Anthony settled into the chair, the quiet rustle of old parchment and the faint scent of aged leather filling Nolan's cluttered yet cozy home. Knowledge seemed to breathe here, with every object holding a story.

"Now, where were we?" Nolan began, his eyes twinkling with the enthusiasm of a true scholar. "Ah yes, the geography of Altheron."

Anthony leaned in, his curiosity piqued. "You've already given me a fascinating overview of the continents. Could you tell me more about the significant landmarks or places of interest within these continents?"

Nolan nodded, a smile playing on his lips. "Certainly. Each continent is a world unto itself, filled with its own wonders and mysteries. Let's start with Eldoria."

As Nolan spoke, Anthony found himself drifting into his thoughts. The names and places Nolan mentioned felt both foreign and oddly familiar, as if he were hearing echoes of a forgotten dream.

"Eldoria, particularly Caldarion," Nolan continued, "is known for its formidable fortresses and ancient ruins. One such place is the Fortress of Aethis, an impregnable stronghold that has withstood countless sieges throughout history. Legend has it that the fortress was built by giants, and its walls are said to be imbued with ancient magic. It's also home to a large number of dwarven settlers. Although dwarves can be found anywhere they can find work, they often create their own kingdoms. Their largest kingdom is located in Caldarion."

Anthony’s mind conjured images of towering walls and shadowy figures. Giants building fortresses... And dwarves with their own kingdoms... This world truly is a realm of legends and myths.

"In Verlorn," Nolan went on, "the Verdant Wilds are a sight to behold. It’s a land of lush forests and hidden valleys, teeming with life. One of the most famous landmarks there is the Silverfall Cascade, a breathtaking waterfall that sparkles like molten silver under the moonlight. It’s said to be a sacred site, protected by forest spirits. Verlorn is also the seat of the elven race and the home of the largest Elven kingdom, ruled by the high elven Qaldris Dynasty."

Anthony's thoughts wandered to the peacefulness of Rivaris. It’s hard to imagine such fantastical places when life here is so grounded and simple. But perhaps that’s what makes them all the more magical.

As Nolan continued to describe the various wonders of Altheron, Anthony found himself more engrossed. The conversation felt like a journey through the unknown, with each word painting vivid landscapes and stirring a longing for discovery.

"The Sea of Calamir," Nolan said, his voice softening, "holds the remains of an ancient civilization beneath its waves. Divers and treasure hunters often speak of finding relics and ruins, hinting at a lost city that once thrived there."

Anthony couldn't help but ask, "Have you ever seen any of these relics, Nolan?"

Nolan chuckled, shaking his head. "I've seen a few, yes, brought back by those daring enough to brave the depths. They’re fascinating artifacts, often inscribed with symbols and languages that even I can’t decipher. But there’s always more to discover."

Anthony’s mind buzzed with the possibilities. Perhaps, in time, I’ll get to see these wonders myself. Who knows what secrets this world holds?

As the morning sun climbed higher, casting a warm glow through the windows, Nolan shifted topics slightly. "Now, let's talk about Myrthar. Though it's the smallest continent, it's known as the ‘Land of Legend’ for good reason. Myrthar is home to the legendary City of Myths, a place where, it is said, heroes of old still walk among us."

Anthony's curiosity was piqued. "The City of Myths? What makes it so legendary?"

Nolan leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Stories tell of a city where time flows differently, where past, present, and future converge. It’s a place where the greatest heroes and scholars gather, sharing knowledge and wisdom. Some believe it’s a sanctuary for those who have achieved greatness, a reward for their deeds."

Anthony’s thoughts whirled. A city where time flows differently... Could that be where I find answers about how I ended up here in Altheron?

Nolan continued, "Rioranth is a continent ruled by a single human empire, the Thalrion Empire, governed by high humans called the Thalrian Dynasty. High humans are a race of humans who had the opportunity in their long history to inter-marry with high elves, granting them extremely long lives, better physique, and superior intelligence. Although not all humans with elven blood are high humans, those elven-human couples who have the opportunity to conceive a child are considered half-elves."

Anthony felt a shock of realization. "Old man Nolan, does that mean...?"

Nolan nodded, smiling gently. "Yes, Anthony. I am a half-elf from Rioranth. The elves have a low birth rate compared to humans, which is why it is very hard for them to conceive."

