Urizen history - Revision history

Twiggy at 16:05, 28 February 2026

2026-02-28T16:05:49Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:05, 28 February 2026
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	Many centuries ago — most likely before the decline of Terunael and perhaps even before the establishment of that ancient empire — several groups of humans ascended the mountains of [[Morrow]] to escape the [[orc\|orcs]]' domination of the fertile plains. When they reached the peaks, they found ruins that were clearly not of human origin. There were simply great, empty halls carved into several of the most richly magical peaks. The people who made these galleries were probably humanoid, albeit larger than humans, and spent a lot of time studying the night sky.		Many centuries ago — most likely before the decline of Terunael and perhaps even before the establishment of that ancient empire — several groups of humans ascended the mountains of [[Morrow]] to escape the [[orc\|orcs]]' domination of the fertile plains. When they reached the peaks, they found ruins that were clearly not of human origin. There were simply great, empty halls carved into several of the most richly magical peaks. The people who made these galleries were probably humanoid, albeit larger than humans, and spent a lot of time studying the night sky.

	They discovered no remnants of the original inhabitants, nor any suggestion of where they had gone. While the ruins were clearly old, there was no suggestion that their inhabitants had been destroyed in a catastrophe — or at least not a catastrophe that affected their structures. These forerunners had an advanced grasp of the lore of the ~~Realms~~ of [[Day]] and [[Night]], but no apparent concept of the other four [[realms]]. These echoing galleries formed the heart of the first Urizen spires, and remain an enduring mystery that is still debated by scholars.		They discovered no remnants of the original inhabitants, nor any suggestion of where they had gone. While the ruins were clearly old, there was no suggestion that their inhabitants had been destroyed in a catastrophe — or at least not a catastrophe that affected their structures. These forerunners had an advanced grasp of the lore of the realms of [[Day]] and [[Night]], but no apparent concept of the other four [[realms]]. These echoing galleries formed the heart of the first Urizen spires, and remain an enduring mystery that is still debated by scholars.

	From Morrow, the first Urizen spread across the peaks claiming [[Spiral]] and establishing outposts in [[Zenith]] and [[Redoubt]]. At first, the main appeal of the mountains was their defensibility, but as they expanded their holdings, they discovered many places with strong natural auras of magical power. These lands were also rich in mineral wealth that helped [[crafting skills#artisans\|artisans]] create numerous wonders. As their numbers grew, they used magic to overcome the challenges of creating dwellings and producing food from the inhospitable terrain, but even with these advances the new nations remained sparsely populated.		From Morrow, the first Urizen spread across the peaks claiming [[Spiral]] and establishing outposts in [[Zenith]] and [[Redoubt]]. At first, the main appeal of the mountains was their defensibility, but as they expanded their holdings, they discovered many places with strong natural auras of magical power. These lands were also rich in mineral wealth that helped [[crafting skills#artisans\|artisans]] create numerous wonders. As their numbers grew, they used magic to overcome the challenges of creating dwellings and producing food from the inhospitable terrain, but even with these advances the new nations remained sparsely populated.

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial Conclave" to "[[Conclave"

2026-01-15T16:51:27Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Conclave" to "[[Conclave"

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:51, 15 January 2026
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	{{CaptionedImage\|file=UrizenScoobyGang.jpg\|caption=The Urizen combine a relentless will with an unquenchable ambition — and an unmatched understanding of magical lore.\|align=right\|width=600}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=UrizenScoobyGang.jpg\|caption=The Urizen combine a relentless will with an unquenchable ambition — and an unmatched understanding of magical lore.\|align=right\|width=600}}
	==Overview==		==Overview==
	Urizen is arguably the oldest Imperial nation, established before the fall of the empire of Terunael, but they were almost not part of the Empire at all. Having prospered for centuries in the high mountains of the south-east, they refused the initial invitation of the [[First Empress]]. They eventually reconsidered, choosing to become an Imperial nation during the reign of [[Emperor Giovanni]], once it was clear that the Empire could be something more than an alliance of conquerors. The Urizeni helped lay the foundations for the modern Empire, building the [[~~Imperial~~ Conclave]], spreading egalitarian ideas of education for all Imperial citizens, and providing a unique artefact that has fundamentally shaped Imperial attitudes to warfare.		Urizen is arguably the oldest Imperial nation, established before the fall of the empire of Terunael, but they were almost not part of the Empire at all. Having prospered for centuries in the high mountains of the south-east, they refused the initial invitation of the [[First Empress]]. They eventually reconsidered, choosing to become an Imperial nation during the reign of [[Emperor Giovanni]], once it was clear that the Empire could be something more than an alliance of conquerors. The Urizeni helped lay the foundations for the modern Empire, building the [[Conclave]], spreading egalitarian ideas of education for all Imperial citizens, and providing a unique artefact that has fundamentally shaped Imperial attitudes to warfare.
	==The High Peaks==		==The High Peaks==
	The Urizen are numbered along with the Terunael, the Ushka, the Kallavesi and the Suaq as the "original" human inhabitants of the Bay of Catazar. Most historians believe that they are cousins of the Ushkan people of the ancient north; either they share a common ancestry or they are descendants of people who left the haunted forests for more welcoming lands south of the [[The_Semmerlak\|Semmerlak]]. There is some speculation that they also share a heritage with the people of [[Axos]], as the two nations are geographically close and both place great emphasis on magical power.		The Urizen are numbered along with the Terunael, the Ushka, the Kallavesi and the Suaq as the "original" human inhabitants of the Bay of Catazar. Most historians believe that they are cousins of the Ushkan people of the ancient north; either they share a common ancestry or they are descendants of people who left the haunted forests for more welcoming lands south of the [[The_Semmerlak\|Semmerlak]]. There is some speculation that they also share a heritage with the people of [[Axos]], as the two nations are geographically close and both place great emphasis on magical power.
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	===The Imperial Conclave===		===The Imperial Conclave===
	In the years before Urizen joined the Empire, magicians would hold informal meetings at Anvil, to discuss magic and exchange ideas. A few Urizen wizards attended, keen to observe developments, but they were disappointed when they found that the meetings lacked structure or any formal powers. When Urizen were asked to join the Empire for a second time, their key demand was the constitution be updated to include formal recognition of an [[~~Imperial~~ Conclave]]. Rather than being a mere adjunct of the Military Council or the Senate, the Urizen were very clear that it must have equal precedence with those august bodies and with the Synod and the Bourse.		In the years before Urizen joined the Empire, magicians would hold informal meetings at Anvil, to discuss magic and exchange ideas. A few Urizen wizards attended, keen to observe developments, but they were disappointed when they found that the meetings lacked structure or any formal powers. When Urizen were asked to join the Empire for a second time, their key demand was the constitution be updated to include formal recognition of an [[Conclave]]. Rather than being a mere adjunct of the Military Council or the Senate, the Urizen were very clear that it must have equal precedence with those august bodies and with the Synod and the Bourse.

