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{{RTOC}}
<b>This is an ONGOING ROLEPLAYING EVENT.</b> Information is being updated as it becomes available.</b>
<b>This is an ONGOING ROLEPLAYING EVENT.</b> Information is being updated as it becomes available.</b>
=Phase 1 & 2: The Lead Up=
Details on specific events during this phase are [[Dantia/Storylines/Mana Surges & Wild Magic/Phase 1 & 2: The Lead Up|here]].


Adventurers start noticing unusual messaging during spellcasting, with reports of strange feelings and effects emerging. To address these anomalies, an event called "Investigating the Magical Mind" is organized. Participants test various mana types and spells in an attempt to recreate and understand the oddities. Despite their efforts, the investigation yields no conclusive results.
==2021 - June 14, 2024: The Long Lead Up==
<p>438-05-38(ish) (June/July 2021) - People started receiving occasional odd messaging when casting spells. During Hollow Eve 2021 (and 2022), several Merelew Greeters asked adventurers if they had been having these strange feelings, too. For a comprehensive list of messaging and probability over time, see [[Urbaj#Weird_Mana|Urbaj's roundup]].</p>


As the magical oddities, referred to as surges, intensify, every spell cast becomes affected. Meetings are held to explore potential causes and consequences, but no solid theories emerge. One suggestion is to reduce spellcasting activities, but implementing this measure proves too challenging.
<p>448-05-04 (March 2, 2024) - Mazrian hosts the "Investigating the Magical Mind" event, where adventurers participated in an experiment to try to recreate these oddities in a controlled way. Various mana types and spells were tested, with casters being observed, and other casters attempting to tamper with the mana streams to induce resonance or dampening, with the goal of inducing a similar state as the oddities. There were no conclusive outcomes of this investigation.


=Phase 3: Magic Goes Awry=
<p>449-05-20 (June 14, 2024) - The magic oddities (sometimes referred to as surges) begin increased in frequency, eventually culminating on June 14, 2024 to occur on each and every each cast. Several meetings are held to discuss what this might signify, with no solid hypothesis. One idea that comes up is to try to reduce the amount of casting that adventurers are doing, but it's decided that would be too hard to orchestrate.
Details on specific events during this phase are [[Dantia/Storylines/Mana Surges & Wild Magic/Phase 3: The Magic Goes Awry|here]].


A realm-wide magical disruption causes all magic users to experience intense pain as their attunements are abruptly severed, making the magic system inoperative. Adventurers endure a range of sensations, from coldness to overwhelming surges of mana, before magic is restored in an uncontrollable "[[Wild magic (concept)|Wild Magic]]" state. This new state renders spellcasting erratic and unpredictable.
==June 15, 2024: Magic is Out==
<p>449-05-184 (June 15, 2024) - Realm wide, people felt one of the below messages, depending on their mana type/Guild:


In response to this phenomenon, new research options emerge. Each guild receives specific breakthrough messages revealing various insights into the magical disruptions. These findings uncover issues such as imbalances in mana flows and threats to divine and elemental forces.
* Pain stabs through your mind and body as your attunement to the breathing rise and fall of Life is suddenly severed! (Empath / Ranger)
* Pain stabs through your soul as your attunement to the footsteps of the gods wavers and becomes lost! (Cleric / Paladin)
* Pain stabs through your mind and body as your attunement to the elemental forces around you is suddenly severed! (Warrior Mage / Bard)
* Pain stabs through your mind and body as your attunement to the heavenly bodies is suddenly severed! (Moon Mage / Trader)
* Pain stabs through your scarred mind as your multifaceted attunement to the mana spectrum is suddenly undone! (Necromancer)


=Phase 4 & 5: Adventurers Investigate=
After this, attempting to use the magic system (such as prepare a spell, harness, invoke a tattoo, or use a wand) you would receive one of two messages. Magic was off!
Details on specific events during this phase are [[Dantia/Storylines/Mana Surges & Wild Magic/Phase 4 & 5: Adventurers Investigate|here]].
* [The magic system is inoperative at the moment. Sorry for the inconvenience.]
* Strangely, you can sense absolutely nothing. It's as if magic didn't exist.


The [[The Grey Dragons|Grey Dragons]] consult with [[Anmuva]] about the effects of wild magic on mana streams and Immortals. [[Ayrell]] hosts a discussion about Wild Magic theories, during which participants experience an unsettling sensation of being watched. At a follow-up vigil hosted by [[Jaelia]], participants experience intense magical disturbances, culminating in divine intervention that eliminates two effects of Wild Magic and adds new spell customizations.
Over the next hour, we felt (in this order):
<pre>Your body trembles as your mind instinctively reaches toward that place where you usually feel your connection to magic. It is cold.


