. Clamors for action rose among the common people and Ghetûn alike, appealing to Ghetunbast Dothen to intervene before matters devolved further. Ghet Whelemest, master of Loryne and Valhunis of the Ghetunbalastod, marched south with 60,000 warriors with the intention breaking apart the united Grathon and Nathrovayen front.
‘The campaign in Grahen bloodied ourselves and enemy greatly. Although each one among us was a greater warrior than our Aemar enemy, their sheer numbers and disparate deployments stymied Nil’phir and Bal’gorod’s minions. The latter was severely reduced by constant war against the Eurobasar and Jequayen hosts. This was to such a dangerous degree that our 30,000 bladesmen were divided across the whole south to protect strange rebouts perhaps familiar to our fifteenth-times desceased ancestors. The contingent to which my father and myself belonged was stationed in the domain of Grahen. It was beneath the shadow of the Aeducarrs yet east of the arid hills which sweep forth from Lodon. The nearest Aemardic settlement was Hinod, and that was but a distant sight for us. Our superior master, Votik Kilkeras, chose suitable grounds to encampe for an undetermined time. It was here where sorrow came. Nil’phir and Bal’gorod were in constant debate with one another as to the proper directions and tactics which ought to be employed against the remaining Eurobasar and invading Corgastodmar. One supported an attack here and defenses there, while the latter supported redeployment here and two concerted attacks hither and thither. Every day their strategems changed. It was such that our 500 warriors found ourselves as far north as Hinod, preparing for a sally forward into Corgastoria which never did come through. Around 3,000 Grathon and Nathrovayen warriors were supposedly positioned for close support, but we saw nothing of them. However, the honor and precision of command which was tradition amongst the Etûletal forbade any roguish or insubordinate maneuvers. We therefore lingered for days, then weeks, atop a dull hillock which was our fortification. Then, terrible sights appeared in the distant horizon, touching against the rising beams of Éshabal- Corgastodmar banners, unmistakable in crimson, gold, and virgin whites. In the matter of a few anxious days, this immense horde surged across the undulating hills and thereafter marched due west to separate our position from the eastern and southern havens. The undisciplined and worried among our ranks begged Kilkeras to relent and depart before the noose was drawn taut. He declined. The foremost Corgastodmar elements encamped themselves about the base of the shallow hill, well within our sight to distinguish. Another day passed while they prepared. The next day, the enemy appeared prepared for decisive battle, numbering in the thousands without need to count in detail. In normal and honorable war, the advantaged side should step over and suggest terms of surrender as to avoid unnecessary blood. They did not. Hatred for the Etayen ran too deep in their veins for such courtesies. Instead, the coming days were characterized by the steady downpouring of arrows and bolts which the intrepid Aemar launched while scampering up the embankments. A few unwise fellows were pierced with the barrage, but the effect was otherwise minimal. Two more days passed without support. Matters grew worse. We returned an effective torrent, killing a fair number of Aemar, but they were clever. Whatever ground was secured by the hour was reinforced by trees which were hewn down with battle axes and blades. Soil was thrown atop and the more cowardly hid behind these barricades while the brave lunged forward. On the third day, the melee assaults were first launched. Tight ranks of the plated and chained enemy came forward, shields or spears upward and banners waving. They came against our position with great cheers. We repulsed them over eleven times in some eight hours of battle. Their dead strewn the upper crest of our defenses but were had lost high numbers as well. Again, they charged the next, fourth day, nearly overwhelming us in nine charges which left literal hundreds dead and wasted. I slew three alone, while my experienced father destroyed many more. He was wounded, however, and I was not. Kilkeras soon recognized that the isolated position was doomed to collapse. He and the eldest members of our surviving warriors gathered together to discuss strategy. They spoke back and forth throughout the fourth night of battle, leaving us younger esseythu in anxious silence beneath Kovûl. When Éshabal rose again, they came forth with their plans and judgement. The elder warriors, my father included, were destined to remain atop the position and fight to the bitter last. All warriors younger than 100 years were commanded to form together in tight ranks and breakthrough on the southern slope, using the momentum of the Corgastodmar against them. For what purpose was the act, I asked, and the elders responded that not every Etayen-born warrior needed to die upon the crest. The old die with time, but the young have numerous decades before them. I at once refused to agree, but the preponderance of their wisdom was against me and there was no choice. The fifth morning of battle, our surviving numbers, perhaps some 300 in all, prepared to form. A near 200 among us were beneath 100 years, while the other 100 were above. The latter stationed themselves in a broad ring around the crest, spreading themselves as to appear more than their number. Our warriors packed close together, forming a plow of steel to break through the scattered enemy skirmishers. As the morning came and enemy approached, we waited in silence. The elders fought in utter quiet with great precision, killing many. When the enemy was close, our embattled host leapt from the defenses and bolted down the hill, knocking aside or slaughtering the Corgastodmar formations around. We continued the sprint down the entire slope, not stopping in the neighboring forests nor in the plains beyond. Those sent to pursue us were either too slow or slain by our hands. None among us ever did look back that day, but some time later return in secret and found Corgastodmar banners raised high.’
