"The Light and the Dark are in all of us, as was dictated at the dawn of creation itself." - High Illuminarch Seraphal
History
The Age of Creation stands as the foundational epoch in the annals of Elyssara's history, a time shrouded in the mists of cosmic genesis. During this era, the very fabric of the realm was woven into existence by the interplay of two primordial forces: light and shadow.
Elyssara emerged from the void, a canvas upon which the Luminar and the Umbral, ancient celestial beings embodying light and shadow, cast their cosmic brushstrokes. These celestial entities, eternal and enigmatic, shaped the world's essence and guided its nascent life forms.
Within this tapestry of creation, all sentient beings, from the majestic Elves dwelling in ethereal forest realms to the stalwart Dwarves forging their subterranean strongholds, took their first breaths under the influence of both Luminar and Umbral. Thus, the harmonious interplay of these celestial forces marked the very essence of existence in this age.
The Age of Creation witnessed the birth of ecosystems, the unfolding of majestic landscapes, and the first stirrings of mortal souls. It was a time when the mysteries of the cosmos and the interconnectedness of all life became ingrained in the collective consciousness of Elyssara's burgeoning civilizations.
As the Age of Creation drew to a close, it left behind a world teeming with potential and beauty, a world upon which the subsequent ages would build their tales of splendor and adversity. The celestial dance of light and shadow that began in this age would continue to shape the destiny of Elyssara throughout its long and storied history.
Scholarly Data
Begin Date: ~5000 CY
End Date: ~4500 CY
Significance: Monumental
Minor Era Events
The First Observations - Elves and Dwarves initiated the practice of observing celestial phenomena, later leading to advanced celestial studies.
Codification of Law - Early legal codes were established in Elven and Dwarven societies, promoting justice and order.
Major Era Events
The Birth of the Luminar and the Umbral - The celestial entities representing light (Luminar) and shadow (Umbral) came into existence, shaping the cosmic forces of Elyssara. Both forces ended up creating what's known as "The Conflux" - the point in which both light and dark collide, providing the synergy required for reality to exist in its present state. By manipulating these forces, one can alter reality.
The Shaping of Elyssara - Over millennia, the Luminar and Umbral worked together to shape the landscapes, creating majestic forests, towering mountains, vast oceans, and fertile plains.
The First Elves Awaken - In the heart of the radiant forests, the first Elves awakened, attuned to the blessings of the Luminar. They began to build their first settlements.
The Dwarves Emerge - Deep beneath the earth, the Dwarves emerged, harnessing the Umbral's power to construct their underground strongholds and master craftsmanship.
The Elementals - Elemental beings, embodiments of natural forces, came into existence, shaping the realms of earth, air, fire, and water.
The Veil of the Feywild - The Feywild, a parallel realm of enchantment and magic, was birthed, bringing forth mystical creatures and landscapes.
The Dragonlords - Powerful dragons, ancient and wise, took flight in the skies of Elyssara, becoming the first Dragonlords and shaping dragonkind's legacy.
Tapping the Weave - Early scholars and seers among the Elves and Dwarves began to study the celestial forces, laying the foundation for future arcane and divine magic.
The Grand Merging - Portals and gateways between the mortal realm and other planes started to form, allowing for interplanar travel and communication.
The First Council - Representatives from various civilizations convened in the City of Loralis, establishing the Council of Elders to maintain peace and cooperation among Elyssara's peoples.