Anthony’s mind raced with thoughts of Earth fictions where elves and other races were enslaved. He had to ask, "Do humans enslave elves to better their lineage?"

Nolan chuckled softly. "Enslaving elves would be pointless. The elven race is respected, much like any race in Altheron, especially the older races who have been here since the age of gods. Besides, forcing a slave to bear you a child would be fruitless, especially if it's an elf. There are fewer cases of elves being enslaved compared to other races, mostly due to being unable to pay a debt or being captured in war."

Anthony processed this information, finding it both surprising and logical.

Nolan then moved on to Nirathis, describing it as the ‘Land of Plenty.’ "Nirathis is a vast continent, known for its fertile lands and abundant resources. It’s the breadbasket of Altheron, providing food and goods to the other continents. But it’s also a land of conflict, with various factions vying for control."

Anthony couldn't help but interject, "Conflict? What kind of conflicts?"

Nolan sighed, a hint of sadness in his eyes. "Territorial disputes, power struggles, you name it. Nirathis might be rich in resources, but it’s also rich in ambition and greed. Many have tried to unite the continent under one banner, but so far, none have succeeded. Rivaris, where we are now, is a minor village in the borders of a small kingdom called Lyon. It is currently ruled by a young king aged 11, but the real power is with the king's uncle and cousins who are ruling the kingdom with impunity."

Anthony processed this with a mix of fascination and apprehension.

As Nolan continued to describe Goroth, Anthony’s thoughts drifted to the stories he’d read back on Earth. Giants, ancient ruins, and legendary cities... This world is like a tapestry woven with threads of myth and reality.

Nolan chuckled. "Goroth still houses some small giant tribes and pseudo kingdoms. Let me tell you about my first encounter with a giant during my travels. I was both terrified and amazed. The average height of a giant is around 5 meters, though some are smaller and the older ones are definitely bigger."

Anthony asked, "Why haven’t giants ruled and conquered other continents, considering how big and strong they are?"

Nolan laughed heartily. "There is a trade-off for their size, and that is their intelligence. They are not as intelligent as other races, so they can be defeated in battle if the enemy commander is an excellent tactician."

Anthony found this both humorous and insightful.

As Nolan’s voice softened, he spoke of Orindor. "It’s the continent where the gods were last seen. It’s now managed by the holy kingdom."

Anthony’s thoughts were filled with a sense of awe.

Finally, Nolan spoke of Ultharion, the ‘Frozen North.’ "It’s a harsh, unforgiving land, where only the hardiest survive. But it’s also a place of unparalleled beauty, with landscapes that seem untouched by time. It contains many kingdoms with battle-hardened soldiers currently at war with Rioranth due to their repeated raids on the empire."

As Nolan’s words painted pictures of icy wilderness and untamed beauty, Anthony felt a deep sense of wonder.

Nolan leaned back, a satisfied smile on his face. "And there you have it, Anthony. A brief tour of Altheron’s geography. But remember, the map is just the beginning. The true essence of a place lies in its people, its stories, and its history."

Anthony nodded, his mind racing with newfound knowledge and questions. "Thank you, Nolan. This has been incredibly enlightening."

Nolan’s eyes twinkled with amusement. "And now that we’re done with geography, let’s talk about history," he said, his grin widening. "This is where things get truly fascinating."

Anthony leaned forward, eager to hear more. There is so much to learn, so much to discover. This world, Altheron, holds countless secrets, and I’m just beginning to uncover them.

As Nolan began to recount the rich and complex history of Altheron, Anthony felt a deep sense of gratitude. He was no longer a stranger in this world; he was a part of it, with a purpose and a place. The journey ahead was still uncertain, but with each new piece of knowledge, he felt more prepared to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

The morning sun filtered through the windows, casting a warm glow over the room. Anthony listened intently, absorbing every word Nolan spoke, ready to continue his journey of discovery in the world of Altheron.

**********

Old man Nolan took a sip from his wooden tankard, hoping to remove the parchedness from his throat after his lengthy discussion with Anthony about the geography of Altheron. The old man relished these moments, for it was not often that someone from Rivaris would approach him with such eager curiosity about the world beyond their village. Most were too preoccupied with the mundane tasks of daily life to ponder the history or geography of their world.

Anthony leaned back in his chair, his mind already swirling with the new knowledge he had gained. Nolan's eyes twinkled as he prepared to delve into the history of Altheron. "And now," he began, "let's talk about history. This is where things get truly fascinating."

