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Tha Hebridean Pride air ainmeachadh gun tèid an cur mu sgaoil an ceann cola-deug mura lorg iad co-dhiù 5-7 neach a bhios deònach smachd a thoirt air stiùireadh an tachartais.
https://angeidhealur.scot/2024-03-05-hebridean-pride-ann-an-cunnart-dunadh/
#LGBTQIA #LGBTQ #LGBT #LGDTCEN #LGDTC #LGDT #Gèidheil #AnGèidhealÙr #Naidheachdan #Gàidhlig #Gaelic #cleachdi
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Tha Hebridean Pride air ainmeachadh gun tèid an cur mu sgaoil an ceann cola-deug mura lorg iad co-dhiù 5-7 neach a bhios deònach smachd a thoirt air stiùireadh an tachartais.
https://angeidhealur.scot/2024-03-05-hebridean-pride-ann-an-cunnart-dunadh/
#LGBTQIA #LGBTQ #LGBT #LGDTCEN #LGDTC #LGDT #Gèidheil #AnGèidhealÙr #Naidheachdan #Gàidhlig
#Gaelic #cleachdi -
Tha Hebridean Pride air ainmeachadh gun tèid an cur mu sgaoil an ceann cola-deug mura lorg iad co-dhiù 5-7 neach a bhios deònach smachd a thoirt air stiùireadh an tachartais.
https://angeidhealur.scot/2024-03-05-hebridean-pride-ann-an-cunnart-dunadh/
#LGBTQIA #LGBTQ #LGBT #LGDTCEN #LGDTC #LGDT #Gèidheil #AnGèidhealÙr #Naidheachdan #Gàidhlig #Gaelic #cleachdi
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Tha Hebridean Pride air ainmeachadh gun tèid an cur mu sgaoil an ceann cola-deug mura lorg iad co-dhiù 5-7 neach a bhios deònach smachd a thoirt air stiùireadh an tachartais.
https://angeidhealur.scot/2024-03-05-hebridean-pride-ann-an-cunnart-dunadh/
#LGBTQIA #LGBTQ #LGBT #LGDTCEN #LGDTC #LGDT #Gèidheil #AnGèidhealÙr #Naidheachdan #Gàidhlig #Gaelic #cleachdi
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Aetheria
To Nina Nadu and to my children, Olivia and Henry, you all are myeverything
©2024. William Moore.
The setting of Aetheria was originally created by my brother Kiel inthe mid-90’s as a way to fulfill English homework. It was well receivedby the teacher Mr. Grey, who is this awesome hippy dude, as well asmyself. Consequently, we started to make comic books of our ownfeaturing the characters Kiel came up with and ones that I introduced.Then, as you do, you play Dungeons & Dragons. We looked no furtherthan the world, then unnamed. The following story is a reimagining ofthe history of Aetheria in a fashion that evolved out of this setting,now named Aetheria.
The Story
The Age of theOrder
The founding of the new ordering of the world after the defeat ofGornakh by the Order of the Wizards as told by the bard known only as“Johnathan”.
Aetheria is a world flush with magic. With each passing millenia, themagic gets all the more stronger. Realizing the potential fordestructiveness, Alistair, a human from a lowly background, formed theOrder of the Wizards. Each mage in the Order possessed an intricateknowledge of the magical forces of the world that they obtainedimmortality. Furthermore, this immortality came with the added benefitthat only other immortals may harm them.
However, the Order grew out of a previous League of Magical Users runby the so-called “Arch Mage”. The Arch Mage would periodically scour theland looking for potential magic users and those that were alreadypractitioners. It was during these travels that he met the youngAlistair, son of a blacksmith. The Arch Mage was fascinated by theconstruction of various metal works that Alistair constructed andnoticing that the young smithy would apply magic to cool the worksdifferently. After watching Alistair cool a horseshoe, the Arch Magedecided it was time to confront him.
“Young lad,” said the Arch Mage with a grin. “Where do you go aboutwith using magic?”
“I don’t know what you’re referring to,” said Alistair.
“That horseshoe you made. It was cooled in a way that was both quickand did not damage the metal.”
“Oh! That? It was a trick that I taught myself after talking with thelocal monks. They have these books on how to harness the magic of ourworld and use it for good.”
“Interesting. Come. You have no time to lose. I need more like you inthe League of Magical Users. We’re an elite group of those who harnessthe power of Aetheria.”
“Excuse me!?”
“Your magic abilities,” said the Arch Mage sternly, “they are uniqueand not found in the world every day. You’ll be made one of my grandmagisters if you so choose.”
“Let me think on it.”
And so, the Arch Mage left Alistair. He would return periodically andthe conversations were similar, ending with outright refusal.Eventually, the Arch Mage would not return to inquire if Alistair wasready to join or not.
Many more months would pass and the local region experienced arevolution. People, both innocent and soldier alike, were slain. Theywere led by a mysterious figure known only as General Archeus.Alistair’s town was not immune to the revolution whose bitter firesspread into the town. It started with the murder of the town’s mayor inthe night. Then, a week would go by and someone would disappear.Eventually, Alistair’s family went missing. Furious, he grabbed a swordof his own construction and went into the woods to root out therevolutionaries and do what he can to save the villagers or exactrevenge,
Stealthily, he made way into the nearest encampment and noticedseveral of his fellow townspeople bound up in the middle of the camp,near a raging fire. There was no sign of his family.
After a short period, people started to salute the entrance of thetent shouting “General Archeus, sir!” in near perfect unison. From thetent out came the Arch Mage who had been pestering him to join the ranksof the League of Magical Users.
Alistair snapped and channeled several spells, sending forth blackflames from his hands that struck several soldiers left and right. Hissword, red hot at this juncture, was pointed directly at the ArchMage.
“You must think that you can best me,” chuckled the Arch Mage, “youshould know that an immortal such as myself can only be defeated bysufficient magical energy.”
“Where’s my family?”
“Oh? Them? Well, they are no longer with us. I personally saw toit.”
Spitting out something like bile from his mouth, Alistair charged theArch Mage. The immortal easily dodged it and drew a dagger with which hecut Alistair’s cheek deeply.
“Consider this a kiss from the League. Now, if you join, I’ll spareyour life. Our roots are deep in the soil and it will be most difficultto remove them,” mocked the Arch Mage.
The two traded blows for what seemed like forever and with eachpassing moment, the Arch Mage forced Alistair nearer and nearer to thefire.
Eventually, Alistair realized his mistake.
“There’s one thing that I haven’t done that the local monks showedme,” teased Alistair.
“What’s that? How to be weaker?”
“No. This –”
With a downward slice of his sword that intentionally missed the ArchMage, the raging fire in the camp expanded towards the sky, bent over,and came crashing down onto the Arch Mage.
At first, the mage laughed. Eventually, the laughter of the so-calledGeneral Archeus turned into blood curdling screams as his body quicklyburnt away.
The fires then return to their normal state, leaving behind thecharred remains of the once great Arch Mage.
Freeing the remaining villagers who all cheered Alistair, he foundhimself suddenly alone once the last villager left. This lonliness wasdeeper than any he’s experienced before, as everyone finds themselvesalone at some point in life. This lonliness was borne out of the loss ofhis family.
Not long after slaying the Arch Mage, Alistair found himselfincrementally feeling more magical power. He found that his spells wererequiring less action, words, and components. Instead, he was finding itwas more an act of his own thoughts and will.
The years drug on and Alistair found himself not getting older.Eventually, he realized he was over 100 years old and had not passedon.
One day, he was approached by an elderly looking elf.
“Alistair, the sorcerer supreme,” cried the elf, “My name is Gaeffinand I need you to do something for me!”
“Alistair, the sorcerer supreme? I doubt it,” said Alistair.
“Ah. But you slew the Arch Mage and are now one of us, the immortalwizards. And because, unbeknownst to you, the Arch Mage was the leadingsorcerer supreme that makes you his replacement.”
“What happens next?”
“You form your own Order of Wizards to hold back the tides of greaterevils in this world. I nominate myself as the first of your order.Thanks for the nomination and acceptance!”
“Huh.”
Quickly the Order was filled with the brightest magical talents. Themore talented were promoted to immortal and made lead of the Order. Theywere many.
They fought endlessly and tirelessly greater evils than a robberbaron or a person trying to take over Aetheria, unless deemed tooruthless, which was not often.
Despite all this, the Order of Wizards was entirely unprepared forthe evil that came from beyond Aetheria.
The Age of Gornakh
The rich magical world is possibly what attracted Gornakh to theAetheria in the first place. Nobody knows where this demon-god camefrom, nor do they know if it can be defeated. However, their acquisitionof Aetheria happened slowly and none saw it coming.
