During the first month of the second century of the Midnight Age, a
Grand Quiz was held by Varian, the Celestine. At the end of the quiz, an
unusual question was asked: "Among the gods and goddesses of Aetolia,
whose followers are most devoted to their patron?" Debate among
participants and onlookers - some divine - erupted immediately. Clearly,
each of the gods in attendance felt, theirs were the most adoring
followers. Mortals in attendance were similarly unable to agree on an
answer. Bickering and arguing ensued.

Then, a contest was suggested by Zahmekoses Nebre'seir. Varian, seeking
closure to the matter, agreed. But what sort of contest? Some urged a
contest of battle, follower fighting follower until only the champion of
one god remained standing. This however, Varian felt, would not reveal
the true measure of devotion and adoration the gods' followers feel and
express for their deity.

Ultimately, it was this individuality of expression that Varian decided
would be the most telling measure of mortalkind's glorification of their
beloved gods. Thus, the nature of the contest was declared: all mortals
shall be offered the chance to create, compose, or otherwise present
some unique token of their supreme devotion to their chosen deity. The
judging of this contest is to take place on the first day of Ios, year
100 MA. The divine of Aetolia shall be in attendance to collectively
judge these works of adoration and decide once and for all whose
followers are most devoted.

Penned by my hand on the 2nd of Severin, in the year 100 MA.