Bishou's Post Golden Era

A few centuries ago Bishou was the epi-center of the Golden Age of Magic. New discoveries were making life easier day by day, previously unknown tiers of magic were unlocked, and most people knew nothing but peace and prosperity. However, some continued to push the boundaries of possibility. Whether to unlock the secrets of eternal youth, traverse the stars, or simply seek more power, wealth, and fame. However, the consequences of this exploration were dire.

Almost overnight, everything changed. The stories vary as to what happened, and no one seems to know for sure. Some say two Arch-Magi began a duel, others say something powerful from beyond the world invaded, some think a single spell went wildly awry, or someone managed to elevate to god-hood and failed to understand their vast new-found power. Regardless, nearly a third of the continent of Bishou was instantly wiped out and forever altered. 

In response, the Council of Arch Magi of the Tower of Arcana met and immediately passed restrictions on magic research, upper tier magic, and more. Public perception quickly turned against magic as rumors spread about what happened. Wanting to find a way to preserve their power yet appear as caged lions the council came up with a plan and set out on building an incredibly powerful artifact. Were it not for the endless stream of power emanating from this strange new land, they could never have hoped to accomplish what they did. The magi redirected the flow of all magic on the remaining habitable part of Bishou, through the Savagy Phavara, a massive fountain in the center of the courtyard of the Castle Apparati in Upari-Kendar. 

This temporarily shut down the flows of magic in Bishou. To access them, a ring linked to the Savagy was created. It gave the bearer power to link individuals to the fountain, restoring their ability to draw on magical energy. It also used the immense power of the Savagy Phavara to make the wearer immune to harm.

The council bound the ring to the king of Bandar in a series of elaborate rituals. It bound the king to the Oath of Jhadow and gave him the ability to allow others to use magic within Bishou. The heir to the throne, must go through a similarly elaborate oath ceremony, and then the ring is transferred when they ascend to the throne. The actual rituals, and the chosen ascendant(s) are a well-kept royal secret, given the importance of always keeping a ring bearer ready to ascend to the throne. 

Over the centuries since the Savagy Phavara was built, much knowledge of the magics known in that golden age has been lost. With few people ever being allowed the needed energies to surpass the lowest Tiers of Magic. The King himself restricts the ability to grant the usage of magic, middle and upper tiers. 

Although this artifact protects the land, it also closes it off. Spells can’t be cast through the barrier, in either direction. So much so, that many believe even the gods themselves can’t reach the people. Priests, with the ability to use magic are exceedingly rare, with two exceptions.