-- Vikel’res the Younger on the Elder’s sacrifice at Erothem Etayen recollections of Karundar - 2320
The sacrifice of the elder warriors at Erothem epitomizes the short-comings of the united Etayen front. Despite their common heritage, they were not the same people at heart, and were deeply separated in their methods and objectives.
The beleaguered alliance Bal’gorod patched together received much desired reinforcements in the summer of 2295. Grathon warriors swept south then east through the once Jequayen lands within intention of reaching the Gol Sadun range.
Evacuation proceedings began in the autumn of 2296, timed precisely to prevent swift enemy pursuit once the plan was executed and made obvious. Finally, after near annihilation, the remnant host of around 6,000 southern Etayen arrived in Ghethemas. It was the first time since the lifetime of Corgastor that Etayen warriors bearing arms were allowed past the Glimmering Walls and within the Trident’s Bastion. Even then, only Nassarus and his companions among all others were accepted with open love.
The years 2297 was the bleakest for Vulred and his allies. Overwhelming force crushed down upon Drakar, keeping those who remained inside utterly isolated from the world beside occasional excusions through the mountains which kept the defenders alive. In the north, the Corgastodmar, Daorhu allies, Elivas mercenaries, and Jequayen remnants found tenaciously against the Atysvala and their warriors. It was a close match and every blow was met with similar blows. Everything in the west was fallen and beneath the influence of the Nathrobal. Bal’gorod marched southward with the forces he gathered for a final confrontation with Vulred, sufficient to destroy Jequasghal forever. Milenis and Rynillion were deployed into the conquered western regions to administer the distribution of tribute. They were vicious taskmasters in that endeavor, plundering whatever survived the initial conquest and causing those who remained to flee for safety.
Come the summer of 2297, Bal’gorod arrived outside the walls of Drakar, but with more ambitious intentions than previous invasion. His combined host of Etûletal, Nathrovayen, and Grathon warriors numbered some 60,000 warriors. Vulred Jequasghal was now limited to 10,000 professionals and a few thousand-militia mustered from the armed males and females of the city. Nothing could be done for them besides strengthening the walls. A short two days passed before Bal’gorod launched his first attack. Not wishing to waste time in construction siege trenches or massive engines, that time was spent crafting ladders- many ladders. His warriors surged forward on that third day bearing scores of them. The Jequayen hurled stones and fired bows into their ranks, killing many, but no fewer 20,000 Nathrovayen fighters were deployed. The whole ground was obscured by their approach.
With the lower section of the walls conquered, Bal’gorod marched in triumph into Vulred’s city. The streets which sprawled before his army were desolate. No one remained thereabouts, and any who might have been left behind hid for their lives in the lowest nooks.
Afranast led the first assaults upon the spires. The method was straightforward, ladders and scaled-down rams to overcome each successive layer of defenses. Enhemod’s warriors were prominent in this endeavor, as Bal’gorod’s own Nathrovayen fighters were exhausted from the day-long bloodshed on the outer defenses. They served with honor, enduring horrible missile fire from above and ahead. The first gates, numbering among five others further up the mountain, were broken and the defenders scattered. However, proceeding further required the Grathon warriors to traverse an increasingly narrow approach. What once accommodated 20 fighters abreast was now 10, further up the road could bear one laden cart alone with safety. No strength nor honor could break those defenses, and the Grathon dead piled thick beneath all three spires before Enhemod withdrew the host. Bal’gorod’s host lost 2,000 warriors.
