The Spellplague

Described by some as “the single most important event in Akhosian history”, in 2501 KH, Rithek, a terran, sought to take back his people’s lands, once and for all. Unbeknownst to the Eight Continents, he had, for the past thirty years, been gathering information on Tiamat and Gyakka’s location. He succeeded in freeing them in 2496 KH, manipulating and blackmailing Ernest, a Human Prince, into helping him. Once freed, he spent the next five years conspiring to release a plague that, when launched, would erase all magic from the face of Akhos. The terrans were magically gifted, but seldom allowed to make full use of their gifts. They were, however, much more physically capable than any other race, and in the absence of magic could easily seize control of the Eight Continents.

This plague was finally let loose in 2501 KH, devastating every town, city, country, and continent. The Feywilds in particular were thrown into complete disarray, and the Human and Elven rulers of their respective continents were quickly overthrown. Rithek may well have succeeded at what he set out to do, if not for the Old Gods, who, greatly displeased that Akhos was in such disarray, took to dealing with him themselves. What followed was the bloodiest battle known to history: The Battle Of Ukh, so named for the island it took place on. After nearly three years, the Old Gods finally prevailed, and Rithek was no more. Tiamat and Gyakka were no longer kept imprisoned near the center, but on the moon, where the Old Gods and their kin resided.

Much was forgotten due to the Spellplague. Well-kept records of pre-Liberation Akhos were lost, perhaps forever. A select few learned alternative ways of using magic, utilising it to raid the then Elven territory of Winyaeltal and gain dangerous and powerful artefacts. Rithek although dead did ultimately succeed in freeing his fellows, although their land remains unclaimed.