Yolen

Lore & Background

Yolen is the site of the most significant event in cosmic history: the Shattering. Before this cataclysm, Adonalsium existed as a singular entity holding all power within itself. When it was broken, its essence split into sixteen fragments known as Shards. These Shards were taken up by Vessels who fled Yolen to inhabit other worlds, carrying their unique aspects with them. For the inhabitants of Nalthis, this history is crucial but often obscured by time. The Shards Autonomy and Endowment settled on Nalthis after leaving Yolen, establishing the magic system based on Breath that defines the culture there. While Yolen itself remains distant, its legacy permeates every world in the Cosmere where Investiture flows. The planet is not dead or destroyed; it continues to host human civilizations with their own distinct cultures and histories. However, it exists somewhat apart from the major conflicts of Nalthis or Scadrial, serving more as a mythological anchor for scholars who understand the true nature of magic.

In Their Own Story

The old scholar traced the star chart with a trembling finger, his eyes reflecting the glow of the lantern. He had spent decades studying the ancient texts that spoke of the First World. The ink was faded, but the meaning remained clear: all power flowed from there. Outside the window, the twin moons cast long shadows over the garden where Breath could be seen swirling in the air like golden dust. He wondered if those who lived on Yolen knew they were the source of this light. Did they feel the pull of the Shards that had left them behind? In the silence of the night, he felt a faint vibration, as if the planet itself remembered the moment it broke.

Reader's Guide

The history of Yolen centers on a singular cataclysmic event known as the Shattering. Before this moment, the entity Adonalsium held power over all Investiture in one form. When it was broken by an unknown force, its fragments scattered across the stars to become new deities. These fragments became the Vessels who shaped worlds like Nalthis and Scadrial, bringing their unique powers with them. Religious doctrines on Yolen vary widely among its diverse cultures. Some revere the Shattering as a tragedy that ended a golden age of unity under one god. Others view it as necessary for free will to exist among mortals without divine interference. For inhabitants of Nalthis, this history explains why Breath exists; Autonomy and Endowment were once aspects of Adonalsium before settling on their new world to rule over magic there. Scholars debate whether Yolen remains politically active or has faded into myth for outsiders. While the planet still hosts human populations, its local magic is distinct from the Surgebinding seen elsewhere in the Cosmere. Understanding Yolen provides context for the migration of souls and the nature of divine power in this universe. It serves as a reminder that all Investiture traces back to one source event long ago.

Did You Know?

• It is the specific location where Adonalsium was shattered into Shards.
• Many powerful Vessels originated from this world before traveling elsewhere.
• The character Hoid has spent significant time on Yolen throughout history.
• Magic systems on other worlds trace their Investiture back to events here.