The failure and high casualties of the direct attacks upon the spires cast dire shadows on the whole campaign. Bal’gorod desired alternatives. For that purpose, Taeyoril, Iolas, Kyen’tor, and Afranast were sent scouting throughout the city. They delved into the lowest recesses of the lowest houses, slaughtering whatever survivors where encountered thereabouts in their wrath. Nothing was found there, though their spirits were raised then crushed when certain hideaways and dark tunnels were discovered- nothing more than storage for food or goods. The few palatial spaces and nobles’ homes of the lower city were equally disappointing in their mundane architectural layout. What was seen was what existed, nothing else. However, their hopes were not long disparaged. Whilst searching around the foundations of the greatest spire, Kyen’tor and Afranast discovered numerous hidden passages which were obscured by buildings contructed with their rear walls to the bare rock. These routes were alternatively no greater than a single warrior’s width or two when fortunate. Being prone to bold action, Kyen’tor rushed inside, finding that these tunnels wound through the whole interior of the spire. This was found to be similar in all three of the spires. A brilliant strategy came to mind- assault from within and without, catching the Jequayen by surprise and forcing them off the mountaintops. This news was brought to Bal’gorod, who readily agreed with a sadistic pleasure. The next day, more than 6,000 warriors were prepared and separated three times for each spire of Drakar. They ate, slept, prepared their weapons, and on that night surged forth in great numbers toward the spires while the defenders slept and rushed through the tunnels. Within minutes, Vulred was awakened to the distant rumble beneath him. The tunnels were known to him, and he prepared his own warriors post-haste to rush into the depths and block the enemy onslaught.
“We entered the network in formations of some three or five warriors, armed with short blades and Vojûnic fire. Everything was perfect darkness at all times. Where was up and down meant nothing. Where to turn was unknown. The sole order was to reach the spire peak. I remember encountering the enemy upon the stone rams and crumbling corridors. First came the sounds. You could hear the enemy long before you saw him. How to reach him was the dire uncertainty, or whether he’d discover a passage to you first. As warriors closed the smoke and light erupted, being either a torch or Vojûnic among the less patient. The whole cavern was soon filled with that terrible stench and swirling mist which made proper fighting impossible. Like burning flesh, or something all worse. Lights were mere suggestions. I learned the best method was to plunge the blade toward the origin of whatever light is before you, as that is most certainly the target! We made negligible progress for many days, or at least what seemed like many days. They enemy was tenacious and pressed us toward the bottom more easily than we could force them further upward. We slept in the tunnels, bundled together close as to now be slaughtered or lost in the darkness. Our eyes grew the worse from squinting toward alternatively blinding and faint lights of friend and foe alike. Wounds allies was a common mistake in the frenzied ambushes. The dead were disposed in obscured side-routes terminating in dead ends, where they were piled up with the spoken intention of burying them once the fighting was over. The stench polluted the tunnels worse than the smoke or lights. In my days, nobody ever went back for them. All said, I spent two weeks in the tunnels, and reckon I made it half the distant up the spire or greater before my supplies and service period ran short. My companions and I returned down the length as fresh, terrified warriors with pale faces stream upward. The daylight was harsh. Vojûnic smoke and trickling blood dripped forth from the passageway into freedom. Those who were outside were no idle, for arrows, stone, and other projectiles rained down regular from hundreds of free above. Fighters were nestled beneath purpose-built shelters of rubble stones and canvas for protection. Occasionally one would catch a shot and his skull smashed into pieces. I looked away, far away, to the other spires. From them I saw warriors entering and leaving and fighting and smoke billowing and knew the campaign was lost.”
Sinikol’tem of Amikiras recalls the Tunneled Battle Words of Karundar - 2311
Despite the bravest efforts of Bal’gorod’s ilk, Drakar remained unconquered. With summer becoming autumn, the dire prospect of siege settled upon both sides. Nothing could be worse. A battle meant death, but a siege meant continued death for indefinite time. While the armies remained encamped, late autumn transitioned to winter, winter transitioned into spring.
While the Great Conflict roiled in the south, the Corgastodmar and their allies poured south into Grathem. The campaign began in the earliest days of spring, even before the snow was departed. Ghetunbast Dothen chose to lead the host himself, bringing some 40,000 back through the same terrain fought over two years prior. The land still ached from that violation. Now it bled again. Dothen’s army marched far west, toward the banks of the Zomore where the Elivas dwelled. There he gathered numerous mercenaries whose expertise was raiding and irregular warfare.
