The Great Convergence

The history of the Great Convergence is as vast and varied as the realms themselves. In its earliest days, the event was primarily a religious observance, with priests and spiritual leaders from each realm coming together to share knowledge and wisdom, and to honor the gods and goddesses who presided over the elemental forces. As the realms grew and developed, the Great Convergence evolved into a more inclusive and diverse celebration, incorporating elements from each realm's unique culture and traditions.   The First Black Fire War, a devastating conflict that swept through the Material Plane, had a profound impact on the observance of the Great Convergence. During this time of strife, many of the realms found themselves divided, with old alliances shattered and new rivalries forged in the crucible of war. The Great Convergence became a more somber affair, with many communities choosing to forego the usual festivities in favor of quiet reflection and acts of remembrance for those lost in the conflict.   Following the war, The Age of Isolation saw a significant decline in contact between the realms. With the scars of the conflict still fresh, many races and communities withdrew from the wider world, seeking solace and safety within their own borders. As a result, the Great Convergence became a more insular event, with each realm focusing on their own observances and traditions, rather than seeking to come together in a spirit of unity and cooperation.   During this time, the role of the Celestial Order in promoting the Great Convergence diminished significantly. Many faiths and spiritual traditions turned inward, focusing on their own beliefs and practices, rather than seeking to engage with those of other realms. The Order itself struggled to maintain its influence and authority, as the trust and goodwill that had once united the realms began to erode.   Gradually, however, The Age of Isolation came to an end, as a new generation of leaders and visionaries emerged, determined to heal the wounds of the past and forge a brighter future for the Material Plane. As contact between the realms was reestablished, the Great Convergence once again took on a more inclusive and expansive character, with the realms working together to rebuild the bridges of understanding and cooperation that had been lost.   It was during this time of renewal that the Emberforge in the Fire Realm was established as a symbol of the realms' shared commitment to the ideals of unity and creativity. As the Great Convergence grew in scope and scale, the Forge became a focal point for the celebrations, with craftsmen from across the Material Plane gathering to create works of art and beauty in honor of the event.   The Great Convergence has also inspired countless acts of heroism and self-sacrifice throughout its history. In times of crisis, champions from across the realms have been known to come together, united by their shared commitment to the ideals of the event and the bonds of friendship forged during its observance. These heroes have faced down terrible threats and averted calamities that might have otherwise torn the Material Plane asunder.   Over time, the Great Convergence has come to be associated with a wide range of symbols and motifs, each representing a different aspect of the event's meaning and significance. The most enduring of these is the image of the five elemental realms coming together in harmony, their powers mingling and merging to create a single, brilliant tapestry of light and energy.   Today, the Great Convergence stands as a testament to the resilience and indomitable spirit of the Material Plane and its inhabitants. Though the event has changed and evolved over the millennia, it remains a powerful reminder of the potential for unity and cooperation that exists within the hearts of all who dwell within the realms.