Once part of the world of Harn, the ancient Kingdom of Kanday had long endured the constant border wars and political decay that plagued its neighbors. Known for its stoic nobility and traditions of chivalry, Kanday slowly succumbed to cultural rot and infiltration, particularly along its frontier with Rethem, a realm increasingly influenced by Agrikan cults and clandestine changeling agents. Rhysanus Ariquis, then a seasoned Grey Elven warlock, ranger, and member of the adventurer band known as Golden Gryphon Mercenaries and aving been raised under the shadow of changeling betrayal in Retheme. Having endured brutal state training and magical experimentation, Rhysanus emerged as a grim but visionary leader. Despite the bonds he had formed with the heroes of the Golden Griffin Keep, Rhysanus' allegiance to Styphon eventually took precedence. At the dark god's command, he bid farewell to his companions, his eyes set on greater conquests. Styphon, recognizing Rhysanus' insatiable ambition and ruthless efficiency, entrusted him with a massive demon army, a formidable force capable of toppling kingdoms.

Rhysanus led this demonic horde with unmatched strategic brilliance, conquering several realms with relentless precision. Retheme, his homeland, fell first, its defenses no match for the combined might of Rhysanus and his infernal legions. With each victory, his power grew, and his name became synonymous with fear and domination. He took great pride in the destruction of the Changeling who began his raise to power.

Next, he turned his attention to Kanday, home of the Hero's of Golden Gryphon Keep. By the time the defender's realized Rhysanus was behind the Army of Demons it was too late, The kingdom's valiant defenders fought bravely, but they were ultimately overwhelmed by the onslaught of demonic forces. Rhysanus' tactical acumen and magical prowess proved too much for even the most seasoned warriors, and Kanday soon fell under his rule.

From there, his conquests extended to the world of Palladia. The once-great kingdoms of Timiro and the Eastern Territories crumbled before his might. Cities burned, armies shattered, and rulers bowed to his will. The land was reshaped in Rhysanus' image, a testament to his unyielding ambition and the dark power that fueled his rise.

Through these conquests, Rhysanus' legend grew. He became a figure of awe and terror, a leader whose name was whispered with a mixture of reverence and dread. His extensive library of magical texts, his horde of powerful artifacts, and his profound understanding of the arcane made him a force like no other. His judicious use of psionic ability and magic allowed him to maintain control over his vast empire, ensuring that his subjects remained loyal, and his enemies were kept at bay.

He consolidated the conquered kingdoms into two unified realms, one on Harn and one Palladium, a testament to his strategic genius and ruthless determination. The lands on Palladium he gave over to his Demon Familiar whom he had commanded to take his form. Harn, he kept to himself and with the lands under his control, Rhysanus embarked on a world-walking journey, a quest for new conquests and greater power. It was during this exploration that he stumbled upon the Kingdom of Falanore within the World of Otara.

Little is known of his time as a World Walker. Styphon was much desirous of being first among the gods, and thought that the elves were the key to this. Through the worship of all elves, he would ascend to the position of Supreme power. With the worship of Rhysanus he saw yet again a chance to accomplish this goal.

Styphon was well aware of the magics cast so many years ago by King Rhysal Starweaver and of the prophecy of the dragon queen Alestria. Within Rhysanus he found his prophesized Elven King. Styphon brought Rhysanus to Otara along with much of the Elven lands Rhysanus ruled on another world and merged them with Arethane. He then set Rhysanus with the task to overthrow the Shadow Elves and restoring the elves to grey elf rule, as well as the establishment of Dragonwright and the worship of Styphon as the principle god of the elves.

Rhysanus up until this time was a very devote worshiper and quite evil. He had already conquered several realms in his own right and was as said, an extremely powerful mage and warrior. When his lands were merged with Arethane by his God, he proceeded to do just as commanded, and in short order removed the Shadow Elves from Arethane. As the only surviving member of the royal house that could be found was a mere baby and that Rhysanus was able to draw the Kingsword of the elves he was accepted as King of the elves of Arethane, Kanday became the Duchy of Khandae.

Notable Figures of Khandae

Population of Khandae: 8,800,000

• Gold Elves: 25%: 2,200,000
• High Elves: 22%: 1,936,000
• Grey Elves: 15%: 1,320,000
• Moon Elves: 10%: 880,000
• Wood Elves: 7%: 616,000
• Drow: 5%: 440,000
• Shadow Elves: 4%: 352,000
• Avariel: 3%: 264,000
• Desert Elves: 2%: 176,000
• Other: 5%: 440,000
• The other Races represent a mosaic of races from various corners of the world. Humans, Dwarves, Halflings, Half Elves and other races have found a welcoming home within the isles, contributing to the kingdom's diversity. This melting pot of cultures results in a vibrant exchange of traditions, culinary delights, and artistic expressions.
  *Note: The population figure mentioned excludes the Fae. The Fae creatures of Arethane are too numerous to be accurately counted so is not precicely known. It is estimated to be at the least, 3 to 5 times that of the Elven population, and consists of fae and magical creatures of all types. These mystical beings, with their whimsical nature and inherent connection to nature's magic, bring an extra layer of enchantment to Arethane. Fae communities are often nestled in the heart of magical glades, adding to the kingdom's natural wonders.

Golden Griffin Keep