News of the vicious Elivas mercenary activities and Corgastodmar invasions of the southern Aemar realm reached the campaigning army of Enhemod in early spring of 2298. Dread filled the hearts of the common warriors and the officers lamented the destruction of their ancestral properties.
Worse tidings were to come. In the autumn of 2298, Vishtal Nil’phir rode to Etumrassus to speak with Bal’gorod, who was there preparing to winter his armies. A great host of Etayen companions accompanied him, casting awe upon the commoners of that city which expended all its fighters in the previous nine years. His desire was to witness the fragment bearing Shrik’s life and the possible key to Etayen restoration. Was the piece legitimate? How might it be used? What manner of Nemeshir was attached to it, Eshara or something Vojûnic? These questions poured forth from his mouth, but the Nathrobal was not pleased to hear them. If anything, he detected greed and envy. A fear steadily grew in his heart that the Etûletal, for whom the Voletal were inferior cousins, sought possession of the fragment for themselves. Nathrovas was never a true ally to Etal since Nassarus’ betrayal, so a thick air of tenious was undeniable. However, Bal’gorod was wiser than to leave Nil’phir on the palatial steps without some satisfaction. He invited the commander inside and bid he lounge for a time. Rynillion, who long remained the guardian of the palace and Etumrassus, was granted the task of gathering the fragment for presentation. It was carried forward in a massive iron chest carried by 10 strong attendants. Bal’gorod had it placed in front of his stone throne, still streaked with the remains of Aeyet’norn. Nil’phir was intrigued and stepped toward it, but Bal’gorod halted him before getting too close.
Having only arrived five years prior, the now 15,000 strong Etayen contingent under Vishtal Nil’phir Atûsghal departed in 2299, leaving the frontlines which they manned completely vulnerable. With the Etayen reinforcements lost, the momentum of the Nathrovayen forces waned under increasing pressures from Eurobasar raiders in the east and the Corgastodmar in the north. The noose closed around the Nathrobal slowly but with terrible inevitability.
Everos’ Blackened Scar
Without the assistance of Etayen warriors and greviously embattled among the northern frontier, Bal’gorod reckoned with silent bitterness that his greatness chance of victory was past. The last and most terrible phase of the Great Conflict, known as the Aermayen War, began in 2299 and dragged forward with stubborn slaughter for years thereafter.
Along the borderlands of Mehras and Savorrat, armies of Grathem and the Corgastodmar realm battled atop the towering peaks of the Aeduccar mountains and the hinterlands beneath them. Casualties were steep in those fights, but steadily the Corgastodmar wrapped their lines around the mountains with the assistance of Elivas mercenaries from Lodon, including elements of the feared beastial Elirev.
The year was now 2301. Kyen’tor, the most competent commander among the Atysvala, attempted to halt the inexorable advance of the enemy into Nathrovayen territory. He mustered some 20,000 warriors for the purpose, being those who survived the previous years of vicious conflict. A fraction were veterans of battle while the remainder were fresh youths and foreign mercenaries. This was a severe weakness, for in this late stage armies were becoming more professional and coherent rather than fragmented warbands. Kyen’tor knew this fact well. For it, he devised no contingencies for occupying territory nor achieving outstanding victories. The mission in the northern theater was attrition and delaying. Every week which passed without the Corgastodmar marching was victory in itself.
The Nathrovayen host was opposed by around 70,000 Corgastodmar warriors meshed with Daorhu mercenaries and Jequayen warriors forced northward in the first great offensive surges. Two commanders stood at the army’s head- Lorobast Hementorbast of the Aemadarin ast Silla Eshor and Yadaboru of the Duilyalar contingent. With no other approach viable but forward, the allied forces advanced.
