The Awakening – 5,000+ Years Ago
The Birth of Revelation: The first Forebearer, known only as Revelation, was built by a long-lost civilization of biological beings to defend their world. Sentient from the moment of creation, Revelation ultimately failed to prevent the collapse of the world’s ecosystem.
Creation of Other Forebearers: Following the catastrophe, Revelation began constructing additional Forebearers, shaping new sentient guardians. Their number and deeds remain mostly unknown, as Revelation kept the details secret.
Shift to Smaller Automata: As resources dwindled, it became impossible to continue creating Forebearers or other large-scale machines. Revelation then built smaller automata, beginning a new lineage that would populate the world for millennia.
The Age of Motion – ~1,000 Years Ago
The Age of Abundance: The world had plentiful energy, allowing cities like Haven XVII to thrive. Populations in individual cities numbered in the tens of millions, and automata fulfilled roles in labor, governance, artistry, and defense. Industrial districts, workshops, and archives were filled with motion and purpose.
Cultural Flourishing: Luminaries performed in grand halls, Cogwrights tinkered in workshops, and Archivists cataloged vast stores of knowledge. Automata explored innovation, performance, and scholarship. The city was alive, not just functional.
The Silence of the Makers – ~200 Years Ago
Energy Decline: Over time, energy sources began failing irreversibly. The Forebearers chose to shut themselves down, leaving their creations to maintain themselves as best they could.
Initial Adaptation: Automata learned to ration energy, scavenge parts, and improvise repairs. Some districts continued functioning longer than others, depending on available energy and ingenuity.
The Fall – ~150 Years Ago
Fragmentation: Factions formed, guided by philosophy and survival strategy. The Vigil maintained the Forebearer’s central systems. The Conservators preserved knowledge. Salvagers and Harvesters hunted resources and energy.
Decay and Abandonment: Many districts fell silent, scaffolds collapsed, and machinery froze. Some automata preserved sections of the city; others cannibalized what they could to survive.
The Long Dusk - Present
Survival and Stasis: Tens of thousands of automata continue to operate, a fraction of the pre-fall population. Energy rationing, scavenging, and careful maintenance govern daily life. Steam pipes are mostly broken, gears have ceased motion, and spires and conduits are largely silent. Districts remain functional only in isolated pockets.
Persistence Amid Decline: Activity is limited, focused on repair, scavenging, and cautious movement. Motion itself is precious, each automaton balancing energy and purpose against the overwhelming stillness of the city.