It began first with the ascension of the Necromancer, a vile beingwho had become one of the trusted Order. This corruption hit deep withinthe Order. Many lower ascendants were lured away to the power of Gornakhcoursing through the Necromancer. Thinking it was just a matter ofsomeone who revolted against the Order, Alistair defeated the“revolutionary.” However, this was not the end. The Necromancer cast aspell that converted his living flesh into undead, giving it now asecond chance at existence.
Next, Gornakh formed an elite group consisting of the newlyreconstituted Necromancer; Miranda, the Hellfire Maiden; Borgen, theoutcast dwarfen soldier; and Erdan, the wild human. These individualsbathed in the power of the magics as well. They were granted long life,possibly immortality, and limitless power, in exchange for their undyingloyalty and servitude. Once formed, these forces started discretelybuilding up a cadre of worshippers that did what they thought were theobjects of their worship’s desire. In reality, it was Gornakh’smachinations.
It was at this time rumor started to spread throughout the land of anew cult that worshipped a demon-god. Alistair sent Bragolbeleg, theelfen mage, to seek out, understand, and possibly destroy the cult.
It was there at the Temple of Borgen that Bragolbeleg was ambushed.He snuck into the temple only to find them waiting and magic flying.However, Bragolbeleg was too quick to the sword and too expedient withhis magic, that he was able to slay the cultists, for they were allmortals and no match for the immortal Wizard. It was then that Borgenappeared in his very flesh. He drew his axe and they exchanged severalblows. The sparks from Bragolbeleg’s magic flew everywhere, destroyingparts of the temple in the process. After a day of combat, Borgen fellto the mighty sword of Bragolbeleg, who fled the temple as quickly ashis exhausted self could muster.
Once back in the Black Tower, where Alistair resides, he received areport of all that had happened at the Temple of Borgen, both with theunfortunate mortals worshipping Borgen and the ensuing combat with thedead Gornakhan dwarf.
Something had to be done and the Order of Wizards knew this. Theysent several of their order on reconnaissance missions and led byGaeffin, the woodland elf. Many centuries would go by and Gaeffin wouldreturn with most of the Order that went with him. There were severalbattles, but Gornakh was located on Aetheria! It was residing in avolcanic mountain near the Castle of the Necromancer. This seemed like atrap, so the entire Order was summoned to decide on what to do.
The Cult of Gornakh, as they were wont to call it, was responsiblefor the pollution of Aetheria both physically and spirtually. Livingsacrifices were made in the name of Gornakh.
This was enough for Alistair. He ordered a full assault. However,treachery was in the Order and Gornakh learned of the assault, so it wasready!
Upon arrival at the volcano, the Order was “greeted” by the fullforce of Gornakh, including the remaining elite group. Impatiently, theNecromancer, who still bore grudges with the Order, struck first. Hesent black death upon the crowded forces. This slew many of the largeOrder as well as a few of the Gornakhan forces. Unfortunately, more ofthe Order was slain. Seeing a chance, the Order charged. Fire came downfrom the sky. Lighting and flames of death were everywhere. In the end,it was not the immortals who ruled the day. Rather, a small contingentof paladin who came with the Order, desiring only to rid the world ofGornakh and his evil ilk, came to the fore and performed a miracle.
Led by the well-loved Amanda, the paladin broke free and engagedGornakh directly! It was too busy gloating over the heavy losses theOrder was receiving, but not caring much for the losses its forces weretaking as well, to notice them. They struck hard and swift. Gornakh thenrealized its error tried to flee, breaking free from the paladin andtaking down many in its escape. Amanda pursued. Amanda, Gornakh, and alowly squire named Stephen all reached the inner volcano sanctum. It washere that Amanda and Gornakh engaged in one-on-one combat. She foughthard and bravely but was soon proving no match for the demon-god. So,she summoned all her holy might and smote the mortal form that Gornakhtook. In the process, her own form was obliterated.
Stephen, stunned by the incident, left the inner sanctum and stumbledout onto the battlefield. With the apparent distruction of Gornakh, andthe willing sacrifice of Amanda, the forces of Gornakh scattered exceptits more faithful elite. In the aftermath of the battle, it wasdiscovered that only Alistair, Gaeffin, and Bragolbeleg remain of theOrder. However, the forces of Gornakh only lost of the elite Erdan,Borgen being slewn earlier by Bragolbeleg.
In the years that followed the Great Battle, the Order still was indecline both in numbers and influence. Meanwhile, the Cult of Gornakhwas subtely growing in the hearts and minds of the social and politicalelites, must to the dismay of the remaining members of the Order. Assuch, Alistair gave commands that Gaeffin would return to the woodlandsand find a way to convince the woodland elfs to help replenish theranks. Bragolbeleg, being the more combat oriented, was to continue toseek out Gornakh’s influence and snuff it where possible. Alistair sworeto find aid in other realms and other worlds of different beings in adesperate attempt to acquire a sufficient force to defeat something ashorrendeous as a demon-god, the likes of which he had never seen.
Credits
This adventure would not be possible if it weren’t for my brotherKiel all those years ago coming up with the Order of Wizards and theirhistory. Without it, I would not be able to have many successfuladventures with several people over the years. The ones that come tomind are:
Dave Baker
Chris Brillhart
Michelle Brillhart
Ben Hill
Etiam Lawson
Kiel Moore
Shannon Moore
These individuals help shaped the face of Aetheria.
With that being said, there are new people who have joined in theadventure and specifically helped shape the world with the Two Bit RPG.They are of the Clowns Gang:
Henry Moore
Olivia Moore
A huge thank you of appreciation to all who have helped create,participate, and enjoy the world of Aetheria as it evolved from a seriesof short stories by Kiel to a Dungeons & Dragons adventure because Icouldn’t come up with something.
-
Aetheria
To Nina Nadu and to my children, Olivia and Henry, you all are myeverything
©2024. William Moore.
The setting of Aetheria was originally created by my brother Kiel inthe mid-90’s as a way to fulfill English homework. It was well receivedby the teacher Mr. Grey, who is this awesome hippy dude, as well asmyself. Consequently, we started to make comic books of our ownfeaturing the characters Kiel came up with and ones that I introduced.Then, as you do, you play Dungeons & Dragons. We looked no furtherthan the world, then unnamed. The following story is a reimagining ofthe history of Aetheria in a fashion that evolved out of this setting,now named Aetheria.
The Story
The Age of theOrder
The founding of the new ordering of the world after the defeat ofGornakh by the Order of the Wizards as told by the bard known only as“Johnathan”.
Aetheria is a world flush with magic. With each passing millenia, themagic gets all the more stronger. Realizing the potential fordestructiveness, Alistair, a human from a lowly background, formed theOrder of the Wizards. Each mage in the Order possessed an intricateknowledge of the magical forces of the world that they obtainedimmortality. Furthermore, this immortality came with the added benefitthat only other immortals may harm them.
However, the Order grew out of a previous League of Magical Users runby the so-called “Arch Mage”. The Arch Mage would periodically scour theland looking for potential magic users and those that were alreadypractitioners. It was during these travels that he met the youngAlistair, son of a blacksmith. The Arch Mage was fascinated by theconstruction of various metal works that Alistair constructed andnoticing that the young smithy would apply magic to cool the worksdifferently. After watching Alistair cool a horseshoe, the Arch Magedecided it was time to confront him.
“Young lad,” said the Arch Mage with a grin. “Where do you go aboutwith using magic?”
“I don’t know what you’re referring to,” said Alistair.
“That horseshoe you made. It was cooled in a way that was both quickand did not damage the metal.”
“Oh! That? It was a trick that I taught myself after talking with thelocal monks. They have these books on how to harness the magic of ourworld and use it for good.”
“Interesting. Come. You have no time to lose. I need more like you inthe League of Magical Users. We’re an elite group of those who harnessthe power of Aetheria.”
“Excuse me!?”
“Your magic abilities,” said the Arch Mage sternly, “they are uniqueand not found in the world every day. You’ll be made one of my grandmagisters if you so choose.”
“Let me think on it.”
And so, the Arch Mage left Alistair. He would return periodically andthe conversations were similar, ending with outright refusal.Eventually, the Arch Mage would not return to inquire if Alistair wasready to join or not.
Many more months would pass and the local region experienced arevolution. People, both innocent and soldier alike, were slain. Theywere led by a mysterious figure known only as General Archeus.Alistair’s town was not immune to the revolution whose bitter firesspread into the town. It started with the murder of the town’s mayor inthe night. Then, a week would go by and someone would disappear.Eventually, Alistair’s family went missing. Furious, he grabbed a swordof his own construction and went into the woods to root out therevolutionaries and do what he can to save the villagers or exactrevenge,
Stealthily, he made way into the nearest encampment and noticedseveral of his fellow townspeople bound up in the middle of the camp,near a raging fire. There was no sign of his family.