“Each Kitrikis was placed along bulwarks on the frowning ridgeline. Beneath were great fields to the north and Nathrovas to the distant east. We held here as nowhere else might do since other lands were decimated beyond what an army might sustain upon. Master Kyen’tor knew the Corgastodmar would drive south against us swiftly. On our left flank were high hills which crept westward to become the Aeducarrs. Our forces were thinner there, as the ground was good and one many could repel many. Perhaps one in four among us were positioned to defend. On our right flank were lower, wooden hills which one might surmount in less than an hour’s time unless someone stood against it. This was bad ground, but Kyen’tor ordered that we must hold there to prevent the Aemar from flowing past. We were the stone in the river’s eye, in a sense. I was stationed here with the 15,000 other warriors. In the afternoon, we constructed waist-deep pits between the trees on the downward slope. These served a dual purpose. Tight enemy formations and cavalry could not approach in good order but would be forced to break apart piece-meal to attack. More, the pits were invitations for enemy warriors who desired to hide themselves from our fire. The Daorhu were the first to devise such tricks, but they were well known to us- an enemy’s morale would break in abandoning safety and his approach marred. For additional damage, sharp spikes were embedded at the bottom of such pits, that warriors might maim themselves in tumbling within. What trees remained before us were cloven down three feet above the dirt. The tall stumps were left to further break apart formations without hindering arched volleys. What wood was gathered here was used to craft an embankment from which spears might be thrust and arrows loosed. These defenses were more severe to the lower slopes than higher up the hills, and the warriors kept high were expected as reserved rather than frontline combatants. That final evening, Kyen’tor visited each camp with his personal guards in tow. He came to us as we gnawed on thick bread for supper but denied any additional morsels we offered. Without introduction or pleasantness, he explained to the officers and fighters that the plan was to disrupt the Corgastodmar march southward. Time was still required to reorganize and march Bal’gorod’s host after the inglorious and cowardly departure of our Etayen brethren a year and some months prior. More of all, this army needed to block reinforcement to Drakar, which would relieve Vulred too comfortably and further delay our victory. We all cheered our agreement and swore oaths that this deed wound be done without self protection. I spent the whole passing of Kovûl sharping a spear-tip, too excited to rest. Corgastor’s spawn and their allied launched their attack mere moments after the dawn light. It was a proud first charge, with banners and horns and battlecries. We prepared and threw spears and arrows into them and killed many, and those who attempted to hide were caught in our traps. After some 15 minutes, the first attack was withdrawn, and another launched fresh. This continued with varying waves throughout the early hours, and it seemed the enemy was skiddish about casualties, and always withdrew is things looked too poor. The battle was held in balance for long, and the warriors around me were exhausted from hours of fighting. With each repulsed formation of Corgastodmar, another which was held in reserve advanced. Many were slain yet, and no observer in Esha could say our skills were poor. On the Golden Hand came forward, and their fearsome assault was such that words were whispered about giving up our ground. My brethren held, but all spirits wavered beneath the volleys of bolts, arrows, and great projectiles. Nothing deterred their zealous horde. It was now that Master Kyen’tor himself came forward with his personal guards in tow. He was splendid and terrifying in archaic appearing plate irons, woven like room tiles and rumbling with each step. His companions were more classical warriors, dressed in the finest gear which Nathrovas could produce in those times. The gathering of them rushed past the wooden works and bid that the bravest follow them forward the deter the enemy and sow confusion in their ranks. I had no desire for it, but those around me were embolded and rushed behind, and no honor came from looking the coward. We rose up, took up whatever weapons were unbroken, and leapt over the works into the cloud of Aemar fighters some strides below. The charge shattered the disorganized rabble ahead, with many enemies tumbling into our clever traps as we leapt over them. I slew two with my own hand, plunging my short spear into one’s stomach as he rose to flee and striking another in the back in retreat. All was well, for our detachment of some 400 warriors swept the hillside clear of filth. Yet, toward the hill’s foot the enemy grew thicker and we prepared to turn about, but another matter caught our eye. From the depths of the enemy lines, a kitrikis worth of warriors on horseback surged forth through the retreating masses, hurtling toward Kyen’tor. They were splendid as well, greater than even Kyen’tor himself in the gilding of steel and the glimmer of their weapons. Those who were wise suffered sudden fear and dashed to the safety of the hillside. I reached the crest with no air left to breath but noticed not all were returned. Kyen’tor and his guards were isolated among this wave of horsemen. They assaulted the commander with incredible vigor, calling Vojûn with such speed and power that the ground erupted with the smoke and shadowed them. The whole battle paused as every eye watched with stupid terror. They appeared to recognize Kyen’tor and harbor a deep hatred. For honor, Kyen’tor fought against them with equal blows, though his guards were swiftly slain amid the squeals of fire. Among the 100 arrayed enemies, each one must have released a hideous blast upon Kyen’tor, and when sight permitted we could see the iron plates of his armor begin to fuse together or melt to drooling fire. With greater honor one of us might have leapt forward to save him, but we were rooted in place. They attacking horsemen burned the commander so terribly that his flesh began to ooze away onto the ground, and he withered as an uprooted weed. As a final strike, one among the horsemen took up a fallen lance and changed against Kyen’tor, thrusting him backward upon its tip and crashing into a half-ruined tree. He was pinned there, limp, and his enemies continued to burn the corpse without mercy until nothing was left by skeletal fragments and molten armor smoldering upon the scorched bark. Then, the horsemen turned to us. Without Master Kyen’tor, commander pasted to Takrinusaur Sotekras, who commanded the kitrikis from ancient Essenad. He was possessed with good sense and competence, but nothing of the valor and determination of the predecessor. The first order was to withdrawal to save the remainder of the host. With tears of sorrow, we abandoned the hilltops and the corpses of our companions. Around a third of all were dead. No survivor took the time nor daring to retrieve the pinned remains of Kyen’tor.”
