Prologue for July 2026

Many Centuries ago:

The dense jungles in the heart of Xithinthax saw sporadic spread of humans; the predecessors to the Toahcan Empire lived peacefully, taking from the jungle what they needed and returning to keep the jungle fertile when they died. A sudden incursion of demons would threaten these people. The Selendrians to the north and their neighbors, the Jaxuarians, would come to aid and ensure that this incursion would be short-lived.

Nin’Ishda, the Twin-Headed Snake of Cycle, called these lands their home during this time. It would be many years before reverence by the people of the jungle would begin. Nin’ishda kept the balance between humans and nature here, a cohesive existence of the residents of Arawyn in this space.

On a fateful evening during the incursion, the jungles were nearly pitch black. The dense tree canopy blocked the moon, and the mortals kept no light, so as not to attract the attention of the demons. Nin’Ishda had no issue with darkness, as they pushed through the flora. However, the snake slowed when a singular horned being stood in their path. 

Nin’ishda understood that this being was an affront to Arawyn. The snake turned so that the Brother Head could stare, a large eye regarding the Horned Stranger. The head raised, preparing to strike. This would be the only warning given to the intruder.

Vitriolix, however, had considered this moment.

The purpose of this incursion was to create this encounter. Vitriolix did not move, for the Primal Spirit did not scare them. Finally, the Amun’la finally sprang to life, a spike of Abyssal energy let loose from their fingers, striking the Twin Snake in the side. The Brother head continued to attempt to strike Vitriolix as the sister head writhed in pain. However, this intruder was fast, and before long, Nin’Ishda lost sight of the demon. Bleeding heavily, they coiled to inspect their wound. Abyssal energy lingered, and in concern, the Primal Spirit enclosed it within a hard shell of primal energy before returning to their meandering of the jungle.

Like a seed this would sit in their body. Waiting. Just like Vitriolix intended. 

The End of June 1226:

Terroth took to the sky, as a presence had entered the borders of his territory. Not only had Anguine begun to mark Pendarvin, he had begun to mark all land within the Barony of Travance as his territory.  Terroth saw the corruption that began to infect the plants in the wake of Anguine’s movement. The Abyssal energy was enough for Terroth to know that this intruder must not be allowed to spread anything more. 

Despite hesitation, instinct overrode the Primal Spirit. The Eagle Spirit of the Mountains knew that he was not the only one in harmony with these lands. Orin would be found first if Terroth did not act. 

Terroth descended, searching for the presence. Unfortunately, this lowering of altitude made him vulnerable to the arboreal snake. Fangs pierced the Eagle’s thigh and dragged the bird to the ground. At that moment, venom seeped into the Eagle. 

In the scuffle, Terroth was able to free himself. Though the true goal had already been achieved. Terroth flew off, as he felt the venom surge through his blood. He knew what was coming, and instinct told him to be far away from anyone he was meant to protect.

July 1226:

Footfall can be heard through the Forests of the Barony. The leaves crunch differently here. The flora is different, the animals too. There is not much that the triplets love about this place. They would’ve preferred the jungles but that is not where Anguine is.

Their only job is to please Anguine, as it has been for centuries. 

The Profane Triplets remember balance and cycle, though it feels so far away. The one truth they know is that there is no getting rid of Anguine. He is necessary, in whatever form he is. They have dedicated their lives to ensuring that he remains. They will ensure his return.

The oldest enters a clearing, carrying an altar bowl. She places it down as the middle sibling enters next. Behind her are commoners. They carry logs, stones, and other items to build infrastructure. The two regard each other as the youngest approaches. Behind her, corrupted creatures followed. Protectors and guards for this sacred space. 

The Great Ecdysis was to begin again, but first, the area must be prepared and the power gathered. Travance would provide both through whatever means necessary. 

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It is said that Travance is a place where miracles can happen. Foes vanquished and the world protected. The town of Heroes is filled with immeasurable power. However, its strength is not just the wondrous forces Heroes wield, but the conviction of the Town to find answers and their tenacity to see it through. There is one who may believe in the town the most at this moment: an opalescent sister snake who hides her presence within the nearby forest, so that the corruption may not spread to her.