Adventurers explore the [[Astral Plane]], encountering unusual chaos and hearing mysterious voices mentioning "[[Liraxes]]." They are warned about the instability of the Microcosm and urged to depart. [[Miskton]] performs predictions for individuals researching Wild Magic, with visions hinting at impending changes, and continue to mention "[[Liraxes]]." [[Ayrell]] attempts to meet with Ecclesiarch [[Suulnir]] of the [[Dragon Priests]], but the meeting fails to occur.
You feel a surge of mana reaching toward you! You instinctively reach out to grasp it. You struggle to hold on, but it slips away again, leaving you feeling exhausted.


Various events follow, including a blood ritual to bolster mana streams, a Wild Magic theory discussion, and an attempt to contact Commodore [[Khoheke]] Moglin. Research continues with lectures on [[Othersight]], investigations at the [[Zaulfung Stones]], and explorations in [[Zengmodaleth]], where participants experience unusual sensory phenomena. [[Aislynn]] organizes a meeting to discuss [[Harawep]]'s fight against corruption and the possible emergence of a new avatar named [[Liraxes]].
You sense a fleeting trace of mana. It briefly grows stronger, but quickly fades away again.


A second attempt to meet with Commodore [[Khoheke]] is successful, revealing his observations about the [[Bulwark]]'s integrity and its connection to planar matters. [[Jaelia]] hosts a Vigil for [[Meraud]], during which Clerics receive a symbolic vision.
Your senses explode and you are momentarily blinded! Mana overfills your being, and you struggle to control the flow! Just as suddenly, it seeps away, leaving you empty.


The phase culminates in a dramatic event at Arhat's Tower, where five adventurers vanish during a wild magic experiment. The remaining participants are briefly trapped in a "Null Prison" before returning, injured, to the tower. Despite efforts to locate the missing adventurers, they remain lost, and a mysterious voice briefly causes magic to disappear.
You feel a deep sense that something has changed. Your attunement to the breathing rise and fall of Life is restored, but it does not feel controllable!</pre>


=Phase 6: The Sorcery Messengers=
Casting had returned, but now it was Wild! For more information on how Wild Magic works, the messaging, or effects, please visit [[Wild magic (concept)|Wild Magic (Concept)]].
Details on specific events during this phase are [[Dantia/Storylines/Mana Surges & Wild Magic/Phase 6: The Sorcery Messengers|here]]. For an overview of each of the Sorcery Messengers individually, please see the [[Dantia/Storylines/Mana Surges & Wild Magic/Sorcery Messengers|Sorcery Messengers]] page.


Breath of the Heralds [[Asildu]], a Human Scholar, first appears at an Overhealers Anonymous meeting. He believes sorcery is a dangerous "disease" exacerbating magical imbalance and causing wild magic. Shortly after, Avatar of the Summoning [[Valenal]], Elemental Conduit of Elanthia, makes his debut at the Crossing Empath Guild Courtyard. As a former researcher in inter-planar communication, [[Valenal]] believes energy theft through non-sorcerous magic is causing a dangerous imbalance in the [[Plane of Abiding]].
==June 15, 2024: Vile Plague Wraith Invasion==
On 449-05-184 (June 15, 2024), shortly after the the Wild Magic release, there was an invasion of [[Vile Plague Wraith|Vile Plague Wraiths]] throughout Shard, Zoluren and Therengia.


Messenger [[Miraena]], Voice of the [[Heralds]] of Elanthia, emerges at the West Gate of Crossing. She's a simple farmer who claims to have received visions from the [[Heralds]] warning of sorcery's disastrous effects, and urging adventurers to cease its use.
<pre>> look wraith
Held aloft by two expansive skeletal wings, the massive plague wraith towers over thirty feet tall. Under its tattered cloak, a black mass of writhing insects and serpents cling tightly to a nearly fleshless skeleton. Four elongated arms, covered in a tangle of scorpions and spiders, end in wickedly curved talons that twitch in anticipation of its next victim. Practically obscured by the inky shadows cast by its voluminous hood, two flaming emerald eyes partially illuminate its malevolent hook-toothed skull.
</pre>


During a discussion about Wild Magic and the [[Arbiter in Darkness]], Steward of Recursion [[Liraxes]], Warden of Adaptation, makes his first appearance. [[Liraxes]] is focused on addressing an imbalance in mana flow that's weakening planar boundaries, suggesting that certain forms of sorcery may be necessary to correct the imbalance.
Some of these creatures drop an {{cloot|i|emerald scarab medallion with a delicate gold inlay}}, which was cursed (meaning you could not drop it until it was uncursed).