Sinikol’tem of Amikiras recalls the death of Kyen’tor Words of Karundar – 2311
Kyen’tor’s vicious death against Vulred’s 100 hand-picked warriors shattered the morale of the northern Nathrovayen host. Those who survived streamed southward in confusion or abandoned the army altogether. Bal’gorod and the Atysvala were devastated, but they continued to fight. Indeed, for all the violence, Nathrovas itself remained relatively secure while its borderlands were cast ablaze. No enemy host had marched between the Black Hills since the early Eurobasar invasion.
The seasons turned and the year 2302 dawned, bringing with it promises of further bloodshed and endless devastation. Bal’gorod and his allies managed to secure themselves thus far, reserving enough manpower to launch prodding assaults into Jequa without hope of permanent gain. It was a stalemate, for as the years passed belligerents disengaged from the conflict. The Nathrovayen were once joined by Grathon and Etayen warriors, and the Corgastodmar were aligned with the Eurobasar and Daorhu, but the majority of them burned away over time. Now Corgastoria and Nathrovas were the sole significant combatants with small contingents of support.
As the year 2303 arrived, the balance of power shifted once again. Ghetunbast Dothen dispatched diplomats to Eurobia in the spring months of that year, seeking an audience with Tressonar Syphorgus II Gemonar, his ally of some years prior. For good fortune, the Tressonar was recently returned to Tarimikras after crushing the nascent blossoms of a new Vestanir rebellion. It was thus well known that circumstances in Othos were unfavorable. Vestanir defeat promised no peace, but rather that other subjected populations might arise to replace them. The Tressonar required a means to show strength and bolster prestige. Dothen’s clever diplomats capitalized on this insecurity to lure the Eurobasar back into the conflict. Reentering in this stage of Nathrovayen weakeness could secure victory along with immense glory and wealth for the Othosar nation. Victory would validate the existence of the united realm, would it not? Syphorgus perceived this shrewd politicking, but their arguments were sound. After long counsel between the Tressonar and his companions, the decision was made to deploy the Eurobasar navy against the Nathrovayen state but withhold warriors upon the land to prevent terriblr casualties in a time when Othos was unstable. Well enough for the Corgastodmar diplomats who returned to Ghethemas with haste and were showered in treasures for their success. Back in western Othos, near the great town of Amastris, supplies and materials were gathered for this second great offensive.
Eurobasar vessels departed the shoreside village of Netanortos in the summer of 2303, penants tumbling through the wispy gales. A Tressar named Gedon Lotas, being among those close companions of Tressonar Syphorgus in counsel, was chosen to command the maritime host. He served with an unremarkable record during the first Eurobasar intervention, and now sought for an opportunity to attain glory. Beneath him served some 10,000 warriors and sailors upon 150 boats, being the great majority of Eurobasar strength upon the waters.
Tressar Gedon might have continued the advance further, wreaking further havoc against the defenseless Nathovayen coast without challenge. Yet, word reached him in the late summer that Gressar vessels now wasted the weakened Eurobasar shorelands. The navy was to return with haste.
