History of Rathkeale, Part III

The Rise and Fall

Major conflict on the mainland in year three leads to Realms-wide war. In Rathkeale and Videssos the god Hades has gained many worshipers with his promise of using the elve's dead against themselves. As the only god willing to help, Artex and many others accept the offer. Blak leaves the islands to join the Clan in Chimeron. Rockwood, the nearest nation on the mainland joins with Rathkeale in what is called the Alliance of the Northern Isles. The N.I. swears fealty to King Taithan of V'ari. With help from King Taithan and Rockwood, the seas are cleared of Elven ships and the western coast of Rathkeale is reclaimed. Artex is granted Knighthood in Rathkeale by his followers as proclaimed by the Captain of the Guard Nathan Ryan. Artex promises that Rathkeale shall not perish from the Realms and sends in troops to help with conflict on the mainland. War along the mainland claims the lives of Taithan, Chancellor Angel, and Captain Nathan Ryan. Rathkeale again is independent, with Lady Sorcha of the Druids as the new Chancellor.

With secure defensive positions on free Rathkeale, Sorcha and Artex leave the islands to drum up support on the mainland during Year Four. Traveling throughout the Realms they encounter many beings, fight many battles, and have many adventures. Unfortunately they are able to claim virtually no support. The Realms is in chaos and war in the northlands seemed imminent. Overlord Artex swears his allegiance to Lord Adyan of Chimeron to secure protection for Rathkeale, and provide Adyan with support to help him rise within his own lands. This gives Rathkeale a new lease on life and allows it to strengthen and heal. Artex returns to Videssos halfway through the year to build a new army and government to support him. Sorcha returns to the Misty Isles to continue her work as a Druid. Lord Adyan, traveling without his followers, is captured by the Well of Souls, thought to be lost forever.