After a short period, people started to salute the entrance of thetent shouting “General Archeus, sir!” in near perfect unison. From thetent out came the Arch Mage who had been pestering him to join the ranksof the League of Magical Users.
Alistair snapped and channeled several spells, sending forth blackflames from his hands that struck several soldiers left and right. Hissword, red hot at this juncture, was pointed directly at the ArchMage.
“You must think that you can best me,” chuckled the Arch Mage, “youshould know that an immortal such as myself can only be defeated bysufficient magical energy.”
“Where’s my family?”
“Oh? Them? Well, they are no longer with us. I personally saw toit.”
Spitting out something like bile from his mouth, Alistair charged theArch Mage. The immortal easily dodged it and drew a dagger with which hecut Alistair’s cheek deeply.
“Consider this a kiss from the League. Now, if you join, I’ll spareyour life. Our roots are deep in the soil and it will be most difficultto remove them,” mocked the Arch Mage.
The two traded blows for what seemed like forever and with eachpassing moment, the Arch Mage forced Alistair nearer and nearer to thefire.
Eventually, Alistair realized his mistake.
“There’s one thing that I haven’t done that the local monks showedme,” teased Alistair.
“What’s that? How to be weaker?”
“No. This –”
With a downward slice of his sword that intentionally missed the ArchMage, the raging fire in the camp expanded towards the sky, bent over,and came crashing down onto the Arch Mage.
At first, the mage laughed. Eventually, the laughter of the so-calledGeneral Archeus turned into blood curdling screams as his body quicklyburnt away.
The fires then return to their normal state, leaving behind thecharred remains of the once great Arch Mage.
Freeing the remaining villagers who all cheered Alistair, he foundhimself suddenly alone once the last villager left. This lonliness wasdeeper than any he’s experienced before, as everyone finds themselvesalone at some point in life. This lonliness was borne out of the loss ofhis family.
Not long after slaying the Arch Mage, Alistair found himselfincrementally feeling more magical power. He found that his spells wererequiring less action, words, and components. Instead, he was finding itwas more an act of his own thoughts and will.
The years drug on and Alistair found himself not getting older.Eventually, he realized he was over 100 years old and had not passedon.
One day, he was approached by an elderly looking elf.
“Alistair, the sorcerer supreme,” cried the elf, “My name is Gaeffinand I need you to do something for me!”
“Alistair, the sorcerer supreme? I doubt it,” said Alistair.
“Ah. But you slew the Arch Mage and are now one of us, the immortalwizards. And because, unbeknownst to you, the Arch Mage was the leadingsorcerer supreme that makes you his replacement.”
“What happens next?”
“You form your own Order of Wizards to hold back the tides of greaterevils in this world. I nominate myself as the first of your order.Thanks for the nomination and acceptance!”
“Huh.”
Quickly the Order was filled with the brightest magical talents. Themore talented were promoted to immortal and made lead of the Order. Theywere many.
They fought endlessly and tirelessly greater evils than a robberbaron or a person trying to take over Aetheria, unless deemed tooruthless, which was not often.
Despite all this, the Order of Wizards was entirely unprepared forthe evil that came from beyond Aetheria.
The Age of Gornakh
The rich magical world is possibly what attracted Gornakh to theAetheria in the first place. Nobody knows where this demon-god camefrom, nor do they know if it can be defeated. However, their acquisitionof Aetheria happened slowly and none saw it coming.
It began first with the ascension of the Necromancer, a vile beingwho had become one of the trusted Order. This corruption hit deep withinthe Order. Many lower ascendants were lured away to the power of Gornakhcoursing through the Necromancer. Thinking it was just a matter ofsomeone who revolted against the Order, Alistair defeated the“revolutionary.” However, this was not the end. The Necromancer cast aspell that converted his living flesh into undead, giving it now asecond chance at existence.
Next, Gornakh formed an elite group consisting of the newlyreconstituted Necromancer; Miranda, the Hellfire Maiden; Borgen, theoutcast dwarfen soldier; and Erdan, the wild human. These individualsbathed in the power of the magics as well. They were granted long life,possibly immortality, and limitless power, in exchange for their undyingloyalty and servitude. Once formed, these forces started discretelybuilding up a cadre of worshippers that did what they thought were theobjects of their worship’s desire. In reality, it was Gornakh’smachinations.
It was at this time rumor started to spread throughout the land of anew cult that worshipped a demon-god. Alistair sent Bragolbeleg, theelfen mage, to seek out, understand, and possibly destroy the cult.
It was there at the Temple of Borgen that Bragolbeleg was ambushed.He snuck into the temple only to find them waiting and magic flying.However, Bragolbeleg was too quick to the sword and too expedient withhis magic, that he was able to slay the cultists, for they were allmortals and no match for the immortal Wizard. It was then that Borgenappeared in his very flesh. He drew his axe and they exchanged severalblows. The sparks from Bragolbeleg’s magic flew everywhere, destroyingparts of the temple in the process. After a day of combat, Borgen fellto the mighty sword of Bragolbeleg, who fled the temple as quickly ashis exhausted self could muster.
Once back in the Black Tower, where Alistair resides, he received areport of all that had happened at the Temple of Borgen, both with theunfortunate mortals worshipping Borgen and the ensuing combat with thedead Gornakhan dwarf.
Something had to be done and the Order of Wizards knew this. Theysent several of their order on reconnaissance missions and led byGaeffin, the woodland elf. Many centuries would go by and Gaeffin wouldreturn with most of the Order that went with him. There were severalbattles, but Gornakh was located on Aetheria! It was residing in avolcanic mountain near the Castle of the Necromancer. This seemed like atrap, so the entire Order was summoned to decide on what to do.
The Cult of Gornakh, as they were wont to call it, was responsiblefor the pollution of Aetheria both physically and spirtually. Livingsacrifices were made in the name of Gornakh.
This was enough for Alistair. He ordered a full assault. However,treachery was in the Order and Gornakh learned of the assault, so it wasready!
Upon arrival at the volcano, the Order was “greeted” by the fullforce of Gornakh, including the remaining elite group. Impatiently, theNecromancer, who still bore grudges with the Order, struck first. Hesent black death upon the crowded forces. This slew many of the largeOrder as well as a few of the Gornakhan forces. Unfortunately, more ofthe Order was slain. Seeing a chance, the Order charged. Fire came downfrom the sky. Lighting and flames of death were everywhere. In the end,it was not the immortals who ruled the day. Rather, a small contingentof paladin who came with the Order, desiring only to rid the world ofGornakh and his evil ilk, came to the fore and performed a miracle.
Led by the well-loved Amanda, the paladin broke free and engagedGornakh directly! It was too busy gloating over the heavy losses theOrder was receiving, but not caring much for the losses its forces weretaking as well, to notice them. They struck hard and swift. Gornakh thenrealized its error tried to flee, breaking free from the paladin andtaking down many in its escape. Amanda pursued. Amanda, Gornakh, and alowly squire named Stephen all reached the inner volcano sanctum. It washere that Amanda and Gornakh engaged in one-on-one combat. She foughthard and bravely but was soon proving no match for the demon-god. So,she summoned all her holy might and smote the mortal form that Gornakhtook. In the process, her own form was obliterated.
Stephen, stunned by the incident, left the inner sanctum and stumbledout onto the battlefield. With the apparent distruction of Gornakh, andthe willing sacrifice of Amanda, the forces of Gornakh scattered exceptits more faithful elite. In the aftermath of the battle, it wasdiscovered that only Alistair, Gaeffin, and Bragolbeleg remain of theOrder. However, the forces of Gornakh only lost of the elite Erdan,Borgen being slewn earlier by Bragolbeleg.
In the years that followed the Great Battle, the Order still was indecline both in numbers and influence. Meanwhile, the Cult of Gornakhwas subtely growing in the hearts and minds of the social and politicalelites, must to the dismay of the remaining members of the Order. Assuch, Alistair gave commands that Gaeffin would return to the woodlandsand find a way to convince the woodland elfs to help replenish theranks. Bragolbeleg, being the more combat oriented, was to continue toseek out Gornakh’s influence and snuff it where possible. Alistair sworeto find aid in other realms and other worlds of different beings in adesperate attempt to acquire a sufficient force to defeat something ashorrendeous as a demon-god, the likes of which he had never seen.
