The Shattering

The Shattering refers to the shattering of the elven realm of Veldestrin. The Veldestrainian Empire dominated two thirds of the Ethrosian continent. Despite the fact that the majority of the citizens were humans, access to government jobs and aristocracy was strictly limited to members of the elven race. The critical fault with an elven ruled empire is that their lifespans are so long, that changes come far slower than with human ruled kingdoms. Most impactful legislation is passed following a regime change, with elves, this is very infrequent.

Degredation

Over time, humans began to distance themselves from the elves and view them with hostility. This is enforced by the fact that elves strictly controlled access to Endomic related texts, even in an academic setting. This all culminated when the human wizard, Meresh the Seaborn mastered the language of Endomic in secret. He used his developed powers to collapse a building upon Lord Eauthiway and his retinue at Kalbrin Castle. This set the entire countryside aflame with rebels. Rebels quickly overwhelmed the minor garrisons of elves and the few loyalists. The Emperor Aurinel II was forced to sign a treaty which broke apart the empire at swordpoint.

Released States

The resulting breakup formed the states of, Ornia, Duchy of Kostin, The Harlaws, Grand Duchy of Albris, Elwyr Arwos, Tel'Anwen, Duchy of Berenia, Mikarim, Chetland, Shiram'Eanur, The Kanguian Principalities, and the petty dwarf kingdom of Zirakzigil.

Legacy

In the following decades, the Nishi Khanate, Varkud Horde, Korthian Empire, Kingdom of Tydaria, Banwan Marches, and the area widely known as "The Baronies" have come to replace some of the states formed from the breakup. Duchy of Kostin, The Harlaws, Kingdom of Mikarim, Chetland, Shiram'Eanur, the Kanguian Principalities, and Zirakzigil no longer exist. If you ask around former free areas, you can find many controversial opinions on whether these places still exist. Undeniably you can still find the cultural imprints left behind. Many cultures still exist, and the provinces might still be known by their sovereign names.