	The newly recognised Imperial Conclave adopted many rules and procedures that were modelled on Urizen's Grand Conclave. Urizen magi ensured that the body would be arranged along partisan lines, by insisting on the system of [[Conclave order\|Conclave orders]]. They wanted to be certain that the Conclave would be an active political body, one that considered the political ramifications of magic, rather than be arranged by magical realm or by nationality as many assumed.		The newly recognised Imperial Conclave adopted many rules and procedures that were modelled on Urizen's Grand Conclave. Urizen magi ensured that the body would be arranged along partisan lines, by insisting on the system of [[Conclave order\|Conclave orders]]. They wanted to be certain that the Conclave would be an active political body, one that considered the political ramifications of magic, rather than be arranged by magical realm or by nationality as many assumed.

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial Senate" to "[[Senate"

2026-01-15T15:27:16Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Senate" to "[[Senate"

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:27, 15 January 2026
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	===Magical Renaissance===		===Magical Renaissance===
	The loss of the [[Morrow#The_Halls_of_Knowledge_.28ruined.29\|Halls of Knowledge]] and the destruction of the central [[Urizen_culture_and_customs#The_Heliopticon\|heliopticon]] tower marked a nadir for the people of Urizen. Rather than wallow in despair however, their brightest minds looked for opportunity in disaster. With the assistance of the [[~~Imperial~~ Senate]], the heliopticon towers were restored, accompanied by a new drive to harness the collective magical knowledge of the people of Urizen. The establishment of the [[Doyen of the Spires]] allowed Urizen magicians to cooperate on the codification of [[Formulaic_ritual#Ritual_Texts\|ritual texts]] on a scale hitherto unknown.		The loss of the [[Morrow#The_Halls_of_Knowledge_.28ruined.29\|Halls of Knowledge]] and the destruction of the central [[Urizen_culture_and_customs#The_Heliopticon\|heliopticon]] tower marked a nadir for the people of Urizen. Rather than wallow in despair however, their brightest minds looked for opportunity in disaster. With the assistance of the [[Senate]], the heliopticon towers were restored, accompanied by a new drive to harness the collective magical knowledge of the people of Urizen. The establishment of the [[Doyen of the Spires]] allowed Urizen magicians to cooperate on the codification of [[Formulaic_ritual#Ritual_Texts\|ritual texts]] on a scale hitherto unknown.

	With the assistance of the [[Archmage]] of Day, a unique bargain was struck with the [[eternal]] [[Phaleron]] — also called the Celestial Library — which led to the establishment of [[Urizen_magical_traditions#Urizen_Lore\|Urizen lore]] — a body of arcane ritual knowledge created, curated, and available only to citizens of Urizen. Connected to the newly transformed [[Morrow#Grand_Library_of_Canterspire\|Grand Library of Canterspire]], the full potential of this new technique is slowly being explored; in conjunction with the Doyen of the Spires, it presents opportunities to forge a uniquely Urizen corpus of magical lore.		With the assistance of the [[Archmage]] of Day, a unique bargain was struck with the [[eternal]] [[Phaleron]] — also called the Celestial Library — which led to the establishment of [[Urizen_magical_traditions#Urizen_Lore\|Urizen lore]] — a body of arcane ritual knowledge created, curated, and available only to citizens of Urizen. Connected to the newly transformed [[Morrow#Grand_Library_of_Canterspire\|Grand Library of Canterspire]], the full potential of this new technique is slowly being explored; in conjunction with the Doyen of the Spires, it presents opportunities to forge a uniquely Urizen corpus of magical lore.

