The end of knowledge

Magic and technology don't mix well. Or at least, their wielders don't. That's how it has always been, and that's for the best, for the first pirate last words were this warning:

"No one is looking for it, but they will find it: the gift in which magic and science blend. All this knowledge you kill and die for will be over then.

There were other words, the witnesses said, but not loud or clear enough to be understood.

Historical Basis

The execution of Loran the visionary —with the charges of murder, theft and heresy— is recorded in early files of Itarde city. His last words made it to the first page of the local paper the next morning.
Piracy had existed long before, and some of the behaviors common in this time are similar to those in the oldest and unconfirmed stories, Loran is considered the first modern pirate. His achievements and cruelty seemed impossible and not few people was willing to believe he was a wizard or even that he was able to see the future and control the mind of the common people. The investigation that lead to his arrest proved that he was just a clever scientist, with convincing charisma, threats and resources.

Spread

Back in the day, Loran's last words and the beliefs around them were known by everyone in touch with Itarde city: all travelers and merchants. That mean the word spread in every direction, not as a threat spoken by an angry criminal, or the theory of a twisted scientist, but as an omen. Some would believe the words, some would considered it confirmation on the dangers of mixing magic and technology. But the prophesy itself were lost with time for most of the civilization.
The pirates keep it alive in their tradition.

Variations & Mutation

Mentioned in long lucubrations, local saids or legends, most translations and versions of the prophesy carry the same meaning, but some would be very specific about the circumstances.

Experiment so much that your tech will be magic, and all knowledge will end.
— Scientists proverb

And before the death, it will be ignorance. But don't fret, for is all useless. It will come as an accident, a coincidence. But we can be ready, if we pay attention to the signs. A wizard born between scientist, skilled in both areas. His gift will be everybody's doom.
— A preacher from the Sapient Order.

You can try to deny it, but it's already happening. Ah, I know what you're thinking: "We would know if someone was there using a tool like that". And you do! Or do you think Fairies rely only on magic to contain their creatures? And what about those mixed armies. We all have heard about them. Is not like a single artifact could hold both magic and tech, that's impossible. But they are used together. And we look at the other side. Well, let me tell you this: denial will not stop the end from happening.
— Some random alarmist with an audience.

In Literature

Several books had included the concept, specially horror and detective novels. Just a few quote the prophesy and none of them mentions it's historic origin.

In Art

While most of the art on the End of Knowledge topic is in the form of songs, the Universal Art Museum exhibits a few paintings and audivisuals that approach the legend from a figurative angle.

Date of First Recording

Early pirate tradition

Date of Setting

Unknown