IrishWonder wrote:Moorgard wrote:Life is funny. Sometimes things seem to happen by chance. Other times, they happen precisely when they are intended to.
Take another look at the intro slideshow or the Tome of Destiny. Even after the gods withdrew from Norrath, they managed to set a variety of plans in motion. Little things like a major war, battles between avatars, and such.
Makes you wonder what other things they had planned before they left. When you think about it, it's kind of like their influence wasn't so absent after all...
Quellious had listened to the bickering for what seemed like ages. Though time had no meaning for them in this place, she could bear to listen no longer. She spoke softly, yet with a directness that silenced the others. "I propose a compromise," she said, her gaze moving from one god to the next. "It will not be ideal for any of us, and it does not come without risk. But I feel it is the only way to satisfy all our objectives and restore balance between us and the mortals." Bristlebane perked an ear. "Speak, please, for this endless debate is maddening even for me." Quellious continued. "We all agree the mortals have gained too much power, but there are non-destructive ways to correct this. There is also a way for us to regain our strength, though it means removing our influence from this world for a time. But if we all agree--including those who sit upon the greater wheel of Elemental Power--it could save us all." "Speak, Tranquil One," Xegony said, breaking her long silence. "We will listen to your proposal." Quellious nodded. "It is through their unity that the mortals initially became strong. The first thing we must do is to disrupt that unity?" When Quellious had finished, Erollisi Marr nodded. "It would be an acceptable compromise." "Agreed," her twin brother added. "It does not matter to me," Innoruuk grinned, "for I still believe that the mortals will destroy themselves eventually." Brell rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I will do as you suggest." The Faceless shrugged. "It seems like a waste of time, but I will follow the wishes of this council." Tunare sighed sadly. "I will do what you ask in order to make this work." Fennin Ro spoke for the first time since he had entered the chamber. "The rulers of the Elemental Planes will abide by this decision." One by one the other gods either agreed or said nothing, nodding silently. Quellious eyed Rallos Zek as he whispered something to Solusek Ro. The Prince of Flame shook his head. "We agree," the god of War said at last. "When does it begin?" "In seven mortal days' time, we will act as one. Will that be long enough to do what is needed?" "It will," Solusek Ro said coldly. Tunare nodded with reluctance. "Then it is agreed," the Tribunal spoke in a single voice. "This council stands adjourned." The gods began to leave the chambers, but Quellious lingered. She noticed as Rallos approached Cazic-Thule and began to whisper something to him, and watched as Solusek Ro did the same to Brell. Tunare stood next to her. "Is this really the only way?" "I believe it is," Quellious responded softly. "But I think we need to remain watchful, as not everyone may honor the intent of this pact." Karana approached the two goddesses. "I have some trepidation in this matter, and I'd wager you feel the same." "I do," replied Quellious. "But I have another proposal to share with the two of you to ensure our interests are preserved." As the three gods left the council chamber together, Rallos Zek eyed them loathingly. He muttered to himself. "So, Quellious, you have your allies and I have mine. But your weakness will be your downfall. Let the endgame begin."
So... it sounds to me like the gods caused the Shattering, perhaps including the destruction of Luclin, perhaps not. They worked in concert, with Brell and Tunare having particular jobs to do.The Compromise, then? I believe, to Shatter Norrath, to "disrupt that unity" that we mortals had gained, but not to wipe us out entirely - no, leaving enough land and population to give us the chance to survive, to become 'better' in their eyes. A Compromise that Love and Honor could agree to, as well as the forces bent on destruction.In addition, being without the gods, then having them return as they have... each god or goddess is building up power through our worship, are they not? Perhaps not, it's difficult for us to know... but they seem vitally interested in having our attention and our good behavior as well. Even Zek and Ro aren't in objection to followers who obey, only those who defy. Thule wishes them to cower in Fear, Quellious in balanced Harmony, Tunare in the living of Life and Growth... but still, for us to behave in the ways they deem fit. It is possible that this worshipful behavior is what gives them strength, at least the strength to contest against each other.Zeb, perhaps, is the only creature whose interest is solely with we mortals. Some will say even the light yokes of Tunare, Karana, and the Marrs is slavery... others may argue it is our only chance against the power of Zek, Ro, and Thule. Still others will argue for power flowing in the opposite directions, and perhaps still others will embrace the nihilistic destruction of Innorruuk. Time... as always... will tell.