Twiggy at 21:53, 18 August 2025

2025-08-18T21:53:53Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:53, 18 August 2025
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	{{CaptionedImage\|file=UrizenScoobyGang.jpg\|caption=The Urizen combine a relentless will with an unquenchable ambition — and an unmatched understanding of magical lore.\|align=right\|width=600}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=UrizenScoobyGang.jpg\|caption=The Urizen combine a relentless will with an unquenchable ambition — and an unmatched understanding of magical lore.\|align=right\|width=600}}
	==Overview==		==Overview==
	Urizen is arguably the oldest Imperial nation, established before the fall of the empire of Terunael, but they were almost not part of the Empire at all. Having prospered for centuries in the high mountains of the south-east, they refused the initial invitation of the [[First Empress]]. They eventually reconsidered, choosing to become an Imperial nation during the reign of [[Emperor Giovanni]], once it was clear that the Empire could be something more than an alliance of ~~conquerers~~. The Urizeni helped lay the foundations for the modern Empire, building the [[Imperial Conclave]], spreading egalitarian ideas of education for all Imperial citizens, and providing a unique ~~artifact~~ that has fundamentally shaped Imperial attitudes to warfare.		Urizen is arguably the oldest Imperial nation, established before the fall of the empire of Terunael, but they were almost not part of the Empire at all. Having prospered for centuries in the high mountains of the south-east, they refused the initial invitation of the [[First Empress]]. They eventually reconsidered, choosing to become an Imperial nation during the reign of [[Emperor Giovanni]], once it was clear that the Empire could be something more than an alliance of conquerors. The Urizeni helped lay the foundations for the modern Empire, building the [[Imperial Conclave]], spreading egalitarian ideas of education for all Imperial citizens, and providing a unique artefact that has fundamentally shaped Imperial attitudes to warfare.
	==The High Peaks==		==The High Peaks==
	The Urizen are numbered along with the Terunael, the Ushka, the Kallavesi and the Suaq as the "original" human inhabitants of the Bay of Catazar. Most historians believe that they are cousins of the Ushkan people of the ancient north; either they share a common ancestry or they are descendants of people who left the haunted forests for more welcoming lands south of the [[The_Semmerlak\|Semmerlak]]. There is some speculation that they also share a heritage with the people of [[Axos]], as the two nations are geographically close and both place great emphasis on magical power.		The Urizen are numbered along with the Terunael, the Ushka, the Kallavesi and the Suaq as the "original" human inhabitants of the Bay of Catazar. Most historians believe that they are cousins of the Ushkan people of the ancient north; either they share a common ancestry or they are descendants of people who left the haunted forests for more welcoming lands south of the [[The_Semmerlak\|Semmerlak]]. There is some speculation that they also share a heritage with the people of [[Axos]], as the two nations are geographically close and both place great emphasis on magical power.
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	===The Sentinel Gate===		===The Sentinel Gate===
	Perhaps the greatest benefit to the Empire was the [[Sentinel Gate]]. The Gate is a unique ~~artifact~~ uncovered by the Urizen in the mountains of Spiral some twenty years before the foundation of the Empire. The magical structure seems to break [[Ritual_theory#Teleportation\|several magical laws]] and is tied in some poorly understood fashion to the concept of fate and serendipity. The gate was secured at the Citadel of Mezudan where it allowed the sentinels to respond to threats against Spiral. It was such a closely guarded secret that its existence was largely unknown outside the territory.		Perhaps the greatest benefit to the Empire was the [[Sentinel Gate]]. The Gate is a unique artefact uncovered by the Urizen in the mountains of Spiral some twenty years before the foundation of the Empire. The magical structure seems to break [[Ritual_theory#Teleportation\|several magical laws]] and is tied in some poorly understood fashion to the concept of fate and serendipity. The gate was secured at the Citadel of Mezudan where it allowed the sentinels to respond to threats against Spiral. It was such a closely guarded secret that its existence was largely unknown outside the territory.

	Shortly after the Senate confirmed the foundation of the Imperial Conclave, the arbiter of the Citadel of Mezudan and the two Urizen senators unveiled the Gate and presented it to the Empire. Relocated to [[Anvil]], it allowed Imperial heroes to teleport to critical locations in the Empire, but only at a solstice or equinox. The Urizen seers taught the Empire how to make full use of the gate's powers. Imperial prognosticators learned to identify imminent conjunctions, and how to combine that information with divinatory spells and reams of intelligence to determine how the conjunction might best be employed.		Shortly after the Senate confirmed the foundation of the Imperial Conclave, the arbiter of the Citadel of Mezudan and the two Urizen senators unveiled the Gate and presented it to the Empire. Relocated to [[Anvil]], it allowed Imperial heroes to teleport to critical locations in the Empire, but only at a solstice or equinox. The Urizen seers taught the Empire how to make full use of the gate's powers. Imperial prognosticators learned to identify imminent conjunctions, and how to combine that information with divinatory spells and reams of intelligence to determine how the conjunction might best be employed.