Conqueror of the Wilds [[Unaka]], Maul of [[Truffenyi]], appears with a mission to protect and safeguard civilization, as given through visions from her deity. She emphasizes a cautious approach to the current magical situation.
==June 15, 2024: Breakthrough Messaging==
Along with the release of wild magic was the addition of a new RESEARCH option, RESEARCH WILD. Each Guild received a different piece of information regarding what was going on:


Concurrent with these arrivals, various adventurers are engaged in efforts to rescue the missing five. While beseeching Elanthia for assistance, they learn that the balance of life was disrupted when civilizations began to harness mana, and continues to this day. Bards are able to determine that the kidnapping was a lesson in the dangers of meddling in extraplanar matters, and that the only way to help them is to facilitate stability with magic.
Trader:
<pre>Breakthrough!
Lunar mana fizzes out of focus with unknowable, periodic perturbations from the planets in your range. Oddly enough, it is the Negotiants' unbidden tutelage that nudges you toward the research's endpoint and a wealth of knowledge relating to wild magic. You are assured that the Contract is still inviolate and binding, and all prohibitions remain. The Contract is all that matters.</pre>


During one event, where adventurers focused on casting a lot of sorcerous spells, all magic users felt a briefly stronger connection to magic, and a fleeting bit of relief.
Moon Mage:
<pre>Breakthrough!
Lunar mana fizzes out of focus with unknowable, periodic perturbations from the planets in your range. Oddly enough, your calculations prompt you to think back to a time with Katamba unburnt and Grazhir whole, the golden age of near-effortless Lunar miracles. All lost now, and the threads are converging on a similarly disastrous trajectory!</pre>


A sorcery party is held with the intent to draw the attention of those who are causing Wild Magic. [[Miraena]] and [[Asildu]] plead with adventurers not to continue, but they do regardless. This appears to draw the anger of the Heralds, who summon an invasion of drakes. After the invasion, there is a refreshing calm that washes over the land, and everyone feels as if things are more stable.
Paladin:
<pre>Breakthrough!
You have come to an alarming conclusion you attribute the changes in Holy mana's behavior to long-standing and widespread lopsided practices of magic. An imbalance is shaking the Bulwark loose, which seems bafflingly vulnerable against this menace.</pre>Cleric:<pre>Breakthrough!
You have come to an alarming conclusion you attribute the changes in Holy mana's behavior to an 'upward' lurch in the flow. Something is stymieing or etiolating the Font of Creation, and Divinity itself is suffering for it!</pre>


In a daring attempt to rescue missing individuals, a group of adventurers undertakes a complex ritual to open a portal. As the ritual unfolds, unexpected events occur, including the appearance and disappearance of a Godling and the formation of a deadly anomaly. [[Meraud]] briefly appears, cryptically suggesting that this outcome is a "necessary step." The ritual's consequences are severe, with enraged voices promising wrath and meteors falling from the sky. The aftermath reveals that [[Knife Clan]] has been transformed into a crater, from which a lifesculpted spire of thorny vines grows, topped by a golden beam of light. At the end of the event adventurers felt: A refreshing calm washes over the land, and you feel a sense of pervasive balance. Everything feels more significantly more stable.
Bard:
<pre>Breakthrough!
Something is broken with the replenishment cycles of Elemental mana. Even though you have not noticed a decrease in available power, it seems inevitable. From what your research has evoked, you have the smallest understanding, the barest shape, of an eonic plan that stretches back to the dark histories -- gods and demons, mortals and monsters all helpless before it.</pre>


=Phase 7: Heralds vs Immortals=
Warrior Mage:
<pre>Breakthrough!
Something is broken with the replenishment cycles of Elemental mana. Even though you have not noticed a decrease in available power, it seems inevitable. Lessons from long ago prickle at your mind concerning the lore of Sraan Mehath. You cannot shake a feeling of deep dread.</pre>


Details on specific events during this phase are [[Dantia/Storylines/Mana Surges & Wild Magic/Phase 7: Heralds vs Immortals|here]]. For an overview of each of the Sorcery Messengers individually, please see the [[Dantia/Storylines/Mana Surges & Wild Magic/Sorcery Messengers|Sorcery Messengers]] page.
Empath:
<pre>Breakthrough!
Life mana has buckled under vast pressures from what feel like above and below. Although this instills a fear in you for the fate of the cycle of life, you do not think the repercussions will echo to the natural world just yet.</pre>


