In the ancient annals of Ashling's history, the echoes of a time 2500 years ago reverberate, when the diverse races first set foot upon its hallowed grounds. Legends speak of the mystical awakening orchestrated by the enigmatic Holy Mothers, revered as celestial caretakers sent by the Gods themselves. These divine figures nurtured the nascent races until they were deemed ready to forge their destinies on their own. Their profound teachings and guidance imprinted deep marks upon the civilizations that followed, influencing the path of knowledge, culture, and spirituality for millennia to come.
As the young races ventured forth to discover the uncharted corners of Ashling, a delicate dance of exploration, territorial claims, and cultural exchange unfolded. Triumphs and challenges marked their journey, leading to periods of both unprecedented prosperity and devastating conflicts. Societies flourished, and the first "halfs," born of unions between different races, graced the land, becoming embodiments of unity and harmony, yet facing the burden of societal prejudice and segregation.
Within the tapestry of alliances and rivalries that wove its way through Ashling's history, mighty leaders and conquerors rose to prominence. One such figure was the legendary Dwarven King, Kilthen Grutenfist, of the Red Mountains in southern Feltra. A master tactician and diplomat, Kilthen forged an unprecedented alliance with the Goliath warlords of Roselake in Rania. This coalition enabled the Dwarves to enslave thousands of Orcs that once inhabited the coastline of the Hyron Sea, forever shaping the course of their respective civilizations.
Meanwhile, far from the southern reaches, the Pact of Al Aron emerged as a testament to the power of unity in the face of adversity. Gnomes and Elves found themselves united against the snake-humanoids of Grotorus Island. Their shared determination and sacrifice became a beacon of hope for many, leaving an enduring legacy that resonates even in the present age.
Yet, not all chapters in Ashling's history were filled with valor and virtue. The haunting melodies of Elven bards recount the tragedy of El Opus, a hidden city in the frigid north of Xenus. The city fell victim to a malevolent coalition of Humans, Dark Elves, and hordes of goblinoids. The destruction and cruelty unleashed upon El Opus serve as a somber reminder of the dark shadows that sometimes loom over even the most enchanting lands.
As for Ashling's geography, it stretches across two vast continents, Xenus and Feltra, each boasting unique landscapes and cultural tapestries. The ocean of Ranon separates these continents, its waves echoing tales of distant lands and mysteries yet to be unveiled. To the south, the subcontinent of Rania stands resolute, a vast island blessed with untamed beauty and secrets hidden within its emerald forests.
In the far reaches of the northern hemisphere, the Frozen Beyond blankets the land in an eternal shroud of ice and snow. Few dare to venture into this realm of freezing winds and mythical creatures, for it holds the secrets of ages long past.
Conversely, in the southern latitudes, the endless sea of Utilus stretches, adorned with over a thousand secluded islands. Uninhabited for the most part, these islands remain untouched, their mysteries awaiting intrepid explorers seeking untold treasures and arcane knowledge.
Throughout Ashling's expanse, mountain ranges rise like sentinels, shaping the land and its civilizations. The Red Mountains in Feltra hold a special place in history, serving as a natural divide between the east and west. Long ago, Dwarven ingenuity connected these lands through a labyrinth of tunnels, a testament to the strength and craftsmanship of their ancient kingdoms. Though the collapse of those once-thriving civilizations has reduced the number of accessible tunnels, their remnants continue to evoke awe and curiosity.
In Rania, the Arvug range reaches for the heavens, its peaks touching the skies in a breathtaking spectacle of nature's majesty. Meanwhile, in Xenus, a tapestry of mountains unfolds, with notable ranges like Stonearm guarding the northeast, and Shieldverin standing resolute in the cold heart of the north. The latter range, with its towering presence, protects the region from icy winds originating from the Frozen Beyond, nurturing lush forests and vibrant wildlife.
Further south, the twin ranges of Istvar and Grudvar shape the landscape of Xenus, creating the awe-inspiring Kalidron valley. Rich and bountiful, this valley has been a focal point of numerous wars and conflicts, each seeking to harness its abundance for their ambitions.
Ashling's prosperity extends beyond its mountains to embrace its lush forests, fertile valleys, and winding rivers. The teachings of the Holy Mothers allowed the mortal races to thrive upon this fertile soil, nurturing the seeds of civilization. Yet, these fertile lands also bore witness to countless clashes as territories were contested and lives lost in the struggle for dominance.
Amidst the verdant tapestry, majestic forests like Xanvir, Grenvault, and Quen stand tall, each harboring its own mysteries and stories. These natural sanctuaries serve as a testament to the beauty of the world, beckoning explorers and wanderers to immerse themselves in the untamed wilderness.
Flowing through the heart of Ashling, rivers serve as the lifeblood of the land, connecting civilizations and cultures in a delicate network of trade and communication. The mighty Giltus River, born in the Kalidron valley, weaves its way across the continent, carrying the life-sustaining waters to distant realms. The Frozenflow River, coursing through the northern reaches of Feltra, freezes with an ethereal beauty during the cold winter months, yet remains a vital artery of trade throughout the year.
In the rich valleys of Avril in Naroth and Nintres in the Easter part of Rania, the fruits of nature and the ingenuity of the inhabitants intertwine to create bountiful regions, flourishing with prosperity and cultural brilliance.
As the epochs unfold, Ashling continues to be a world of enigmatic wonders and captivating tales. The diversity of its races, the echoes of ancient alliances, the scars of conflicts, and the vibrant heartbeat of its natural splendor blend together to create an ever-evolving narrative, inviting the intrepid to explore, to dream, and to weave their own stories upon its timeless canvas.