Credits
This adventure would not be possible if it weren’t for my brotherKiel all those years ago coming up with the Order of Wizards and theirhistory. Without it, I would not be able to have many successfuladventures with several people over the years. The ones that come tomind are:
Dave Baker
Chris Brillhart
Michelle Brillhart
Ben Hill
Etiam Lawson
Kiel Moore
Shannon Moore
These individuals help shaped the face of Aetheria.
With that being said, there are new people who have joined in theadventure and specifically helped shape the world with the Two Bit RPG.They are of the Clowns Gang:
Henry Moore
Olivia Moore
A huge thank you of appreciation to all who have helped create,participate, and enjoy the world of Aetheria as it evolved from a seriesof short stories by Kiel to a Dungeons & Dragons adventure because Icouldn’t come up with something.
-
Aetheria
To Nina Nadu and to my children, Olivia and Henry, you all are myeverything
©2024. William Moore.
The setting of Aetheria was originally created by my brother Kiel inthe mid-90’s as a way to fulfill English homework. It was well receivedby the teacher Mr. Grey, who is this awesome hippy dude, as well asmyself. Consequently, we started to make comic books of our ownfeaturing the characters Kiel came up with and ones that I introduced.Then, as you do, you play Dungeons & Dragons. We looked no furtherthan the world, then unnamed. The following story is a reimagining ofthe history of Aetheria in a fashion that evolved out of this setting,now named Aetheria.
The Story
The Age of theOrder
The founding of the new ordering of the world after the defeat ofGornakh by the Order of the Wizards as told by the bard known only as“Johnathan”.
Aetheria is a world flush with magic. With each passing millenia, themagic gets all the more stronger. Realizing the potential fordestructiveness, Alistair, a human from a lowly background, formed theOrder of the Wizards. Each mage in the Order possessed an intricateknowledge of the magical forces of the world that they obtainedimmortality. Furthermore, this immortality came with the added benefitthat only other immortals may harm them.
However, the Order grew out of a previous League of Magical Users runby the so-called “Arch Mage”. The Arch Mage would periodically scour theland looking for potential magic users and those that were alreadypractitioners. It was during these travels that he met the youngAlistair, son of a blacksmith. The Arch Mage was fascinated by theconstruction of various metal works that Alistair constructed andnoticing that the young smithy would apply magic to cool the worksdifferently. After watching Alistair cool a horseshoe, the Arch Magedecided it was time to confront him.
“Young lad,” said the Arch Mage with a grin. “Where do you go aboutwith using magic?”
“I don’t know what you’re referring to,” said Alistair.
“That horseshoe you made. It was cooled in a way that was both quickand did not damage the metal.”
“Oh! That? It was a trick that I taught myself after talking with thelocal monks. They have these books on how to harness the magic of ourworld and use it for good.”
“Interesting. Come. You have no time to lose. I need more like you inthe League of Magical Users. We’re an elite group of those who harnessthe power of Aetheria.”
“Excuse me!?”
“Your magic abilities,” said the Arch Mage sternly, “they are uniqueand not found in the world every day. You’ll be made one of my grandmagisters if you so choose.”
“Let me think on it.”
And so, the Arch Mage left Alistair. He would return periodically andthe conversations were similar, ending with outright refusal.Eventually, the Arch Mage would not return to inquire if Alistair wasready to join or not.
Many more months would pass and the local region experienced arevolution. People, both innocent and soldier alike, were slain. Theywere led by a mysterious figure known only as General Archeus.Alistair’s town was not immune to the revolution whose bitter firesspread into the town. It started with the murder of the town’s mayor inthe night. Then, a week would go by and someone would disappear.Eventually, Alistair’s family went missing. Furious, he grabbed a swordof his own construction and went into the woods to root out therevolutionaries and do what he can to save the villagers or exactrevenge,
Stealthily, he made way into the nearest encampment and noticedseveral of his fellow townspeople bound up in the middle of the camp,near a raging fire. There was no sign of his family.
After a short period, people started to salute the entrance of thetent shouting “General Archeus, sir!” in near perfect unison. From thetent out came the Arch Mage who had been pestering him to join the ranksof the League of Magical Users.
Alistair snapped and channeled several spells, sending forth blackflames from his hands that struck several soldiers left and right. Hissword, red hot at this juncture, was pointed directly at the ArchMage.
“You must think that you can best me,” chuckled the Arch Mage, “youshould know that an immortal such as myself can only be defeated bysufficient magical energy.”
“Where’s my family?”
“Oh? Them? Well, they are no longer with us. I personally saw toit.”
Spitting out something like bile from his mouth, Alistair charged theArch Mage. The immortal easily dodged it and drew a dagger with which hecut Alistair’s cheek deeply.
“Consider this a kiss from the League. Now, if you join, I’ll spareyour life. Our roots are deep in the soil and it will be most difficultto remove them,” mocked the Arch Mage.
The two traded blows for what seemed like forever and with eachpassing moment, the Arch Mage forced Alistair nearer and nearer to thefire.
Eventually, Alistair realized his mistake.
“There’s one thing that I haven’t done that the local monks showedme,” teased Alistair.
“What’s that? How to be weaker?”
“No. This –”
With a downward slice of his sword that intentionally missed the ArchMage, the raging fire in the camp expanded towards the sky, bent over,and came crashing down onto the Arch Mage.
At first, the mage laughed. Eventually, the laughter of the so-calledGeneral Archeus turned into blood curdling screams as his body quicklyburnt away.
The fires then return to their normal state, leaving behind thecharred remains of the once great Arch Mage.
Freeing the remaining villagers who all cheered Alistair, he foundhimself suddenly alone once the last villager left. This lonliness wasdeeper than any he’s experienced before, as everyone finds themselvesalone at some point in life. This lonliness was borne out of the loss ofhis family.
Not long after slaying the Arch Mage, Alistair found himselfincrementally feeling more magical power. He found that his spells wererequiring less action, words, and components. Instead, he was finding itwas more an act of his own thoughts and will.
The years drug on and Alistair found himself not getting older.Eventually, he realized he was over 100 years old and had not passedon.
One day, he was approached by an elderly looking elf.
“Alistair, the sorcerer supreme,” cried the elf, “My name is Gaeffinand I need you to do something for me!”
“Alistair, the sorcerer supreme? I doubt it,” said Alistair.
“Ah. But you slew the Arch Mage and are now one of us, the immortalwizards. And because, unbeknownst to you, the Arch Mage was the leadingsorcerer supreme that makes you his replacement.”
“What happens next?”
“You form your own Order of Wizards to hold back the tides of greaterevils in this world. I nominate myself as the first of your order.Thanks for the nomination and acceptance!”
“Huh.”
Quickly the Order was filled with the brightest magical talents. Themore talented were promoted to immortal and made lead of the Order. Theywere many.
They fought endlessly and tirelessly greater evils than a robberbaron or a person trying to take over Aetheria, unless deemed tooruthless, which was not often.
Despite all this, the Order of Wizards was entirely unprepared forthe evil that came from beyond Aetheria.
The Age of Gornakh
The rich magical world is possibly what attracted Gornakh to theAetheria in the first place. Nobody knows where this demon-god camefrom, nor do they know if it can be defeated. However, their acquisitionof Aetheria happened slowly and none saw it coming.
It began first with the ascension of the Necromancer, a vile beingwho had become one of the trusted Order. This corruption hit deep withinthe Order. Many lower ascendants were lured away to the power of Gornakhcoursing through the Necromancer. Thinking it was just a matter ofsomeone who revolted against the Order, Alistair defeated the“revolutionary.” However, this was not the end. The Necromancer cast aspell that converted his living flesh into undead, giving it now asecond chance at existence.
Next, Gornakh formed an elite group consisting of the newlyreconstituted Necromancer; Miranda, the Hellfire Maiden; Borgen, theoutcast dwarfen soldier; and Erdan, the wild human. These individualsbathed in the power of the magics as well. They were granted long life,possibly immortality, and limitless power, in exchange for their undyingloyalty and servitude. Once formed, these forces started discretelybuilding up a cadre of worshippers that did what they thought were theobjects of their worship’s desire. In reality, it was Gornakh’smachinations.
It was at this time rumor started to spread throughout the land of anew cult that worshipped a demon-god. Alistair sent Bragolbeleg, theelfen mage, to seek out, understand, and possibly destroy the cult.
It was there at the Temple of Borgen that Bragolbeleg was ambushed.He snuck into the temple only to find them waiting and magic flying.However, Bragolbeleg was too quick to the sword and too expedient withhis magic, that he was able to slay the cultists, for they were allmortals and no match for the immortal Wizard. It was then that Borgenappeared in his very flesh. He drew his axe and they exchanged severalblows. The sparks from Bragolbeleg’s magic flew everywhere, destroyingparts of the temple in the process. After a day of combat, Borgen fellto the mighty sword of Bragolbeleg, who fled the temple as quickly ashis exhausted self could muster.