Twiggy at 01:02, 18 July 2025

2025-07-18T01:02:55Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:02, 18 July 2025
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	The Urizen observed the development and consolidation of the Empire with interest. They welcomed diplomats and trade, but maintained their distance. After the death of the Empress, they watched as her successor was appointed by the Senate. [[Emperor Giovanni]] travelled personally to the mountains along with a number of ranking civil servants, and met with many influential arbiters. He laid before them his plans for a rational, ordered society based on merit and personal drive. He made it clear that the Empire would remain militarily powerful with or without the support of the Urizen, but their involvement would keep it from collapsing into anarchy or becoming focused entirely on conquest.		The Urizen observed the development and consolidation of the Empire with interest. They welcomed diplomats and trade, but maintained their distance. After the death of the Empress, they watched as her successor was appointed by the Senate. [[Emperor Giovanni]] travelled personally to the mountains along with a number of ranking civil servants, and met with many influential arbiters. He laid before them his plans for a rational, ordered society based on merit and personal drive. He made it clear that the Empire would remain militarily powerful with or without the support of the Urizen, but their involvement would keep it from collapsing into anarchy or becoming focused entirely on conquest.

	Swayed by a vision of a ~~civilized~~ society, the prognosticators consulted their auguries again. This time Urizen seers predicted disaster if their nation did ''not'' join an Empire led by the Peacemaker. After several more weeks of debate and discussion, the Grand Conclave agreed to become the ninth Imperial nation.		Swayed by a vision of a civilised society, the prognosticators consulted their auguries again. This time Urizen seers predicted disaster if their nation did ''not'' join an Empire led by the Peacemaker. After several more weeks of debate and discussion, the Grand Conclave agreed to become the ninth Imperial nation.

	This move was not universally popular, and led to an unexpected resurgence in the power of the sword scholar temples. Disgruntled Urizen were drawn to their particular philosophy of isolation and opposition to authority. Many refused to bond themselves to the new Urizen egregore in open defiance of what they considered to be a tyrannical Imperial presence and eventually their opposition became so disruptive that the Senate and the Synod called for the suppression of the remaining sects. A brutal crackdown ensued, forcing the scholars underground as one-by-one their temples were destroyed. Gathering at the [[Arbiter_of_the_Four_Winds#Temple_of_the_Four_Winds\|Temple of the Winds]] in [[Morrow]], the survivors were confronted by an army of sentinels and ordered to disband. Despite being heavily outnumbered they refused to submit, and the resulting battle saw hundreds killed on both sides before the defeated sword scholars were forced to scatter.		This move was not universally popular, and led to an unexpected resurgence in the power of the sword scholar temples. Disgruntled Urizen were drawn to their particular philosophy of isolation and opposition to authority. Many refused to bond themselves to the new Urizen egregore in open defiance of what they considered to be a tyrannical Imperial presence and eventually their opposition became so disruptive that the Senate and the Synod called for the suppression of the remaining sects. A brutal crackdown ensued, forcing the scholars underground as one-by-one their temples were destroyed. Gathering at the [[Arbiter_of_the_Four_Winds#Temple_of_the_Four_Winds\|Temple of the Winds]] in [[Morrow]], the survivors were confronted by an army of sentinels and ordered to disband. Despite being heavily outnumbered they refused to submit, and the resulting battle saw hundreds killed on both sides before the defeated sword scholars were forced to scatter.
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	==Recent History==		==Recent History==
	===Zenith Falls===		===Zenith Falls===
	A month after the Spring Equinox 381YE, the [[Druj]] barbarians [[381YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#Valley_of_Darkness_.28Zenith.29\|invaded]] Zenith from [[the Mallum]]. The initial attack swept the unprepared defenders away, and [[#Lustri\|Lustri]] and [[#Occcursion\|Occursion]] fell to the orcs in short order. Only a [[381YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Resolve_.28Zenith.29\|brave ~~defense~~]] by the three Highborn armies — the [[Seventh Wave]], the [[Granite Pillar]], and the [[Valiant Pegasus]] — stopped the Druj from conquering the entire territory, but the Empire was unable to prevent them [[381YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#Hunting By The Rivers\|destroying]] the [[Zenith#Proceris\|Golden Cascade]]. The resulting catastrophic flood ruined the fertile plains of [[Zenith#Proceris\|Proceris]] and pushed the defenders back west to a thin sliver of higher ground to face a [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Cascade_.28Zenith.29\|major assault]] from the invading orcs. Despite their best efforts, the Highborn armies were forced to retreat to Morrow. Throughout their invasion the Druj took a malicious delight in destroying both captured spires and numerous [[sinecure\|sinecures]], as well as the [[Head_Gardener_of_Urizen#The_Gardens_of_Pallas\|Gardens of Pallas]].		A month after the Spring Equinox 381YE, the [[Druj]] barbarians [[381YE_Summer_Solstice_winds_of_war#Valley_of_Darkness_.28Zenith.29\|invaded]] Zenith from [[the Mallum]]. The initial attack swept the unprepared defenders away, and [[#Lustri\|Lustri]] and [[#Occcursion\|Occursion]] fell to the orcs in short order. Only a [[381YE_Autumn_Equinox_winds_of_war#Resolve_.28Zenith.29\|brave defence]] by the three Highborn armies — the [[Seventh Wave]], the [[Granite Pillar]], and the [[Valiant Pegasus]] — stopped the Druj from conquering the entire territory, but the Empire was unable to prevent them [[381YE_Winter_Solstice_winds_of_war#Hunting By The Rivers\|destroying]] the [[Zenith#Proceris\|Golden Cascade]]. The resulting catastrophic flood ruined the fertile plains of [[Zenith#Proceris\|Proceris]] and pushed the defenders back west to a thin sliver of higher ground to face a [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Cascade_.28Zenith.29\|major assault]] from the invading orcs. Despite their best efforts, the Highborn armies were forced to retreat to Morrow. Throughout their invasion the Druj took a malicious delight in destroying both captured spires and numerous [[sinecure\|sinecures]], as well as the [[Head_Gardener_of_Urizen#The_Gardens_of_Pallas\|Gardens of Pallas]].

