Winden

After the Magic Catastrophe and the disappearance of the Legendary Archmage Abel, humans took a devastating blow in the progress oflearning magic. Despite the setbacks of the now unstable magic, Winden ushered in a new era of learning; he deciphered ancient scrolls and discovered wisdom from the era of magic’s heyday, with which, he attempted to breach the gap of magic development that resulted from the catastrophe.

Winden also spent a lot of time in the world’s largest library. Rumors have spread about just how many of the library’s books Winden has actually read, with some believing he has learned every word, even those difficult ancient languages. Later, Winden founded the Academy of Magic, which became the first school to turn humans into expertly trained mages. His accomplishments in academia made him the most renowned mage in Anmuda, and the majestic library that he spent so many years of his life in was soon renamed after him.

At the height of his popularity, a rumor emerged that Winden became involved in forbidden magic. This sparked controversy throughout the magic community. Some believed that Winden, as the greatest human mage, should have a mastery of all magic-no matter the ethics or dangers. Others argued that Winden’s dip into dark arts was a sign of his descent into evil. Faced with growing contention, Winden didn’t explain. Instead, he resigned from the Academy.

After his resignation, the Academy of Magic gradually declined. With the Academy struggling, people sought his return-only to discover that he had left Fairhaven and travelled around Armada.

Winden seemed to set foot on every inch of Armada, going by different names in different places. When he returned to the name of Winden, he was already an old man, wizened by his years abroad. Hundreds of years passed. His former disciples died. The Academy became desolate. Although he is now old with much of his life behind him, Winden is still energetic, and his magic is more powerful than ever before.

When he was traveling, Winden noticed dark forces stirring. Realized that the power was unusual, he decided to returned to Fairhaven to stop the impending disaster. While other mages thought the dark forces originated from a demon-like creature, Winden had a different opinion. He remembered the myths and legends he had read about in the great library-tales that no one believed to be true. One legend spoke of a depraved god whose name was erased from history because of his treachery. Winden argued that much of the dark forces’ power was beyond the reach of a demon; he suspected that the ancient god had returned to Armada.

Winden used his influence to lobby the nations of mankind. He sent letters to other races, urging them to attend the Summit Council meeting being held in Esme, the last territory of elves, by which he wanted everyone to temporarily put aside their hatred and prejudice and to unite against the coming catastrophe.