Once back in the Black Tower, where Alistair resides, he received areport of all that had happened at the Temple of Borgen, both with theunfortunate mortals worshipping Borgen and the ensuing combat with thedead Gornakhan dwarf.
Something had to be done and the Order of Wizards knew this. Theysent several of their order on reconnaissance missions and led byGaeffin, the woodland elf. Many centuries would go by and Gaeffin wouldreturn with most of the Order that went with him. There were severalbattles, but Gornakh was located on Aetheria! It was residing in avolcanic mountain near the Castle of the Necromancer. This seemed like atrap, so the entire Order was summoned to decide on what to do.
The Cult of Gornakh, as they were wont to call it, was responsiblefor the pollution of Aetheria both physically and spirtually. Livingsacrifices were made in the name of Gornakh.
This was enough for Alistair. He ordered a full assault. However,treachery was in the Order and Gornakh learned of the assault, so it wasready!
Upon arrival at the volcano, the Order was “greeted” by the fullforce of Gornakh, including the remaining elite group. Impatiently, theNecromancer, who still bore grudges with the Order, struck first. Hesent black death upon the crowded forces. This slew many of the largeOrder as well as a few of the Gornakhan forces. Unfortunately, more ofthe Order was slain. Seeing a chance, the Order charged. Fire came downfrom the sky. Lighting and flames of death were everywhere. In the end,it was not the immortals who ruled the day. Rather, a small contingentof paladin who came with the Order, desiring only to rid the world ofGornakh and his evil ilk, came to the fore and performed a miracle.
Led by the well-loved Amanda, the paladin broke free and engagedGornakh directly! It was too busy gloating over the heavy losses theOrder was receiving, but not caring much for the losses its forces weretaking as well, to notice them. They struck hard and swift. Gornakh thenrealized its error tried to flee, breaking free from the paladin andtaking down many in its escape. Amanda pursued. Amanda, Gornakh, and alowly squire named Stephen all reached the inner volcano sanctum. It washere that Amanda and Gornakh engaged in one-on-one combat. She foughthard and bravely but was soon proving no match for the demon-god. So,she summoned all her holy might and smote the mortal form that Gornakhtook. In the process, her own form was obliterated.
Stephen, stunned by the incident, left the inner sanctum and stumbledout onto the battlefield. With the apparent distruction of Gornakh, andthe willing sacrifice of Amanda, the forces of Gornakh scattered exceptits more faithful elite. In the aftermath of the battle, it wasdiscovered that only Alistair, Gaeffin, and Bragolbeleg remain of theOrder. However, the forces of Gornakh only lost of the elite Erdan,Borgen being slewn earlier by Bragolbeleg.
In the years that followed the Great Battle, the Order still was indecline both in numbers and influence. Meanwhile, the Cult of Gornakhwas subtely growing in the hearts and minds of the social and politicalelites, must to the dismay of the remaining members of the Order. Assuch, Alistair gave commands that Gaeffin would return to the woodlandsand find a way to convince the woodland elfs to help replenish theranks. Bragolbeleg, being the more combat oriented, was to continue toseek out Gornakh’s influence and snuff it where possible. Alistair sworeto find aid in other realms and other worlds of different beings in adesperate attempt to acquire a sufficient force to defeat something ashorrendeous as a demon-god, the likes of which he had never seen.
Credits
This adventure would not be possible if it weren’t for my brotherKiel all those years ago coming up with the Order of Wizards and theirhistory. Without it, I would not be able to have many successfuladventures with several people over the years. The ones that come tomind are:
Dave Baker
Chris Brillhart
Michelle Brillhart
Ben Hill
Etiam Lawson
Kiel Moore
Shannon Moore
These individuals help shaped the face of Aetheria.
With that being said, there are new people who have joined in theadventure and specifically helped shape the world with the Two Bit RPG.They are of the Clowns Gang:
Henry Moore
Olivia Moore
A huge thank you of appreciation to all who have helped create,participate, and enjoy the world of Aetheria as it evolved from a seriesof short stories by Kiel to a Dungeons & Dragons adventure because Icouldn’t come up with something.
-
Aetheria
To Nina Nadu and to my children, Olivia and Henry, you all are myeverything
©2024. William Moore.
The setting of Aetheria was originally created by my brother Kiel inthe mid-90’s as a way to fulfill English homework. It was well receivedby the teacher Mr. Grey, who is this awesome hippy dude, as well asmyself. Consequently, we started to make comic books of our ownfeaturing the characters Kiel came up with and ones that I introduced.Then, as you do, you play Dungeons & Dragons. We looked no furtherthan the world, then unnamed. The following story is a reimagining ofthe history of Aetheria in a fashion that evolved out of this setting,now named Aetheria.
The Story
The Age of theOrder
The founding of the new ordering of the world after the defeat ofGornakh by the Order of the Wizards as told by the bard known only as“Johnathan”.
Aetheria is a world flush with magic. With each passing millenia, themagic gets all the more stronger. Realizing the potential fordestructiveness, Alistair, a human from a lowly background, formed theOrder of the Wizards. Each mage in the Order possessed an intricateknowledge of the magical forces of the world that they obtainedimmortality. Furthermore, this immortality came with the added benefitthat only other immortals may harm them.
However, the Order grew out of a previous League of Magical Users runby the so-called “Arch Mage”. The Arch Mage would periodically scour theland looking for potential magic users and those that were alreadypractitioners. It was during these travels that he met the youngAlistair, son of a blacksmith. The Arch Mage was fascinated by theconstruction of various metal works that Alistair constructed andnoticing that the young smithy would apply magic to cool the worksdifferently. After watching Alistair cool a horseshoe, the Arch Magedecided it was time to confront him.
“Young lad,” said the Arch Mage with a grin. “Where do you go aboutwith using magic?”
“I don’t know what you’re referring to,” said Alistair.
“That horseshoe you made. It was cooled in a way that was both quickand did not damage the metal.”
“Oh! That? It was a trick that I taught myself after talking with thelocal monks. They have these books on how to harness the magic of ourworld and use it for good.”
“Interesting. Come. You have no time to lose. I need more like you inthe League of Magical Users. We’re an elite group of those who harnessthe power of Aetheria.”
“Excuse me!?”
“Your magic abilities,” said the Arch Mage sternly, “they are uniqueand not found in the world every day. You’ll be made one of my grandmagisters if you so choose.”
“Let me think on it.”
And so, the Arch Mage left Alistair. He would return periodically andthe conversations were similar, ending with outright refusal.Eventually, the Arch Mage would not return to inquire if Alistair wasready to join or not.
Many more months would pass and the local region experienced arevolution. People, both innocent and soldier alike, were slain. Theywere led by a mysterious figure known only as General Archeus.Alistair’s town was not immune to the revolution whose bitter firesspread into the town. It started with the murder of the town’s mayor inthe night. Then, a week would go by and someone would disappear.Eventually, Alistair’s family went missing. Furious, he grabbed a swordof his own construction and went into the woods to root out therevolutionaries and do what he can to save the villagers or exactrevenge,
Stealthily, he made way into the nearest encampment and noticedseveral of his fellow townspeople bound up in the middle of the camp,near a raging fire. There was no sign of his family.
After a short period, people started to salute the entrance of thetent shouting “General Archeus, sir!” in near perfect unison. From thetent out came the Arch Mage who had been pestering him to join the ranksof the League of Magical Users.
Alistair snapped and channeled several spells, sending forth blackflames from his hands that struck several soldiers left and right. Hissword, red hot at this juncture, was pointed directly at the ArchMage.
“You must think that you can best me,” chuckled the Arch Mage, “youshould know that an immortal such as myself can only be defeated bysufficient magical energy.”
“Where’s my family?”
“Oh? Them? Well, they are no longer with us. I personally saw toit.”
Spitting out something like bile from his mouth, Alistair charged theArch Mage. The immortal easily dodged it and drew a dagger with which hecut Alistair’s cheek deeply.
“Consider this a kiss from the League. Now, if you join, I’ll spareyour life. Our roots are deep in the soil and it will be most difficultto remove them,” mocked the Arch Mage.
The two traded blows for what seemed like forever and with eachpassing moment, the Arch Mage forced Alistair nearer and nearer to thefire.
Eventually, Alistair realized his mistake.
“There’s one thing that I haven’t done that the local monks showedme,” teased Alistair.
“What’s that? How to be weaker?”