The world is gripped by escalating crises and cosmic disturbances. [[Asildu]] and [[Miraena]] state that the [[Immortals]] have become lax in their monitoring of the use of sorcery, and that this has forced the [[Heralds]] to step in with drastic actions to curb it's use, leading to the encasement of entire Clans as a warning to adventurers. This has only deepened the conflict between the [[Heralds]] and the [[Immortals]].
Ranger:
<pre>Breakthrough!
Life mana has buckled under vast pressures from what feel like above and below. You have an intimation that the Life dragons are keenly aware of the causes, preparing and further isolating their conserved lands. However, as usual, they have withheld their counsel.</pre>


[[Asildu]] has become a central figure in the growing unrest, facing accusations of terrorism and calls for his execution. This has further inflamed tensions and divided opinions among those faithful to the [[Immortals]], and those willing to heed the warnings of the [[Heralds]].
Necromancer:
<pre>Breakthrough!
You just concluded the unpleasant task of tracking the continual disruption in Arcane mana, step by minute step. Some force beyond your ken, nothing short of godly, has been changing the rules with a brutal hand. The Great Work is tipped on the brink of impossibility as the mana streams become increasingly immiscible, sterile, and foreign textured all at once.</pre>


Amidst this turmoil, [[Liraxes]] completes a crystalline device to record sentiment on the usage of mixed mana versus pure mana casting for restoring balance. Adventurers are invited to interact with the pedestal, either [[Touch_command|TOUCHING]] it to support pure mana casting or [[Tap_command|TAPPING]] it to support mixed mana casting. It confirms that it still advises sorcerous casting as the best way to accomplish the return of balance.
Necromancer (Redeemed):
<pre>Breakthrough!
You just concluded the unpleasant task of tracking the continual disruption in Arcane mana, step by minute step. The grand order ordained by the gods is under attack by... itself? In ways you cannot approach grasping, the mana spectrum is separating out, each strand resisting attempts to bend it into patterns.</pre>


=Phase 8: Time to Fight Back=
==June 18, 2024: Remembering Keishalae==
Details on specific events during this phase are [[Dantia/Storylines/Mana Surges & Wild Magic/Phase 8: Time to Fight Back|here]]. For an overview of each of the Sorcery Messengers individually, please see the [[Dantia/Storylines/Mana Surges & Wild Magic/Sorcery Messengers|Sorcery Messengers]] page.
Posted by Dantia to [https://discord.com/channels/619301383451181075/619612758702555166/1252662957356089364 Discord]:
<pre>Dantia rubs her temples, trying once again to fend off the weight of worries pressing down on her. The bizarre forces and implications behind the Wild Magic phenomenon were causing her sleepless nights -- but there was just so much work left.


The [[Immortals]] initiate a significant offensive against the [[Heralds]], starting with an attack on the encasement surrounding [[Dirge]]. They send personalized visions to multiple adventurers, calling them to action at various locations, including [[Knife Clan]], [[Wolf Clan]], and [[Tiger Clan]]. The [[Immortals]] guide adventurers in using sorcerous magic and manipulating light beams to weaken and ultimately shatter the encasements around these areas. The [[Heralds]], represented by [[Asildu]], attempt to counter these efforts by summoning drakes to attack the adventurers. However, the combined efforts of the [[Immortals]] and the adventurers prove successful.
In the aftermath of the events, anyone of a spellcasting Guild with a basic knowledge of Arcana could set about researching this Wild Magic, and the findings all proved to be of great concern. Empaths themselves had concluded that Life mana was buckling under some vast pressure from what felt like above and below. Broadly, Life mana flows from the cycle of life and death, so this was enough to instill a fear that the cycle itself was under threat. And Dantia was not one to sit idly by in the face of a threat.


In a particularly eventful moment at Knife Clan, a series of destructive light beams shatter the encasement, followed by a thunderous explosion that dramatically alters the sky. This event causes stars to vanish and results in three [[Heralds]] materializing in the heavens. [[Dantia]], one of the missing adventurers who has been imprisoned for nearly seven months, reappears as the Knife Clan encasement is bought down. It takes her several weeks to reacclimate to the world again, but she eventually recounts the few memories she has of imprisonment, and states firmly that it's the Heralds that were responsible for her captivity, and who still have the remaining four adventurers.
Around her on the floor are organized stacks of notes, books, scrolls, and messages, all within easy reach. From between these piles, she lifts a small sanowret crystal, the light of a nearby candle flickering across its surface. She lowers her gaze into it and the recollection of wisdom again fills her mind, her lips moving silently to mouth the words memorized as if a mantra.


