Iazog

Introduction

In the annals of history, there exists a tale of creation, betrayal, and the tragic destiny of a race known as the Iazog. Born from clandestine experiments, conducted in the shadowed corners of the magical world, the Iazog emerged as a fusion of the four primary arts of the Berythian, Nurhetic, Aurimbic, and Exiled Traditions. Their infinite potential and shapeshifting abilities were revered as an embodiment of divine perfection. Yet, this admiration soon turned to fear and hostility, leading to their persecution and near annihilation. This article delves into the forgotten lore of the Iazog, exploring their origins, their scattered existence, and their present-day existence in the realms of myth.

Origins and Creation

Around 1600 years ago, during the time when The Council of Landezon had secretive ties to the The Circle of Tyril, a group of southern sorcerers led by the enigmatic Khajuro, forbidden experiments took place. These experiments aimed to merge the four distinct magical arts together, striving to harness their combined power. The result was the birth of the Iazog, a species of shapeshifters. Through the fusion of these various distinct arcane forms, the Iazog gained infinite plasticity, becoming embodiments of boundless will and potential.

by Midjourney

Worship and Betrayal

The mages responsible for the creation of the Iazog became enthralled by their newfound power and considered them as divine beings, suited to lead humanity into a new golden age. These mages bowed before the Iazog, worshipping them as gods. However, as knowledge of the Iazog spread, fear and resentment began to consume the hearts of the people. A terrible backlash ensued, with the mages involved in their creation facing imprisonment or worse. The Iazog themselves became the target of a relentless hunt, pursued and destroyed by those who saw them as unnatural abominations.

Exodus

Amidst the chaos and persecution, a small number of Iazog managed to escape their tormentors. Seeking refuge, they embarked on a journey, dispersing in various directions. Many found sanctuary in the lands of Miesz, situated in the Autumn Yield, where arcane energies were relatively diminished and few mages were inclined to venture. They could proceed no further, however, as the Iazog, creatures of magic, still needed to stay where this ambient magic was partly available.
In the embrace of the forest, the Iazog formed deep bonds with the creatures of the wild, regarding them as a higher life form, untouched by the complexities and corruptions of humanity. Their culture intertwined with the forest, and they honed their shapeshifting abilities to mirror the forms of their animal companions.

Present-Day Existence

In the present age, the Iazog are an exceedingly rare and elusive race. Venturing forth only sporadically from their forest groves, they remain hidden from the awareness of the human populace, known only through folklore and myth. Within their secluded enclaves, the Iazog nurture a thriving culture led by Soulfinders, wise elders and skilled healers of their tribe. Their creation story, intertwined with the tragic Exodus they endured, gradually transformed into a mythic legend after being passed down through generations, and while they know well enough to avoid humans in general, the specifics of just why have melted into the background.
The tale of the Iazog stands as a poignant reminder of the consequences of ambition and the pursuit of power beyond mortal limitations. Born from a union of forbidden arts, the Iazog faced adoration and betrayal in equal measure. Today, they endure in the realms of myth, their existence concealed within the depths of ancient forests. While their numbers dwindle, their culture thrives, intertwined with the natural world they hold in reverence. The story of the Iazog serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the fragility of harmony and the consequences of tampering with forces beyond our comprehension. It also serves as a testament to resilience and adaptation, standing as a reminder that even in the face of persecution and near-extinction, the flame of a unique culture can persist, flickering amidst the shadows.
Though the Council of Landezon formally disavows knowledge of the Iazog's existence, one of their central tenets, The Doctrine of True Life. is almost wholly directed at their ultimate creation, a fact veiled by the Doctrine's focus on the evils of the Exiled Tradition.

Creation: UT 1601