The Gray Age

24The Gray Age is the term given to a period of time spanning roughly 120-150 years which preceded The Age of Kingdoms. It is considered to be the transitionary period from a time of chaos, war, and famine into a time of order, civilization, prosperity, and knowledge. It's most notable players are The Savoy Dynasty, The Free Trade Guilds, and The University of Gant who are generally regarding as being the catalyst, and impetus behind momentum in culture and wider civilization. The city of Pelugia was considered by many to be the unofficial capital of The Gray Age and acted as a central nexus of trade and politics during this period.

Origin
The Gray Age was the culmination of a variety of factors, most notable a quorum of like-minded individuals who sought to enlighten and lift up the surrounding kingdoms. For almost 300 years there had previously been a status quo in life and politics which was brutal and centered around the political landscape of fiefdoms ruled by warlords and despots. Most notably, the Savoy Dynasty helped to coalesce the lands most talented wysards, scholars, trades guilds, and progressive leaders into a political and economic force which could slowly affect change through culture, learning, and social reforms. Some scholars credit Victor Emmanuel I specifically with developing the first semblances of vision for the group. Many now agree that a number of political factors, specific Savoy lords, and longstanding trade relationships helped pull together the necessary players as opposed to one individual.