=Phase 9: TBD=
"Life magic is perhaps the most mysterious realm to Kermorians, lacking the scholarly body of the other three conventional realms and the critical eye placed upon Arcane magic. Broadly, it derives its power from the cycle of life and death, expressions of biological order and entropy."


=Phase 10: TBD=
The tones of the sanowret crystal continue.

"Despite the name, Life mana is strongly identified with the natural process of decay. This has been a matter of confusion, since common sensibilities would place the 'magic of death' as being Necromancy, but this is not the case. Necromancy deals with perversions and unnatural permutations of life and death. The actual process..."

Exhaustion begins to overtake her, the words of the sanowret playing through her mind like a soft lullaby - the kind which brings stillness to your mind and allows you to drift off to sleep more easily. Her chin tilts downwards, aching for someplace to rest. Her own mind begins to wander amidst the words of the sanowret, the two entwining in the space of her mind.

"... of dying and decaying into constituent parts..." Death. Decaying. The cycle of life.
"... is part of the power of Life." Life magic. Life cannot defeat Life. The Starry Road.

Finally finding a solid resting place, her chin ends its downward tilt, and her mind finally falls silent. Sleep comes for her, and all is peaceful for a moment. Two. Three.

Her head snaps up, eyes wide as she stares into the distance. "Keishalae..." she chokes out. All at once she spurs into chaotic action. She frantically pushes and pulls at the once organized piles of knowledge around her until she finds a scrap piece of paper with enough space to write on.

"The process of dying and decaying is part of the power of Life," she repeats, urging herself to remember whatever sleep-based thought she has had. The tone of her voice changes, a clear imitation of the last time she heard Keishalae speak: "I have different needs now. The price for your work will be your death."

With a shaky hand she takes up her quill, dabs it into an inkwell, and writes in a hurried script.

"Life magic under pressure. Something threatening cycle of life and death. Font of Creation stymied. Gods, demons, mortals, monsters all helpless. What is responsible? Remember Keishalae." She hastily blows out the nearby candle and hurries from the room.</pre>

I will be getting a calendar event up to discuss this theory line I have, but wanted to get my thoughts down while they were fresh!

==June 19, 2024: Additional Points of View==
* Story posted by [[Aislynn]], available on [https://discord.com/channels/619301383451181075/619612758702555166/1253077982147248289 Discord].
* Story posted by [[Nazzarus]], available on [https://discord.com/channels/619301383451181075/619612758702555166/1253093457359274024 Discord].
* Story posted by [[Nawain]], available on [https://discord.com/channels/619301383451181075/619612758702555166/1253773943806886038 Discord].

==June 21, 2024: Grey Dragons Seek Amnuva==
[[Waydren]], of the [[the Grey Dragons|Grey Dragons]], hosted an event to reach out to the Kather [[Anmuva]], on the hopes that the Life Dragons may know more about what is happening. Anmuva articulated concerns that wild magic disruptions were not only affecting mana streams but also potentially endangering the Immortals themselves. His metaphorical descriptions likened these disruptions to obstructed rivers, illustrating how such disturbances could lead to broader metaphysical repercussions. He emphasized the urgency of understanding the root causes of wild magic, advocated for cautious magical practices, and encouraged collaborative efforts among attendees to mitigate these effects and explore potential solutions.

During the event, Anmuva was confronted by [[Atuen]] who called Anmuva a false dragon.
<pre>* Anmuva suddenly extends to his full height -- you estimate as tall as an Ogre -- and lunges unexpectedly at Atuen, a snarl baring vicious teeth. Atuen falters at the gesture, her willpower failing to maintain composure!

Anmuva appears satisfied, and stands his ground.

Atuen continues to huddle against the ground, shivering slightly.
</pre>However, upon recovering, Atuen attempted to cast on Anmuva, to this end:
<pre>
Anmuva springs towards Atuen, with the speed of a tiger. Anmuva angles himself to knock him to the ground!

Anmuva slams into Atuen, knocking him prone!

* Anmuva bites off Atuen's face!
* Atuen is slain before your eyes!
</pre>

The full log of that event is [[The Grey Dragons/Logs/20240621 Grey Dragons Seek Anmuva|available here]].