“No. This –”
With a downward slice of his sword that intentionally missed the ArchMage, the raging fire in the camp expanded towards the sky, bent over,and came crashing down onto the Arch Mage.
At first, the mage laughed. Eventually, the laughter of the so-calledGeneral Archeus turned into blood curdling screams as his body quicklyburnt away.
The fires then return to their normal state, leaving behind thecharred remains of the once great Arch Mage.
Freeing the remaining villagers who all cheered Alistair, he foundhimself suddenly alone once the last villager left. This lonliness wasdeeper than any he’s experienced before, as everyone finds themselvesalone at some point in life. This lonliness was borne out of the loss ofhis family.
Not long after slaying the Arch Mage, Alistair found himselfincrementally feeling more magical power. He found that his spells wererequiring less action, words, and components. Instead, he was finding itwas more an act of his own thoughts and will.
The years drug on and Alistair found himself not getting older.Eventually, he realized he was over 100 years old and had not passedon.
One day, he was approached by an elderly looking elf.
“Alistair, the sorcerer supreme,” cried the elf, “My name is Gaeffinand I need you to do something for me!”
“Alistair, the sorcerer supreme? I doubt it,” said Alistair.
“Ah. But you slew the Arch Mage and are now one of us, the immortalwizards. And because, unbeknownst to you, the Arch Mage was the leadingsorcerer supreme that makes you his replacement.”
“What happens next?”
“You form your own Order of Wizards to hold back the tides of greaterevils in this world. I nominate myself as the first of your order.Thanks for the nomination and acceptance!”
“Huh.”
Quickly the Order was filled with the brightest magical talents. Themore talented were promoted to immortal and made lead of the Order. Theywere many.
They fought endlessly and tirelessly greater evils than a robberbaron or a person trying to take over Aetheria, unless deemed tooruthless, which was not often.
Despite all this, the Order of Wizards was entirely unprepared forthe evil that came from beyond Aetheria.
The Age of Gornakh
The rich magical world is possibly what attracted Gornakh to theAetheria in the first place. Nobody knows where this demon-god camefrom, nor do they know if it can be defeated. However, their acquisitionof Aetheria happened slowly and none saw it coming.
It began first with the ascension of the Necromancer, a vile beingwho had become one of the trusted Order. This corruption hit deep withinthe Order. Many lower ascendants were lured away to the power of Gornakhcoursing through the Necromancer. Thinking it was just a matter ofsomeone who revolted against the Order, Alistair defeated the“revolutionary.” However, this was not the end. The Necromancer cast aspell that converted his living flesh into undead, giving it now asecond chance at existence.
Next, Gornakh formed an elite group consisting of the newlyreconstituted Necromancer; Miranda, the Hellfire Maiden; Borgen, theoutcast dwarfen soldier; and Erdan, the wild human. These individualsbathed in the power of the magics as well. They were granted long life,possibly immortality, and limitless power, in exchange for their undyingloyalty and servitude. Once formed, these forces started discretelybuilding up a cadre of worshippers that did what they thought were theobjects of their worship’s desire. In reality, it was Gornakh’smachinations.
It was at this time rumor started to spread throughout the land of anew cult that worshipped a demon-god. Alistair sent Bragolbeleg, theelfen mage, to seek out, understand, and possibly destroy the cult.
It was there at the Temple of Borgen that Bragolbeleg was ambushed.He snuck into the temple only to find them waiting and magic flying.However, Bragolbeleg was too quick to the sword and too expedient withhis magic, that he was able to slay the cultists, for they were allmortals and no match for the immortal Wizard. It was then that Borgenappeared in his very flesh. He drew his axe and they exchanged severalblows. The sparks from Bragolbeleg’s magic flew everywhere, destroyingparts of the temple in the process. After a day of combat, Borgen fellto the mighty sword of Bragolbeleg, who fled the temple as quickly ashis exhausted self could muster.
Once back in the Black Tower, where Alistair resides, he received areport of all that had happened at the Temple of Borgen, both with theunfortunate mortals worshipping Borgen and the ensuing combat with thedead Gornakhan dwarf.
Something had to be done and the Order of Wizards knew this. Theysent several of their order on reconnaissance missions and led byGaeffin, the woodland elf. Many centuries would go by and Gaeffin wouldreturn with most of the Order that went with him. There were severalbattles, but Gornakh was located on Aetheria! It was residing in avolcanic mountain near the Castle of the Necromancer. This seemed like atrap, so the entire Order was summoned to decide on what to do.
The Cult of Gornakh, as they were wont to call it, was responsiblefor the pollution of Aetheria both physically and spirtually. Livingsacrifices were made in the name of Gornakh.
This was enough for Alistair. He ordered a full assault. However,treachery was in the Order and Gornakh learned of the assault, so it wasready!
Upon arrival at the volcano, the Order was “greeted” by the fullforce of Gornakh, including the remaining elite group. Impatiently, theNecromancer, who still bore grudges with the Order, struck first. Hesent black death upon the crowded forces. This slew many of the largeOrder as well as a few of the Gornakhan forces. Unfortunately, more ofthe Order was slain. Seeing a chance, the Order charged. Fire came downfrom the sky. Lighting and flames of death were everywhere. In the end,it was not the immortals who ruled the day. Rather, a small contingentof paladin who came with the Order, desiring only to rid the world ofGornakh and his evil ilk, came to the fore and performed a miracle.
Led by the well-loved Amanda, the paladin broke free and engagedGornakh directly! It was too busy gloating over the heavy losses theOrder was receiving, but not caring much for the losses its forces weretaking as well, to notice them. They struck hard and swift. Gornakh thenrealized its error tried to flee, breaking free from the paladin andtaking down many in its escape. Amanda pursued. Amanda, Gornakh, and alowly squire named Stephen all reached the inner volcano sanctum. It washere that Amanda and Gornakh engaged in one-on-one combat. She foughthard and bravely but was soon proving no match for the demon-god. So,she summoned all her holy might and smote the mortal form that Gornakhtook. In the process, her own form was obliterated.
Stephen, stunned by the incident, left the inner sanctum and stumbledout onto the battlefield. With the apparent distruction of Gornakh, andthe willing sacrifice of Amanda, the forces of Gornakh scattered exceptits more faithful elite. In the aftermath of the battle, it wasdiscovered that only Alistair, Gaeffin, and Bragolbeleg remain of theOrder. However, the forces of Gornakh only lost of the elite Erdan,Borgen being slewn earlier by Bragolbeleg.
In the years that followed the Great Battle, the Order still was indecline both in numbers and influence. Meanwhile, the Cult of Gornakhwas subtely growing in the hearts and minds of the social and politicalelites, must to the dismay of the remaining members of the Order. Assuch, Alistair gave commands that Gaeffin would return to the woodlandsand find a way to convince the woodland elfs to help replenish theranks. Bragolbeleg, being the more combat oriented, was to continue toseek out Gornakh’s influence and snuff it where possible. Alistair sworeto find aid in other realms and other worlds of different beings in adesperate attempt to acquire a sufficient force to defeat something ashorrendeous as a demon-god, the likes of which he had never seen.
Credits
This adventure would not be possible if it weren’t for my brotherKiel all those years ago coming up with the Order of Wizards and theirhistory. Without it, I would not be able to have many successfuladventures with several people over the years. The ones that come tomind are:
Dave Baker
Chris Brillhart
Michelle Brillhart
Ben Hill
Etiam Lawson
Kiel Moore
Shannon Moore
These individuals help shaped the face of Aetheria.
With that being said, there are new people who have joined in theadventure and specifically helped shape the world with the Two Bit RPG.They are of the Clowns Gang:
Henry Moore
Olivia Moore
A huge thank you of appreciation to all who have helped create,participate, and enjoy the world of Aetheria as it evolved from a seriesof short stories by Kiel to a Dungeons & Dragons adventure because Icouldn’t come up with something.
-
Aetheria
To Nina Nadu and to my children, Olivia and Henry, you all are myeverything
©2024. William Moore.
The setting of Aetheria was originally created by my brother Kiel inthe mid-90’s as a way to fulfill English homework. It was well receivedby the teacher Mr. Grey, who is this awesome hippy dude, as well asmyself. Consequently, we started to make comic books of our ownfeaturing the characters Kiel came up with and ones that I introduced.Then, as you do, you play Dungeons & Dragons. We looked no furtherthan the world, then unnamed. The following story is a reimagining ofthe history of Aetheria in a fashion that evolved out of this setting,now named Aetheria.
The Story
The Age of theOrder
The founding of the new ordering of the world after the defeat ofGornakh by the Order of the Wizards as told by the bard known only as“Johnathan”.