Nolan took another sip from his tankard, savoring the moment. "Each continent of Altheron has its own rich history. If we were to discuss it all in detail, it would take us the entire summer season," he chuckled. "But I will share with you the most important aspects, those that scholars have already studied extensively."

Anthony nodded, his interest piqued even further.

"The history of Altheron," Nolan continued, "is shrouded in a thick mist of ambiguity. Much of what we know is a complex blend of myth, legend, and factual events. Scholars have diligently endeavored to distinguish one from the other."

Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.

"There are different schools of thought regarding our history," Nolan explained. "Some believe that the gods made this world as their paradise and that they will one day return to reclaim it. Others think that history is guided by the divine will of the gods. Then there are those who do not believe in the gods at all and instead look at what was left behind by the ancients. But from the perspective of the Vorthar school of thought, through scholarly texts and the efforts of countless scholars, we know that the recorded history of Altheron can be traced back to around one million years ago, during the age of the gods."

Anthony's brow furrowed in curiosity. "What is the word 'Vorthar'? This is the first time I've heard it."

Nolan smiled, clearly pleased by Anthony's question. "Ah, 'Vorthar' is a very old Thelvani word. It means empiricist or factualist. The Vorthar school of thought is dedicated to studying history through evidence and scholarly research, rather than relying on myths and legends."

"I see," Anthony said, leaning forward.

"No one knows exactly when the history of the world began," Nolan continued, "but what we do know is that around one million years ago, the gods appeared in this world. Although they are called gods because of their immense power and mastery of magic, the Vorthars believe that they did not create this world, nor did they give life to its creatures and races."

Anthony couldn't contain his curiosity any longer. "Does magic really exist?"

Nolan chuckled softly. "I understand your skepticism. People in Rivaris rarely venture beyond the village, and stories are often brought by visiting traders. But magic is very real and still exists today. Not everyone can use magic, though. It requires years of training and an innate talent. Magic families often intermarry to maintain their bloodlines, but sometimes, individuals who are not from magic families are born with an innate talent for magic."

To demonstrate, Nolan waved his hand over Anthony's drink. The liquid began to freeze, tiny crystals forming until the entire drink was solid ice. Anthony's eyes widened in shock and amazement.

"That... that was incredible," Anthony stammered, his mind reeling. He had suspected he was in another world, but seeing magic firsthand confirmed it in a way that nothing else had. His thoughts drifted to his other self, the fantasy geek version of Anthony, who would have been thrilled beyond belief at this revelation. If he was truly in another world, perhaps he could learn magic too.

Nolan continued, satisfied with Anthony's reaction. "When the gods arrived, the ancient races of giants, dragons, eldritch creatures, and the ancient ones already inhabited Altheron. Scholars know from historical records and stories passed down through generations, and some say even from the gods themselves, that during the early parts of the age of gods, for around one hundred thousand years, there was a war between the gods and the ancient races for supremacy of Altheron. It was a bitter and lengthy conflict that saw the powers of the gods pitted against the combined might of the ancient races."

Anthony leaned forward, his eyes wide with fascination. "Who exactly were these ancient races you mentioned? And how does the Vorthar school of thought know all of these things despite it being a million years back into the past?"

Nolan leaned back, his eyes gleaming with the excitement of sharing knowledge. "Ah, the ancient races. They were beings of immense power and mystery, each with their own unique abilities and cultures."

"The Vorathnar Tyr, or progenitor giants, were titanic beings, towering over others, known for their immense strength and ancient wisdom. They are quite different from the majority of modern-day giants in Goroth. The progenitor giants were not just physically larger but also possessed profound knowledge of the world and its workings. It's said that some of the progenitor giants are still present, resting in hidden places, waiting for a time of great need to awaken."

He continued, "Then there were the Zarothnar Draknar, or ancient dragons. These were majestic and terrifying creatures, embodiments of elemental forces. Unlike many other beings, dragons grow more powerful as they age, with the oldest among them capable of incredible feats of controlling and commanding the elements. The ancient dragons could summon storms, cause earthquakes, and manipulate fire and water with a mere thought. They were revered and feared, often considered living embodiments of the world's primal forces."

Nolan's eyes darkened slightly as he spoke of the next race, "The Vyldrinor, known as eldritch creatures, were perhaps the most enigmatic. These beings were of otherworldly origin, shrouded in shadows and secrets. Their presence was often accompanied by a sense of unease and dread. Vampires, for example, are said to be descended from one of these eldritch races, possessing a fraction of their ancient power and immortality."

