> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.empiresbattle.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.empiresbattle.com/empires-battle-lore/on-the-origin-of-beastfolk-animals-and-altered-creatures/prologue.md).

# Prologue

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The works of naturalist Brumm Sharpnose. Archives of the Central Library of Baobab Village, Year 120 after the Great Catastrophe.
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After the Great Catastrophe, the world did not change all at once, but the process was irreversible.

When Professor Mashivarius's experiment destroyed the old world, an immense wave of radiation burst from his laboratory. It spread through the earth, air, water, and underground rock. All humans died — according to some accounts, almost instantly; according to others, within several weeks of the catastrophe. Later, the first crystals began to appear on the surface, which the beastfolk named Flur. Even more were discovered in caves, old mines, and deep underground.

It was Flur that became the main reason why the animal world split into several major branches.

Some creatures gained intelligence, speech, and long lives.

Others changed only partially.

Some became monsters.

Others remained animals, but grew stronger, more resilient, and larger than their ancient ancestors.