==June 22, 2024: Efforts Rewarded==
[[Ayrell]] hosted a discussion at [[Milene's Rose Inn]] in Shard ([[Ayrell/Logs/06222024/Wild Magic Theory Presentation|log available here]]). While various theories on what is happening were being shared, we received:

<pre>You feel as if you've gained attention. It is not a comfortable feeling.

You take a quick breath as you feel the eyes upon you fade away.</pre>

At a follow up vigil the same evening, hosted by [[Jaelia]], we felt the following:

<pre>The back of your neck itches slightly for a moment and you feel as if you've gained attention.

You feel as though Life mana is behaving differently in ways you cannot quite interpret.

You feel the eyes upon you fade away.

The air takes on a honeyed-tone, and everything slows. The ground seems to heave and you lose your balance. After a moment, the sensation passes, though something feels very wrong.

The mana streams roil, and you are unable to make sense of the chaotic fluctuations!

You feel yourself leaning over the edge of a cliff, a barren abyss incapable of growth or change! (Note: this line changed depending on your Guild, see below)

A gust of turbulent hot air billows around you, while an expanding ring of frost spreads around your feet. You smell burnt sugar and your throat stings.

Your connection to the mana streams buzzes painfully, a pounding headache building as your ears throb and you squint against the pain!

Darkness begins to encroach around the edge of your vision, erupting with silvery star bursts. You fight against the loss of sight, but everything begins to go black! A wolf howls in the distance, and a golden lightning bolt forks across the darkness, restoring your vision!

The strange quality of the air fades, and the headache passes. You take a shuddering breath and everything feels... a little better?</pre>

Bard: You feel yourself leaning over the edge of a cliff, discordant echoes howling without pattern!
<br />War Mage: You feel yourself leaning over the edge of a cliff, indistinguishable elements crackling and blurring together!
<br />Moon Mage: You feel yourself leaning over the edge of a cliff, gazing upon the reflection of foreign and silent stars!
<br />Trader: You feel yourself leaning over the edge of a cliff, gazing upon the reflection of dim and meaningless stars!
<br />Paladin: You feel yourself leaning over the edge of a cliff, devoid of order and nobility!
<br />Cleric: You feel yourself leaning over the edge of a cliff, empty and without Their grace!
<br />Empath: You feel yourself leaning over the edge of a cliff, a barren abyss incapable of growth or change!
<br />Ranger: You feel yourself leaning over the edge of a cliff, untended and incapable of growth or change!
<br />Necromancer: You feel yourself leaning over the edge of a cliff, absent even Their snarled and threatening whispers!

At this point, we received this announcement on Discord:
<pre>Ongoing Event: Wild Magic Updates

The phase change tonight saw characters' efforts rewarded. Someone or something .. did something. We heard a wolf howl, we saw a lightning bolt. And things feel a little .. better.

The Gods are tryin' to do what they do! Because of their intervention, two effects have been dropped from wild magic: You will no longer experience Mana burn, and you will no longer experience a full attunement refill.

With this release, we also added a few more spell customizations. Thank you to the players of @Hamuk @Imroth and @Valynn for their help with designs!</pre>

==June 26, 2024: Planar Observatory Exploration Event==
There was an expedition to the [[Planar Observatory]] to investigate whether the unique perspective of that location would shed any light on the difficulties with mana and spellcasting.

Adventurers entered the [[Astral Plane]] to find it more chaotic than typical. They heard voices with no clear origin echoing from every direction, whispering the word "Liraxes." A benevolent voice raises to the front warning that the Microcosm is less stable than before, and that "even now, Liraxes assembles itself." The voice began urging adventurers to return to the Plane of Abiding, even nudging at their backs. "Go! He comes!" the voice called.

A new harsh, distorted voice was heard saying, "I was named [[Pelag ai Aldam]]." The benevolent voice pled with adventurers to leave before something, someone "tears your consciousness to shreds." The nudging became shoving, and they were forced back into the Plane of Abiding.

Even when returned, adventurers could still hear the words "Liraxes assembles itself."

Those words ("I was named Pelag ai Aldam") are usually heard when Pelag ai Aldam encounters a Moon Mage in the Astral Plane and kills them. It appears that the benevolent voice was able to shove adventurers back to the Plane of Abiding before this occurred.

A log of the GM sent bits is [[Post:A_Planar_Jaunt_-_06/26/2024_-_09:47|available here]].

==June 26, 2024: Wild Magic and the Web of Fate Event==
Miskton put out the call for any interested volunteers to assist with performing predications on people who had been exposed to significant wild magic.

