The Cataclysm

The Cataclysm is the name given to the magical event that destroyed the human nation of Orr in 1070 AE. It is described as both a flash of blinding light and an explosion of flame.

In 1070 AE the Searing of Ascalon allowed a sudden and unexpected charr invasion of Orr. Underestimating the strength of the Charr forces, the Orrian defenses were overwhelmed and the invading army began a march toward Arah. Before the city fell under siege, a massive magical detonation destroyed both the Charr army and the nation of Orr. Shattered by the magic, the peninsula sank beneath the waves of the renamed Sea of Sorrows with only a few desolate islands remaining above water. The remaining power of the Cataclysm has transformed those who died into an undead army that now plagues the swamps of Kryta.

The Cataclysm was caused when Vizier Khilbron, adviser to King Reza of Orr, ventured into the Catacombs beneath Arah in search of magic powerful enough to drive the Charr out of Orr. He read from one of the Lost Scrolls, a text of forbidden knowledge, unleashing the Cataclysm that destroyed Orr. Khilbron himself was transformed by the magic and became the Lich Lord.

During Guild Wars Nightfall, it becomes apparent that Abaddon was the driving force behind the Cataclysm. Many of those slain by the Cataclysm are now trapped in the Realm of Torment, indicating they have been touched by his presence. Further, the demon Razakel reveals he manipulated Khilbron into using the forbidden knowledge in Arah while the Titans ordered the Charr to invade Orr. The true purpose of the invasion was to carry out Abaddon's will and destroy Arah, the holy city where the gods dwelt before the Exodus of the Gods. Khilbron, having converted to the worship of Abaddon, used the chaos of the invasion to gain access to the Lost Scrolls and carry out his god's will.