JOURNAL OF ATHANASIUS
PART I - THE GREAT WAR
I, Athanasius, Treasurer of the Barony of Zlaria, undertake to continue the writings of the esteemed scholar Andronicus, who passed from this life seven months past, leaving his work unfinished. Though I lack his refined prose and poetic grace, I ask the reader’s patience.
The Age of Giants has been one of peace. For three thousand years, tranquility and prosperity reigned, as the Seven Archons governed the continent of Xerath. But this harmony was disrupted when Archon Innokentios unearthed an ancient artifact from the era of the Dragon Emperor—an artifact with the power to upset the balance among the Archons and grant him dominion over the others. As Andronicus recorded in his journal, the remaining Archons formed a coalition to counter Innokentios.
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It has now been a year and five months since the Great War began. Thus far, it is locked in stalemate. The cause lies with Duke Alexandros Karamitsios, whose mastery of strategy has led Archon Innokentios' forces, though fewer in number, to repeated victories. However, these successes only serve to prolong the war, for Innokentios lacks the resources to press the advantage and remains on the defensive, with Alexandros winning battles on his own lands.
Yet, should Archon Innokentios manage to unlock the powers of this mysterious artifact, the balance may shift. This potential drives the other Archons, despite their losses, to gather more men and resources for further bloody campaigns into Innokentios' realm, hoping to defeat him before he can wield the artifact’s power.
The toll of this war has been heavy. Here in the Barony of Zlaria, I have witnessed the strain. With Dukes and Barons drawing soldiers to the fronts, our countryside is left vulnerable to bandits and roaming beasts. Taxes increase, and the suffering of the people deepens.
May the High God grant us victory and peace against the wiles of Archon Innokentios.
