Urthe
1637 of the Second Age
Urthe is a world in which human civilization has been dramatically influenced by the presence of competing races of humanoids and the existence of real, true magic. For tens of thousands of years, civilizations have risen and fallen, and legends are forged in each age.
The current state of the world is one of tension in the aftermath of several conflicts. The Sabian-Volkarden war has been settled for over 50 years, but the Volkarden settlement of the city of Aldia (formerly Al-Rudiyya) still stings the Sabian Caliphate. Meanwhile, the city-states of Guildsport and Bregor's Bay keep a wary eye upon expanding Volkarden influence.
A new cult has arisen, dedicated to absolute balance in all things. While they seem to be a positive influence in the realm, their methods raise suspicion and their targets seem indiscriminate. Nobody knows where their allegiance lies.
In the Southwest stirrings of an ancient evil have begun, with rumors that the Ancient Greatwyrm Vurgormaz the Black Scourge has restored his brood to sufficient numbers to once again wage war on the mortal races.
Across the oceans in the forgotten lands near the southern pole, The Great Betrayer has solidified his iron grip on a once prosperous and verdant land. Ravaged by a necromantic curse of wasting undeath, his minions await his orders to sail to the farthest reaches to spread the malady to the rest of the mortal world.
Please note: This is a world in which atrocity and darkness exist in their most naked extremes. This is because heroism and light can only exist in the extreme when there are equal measures to overcome. Many of the subjects broached in these articles are heinous and tragic, but great people only arise through dire circumstances. Simple problems will only create simple solutions. A savior or hero will require something of great evil to conquer and simple evils are not enough.