timeline lyboria
Before the intervals in which each age took place in Lyboria can be outlined, a brief explanation of how time works in this fantastic world must be given. In Lyboria, a day has 32 hours; in average 20 of daylight and 12 of darkness. In many areas of Lyboria, sunrise is the preferred word to describe a day and also a unit of time. It takes 200 sunrises or days to complete a half-cycle. The certain number of days is related to a special event.The inhabitants of Lyboria call it the Night of the Green Star. In this night, the sky takes on a green hue, thereby ending the current half-cycle whilst simultaneously ushering in the new. Two half-cycles make a whole.
The names for the half-cycles vary from region to region and between races. That can be traced back to the different effects it has on the climate of each region. Summer and winter or the sunny and rainy seasons are just some of the names used to refer to the half-cycle. The largest unit of time in Lyboria is an aeon. After 1,000 cycles have elapsed, we have what is known as an aeon. It is estimated that the impact of Luna on Lyboria, took place around 1,200 aeons ago. In the age of Epignosis, 32 aeons ago, the oldest monuments were constructed and the dawning of time as we know it took place.
I Era
Epignosis
"The Age of Consciousness"
Epignosis lasted 18 aeons and represented the beginning of what was to be a formative period. During the thousands of aeons up until then periods of progress and substantial change were observable only over time. The beginning of this age, however, heralded a time of transformation. From what were originally creatures of a purely animal nature developed life forms who, unlike their forefathers, possessed higher consciousness. Over time, that led to the first kinds of organised social groups and societies beginning to emerge. Life in Lyboria was more diverse than ever. Each life form's state of consciousness now allowed it to grapple with new problems, which in turn led to new interests. As with everything else, it was a double-edged sword. Whereas having possessions induces feelings of happiness, it inevitably also leads to greed, mistrust and jealousy. It really was the start of a new period of thinking which opened many doors. This foundational age set everything in motion, with effects that could still be felt many aeons later.
II Era
Compagnia
"The Age of Societies"
The age of ‘Compagnia’ followed Epignosis. It lasted seven aeons and was characterised by social development. What had formerly been social groups gave rise to meaningful societies. Those societies built their homes in their places of origin owing to the prevailing climates of each area. They were closed communities, which meant that other races were tolerated only in exceptional cases. It wasn't long before the desire for power grew and the individual races began to encounter each other as they extended their territory, thus leading to the first conflicts. There were struggles over prized land, each tribe defended its own honour, and people waged war, spurred on by their instinct to survive. While some races battled, others were merely aware of each other. Some didn't even know that the other existed. Real friendships and ties were rare in this exciting age. As Compagnia drew to a close, everyday life had begun to settle down and contact between the races began to take on an increasingly economic character. Goods were traded, and services provided. The races focused on their strengths when trading. The Naphas were famous for their non-toxic remedies, the Arachnids for the speed of their house-building, and the Tagari for their unique tracking abilities. Those new business relationships made life easier for many, leaving them better equipped to deal with their daily troubles.
III Era
Humanera
"The Age of Wars"
The age known as ‘Human Age’ was next. It coincided with the arrival of humans in Lyboria and their subsequent settlement. Many also refer to this age as the age of wars. Owing to the arrival of humans and the simultaneous expansion of races, conflict was preordained. The races were also forced to develop more quickly as a result. They were constantly trying to remain one step ahead of the other. Lyboria’s economy flourished as never before despite the various enmities. Wars brought work, and work meant profit. Trading partners were a resource to be exploited and seen as a means to an end. By now, wars took place not only on the battlefield. Some mavericks recognised the potential for hitting the pockets of their enemies using a host of different strategies. Races that were stricken by the war, for example, were often denied access to goods, or prices of essential goods were increased. A diverse range of tactics marked this eventful age. When a state of war has reached its peak, the opposite often follows. Despite the many battles, the end of this age saw reconciliation. Old rivalries were put aside, and ongoing feuds were put to rest. Yet if there was one thing for us to learn from this age, it is the knowledge that old wounds can open again and again. Past actions were forgiven, but present anguish not forgotten.
IV Era
Unionia
"The Age of Unity"
There was one more age prior to Lyboria as we know it. It appears that this age, also known as Unionia, is now coming to an end. Unionia was marked by peace. People still looked out for themselves, but they also began to consider others more. Economic ties continued to be healthy, wars had for the most part been done away with, and not only did people see themselves as part of their own tribe; every tribe began to see itself as part of a bigger whole. That signalled the start of a union. A functioning union was to bring many positive aspects. Economic integration amongst the races, a new and loftier platform from which to pursue conflict resolution, and a much larger market, which in turn would boost business and living standards. Unionia lasted approximately 500 cycles and with today's events appears to be drawing to a close. All signs lead to a new age...