The Schism of Stone and Sky

The Schism of Stone and Sky marked a turning point in dwarven history, a cataclysmic schism that irrevocably fractured their once-united civilization. It was not a single battle or a swift coup, but a decades-long descent into paranoia and infighting, fueled by ideological differences and a desperate struggle for control over dwindling resources, especially Aetherium. The Sky-Seers, proponents of sky-magic and open communication with the surface world, clashed violently with the Deep-Delvers, traditionalists who believed in unwavering adherence to ancient dwarven customs and the sanctity of the underground realm. The Dwarven Abbey, a fledgling institution at the time, attempted to mediate the conflict, but its influence was limited.

Key figures in this conflict were the Forgotten Smith, who warned of the dangers of unchecked ambition, and Elder Vorin, the head of the Deep-Delvers. As tensions escalated, the Order of the Azure Hand attempted to seize control of the Sunstone of Aethelgard, believing they could use its power to enforce their vision of a unified dwarven society. Their actions triggered a chain of events that culminated in the Great Sundering, which ravaged the Iron-Grip Mountains and unleashed the Shadow-Goblins upon the world.

The Silent Forges, once symbols of dwarven ingenuity, fell silent as the knowledge of Resonance Weaving was lost. The Crimson Cartographers retreated into their hidden enclaves, charting the shifting political landscape and preserving what knowledge they could. Countless lives were lost, and the dwarven empire was shattered beyond repair. Even today, the scars of the Schism remain, a constant reminder of the dangers of division and the futility of endless conflict. The Vault of Whispers became a repository of the Schism’s most closely guarded secrets, its location known only to a select few. In the Glimmering Caverns, new factions and creatures emerged, forever changing the landscape of the world. Even the Gnomish Tinkers took sides, creating powerful weapons for both factions, only to regret the resulting destruction. It is said this marked the last time the Skyclaw Griffons were seen in great numbers.