A full log of this event is [[Miskton/Logs/20240626_Wild_Magic_and_the_Web_of_Fate|available here]].

==June 27, 2024: Diplomacy with Dragon Priests Event==
Although previous talks with the Dragon Priests had yielded little information regarding their recent activities, the ongoing concerns surrounding wild magic and disruptions to mana have led to a different purpose in reaching out to the Ecclesiarch Suulnir. Research indicates the dragons to potentially have knowledge of the disturbance and its cause. As the Dragon Priests serve a dragon Emperor, [[Ayrell]] assembled a team attempted to speak with the Ecclesiarch in hopes of obtaining information that may aid in the continuing efforts to solve this mystery. Unfortunately, Suulnir did not appear at the meeting and thus the party was unable to ask questions.

Latest revision as of 13:34, 8 October 2024

This is an ONGOING ROLEPLAYING EVENT. Information is being updated as it becomes available.

Phase 1 & 2: The Lead Up

Details on specific events during this phase are here.

Adventurers start noticing unusual messaging during spellcasting, with reports of strange feelings and effects emerging. To address these anomalies, an event called "Investigating the Magical Mind" is organized. Participants test various mana types and spells in an attempt to recreate and understand the oddities. Despite their efforts, the investigation yields no conclusive results.

As the magical oddities, referred to as surges, intensify, every spell cast becomes affected. Meetings are held to explore potential causes and consequences, but no solid theories emerge. One suggestion is to reduce spellcasting activities, but implementing this measure proves too challenging.

Phase 3: Magic Goes Awry

Details on specific events during this phase are here.

A realm-wide magical disruption causes all magic users to experience intense pain as their attunements are abruptly severed, making the magic system inoperative. Adventurers endure a range of sensations, from coldness to overwhelming surges of mana, before magic is restored in an uncontrollable "Wild Magic" state. This new state renders spellcasting erratic and unpredictable.

In response to this phenomenon, new research options emerge. Each guild receives specific breakthrough messages revealing various insights into the magical disruptions. These findings uncover issues such as imbalances in mana flows and threats to divine and elemental forces.

Phase 4 & 5: Adventurers Investigate

Details on specific events during this phase are here.

The Grey Dragons consult with Anmuva about the effects of wild magic on mana streams and Immortals. Ayrell hosts a discussion about Wild Magic theories, during which participants experience an unsettling sensation of being watched. At a follow-up vigil hosted by Jaelia, participants experience intense magical disturbances, culminating in divine intervention that eliminates two effects of Wild Magic and adds new spell customizations.

Adventurers explore the Astral Plane, encountering unusual chaos and hearing mysterious voices mentioning "Liraxes." They are warned about the instability of the Microcosm and urged to depart. Miskton performs predictions for individuals researching Wild Magic, with visions hinting at impending changes, and continue to mention "Liraxes." Ayrell attempts to meet with Ecclesiarch Suulnir of the Dragon Priests, but the meeting fails to occur.

Various events follow, including a blood ritual to bolster mana streams, a Wild Magic theory discussion, and an attempt to contact Commodore Khoheke Moglin. Research continues with lectures on Othersight, investigations at the Zaulfung Stones, and explorations in Zengmodaleth, where participants experience unusual sensory phenomena. Aislynn organizes a meeting to discuss Harawep's fight against corruption and the possible emergence of a new avatar named Liraxes.

A second attempt to meet with Commodore Khoheke is successful, revealing his observations about the Bulwark's integrity and its connection to planar matters. Jaelia hosts a Vigil for Meraud, during which Clerics receive a symbolic vision.

The phase culminates in a dramatic event at Arhat's Tower, where five adventurers vanish during a wild magic experiment. The remaining participants are briefly trapped in a "Null Prison" before returning, injured, to the tower. Despite efforts to locate the missing adventurers, they remain lost, and a mysterious voice briefly causes magic to disappear.

Phase 6: The Sorcery Messengers

Details on specific events during this phase are here. For an overview of each of the Sorcery Messengers individually, please see the Sorcery Messengers page.

Breath of the Heralds Asildu, a Human Scholar, first appears at an Overhealers Anonymous meeting. He believes sorcery is a dangerous "disease" exacerbating magical imbalance and causing wild magic. Shortly after, Avatar of the Summoning Valenal, Elemental Conduit of Elanthia, makes his debut at the Crossing Empath Guild Courtyard. As a former researcher in inter-planar communication, Valenal believes energy theft through non-sorcerous magic is causing a dangerous imbalance in the Plane of Abiding.

