The 7th Sanctum (The Last Sanctum)

Unlike the other six Sanctums, which are tied to the Six Ancient Gods of Aetherion, the Last Sanctum has no single deity. It is a convergence point of all elemental forces, acting as the final gateway to the Ethereal Plane—the divine realm where the gods dwell.

Its exact position is shrouded in mystery. Legends say it lies beyond mortal maps, hidden in a place where reality thins and the veil between worlds trembles. Some claim it exists between realms, only accessible when all six Sanctums are awakened in harmony.

The Ethereal Gateway

The gateway cannot be opened by mere presence, but it requires six elemental artifacts, each tied to one of the other sanctums.

These artifacts are gems infused with the essence of its respective element. When all six are placed upon the Ethereal Gateway, the path to the divine plane opens.

The Six Elemental Gems

Each gem is an artifact infused with the essence of its respective Sanctum. They are keys to the Ethereal Gateway in the Last Sanctum.

1. Obsidian Tear (Darkness)

• Origin: Sanctum of Darkness
• Appearance: A black crystal with swirling shadows inside, glowing faintly with violet runes.
• Power: A shard of pure shadow crystallized into obsidian glass. It pulses with a cold, judgmental aura, said to whisper truths and condemn lies. Necromages guard it fiercely as a symbol of dominion and absolute control.

2. Skyshard (Air)

• Origin: Sanctum of Air
• Appearance: A translucent crystal that hums with the song of the skies. When held aloft, it summons gentle breezes or raging tempests. Dragonkin pilgrims believe it carries Ava’s breath, granting clarity and empathy.
• Power: Channels wind and levitation; resonates with Ava’s compassion and freedom. 

3. Everdawn Seed (Nature) 

• Origin: Sanctum of Nature 
• Appearance: A luminous seed encased in crystalline amber, glowing with eternal dawn. It embodies renewal and harmony, said to sprout ethereal roots when placed near the Radiant Tree. Elves revere it as the heart of life’s cycle.
• Power: Radiates life energy; pulses with Arael’s light and harmony. 

4. Stoneheart Prism (Earth) 

• Origin: Sanctum of Earth 
• Appearance: A multifaceted gem forged from Living Stone and Blackrock. Its weight is immense, symbolizing endurance and honor. Dwarves believe it beats like a heart when near the coronation pillars of Ebardac.
• Power: Embodies resilience and valor; echoes Lazael’s strength. 

5. Emberfang (Fire) 

• Origin: Sanctum of Fire 
• Appearance: A jagged crystal glowing with molten veins. It radiates heat and aggression, said to ignite the courage of warriors. Dominion warlords seek it to channel Taar’s fury in battle.
• Power: Burns with eternal fury; channels Taar’s wrath and warlike spirit. 

6. Tideborn Pearl (Water) 

• Origin: Sanctum of Water 
• Appearance: A perfect pearl shimmering with oceanic hues. It sings softly when submerged, guiding sailors and calming storms. Thalorii priests guard it as the soul of the seas.
• Power: Commands tides and navigation; whispers Talasas’ promise of safe passage.

Purpose

• Serves as the bridge to the Ethereal Plane, a dimension of pure divine essence.
• The gods themselves can be glimpsed here, though never fully manifested. 
• It is said that whoever controls the Last Sanctum can reshape the balance of power across Aetherion.

Lore & Mystery 

• Known only in whispers and fragments of prophecy.
• Some believe it was created by the gods as a failsafe, a place where mortal and divine destinies converge.
  
• Some ancient texts speak of a prison for something older than the gods themselves.