	Apart from a few isolated spires hidden beneath veils of [[Night magic]], much of the population of Zenith was forced into exile. The loss of life in Zenith was much smaller than it could have been — the courageous ~~defense~~ of the territory by the Highborn armies allowed many who might otherwise have fallen into the hands of the eastern orcs to escape that dread fate. Refugees fled to [[Redoubt]] and [[Morrow]], while those who were unable to escape were enslaved by the Druj.		Apart from a few isolated spires hidden beneath veils of [[Night magic]], much of the population of Zenith was forced into exile. The loss of life in Zenith was much smaller than it could have been — the courageous defence of the territory by the Highborn armies allowed many who might otherwise have fallen into the hands of the eastern orcs to escape that dread fate. Refugees fled to [[Redoubt]] and [[Morrow]], while those who were unable to escape were enslaved by the Druj.

	Flush with success, the Druj armies regrouped and then poured into Morrow. Despite the continuing efforts of the [[Highguard\|Highborn]] armies, the orcs conquered [[#Peregro\|Peregro]] and [[#Caeli\|Caeli]]. In the process they destroyed not only the [[Foggy_mountain_top#The_Halls_of_Knowledge\|recently relocated]] [[Morrow#The_Halls_of_Knowledge_.28ruined.29\|Halls of Knowledge]] but also the central [[Urizen_culture_and_customs#The_Heliopticon\|heliopticon]] tower, the [[Keeper_of_the_Glorious_Fountain#The_Glorious_Fountain_of_Dawn_and_Dusk\|Glorious Fountain of Dawn and Dusk]], and the [[Morrow#Caeli\|Gardens of Morrow]]. They also destroyed the Temple of the Winds, slaughtering nearly two thirds of the remaining [[Sword scholar\|sword scholars]] in the process.		Flush with success, the Druj armies regrouped and then poured into Morrow. Despite the continuing efforts of the [[Highguard\|Highborn]] armies, the orcs conquered [[#Peregro\|Peregro]] and [[#Caeli\|Caeli]]. In the process they destroyed not only the [[Foggy_mountain_top#The_Halls_of_Knowledge\|recently relocated]] [[Morrow#The_Halls_of_Knowledge_.28ruined.29\|Halls of Knowledge]] but also the central [[Urizen_culture_and_customs#The_Heliopticon\|heliopticon]] tower, the [[Keeper_of_the_Glorious_Fountain#The_Glorious_Fountain_of_Dawn_and_Dusk\|Glorious Fountain of Dawn and Dusk]], and the [[Morrow#Caeli\|Gardens of Morrow]]. They also destroyed the Temple of the Winds, slaughtering nearly two thirds of the remaining [[Sword scholar\|sword scholars]] in the process.

Twiggy at 13:11, 16 July 2025

2025-07-16T13:11:00Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:11, 16 July 2025
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	===Grim Awakening===		===Grim Awakening===
	Bordering as it does the [[Grendel]] territory of [[Bay_of_Catazar#Mareave\|Mareave]], Spiral has long been a battleground. Lost to the southern [[orc\|orcs]] in 331YE, it changed hands several times in the following years. After a brief period when the territory was entirely in Imperial hands, the Grendel launched a [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Patterns_of_Force_.28Spiral.29\|major offensive]] on all fronts in 381YE. This saw Imperial forces driven back to [[Spiral#Cinion\|Cinion]], and control of the territory again fell into barbarian hands. Over the next year, war raged relentlessly across the territory, causing a slow rousing of the [[Spiral#The Black Plateau\|~~<span style="color:#2F4F4F; background:#D3D3D3 ">~~Black Plateau~~</span>~~]] in [[#Screed\|Screed]].		Bordering as it does the [[Grendel]] territory of [[Bay_of_Catazar#Mareave\|Mareave]], Spiral has long been a battleground. Lost to the southern [[orc\|orcs]] in 331YE, it changed hands several times in the following years. After a brief period when the territory was entirely in Imperial hands, the Grendel launched a [[381YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Patterns_of_Force_.28Spiral.29\|major offensive]] on all fronts in 381YE. This saw Imperial forces driven back to [[Spiral#Cinion\|Cinion]], and control of the territory again fell into barbarian hands. Over the next year, war raged relentlessly across the territory, causing a slow rousing of the [[Spiral#The Black Plateau\|{{Black Plateau}}]] in [[#Screed\|Screed]].