The Nathrovayen fleet had now been devastated in the Wolonorends, leaving the outlying ports of the region dangerously exposed to allied attack. Corgastodmar and Eurobasar embraced the opportunity to sack and waste everything within a day’s march of the sea, only to be astonished by the simultaneous ferocity and emaciation of the people after the prolonged campaign.
The war ground on unabated. Swathes of Everos lain in dark ash, the remnants of decomposed innocents bent to mindlessness by Áckesh and the towns they once occupied razed to nothing. It was now the summer of 2304 and the Great Conflict had devastated the lives of hundreds of thousands across Qadal for 15 arduous years. It was that infamous summer when Vulred Jequasghal sallied eastward with 100 companions, composed of the strongest nemeshari in Everos. He intended to ride against Bal’gorod in Nathrovas itself and destroy the Nathrobal utterly, along with the Atysvala who served him. This was a sure means to end the war quickly which seemed otherwise endless. Word did arrive in Nathrovas of this maneuver. In his martial fury, Bal’gorod was delighted for such an opportunity afford to them in this difficult juncture. Perhaps, he wondered aloud, this could be the great turn to victory.
The ashen air crackled with raw energy as the 100 companions and their master lined themselves against the Nathrobal and the surviving Atysvala. Four among the original six Atysvala were present for this encounter- Afranast, Rynillion, Taeyoril, and Iolas. Kyen’tar was now dead and buried. Milenis was on the field combatting the Corgastodmar and remaining Jequayen forces. An ignorant eye might claim the fight foregone but fear rightly made itself home within the breasts of the companions- the reputation of Nathrovayen lord proceeded him. Indeed, hushed words among them recalled the terrible slaughter at – and the subsequent loss of the Sadûnid plains. They closed ranks around Vulred and expertly shrouded any lingering fear.
The bloodied Nathrobal struck first, hurling himself against Vulred with the Atysvala in close support. Pale bursts of Vojûnic energy tore through the mist of steel and blood, illuminating the combatants while the clouds above darkened to an angry pitch. Among the thrashing Bal’gorod found Vulred and attempted to strike him with the Nathrovayen relic, confident that such a powerful object might prove a devastatingly effective weapon. The Jequasghal perceived the blow early and cast a strike against it, mustering all possible energy against his long-despised rival. Instantly, the Drakayen relic was shattered. An explosion of unrivaled intensely burst from the glossy fragments. Bal’gorod Nathrobal was utterly destroyed, along with his host, the Atysvala accompanying him, Vulred’s companions, and the land beneath their feet. The Jequasghal was fortunate, for he grasped the relic when it detonated. An immense portion of the Eshanic power bestowed by Ácolitus infused itself within Vulred’s essence, and thus he survived while nothing else in Nathrovas remained.
Never before in history did the affairs of olûndi possess such a genocidal character. The masters of both lands, along with their people and realms were destroyed. Untold thousands were killed in the detonation and its subordinate tremors. The suffering was without rival and beyond articulation. Amongst the Etayen this event is known as the "great cataclysm" or Karundar. The land surrounding that is now the Nathrovayen Fringe still bears the unnatural scars of this event as evidenced by the abominations roaming the lands and the nemeshiral disturbances that still occur thereabout. Vojûnic energy now wafts across the landscape without hinderance and corrupts everything within its mistful grasp. Horrid things, even worse than the abominations which were created from the suviviors roam those jagged isles- monsters of an unconsciously conjured origin. They possess talons, leathery wings, daggering fangs, and eyes speckled across the bodies in odd and disquieting places. The learned called them Nemgarotirs, but those with intimate associations with Vojûn title them within specific categories and dynasties. Monsters of this character are inexorably bound to the Fringe, settled beyond the point of removal by Velhronis or any other manner of unnatural keeper. Why? The shattering of Nathrovas with Eshanic energy released immense quantities of Vojûnic power which existed as a current beneath the surface. This was the greatest tragedy, for land is land, and land might be naturally repaired with centuries. Vojûn is more enduring, however, and once made potent in a place compounds indefinitely.
Qadal was changed by the horrendous blood toll of the Great Conflict. Among the suvivors was Milenis, who was distant from Skar’kova and the terrors of the detonation. She and 16,000 warriors were shaken to the ground from the rumbles and plumes of fire which hurled forth from Nathrovas.