The Backdrop
For two thousand years, the great empire of Kell has been the center of commerce, the crown jewel of hope, the uncompromising bastion of peace and prosperity across the known world. But those days have long since gone.
Now, decadence, dissolution, and corruption run rampant throughout the empire. Those who rule, everyone from the sixty-fourth empress to the Imperial Council, have turned their eyes inward to the struggling central region, and leaving those assigned to protect and defend the homelands to their own devices.
Enemies beyond the empire's borders -- humanoid, monsters, and undead -- have begun to sense weakness. Some have entered into treaties, so that they can test the fortitude of those left forgotten along the empire's borders.
Leagues of Magic Users
Some within the four leagues of powerful magic users -- the Sorcerers, the Rangers, the Clerics, and the Blades -- have seen the signs of their nation's failing defenses, the coming tide of invaders, and have called for the leagues to work together if they are to shore up the collapsing Imperial fringes,
But old habits die hard, and deep wounds never heal. Those closest to the Imperial Palace and the Empress’s ear continue to turn a deaf ear and perpetuate the ancient ways of political and economic intrigue.
Still, a few in the four leagues are choosing to secretively navigate through the treacherous waters of lies and deceit, setting aside old rivalries, and fashioning new secret alliances.
Jurango
Jurango is a citadel on the far-flung fringes of the Kell Empire. With its long and illustrious history, many valiant heroes and heroines were forged in the fires of epic battles defending Kell. For as long as the empire has thrived, no invading army has ever broken through the outpost's daunting defenses. For this reason, Jurango has long been synonymous with Kell's sovereignty.
Yet even here, there are signs of decline -- fortifications in disrepair, dwindling supplies, ebbing morale, and a malaise seeping into the very soul of a once intrepid community. For everyone has their secrets.
And lurking just beneath the surface of Jurango's crumbling ramparts and bulwarks, there are mysteries yet to uncover.
Erik
It is into this setting that Erik, a young and adventurous novice Cleric, soon finds himself. He arrives at Jurango prepared to do his part protecting his failing homeland. But soon, he discovers his arrival has instead set in motion the final stage of a powerful enemy’s long-laid plans for invasion.