Aetheria is a world flush with magic. With each passing millenia, themagic gets all the more stronger. Realizing the potential fordestructiveness, Alistair, a human from a lowly background, formed theOrder of the Wizards. Each mage in the Order possessed an intricateknowledge of the magical forces of the world that they obtainedimmortality. Furthermore, this immortality came with the added benefitthat only other immortals may harm them.
However, the Order grew out of a previous League of Magical Users runby the so-called “Arch Mage”. The Arch Mage would periodically scour theland looking for potential magic users and those that were alreadypractitioners. It was during these travels that he met the youngAlistair, son of a blacksmith. The Arch Mage was fascinated by theconstruction of various metal works that Alistair constructed andnoticing that the young smithy would apply magic to cool the worksdifferently. After watching Alistair cool a horseshoe, the Arch Magedecided it was time to confront him.
“Young lad,” said the Arch Mage with a grin. “Where do you go aboutwith using magic?”
“I don’t know what you’re referring to,” said Alistair.
“That horseshoe you made. It was cooled in a way that was both quickand did not damage the metal.”
“Oh! That? It was a trick that I taught myself after talking with thelocal monks. They have these books on how to harness the magic of ourworld and use it for good.”
“Interesting. Come. You have no time to lose. I need more like you inthe League of Magical Users. We’re an elite group of those who harnessthe power of Aetheria.”
“Excuse me!?”
“Your magic abilities,” said the Arch Mage sternly, “they are uniqueand not found in the world every day. You’ll be made one of my grandmagisters if you so choose.”
“Let me think on it.”
And so, the Arch Mage left Alistair. He would return periodically andthe conversations were similar, ending with outright refusal.Eventually, the Arch Mage would not return to inquire if Alistair wasready to join or not.
Many more months would pass and the local region experienced arevolution. People, both innocent and soldier alike, were slain. Theywere led by a mysterious figure known only as General Archeus.Alistair’s town was not immune to the revolution whose bitter firesspread into the town. It started with the murder of the town’s mayor inthe night. Then, a week would go by and someone would disappear.Eventually, Alistair’s family went missing. Furious, he grabbed a swordof his own construction and went into the woods to root out therevolutionaries and do what he can to save the villagers or exactrevenge,
Stealthily, he made way into the nearest encampment and noticedseveral of his fellow townspeople bound up in the middle of the camp,near a raging fire. There was no sign of his family.
After a short period, people started to salute the entrance of thetent shouting “General Archeus, sir!” in near perfect unison. From thetent out came the Arch Mage who had been pestering him to join the ranksof the League of Magical Users.
Alistair snapped and channeled several spells, sending forth blackflames from his hands that struck several soldiers left and right. Hissword, red hot at this juncture, was pointed directly at the ArchMage.
“You must think that you can best me,” chuckled the Arch Mage, “youshould know that an immortal such as myself can only be defeated bysufficient magical energy.”
“Where’s my family?”
“Oh? Them? Well, they are no longer with us. I personally saw toit.”
Spitting out something like bile from his mouth, Alistair charged theArch Mage. The immortal easily dodged it and drew a dagger with which hecut Alistair’s cheek deeply.
“Consider this a kiss from the League. Now, if you join, I’ll spareyour life. Our roots are deep in the soil and it will be most difficultto remove them,” mocked the Arch Mage.
The two traded blows for what seemed like forever and with eachpassing moment, the Arch Mage forced Alistair nearer and nearer to thefire.
Eventually, Alistair realized his mistake.
“There’s one thing that I haven’t done that the local monks showedme,” teased Alistair.
“What’s that? How to be weaker?”
“No. This –”
With a downward slice of his sword that intentionally missed the ArchMage, the raging fire in the camp expanded towards the sky, bent over,and came crashing down onto the Arch Mage.
At first, the mage laughed. Eventually, the laughter of the so-calledGeneral Archeus turned into blood curdling screams as his body quicklyburnt away.
The fires then return to their normal state, leaving behind thecharred remains of the once great Arch Mage.
Freeing the remaining villagers who all cheered Alistair, he foundhimself suddenly alone once the last villager left. This lonliness wasdeeper than any he’s experienced before, as everyone finds themselvesalone at some point in life. This lonliness was borne out of the loss ofhis family.
Not long after slaying the Arch Mage, Alistair found himselfincrementally feeling more magical power. He found that his spells wererequiring less action, words, and components. Instead, he was finding itwas more an act of his own thoughts and will.
The years drug on and Alistair found himself not getting older.Eventually, he realized he was over 100 years old and had not passedon.
One day, he was approached by an elderly looking elf.
“Alistair, the sorcerer supreme,” cried the elf, “My name is Gaeffinand I need you to do something for me!”
“Alistair, the sorcerer supreme? I doubt it,” said Alistair.
“Ah. But you slew the Arch Mage and are now one of us, the immortalwizards. And because, unbeknownst to you, the Arch Mage was the leadingsorcerer supreme that makes you his replacement.”
“What happens next?”
“You form your own Order of Wizards to hold back the tides of greaterevils in this world. I nominate myself as the first of your order.Thanks for the nomination and acceptance!”
“Huh.”
Quickly the Order was filled with the brightest magical talents. Themore talented were promoted to immortal and made lead of the Order. Theywere many.
They fought endlessly and tirelessly greater evils than a robberbaron or a person trying to take over Aetheria, unless deemed tooruthless, which was not often.
Despite all this, the Order of Wizards was entirely unprepared forthe evil that came from beyond Aetheria.
The Age of Gornakh
The rich magical world is possibly what attracted Gornakh to theAetheria in the first place. Nobody knows where this demon-god camefrom, nor do they know if it can be defeated. However, their acquisitionof Aetheria happened slowly and none saw it coming.
It began first with the ascension of the Necromancer, a vile beingwho had become one of the trusted Order. This corruption hit deep withinthe Order. Many lower ascendants were lured away to the power of Gornakhcoursing through the Necromancer. Thinking it was just a matter ofsomeone who revolted against the Order, Alistair defeated the“revolutionary.” However, this was not the end. The Necromancer cast aspell that converted his living flesh into undead, giving it now asecond chance at existence.
Next, Gornakh formed an elite group consisting of the newlyreconstituted Necromancer; Miranda, the Hellfire Maiden; Borgen, theoutcast dwarfen soldier; and Erdan, the wild human. These individualsbathed in the power of the magics as well. They were granted long life,possibly immortality, and limitless power, in exchange for their undyingloyalty and servitude. Once formed, these forces started discretelybuilding up a cadre of worshippers that did what they thought were theobjects of their worship’s desire. In reality, it was Gornakh’smachinations.
It was at this time rumor started to spread throughout the land of anew cult that worshipped a demon-god. Alistair sent Bragolbeleg, theelfen mage, to seek out, understand, and possibly destroy the cult.
It was there at the Temple of Borgen that Bragolbeleg was ambushed.He snuck into the temple only to find them waiting and magic flying.However, Bragolbeleg was too quick to the sword and too expedient withhis magic, that he was able to slay the cultists, for they were allmortals and no match for the immortal Wizard. It was then that Borgenappeared in his very flesh. He drew his axe and they exchanged severalblows. The sparks from Bragolbeleg’s magic flew everywhere, destroyingparts of the temple in the process. After a day of combat, Borgen fellto the mighty sword of Bragolbeleg, who fled the temple as quickly ashis exhausted self could muster.
Once back in the Black Tower, where Alistair resides, he received areport of all that had happened at the Temple of Borgen, both with theunfortunate mortals worshipping Borgen and the ensuing combat with thedead Gornakhan dwarf.
Something had to be done and the Order of Wizards knew this. Theysent several of their order on reconnaissance missions and led byGaeffin, the woodland elf. Many centuries would go by and Gaeffin wouldreturn with most of the Order that went with him. There were severalbattles, but Gornakh was located on Aetheria! It was residing in avolcanic mountain near the Castle of the Necromancer. This seemed like atrap, so the entire Order was summoned to decide on what to do.
The Cult of Gornakh, as they were wont to call it, was responsiblefor the pollution of Aetheria both physically and spirtually. Livingsacrifices were made in the name of Gornakh.
This was enough for Alistair. He ordered a full assault. However,treachery was in the Order and Gornakh learned of the assault, so it wasready!
Upon arrival at the volcano, the Order was “greeted” by the fullforce of Gornakh, including the remaining elite group. Impatiently, theNecromancer, who still bore grudges with the Order, struck first. Hesent black death upon the crowded forces. This slew many of the largeOrder as well as a few of the Gornakhan forces. Unfortunately, more ofthe Order was slain. Seeing a chance, the Order charged. Fire came downfrom the sky. Lighting and flames of death were everywhere. In the end,it was not the immortals who ruled the day. Rather, a small contingentof paladin who came with the Order, desiring only to rid the world ofGornakh and his evil ilk, came to the fore and performed a miracle.
