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Rise & Ruin History
by Adam Welsh
edited by Sandy Bonny
Chapter 1: Broken Kingdom
Several lifetimes ago a vastly different universe lay bare for all to see. High above the heavens, three brothers known as The Rulers watched with impatience as their father’s creations whittled away each day - never changing, never moving forward, never taking advantage of what the universe had to offer. The Rulers added new creations, hoping that they would flourish and experience the wonders of their universe, but their playthings failed to entertain. As the novelty of their creations waned, the brothers' need for stimulation grew to a furious obsession. Increasing numbers of new species were introduced to satisfy the demands of The Rulers’ amusement. In time, this constant infusion of new species taxed the realm's capacity to support its inhabitants – inevitably, the universe teetered towards collapse and extinction.
The Rulers' complete disregard for the order of universe their father, Nihilo, had bequeathed them startled even themselves. Meeting at the Temple of Trias, they agreed to change so as to preserve their universe and, more importantly, to escape the sadistic temper of their father.
Varken, the eldest of The Rulers, reasoned that vesting control in a patriarch was essential to avoiding banishment to the Netherworld by Nihilo. Much to his astonishment, his brothers agreed. However, heated arguments began when it came time to decide who was to become the ultimate ruler. As the first born, Varken felt it his right to decide the fate of the universe. Snykus, the middle brother, objected, arguing that Varken's lack of creativity would lead to a crisis in leadership. Despite the truth to these words, Varken accused Snykus of ulterior motives, referencing his brother’s reputation as a conniving and manipulative Ruler.
Varken and Snykus continued to squabble until Adolces decided to share his thoughts. Significantly younger than his brothers, Adolces displayed far greater maturity and entered the conflict only when it became necessary. Adolces reasoned that the brothers were incapable of coming to an unbiased solution. Since seeking their father's wisdom was out of the question, another authority would be required to salvage the fates of the universe and the Rulers themselves.
Presenting a passionate case, Adolces convinced both Varken and Snykus that the Supreme Ruler should be decided by the universe itself. For the first time, each brother would be solely responsible for the design of a single species that could be molded as he desired. After all three brothers were satisfied that enough time had passed to allow for natural development, fate would intervene and the creations would find themselves locked in a battle to determine the Supreme Ruler of the universe. It would be called the Divine War.