	The situation came to a head shortly after the 381YE Winter Solstice when the [[Varushka\|Varushkan]] army of the [[Iron Helms]] were [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Leviathan_Wakes_.28Spiral.29\|unleashed against the Grendel]]. During the Battle of Solen's Doubt in [[Spiral#Apstrus\|Apstrus]], three Grendel armies were destroyed by a wave of madness that swept through both Imperial and orc forces at the culmination of the awakening of the {{Black Plateau}}. Whatever power rests at the heart of Spiral — whatever power emanates from the {{Black Plateau}} — was moved from fitful sleep to wakefulness. Now, a terrible nightmare aura permeates the entire territory, making it hostile to human and orc alike.		The situation came to a head shortly after the 381YE Winter Solstice when the [[Varushka\|Varushkan]] army of the [[Iron Helms]] were [[382YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Leviathan_Wakes_.28Spiral.29\|unleashed against the Grendel]]. During the Battle of Solen's Doubt in [[Spiral#Apstrus\|Apstrus]], three Grendel armies were destroyed by a wave of madness that swept through both Imperial and orc forces at the culmination of the awakening of the {{Black Plateau}}. Whatever power rests at the heart of Spiral — whatever power emanates from the {{Black Plateau}} — was moved from fitful sleep to wakefulness. Now, a terrible nightmare aura permeates the entire territory, making it hostile to human and orc alike.

Rafferty: /* More Urizen History */

2024-06-27T09:19:07Z

More Urizen History

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:19, 27 June 2024
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	* [[Citadel Guard]]		* [[Citadel Guard]]
	* [[People of the North]]		* [[People of the North]]
			* [[Mareave and Urizen]]
	{{Urizen Links}}		{{Urizen Links}}
	[[Category:History]]		[[Category:History]]

Dre at 17:58, 29 December 2023

2023-12-29T17:58:58Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:58, 29 December 2023
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	Swayed by a vision of a civilized society, the prognosticators consulted their auguries again. This time Urizen seers predicted disaster if their nation did ''not'' join an Empire led by the Peacemaker. After several more weeks of debate and discussion, the Grand Conclave agreed to become the ninth Imperial nation.		Swayed by a vision of a civilized society, the prognosticators consulted their auguries again. This time Urizen seers predicted disaster if their nation did ''not'' join an Empire led by the Peacemaker. After several more weeks of debate and discussion, the Grand Conclave agreed to become the ninth Imperial nation.

	This move was not universally popular, and ~~lead~~ to an unexpected resurgence in the power of the sword scholar temples. Disgruntled Urizen were drawn to their particular philosophy of isolation and opposition to authority. Many refused to bond themselves to the new Urizen egregore in open defiance of what they considered to be a tyrannical Imperial presence and eventually their opposition became so disruptive that the Senate and the Synod called for the suppression of the remaining sects. A brutal crackdown ensued, forcing the scholars underground as one-by-one their temples were destroyed. Gathering at the [[Arbiter_of_the_Four_Winds#Temple_of_the_Four_Winds\|Temple of the Winds]] in [[Morrow]], the survivors were confronted by an army of sentinels and ordered to disband. Despite being heavily outnumbered they refused to submit, and the resulting battle saw hundreds killed on both sides before the defeated sword scholars were forced to scatter.		This move was not universally popular, and led to an unexpected resurgence in the power of the sword scholar temples. Disgruntled Urizen were drawn to their particular philosophy of isolation and opposition to authority. Many refused to bond themselves to the new Urizen egregore in open defiance of what they considered to be a tyrannical Imperial presence and eventually their opposition became so disruptive that the Senate and the Synod called for the suppression of the remaining sects. A brutal crackdown ensued, forcing the scholars underground as one-by-one their temples were destroyed. Gathering at the [[Arbiter_of_the_Four_Winds#Temple_of_the_Four_Winds\|Temple of the Winds]] in [[Morrow]], the survivors were confronted by an army of sentinels and ordered to disband. Despite being heavily outnumbered they refused to submit, and the resulting battle saw hundreds killed on both sides before the defeated sword scholars were forced to scatter.

