On the world of Oerth, the warring Suel Imperium and Baklunish Empire annihilate each other in massive, magical attacks. The view through the Dramidj Rift shows that every living thing surrounding the rift has perished, leaving a ruined and lifeless waste that extends for hundreds of miles. Survivors of the calamity flee east, some escaping to Eamon through the more distant Paynims Gate.