In the world of Aetheria, the continent of Elysium is a vibrant tapestry woven with diverse fantasy races: humans, elves, dwarves, and beastfolk, along with mythical beings like nagas and garudas. A thousand years ago, these races faced a cataclysmic invasion by otherworldly forces. In a desperate bid for survival, they retreated behind Warden’s Wall, a vast mountain range stretching diagonally from north to south, dividing the continent in half. This natural barrier, combined with fortified defenses, allowed the races to coexist peacefully in West Elysium. At the heart of Warden's Wall lies the formidable stronghold known as Warden’s Gate, the primary passage between the civilized lands of the west and the treacherous Abyssal Wastes to the east. On the other side of the Wall, civilization has withered under the relentless onslaught of the Abyssal Horde.

This devastating event, known as the Cataclysm, saw abyssal hordes emerge from deep caverns, wreaking havoc across Aetheria. The sudden invasion forced the races to unite, forming the Alliance of Unity and retreating to the safety of West Elysium. This union marked a turning point in Elysium's history. Once the races focused on development rather than conflict, West Elysium flourished with revolutions and advancements. Before the Cataclysm, the continent was fragmented into warring factions, constantly embroiled in battles over petty disputes. Theories about the Cataclysm's cause abound, from divine punishment for interspecies conflict to accidental awakening by dwarven excavation or forbidden elven magic. Despite the speculation, no definitive cause has been identified. The survivors have prioritized fortifying their refuge and securing their future.

Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author's consent. Report any sightings.

The remaining habitable region of West Elysium lies between Warden’s Wall and the far western Voidreach Ocean. Here, each race has carved out its territory. The elves, with their magical prowess, have established the kingdom of Lorendal along the western coastlines of the Voidreach Ocean. Humans thrive in the central lands of Midhaven, occupying fertile plains and forests between the elven coast and Warden’s Wall, serving as the breadbasket of all nations. The resilient Beastfolk have made their homes within the rugged terrain of the mountain range itself, forming the Sazakag Clan. Beneath the surface of the western half of the continent, the industrious dwarves have constructed the expansive underground empire of Eisenhammer, tapping into the earth’s resources and crafting formidable technologies.