	==Imperial History==		==Imperial History==
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	Flush with success, the Druj armies regrouped and then poured into Morrow. Despite the continuing efforts of the [[Highguard\|Highborn]] armies, the orcs conquered [[#Peregro\|Peregro]] and [[#Caeli\|Caeli]]. In the process they destroyed not only the [[Foggy_mountain_top#The_Halls_of_Knowledge\|recently relocated]] [[Morrow#The_Halls_of_Knowledge_.28ruined.29\|Halls of Knowledge]] but also the central [[Urizen_culture_and_customs#The_Heliopticon\|heliopticon]] tower, the [[Keeper_of_the_Glorious_Fountain#The_Glorious_Fountain_of_Dawn_and_Dusk\|Glorious Fountain of Dawn and Dusk]], and the [[Morrow#Caeli\|Gardens of Morrow]]. They also destroyed the Temple of the Winds, slaughtering nearly two thirds of the remaining [[Sword scholar\|sword scholars]] in the process.		Flush with success, the Druj armies regrouped and then poured into Morrow. Despite the continuing efforts of the [[Highguard\|Highborn]] armies, the orcs conquered [[#Peregro\|Peregro]] and [[#Caeli\|Caeli]]. In the process they destroyed not only the [[Foggy_mountain_top#The_Halls_of_Knowledge\|recently relocated]] [[Morrow#The_Halls_of_Knowledge_.28ruined.29\|Halls of Knowledge]] but also the central [[Urizen_culture_and_customs#The_Heliopticon\|heliopticon]] tower, the [[Keeper_of_the_Glorious_Fountain#The_Glorious_Fountain_of_Dawn_and_Dusk\|Glorious Fountain of Dawn and Dusk]], and the [[Morrow#Caeli\|Gardens of Morrow]]. They also destroyed the Temple of the Winds, slaughtering nearly two thirds of the remaining [[Sword scholar\|sword scholars]] in the process.

	The Druj advance was finally slowed and they were held at the borders of [[Morrow#Operus\|Operus]] until Spring 383YE, when a [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Morrow\|concerted Imperial effort]] ~~lead~~ by the [[Citadel Guard]] and supported by the [[eternal]] [[Phaleron]] managed to drive them back into Zenith. Imperial heroes took the [[opportunity]] to launch a raid into Zenith to [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Zenith\|rescue as many captured Urizeni as possible]]. Not only were they able to free nearly two-thirds of those enslaved by the orcs, they were also able to liberate a number of Highborn soldiers who had been captured when the territory fell. These survivors were escorted to safety in Morrow and Redoubt, and brought with them tales of the terrible [[Druj_miasma\|miasma]] that now cloaks the entire territory of Zenith.		The Druj advance was finally slowed and they were held at the borders of [[Morrow#Operus\|Operus]] until Spring 383YE, when a [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Morrow\|concerted Imperial effort]] led by the [[Citadel Guard]] and supported by the [[eternal]] [[Phaleron]] managed to drive them back into Zenith. Imperial heroes took the [[opportunity]] to launch a raid into Zenith to [[383YE_Spring_Equinox_winds_of_war#Zenith\|rescue as many captured Urizeni as possible]]. Not only were they able to free nearly two-thirds of those enslaved by the orcs, they were also able to liberate a number of Highborn soldiers who had been captured when the territory fell. These survivors were escorted to safety in Morrow and Redoubt, and brought with them tales of the terrible [[Druj_miasma\|miasma]] that now cloaks the entire territory of Zenith.

	===Grim Awakening===		===Grim Awakening===
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	The loss of the [[Morrow#The_Halls_of_Knowledge_.28ruined.29\|Halls of Knowledge]] and the destruction of the central [[Urizen_culture_and_customs#The_Heliopticon\|heliopticon]] tower marked a nadir for the people of Urizen. Rather than wallow in despair however, their brightest minds looked for opportunity in disaster. With the assistance of the [[Imperial Senate]], the heliopticon towers were restored, accompanied by a new drive to harness the collective magical knowledge of the people of Urizen. The establishment of the [[Doyen of the Spires]] allowed Urizen magicians to cooperate on the codification of [[Formulaic_ritual#Ritual_Texts\|ritual texts]] on a scale hitherto unknown.		The loss of the [[Morrow#The_Halls_of_Knowledge_.28ruined.29\|Halls of Knowledge]] and the destruction of the central [[Urizen_culture_and_customs#The_Heliopticon\|heliopticon]] tower marked a nadir for the people of Urizen. Rather than wallow in despair however, their brightest minds looked for opportunity in disaster. With the assistance of the [[Imperial Senate]], the heliopticon towers were restored, accompanied by a new drive to harness the collective magical knowledge of the people of Urizen. The establishment of the [[Doyen of the Spires]] allowed Urizen magicians to cooperate on the codification of [[Formulaic_ritual#Ritual_Texts\|ritual texts]] on a scale hitherto unknown.