He then spoke of the final race, "The Zarothyn, the ancient ones, were the first race of Altheron. They were beings of immense power and are believed to be the first users of ancient magic. Unlike the other ancient races, the ancient ones chose to guide the newer races after their defeat by the gods. They were the architects of reality, with powers that even the gods respected. After their defeat, they decided to become mentors to the newer races, teaching them the secrets of magic and helping them understand the world around them."

Anthony absorbed the information, his mind swirling with the images of these mighty beings. "But how does the Vorthar school of thought know all of this? How can they be so sure about events that happened so long ago?"

Nolan smiled, anticipating the question. "The Vorthar school of thought is renowned for its dedication to the study of ancient history and myth. Their scholars have devoted millennia to unearthing and preserving knowledge from the past. They rely on a combination of ancient texts, oral traditions, and archaeological discoveries. The gods themselves, before retreating to their divine realms, left behind records and artifacts that have been meticulously studied. Furthermore, the Vorthar scholars have developed sophisticated methods to date and verify the authenticity of these sources. They also draw upon the knowledge passed down by the older races, such as the elves and dwarves, who have long memories and lifespans that allow them to recall events from ages past."

Nolan paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. "In essence, the Vorthar school of thought is a testament to the relentless pursuit of knowledge. They have pieced together the puzzle of our world's history, ensuring that the lessons of the past are not forgotten."

Anthony nodded, appreciating the depth of the explanation. It made sense that such a dedicated and meticulous approach would yield profound insights into the ancient past. He felt a renewed respect for the scholars of the Vorthar school and a deeper understanding of the world he now called home.

Nolan then continued, uninterrupted, with the history of Altheron. "The arrival of the gods occurred around one million years ago. Altheron was then a singular, vast continent known as Zurea, inhabited by the ancient races we just discussed. About nine hundred thousand years ago, the War of the Heavens erupted between the gods and the ancient races, lasting one hundred thousand years. The battles were fierce and devastating, reshaping the landscape of Zurea."

Anthony listened intently as Nolan spoke, painting vivid images of ancient battles and legendary beings in his mind.

"The gods, with their divine power, ultimately triumphed, casting out the ancient races from Zurea. This victory came at a great cost, as the massive energies unleashed during the conflict caused the continent of Zurea to split into two. These new continents were named Caldarion in the north and Verlorn in the south, connected by the isthmus of Maldor."

Nolan's voice took on a somber tone. "The continued tectonic shifts and divine interventions further divided the continents. Caldarion split into the northern continent of Caldarion and the middle continent of Myrthar. Verlorn divided into the southern continent of Verlorn and the southeastern continent of Rioranth."

Anthony's mind raced to keep up with the rapid changes in the world's geography. He imagined the earth itself trembling and shifting under the immense power of the gods.

"Further geological and divine activities eventually split the continents even more. The western parts of Caldarion formed Nirathis, and to the far west, Goroth emerged from the sea. To the north of Nirathis, the continent of Orindor took shape, and to the east of Rioranth, the northernmost continent of Ultharion was formed."

Nolan looked at Anthony with a hint of satisfaction. "So, you see, the world of Altheron is the result of both divine influence and natural forces, a tapestry of history and myth woven together. Each continent has its own unique history, shaped by both the gods and the ancient races that once roamed this land."

Anthony nodded, his thoughts a whirlwind of new information. "This is all so incredible. I never imagined I would learn so much in a single day."

Nolan's eyes twinkled with a knowing smile. "The history of Altheron is vast and complex, but it is also a story of wonder and adventure. There is much more to learn and discover, and I am glad to have shared this with you."

As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the room, Nolan stood up and stretched. "Remember, Anthony, this is only the beginning. If you have more questions or wish to delve deeper into the history of our world, feel free to come back anytime. The past is a living, breathing entity, and there's always more to uncover."

Anthony rose from his seat, feeling a sense of fulfillment and excitement. "Thank you, Nolan. I appreciate everything you've shared with me today."

Nolan smiled warmly. "You're welcome. Safe travels, young man. May your journey through Altheron be filled with discovery and adventure."

