I was asked to share what happened after the destruction of the Enchanter's Academy. Some may remember that Bronwin mentioned an old tale and telling the Council about what happened. A container was found there and it was obvious that something had been removed by Balthazar, demon lord.
The following event happened days after.
Archmage Azeraphel appeared in the Dundee Inn and spoke to the individuals who were there. He then stepped through a peculiar portal. Those present followed him.
We ended up in a studylike place. From what he said, this was where he conducted some of his less... explosive research. The archmage explained that what he was to tell us was a tale, but perhaps there was some truth to it.
In order for the gods to create the power of rebirth, held in what later became known as life monuments, there had to be a sacrifice first. A certain number of mortals had to willingly lay down their lives for others. Whatever the number, not enough were willing. Instead the gods of Sunrifter did this instead. They gave something of themselves or of Sunrifter's power.
It was caught within a crystal. And that power was enclosed, and placed in hiding in the ground. And so the power of life monuments, and mortal resurrection, was born.
He then stated that while many think it's just a story, others think it explains why the gods can't just clear Trinald of evil threats. Sustaining mortal life has taken that ability and weakened them.
He spoke of an ancient writing that claims that in order to prevent anyone finding and using the crystal, it was hidden. Otherwise it could be constructed into a weapon, if you like, with other items near impossible to gather: the hands of a healer, the eyes of an acolyte, the heart of the High King, and, apparently, some last item or items that the Council of Ryndall is still trying to determine from the stories and fables they've been told. This weapon could perhaps be used to break the monuments
He then shooed us saying he had reading to do.
Perhaps some of the others who were there would like to add to this account