	With the assistance of the [[Archmage]] of Day, a unique bargain was struck with the [[eternal]] [[Phaleron]] — also called the Celestial Library — which ~~lead~~ to the establishment of [[Urizen_magical_traditions#Urizen_Lore\|Urizen lore]] — a body of arcane ritual knowledge created, curated, and available only to citizens of Urizen. Connected to the newly transformed [[Morrow#Grand_Library_of_Canterspire\|Grand Library of Canterspire]], the full potential of this new technique is slowly being explored; in conjunction with the Doyen of the Spires, it presents opportunities to forge a uniquely Urizen corpus of magical lore.		With the assistance of the [[Archmage]] of Day, a unique bargain was struck with the [[eternal]] [[Phaleron]] — also called the Celestial Library — which led to the establishment of [[Urizen_magical_traditions#Urizen_Lore\|Urizen lore]] — a body of arcane ritual knowledge created, curated, and available only to citizens of Urizen. Connected to the newly transformed [[Morrow#Grand_Library_of_Canterspire\|Grand Library of Canterspire]], the full potential of this new technique is slowly being explored; in conjunction with the Doyen of the Spires, it presents opportunities to forge a uniquely Urizen corpus of magical lore.

	==More Urizen History==		==More Urizen History==

Hailmur: /* A Brighter Future */ fixed red link

2023-02-08T09:54:39Z

A Brighter Future: fixed red link

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:54, 8 February 2023
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	Swayed by a vision of a civilized society, the prognosticators consulted their auguries again. This time Urizen seers predicted disaster if their nation did ''not'' join an Empire led by the Peacemaker. After several more weeks of debate and discussion, the Grand Conclave agreed to become the ninth Imperial nation.		Swayed by a vision of a civilized society, the prognosticators consulted their auguries again. This time Urizen seers predicted disaster if their nation did ''not'' join an Empire led by the Peacemaker. After several more weeks of debate and discussion, the Grand Conclave agreed to become the ninth Imperial nation.

	This move was not universally popular, and lead to an unexpected resurgence in the power of the sword scholar temples. Disgruntled Urizen were drawn to their particular philosophy of isolation and opposition to authority. Many refused to bond themselves to the new Urizen egregore in open defiance of what they considered to be a tyrannical Imperial presence and eventually their opposition became so disruptive that the Senate and the Synod called for the suppression of the remaining sects. A brutal crackdown ensued, forcing the scholars underground as one-by-one their temples were destroyed. Gathering at the [[Temple of the Winds]] in [[Morrow]], the survivors were confronted by an army of sentinels and ordered to disband. Despite being heavily outnumbered they refused to submit, and the resulting battle saw hundreds killed on both sides before the defeated sword scholars were forced to scatter.		This move was not universally popular, and lead to an unexpected resurgence in the power of the sword scholar temples. Disgruntled Urizen were drawn to their particular philosophy of isolation and opposition to authority. Many refused to bond themselves to the new Urizen egregore in open defiance of what they considered to be a tyrannical Imperial presence and eventually their opposition became so disruptive that the Senate and the Synod called for the suppression of the remaining sects. A brutal crackdown ensued, forcing the scholars underground as one-by-one their temples were destroyed. Gathering at the [[Arbiter_of_the_Four_Winds#Temple_of_the_Four_Winds\|Temple of the Winds]] in [[Morrow]], the survivors were confronted by an army of sentinels and ordered to disband. Despite being heavily outnumbered they refused to submit, and the resulting battle saw hundreds killed on both sides before the defeated sword scholars were forced to scatter.

	==Imperial History==		==Imperial History==

Cathtice: /* Imperial History */

2022-01-31T20:24:59Z

Imperial History

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:24, 31 January 2022
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	Urizen benefited greatly from joining the Empire. Food imported from [[the Marches]] allowed the spires to grow and freed people to devote even more time to training and study. This allowed Urizen to achieve the level of magical and scholastic mastery they enjoy today. Likewise, the support of the Imperial military helped defend the borders of Morrow and Spiral, and secure the Urizen claim to both Redoubt and Zenith. These benefits ensured a steady increase in the population of the previously isolated nation, which led to the establishment of many new spires.		Urizen benefited greatly from joining the Empire. Food imported from [[the Marches]] allowed the spires to grow and freed people to devote even more time to training and study. This allowed Urizen to achieve the level of magical and scholastic mastery they enjoy today. Likewise, the support of the Imperial military helped defend the borders of Morrow and Spiral, and secure the Urizen claim to both Redoubt and Zenith. These benefits ensured a steady increase in the population of the previously isolated nation, which led to the establishment of many new spires.

	In return, the Empire gained access to Urizen's tradition of scholasticism and its body of magical lore. Urizen taught the Empire how to perform effective prognostications, massively improving its ability to plan for the future. Even more importantly, shrewd interventions by the first Urizen senators transformed the [[~~Test_of_Citizenship\|tests~~ of ~~citizenship~~]], adding literacy, numeracy, and theology to the requirements needed to pass. In the decades that followed, their commitment to universal education was instrumental in raising standards of living across the Empire.		In return, the Empire gained access to Urizen's tradition of scholasticism and its body of magical lore. Urizen taught the Empire how to perform effective prognostications, massively improving its ability to plan for the future. Even more importantly, shrewd interventions by the first Urizen senators transformed the [[Test of Citizenship]], adding literacy, numeracy, and theology to the requirements needed to pass. In the decades that followed, their commitment to universal education was instrumental in raising standards of living across the Empire.

	===The Imperial Conclave===		===The Imperial Conclave===