Led by the well-loved Amanda, the paladin broke free and engagedGornakh directly! It was too busy gloating over the heavy losses theOrder was receiving, but not caring much for the losses its forces weretaking as well, to notice them. They struck hard and swift. Gornakh thenrealized its error tried to flee, breaking free from the paladin andtaking down many in its escape. Amanda pursued. Amanda, Gornakh, and alowly squire named Stephen all reached the inner volcano sanctum. It washere that Amanda and Gornakh engaged in one-on-one combat. She foughthard and bravely but was soon proving no match for the demon-god. So,she summoned all her holy might and smote the mortal form that Gornakhtook. In the process, her own form was obliterated.
Stephen, stunned by the incident, left the inner sanctum and stumbledout onto the battlefield. With the apparent distruction of Gornakh, andthe willing sacrifice of Amanda, the forces of Gornakh scattered exceptits more faithful elite. In the aftermath of the battle, it wasdiscovered that only Alistair, Gaeffin, and Bragolbeleg remain of theOrder. However, the forces of Gornakh only lost of the elite Erdan,Borgen being slewn earlier by Bragolbeleg.
In the years that followed the Great Battle, the Order still was indecline both in numbers and influence. Meanwhile, the Cult of Gornakhwas subtely growing in the hearts and minds of the social and politicalelites, must to the dismay of the remaining members of the Order. Assuch, Alistair gave commands that Gaeffin would return to the woodlandsand find a way to convince the woodland elfs to help replenish theranks. Bragolbeleg, being the more combat oriented, was to continue toseek out Gornakh’s influence and snuff it where possible. Alistair sworeto find aid in other realms and other worlds of different beings in adesperate attempt to acquire a sufficient force to defeat something ashorrendeous as a demon-god, the likes of which he had never seen.
Credits
This adventure would not be possible if it weren’t for my brotherKiel all those years ago coming up with the Order of Wizards and theirhistory. Without it, I would not be able to have many successfuladventures with several people over the years. The ones that come tomind are:
Dave Baker
Chris Brillhart
Michelle Brillhart
Ben Hill
Etiam Lawson
Kiel Moore
Shannon Moore
These individuals help shaped the face of Aetheria.
With that being said, there are new people who have joined in theadventure and specifically helped shape the world with the Two Bit RPG.They are of the Clowns Gang:
Henry Moore
Olivia Moore
A huge thank you of appreciation to all who have helped create,participate, and enjoy the world of Aetheria as it evolved from a seriesof short stories by Kiel to a Dungeons & Dragons adventure because Icouldn’t come up with something.
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#ThingsFallApart, including the ventilation shafts of the doomsday bunkers the billionaires build, because whoever is left on the surface will drop venomous animals, dirt, and anything else to gum them up.
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I didn’t know R when I wanted to do spatial analysis. So I used some tools I knew: Turf.js & GeoJSON. For a spatial join, I created a hex grid and created attributes for each cell based on how features intersected.
https://mark.stosberg.com/how-to-create-a-heatmap-sidewalk-location-priority/
#SpatialDataScience #mapping #SpatialEquity #geospatial https://masto.machlis.com/@smach/110831326651730942
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#ThingsFallApart, including the ventilation shafts of the doomsday bunkers the billionaires build, because whoever is left on the surface will drop venomous animals, dirt, and anything else to gum them up.
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#ThingsFallApart, including the ventilation shafts of the doomsday bunkers the billionaires build, because whoever is left on the surface will drop venomous animals, dirt, and anything else to gum them up.
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#ThingsFallApart, including the ventilation shafts of the doomsday bunkers the billionaires build, because whoever is left on the surface will drop venomous animals, dirt, and anything else to gum them up.
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#ThingsFallApart, including the ventilation shafts of the doomsday bunkers the billionaires build, because whoever is left on the surface will drop venomous animals, dirt, and anything else to gum them up.
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Setzt die Staatsmacht in #Frankreich auf eine Strategie der Spannung? Gespräch mit Bernard Schmid vom Freitag zu den Protesten gegen die #Rentenreform. Anders als das teilweise dargestellt wird, ebben die Proteste bisher nicht ab. Zunehmend setzt man z.B. bei den Raffinerien auf "Dienstverpflichtungen". Wer auf dem Laufenden bleiben will, kann Berichte von Bernard auch bei @labournet_de lesen. Am Dienstag ist wieder Aktionstag. #reformederetraites #Streik #Repression https://rdl.de/beitrag/setzt-die-staatsmacht-frankreich-auf-eine-strategie-der-spannung
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This doggo should be in Border protection, period.
A thing about arriving at an airport is the doggos they work the arrivals area. These dogs have higher public ratings than any politician -- okay, every dog does.
I give Findley a Treat, who bounds away with her prize. I slip a different kind of treat in my shirt pocket and trot back into my den.
I'm accosted by a pooch after my shirt pocket! How is this even possible, she was metres away eating a Smacho?
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Kyle Walker: “Lots of new features landing in R's mapgl package as it approaches an 0.5.0 release. Today's drop:
- An interactive color ramp picker for your legends
- Native bivariate choropleth mapping” -
“If you like podcasts and computer-assisted investigative journalism you might enjoy this podcast feed of audio recordings from the 2024, 2025, and 2026 NICAR conferences.” - @john
https://github.com/bcks/nicar
#NICAR26 #DDJ -
From @kleinmatic: “I'm launching a site and newsletter to track and celebrate open-work culture in news. I'll be posting bi-weekly updates on the best new open source projects from the 350+ newsrooms we track. First issue is here: “
https://openjournalism.news/2026/03/15/open-journalism-update-march-1-14-2026/
#DDJ #OpenSource -
Now both the front end and back end for Investigative Reporters & Editors' new semantic-searchable archives -- unveiled at #NICAR26 -- have been open sourced 🎉🎉
Front end (SvelteKit): https://github.com/ireapps/ire-archive-frontend
Back end (FastAPI): https://github.com/ireapps/ire-archive-backend
#DDJ -
25 free resources, presentations & tip sheets so far added to my searchable table of #NICAR26 materials, including
10 Things you Didn't Know You Could Do in R
AI Glossary for Journalists
Decoding Deportation Data
https://apps.machlis.com/shiny/nicar20_resources/
Plus lots from prior yrs
##RStats #Python #GenAI #DDJ -
R folks listening to this morning's #NICAR26 session on extracting data from documents and - importantly! - how to check your results: You can set up and run evaluations of LLM results with the {vitals} #rstats 📦
https://www.infoworld.com/article/4130274/how-to-choose-the-best-llm-using-r-and-vitals.html #DDJ -
RE: https://mastodon.palewi.re/@palewire/116176285413735482
This looks like it will be a very cool resource for data journalism ⬇️⬇️⬇️
You need to be an Investigative Reporters & Editors member to access. Announced at the #NICAR26 data journalism conference #DDJ -
Seen online: ProPublica is hiring a data reporter, 5 yrs data journalism exp req'd. Salary $110K-$135K. Knowledge of Python or #RStats.
US remote or option to work in NY, DC, Atlanta, Chicago, Phoenix or Berkeley
More info:
https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/propublica/jobs/4646966006
#DDJ #JournalismJobs -
Florent Daudens at Hugging Face shared a notebook from his workshop on open source AI and journalism. It "walks through extracting entities from text, transcribing interviews, identifying objects in images, spinning up a demo with Gradio, etc" #GenAI #Python #ddj
https://colab.research.google.com/drive/1n75iB6_0rw5eI0LBgfts1mTOcYHSj-Ca?usp=sharing -
From Matt Boggie, CTO: "The Philadelphia Inquirer has released an open-source version of our internal archive tool 'Dewey', a RAG-based application built for exploring our deep historical archives and tuned for newsroom use. For some complex reporting tasks, this tool can take days out of a weeks-long research process."
https://github.com/Lenfest-Institute/ai-collab-dewey-ai
#GenAI #DDJ -
This week's European Data & Computational Journalism conference was livestreamed. If, like me, you missed it live, some is available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/ANPotC39zHA #ddj
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After days of family, friends & feasts, wouldn't it be fun to attend an R-Ladies meetup about AI and R? 😀
Join me at 10 am ET / 4 pm CET Sunday of US Thanksgiving weekend at an R-Ladies Paris virtual meetup! (Sadly I will not be in Paris….) #RStats #GenAI #RLadies
https://www.meetup.com/rladies-paris/events/312083756/