As Anthony left the small, cozy home and stepped out into the cool evening air, the sky painted with hues of orange and pink, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. The world of Altheron stretched out before him, full of mysteries and opportunities. With each step he took, he knew that he was now a part of a grand narrative, one that was rich with history, magic, and boundless potential.

As Anthony walked away from Nolan's home, the village of Rivaris seemed both familiar and new. The fields, the simple houses, the people—everything was now a part of a larger, intricate world that he was eager to explore. His mind buzzed with thoughts of the ancient races, the gods, and the sprawling continents of Altheron. Each piece of information Nolan had shared felt like a key, unlocking doors to adventures yet to come.

The villagers were beginning to wind down their day, with families gathering for evening meals and children playing their final games before the night fell. Anthony noticed the warm glow of candles and hearths inside the houses, casting a soft, inviting light. The smell of cooking wafted through the air, a comforting reminder of the simple pleasures of village life.

As he made his way back to the home of Emeric and Thalia, who had graciously taken him in, Anthony's thoughts turned to the next steps of his journey. He needed to learn more about the language, culture, and history of this world. His background in history and his fascination with ancient cultures would serve him well, but he knew he needed to immerse himself fully to truly understand Altheron.

Entering the modest home, Anthony was greeted by the warm smiles of Emeric and Thalia. Their daughter, Talia, was setting the table, her black hair catching the flickering light of the fireplace.

"Ah, Anthony," Emeric said with a welcoming grin. "Just in time for dinner. How was your visit with Nolan?"

"It was enlightening," Anthony replied, taking his seat at the table. "He shared so much about the history and geography of Altheron. I feel like I've barely scratched the surface."

Thalia, a kind woman with gentle eyes, placed a steaming pot of stew in the center of the table. "Nolan is a treasure trove of knowledge. We're fortunate to have him in our village."

Talia looked at Anthony with curiosity. "Did he tell you about the ancient races and the gods? I remember hearing some of those stories when I was younger. They always fascinated me."

Anthony nodded. "Yes, he did. He spoke about how the gods created the world and the first races, the Drakonians and the Seraphim. But what I found most intriguing was the mystery of the newer races."

Talia leaned in, eager to hear more. "What mystery?"

"Well," Anthony began, "Nolan mentioned that the gods did not create the newer races—like the elves, dwarves, humans, and half-beasts. Their origins are shrouded in mystery. According to Nolan, these races appeared at different points in history, but no one knows exactly how or why."

Emeric, who had been listening quietly, spoke up. "There are many legends and theories about their origins. Some believe they emerged from the remnants of the primordial magic left by the gods. Others think they were born from the natural evolution of the world itself."

Thalia nodded. "I've heard stories that the elves were the first to appear, their connection to nature and magic being stronger than any other race. The dwarves came next, emerging from the mountains and bringing with them the knowledge of metal and stone."

"And humans?" Anthony asked, genuinely curious.

"Humans are believed to have appeared much later," Emeric replied. "Their adaptability and resilience allowed them to spread quickly across Altheron. The half-beasts are the most enigmatic, though. Their origins are the least understood, and many believe they are the result of ancient, forgotten magic."

The evening passed in a blur of conversation and laughter. Anthony felt a deep sense of gratitude for the hospitality and kindness of Emeric, Thalia, and Talia. They had welcomed him into their home, offering not just shelter but also a sense of belonging in this new world.

Later that night, as Anthony lay in bed, he thought about his future in Altheron. The knowledge he had gained from Nolan was just the beginning. He resolved to seek out more information, to understand the magic and history that shaped this world. He also knew he needed to become stronger, both in mind and body, to face the challenges that lay ahead.

The next morning, Anthony woke early, determined to start his day with purpose. He planned to help Emeric with the morning chores, learning more about the daily life of the villagers. Afterward, he hoped to visit Nolan again, eager to continue their discussions and perhaps delve deeper into the mysteries of magic.

As he stepped outside, the cool morning air filled his lungs, and the first light of dawn painted the sky with shades of pink and gold. The village of Rivaris was waking up, and Anthony felt a renewed sense of hope and excitement. He was ready to embrace the world of Altheron, to uncover its secrets and carve out his own path in this land of wonder and danger.

With a determined stride, Anthony made his way to the fields where Emeric was already hard at work. Today was a new day, and he was ready to face whatever it brought. The journey ahead was uncertain, but Anthony knew one thing for sure: he was no longer just an observer of history—he was now a part of it.