Messenger Miraena, Voice of the Heralds of Elanthia, emerges at the West Gate of Crossing. She's a simple farmer who claims to have received visions from the Heralds warning of sorcery's disastrous effects, and urging adventurers to cease its use.

During a discussion about Wild Magic and the Arbiter in Darkness, Steward of Recursion Liraxes, Warden of Adaptation, makes his first appearance. Liraxes is focused on addressing an imbalance in mana flow that's weakening planar boundaries, suggesting that certain forms of sorcery may be necessary to correct the imbalance.

Conqueror of the Wilds Unaka, Maul of Truffenyi, appears with a mission to protect and safeguard civilization, as given through visions from her deity. She emphasizes a cautious approach to the current magical situation.

Concurrent with these arrivals, various adventurers are engaged in efforts to rescue the missing five. While beseeching Elanthia for assistance, they learn that the balance of life was disrupted when civilizations began to harness mana, and continues to this day. Bards are able to determine that the kidnapping was a lesson in the dangers of meddling in extraplanar matters, and that the only way to help them is to facilitate stability with magic.

During one event, where adventurers focused on casting a lot of sorcerous spells, all magic users felt a briefly stronger connection to magic, and a fleeting bit of relief.

A sorcery party is held with the intent to draw the attention of those who are causing Wild Magic. Miraena and Asildu plead with adventurers not to continue, but they do regardless. This appears to draw the anger of the Heralds, who summon an invasion of drakes. After the invasion, there is a refreshing calm that washes over the land, and everyone feels as if things are more stable.

In a daring attempt to rescue missing individuals, a group of adventurers undertakes a complex ritual to open a portal. As the ritual unfolds, unexpected events occur, including the appearance and disappearance of a Godling and the formation of a deadly anomaly. Meraud briefly appears, cryptically suggesting that this outcome is a "necessary step." The ritual's consequences are severe, with enraged voices promising wrath and meteors falling from the sky. The aftermath reveals that Knife Clan has been transformed into a crater, from which a lifesculpted spire of thorny vines grows, topped by a golden beam of light. At the end of the event adventurers felt: A refreshing calm washes over the land, and you feel a sense of pervasive balance. Everything feels more significantly more stable.

Phase 7: Heralds vs Immortals

Details on specific events during this phase are here. For an overview of each of the Sorcery Messengers individually, please see the Sorcery Messengers page.

The world is gripped by escalating crises and cosmic disturbances. Asildu and Miraena state that the Immortals have become lax in their monitoring of the use of sorcery, and that this has forced the Heralds to step in with drastic actions to curb it's use, leading to the encasement of entire Clans as a warning to adventurers. This has only deepened the conflict between the Heralds and the Immortals.

Asildu has become a central figure in the growing unrest, facing accusations of terrorism and calls for his execution. This has further inflamed tensions and divided opinions among those faithful to the Immortals, and those willing to heed the warnings of the Heralds.

Amidst this turmoil, Liraxes completes a crystalline device to record sentiment on the usage of mixed mana versus pure mana casting for restoring balance. Adventurers are invited to interact with the pedestal, either TOUCHING it to support pure mana casting or TAPPING it to support mixed mana casting. It confirms that it still advises sorcerous casting as the best way to accomplish the return of balance.

Phase 8: Time to Fight Back

Details on specific events during this phase are here. For an overview of each of the Sorcery Messengers individually, please see the Sorcery Messengers page.

The Immortals initiate a significant offensive against the Heralds, starting with an attack on the encasement surrounding Dirge. They send personalized visions to multiple adventurers, calling them to action at various locations, including Knife Clan, Wolf Clan, and Tiger Clan. The Immortals guide adventurers in using sorcerous magic and manipulating light beams to weaken and ultimately shatter the encasements around these areas. The Heralds, represented by Asildu, attempt to counter these efforts by summoning drakes to attack the adventurers. However, the combined efforts of the Immortals and the adventurers prove successful.

In a particularly eventful moment at Knife Clan, a series of destructive light beams shatter the encasement, followed by a thunderous explosion that dramatically alters the sky. This event causes stars to vanish and results in three Heralds materializing in the heavens. Dantia, one of the missing adventurers who has been imprisoned for nearly seven months, reappears as the Knife Clan encasement is bought down. It takes her several weeks to reacclimate to the world again, but she eventually recounts the few memories she has of imprisonment, and states firmly that it's the Heralds that were responsible for her captivity, and who still have the remaining four adventurers.

Phase 9: TBD

Phase 10: TBD