The Sourcerer's Awakening

Lore & Background

In the world of Rivellon, magic is drawn from the Source, a volatile energy that fuels both creation and destruction. The term 'Sourcerer' often refers to those who wield this power without restraint or those who have been corrupted by it, but there is no singular historical event known as 'The Sourcerer's Awakening.' Instead, the narrative focuses on the Godwoken—beings awakened from death by the Divine with immense potential. These individuals are hunted by the Seekers and other factions for their ability to potentially overthrow the current order or ascend to godhood. The confusion may stem from the game's opening sequence where the player character awakens in a crypt, often mistaken for a 'sourcerer' awakening due to the heavy emphasis on Source magic training. However, this is merely the prologue to a much larger saga involving the four Godwoken: Lohse, Fane, The Red Prince, and The Dwarf, each with their own distinct motivations. The true 'awakening' in the lore refers to the Divine's manipulation of these souls to challenge the Void and reshape reality.

In Their Own Story

The cold stone of the crypt bit into my skin as consciousness returned, a jagged shard of memory piercing the fog. I was dead; I knew that much. Yet here I stood, breathless and trembling, surrounded by the flickering blue flames of Source magic that danced in the air like living spirits. A voice echoed, not from within the tomb but from the very fabric of my soul: 'Rise.' It wasn't a command to become a sorcerer, but a summons to something far greater. The shadows lengthened as I realized the weight of the power coiling in my veins—the Source itself was waiting, hungry and alive.

Reader's Guide

Since 'The Sourcerer's Awakening' is not a real event, players should focus on the actual narrative flow of Divinity: Original Sin 2. The story begins with the player choosing one of four Godwoken backgrounds, each offering a unique perspective on the world. Critical choices involve aligning with factions like the Seekers or the Freeport resistance, which dramatically alters the political landscape of Rivellon. Deciding whether to kill or spare key figures such as Fane or Lohse changes the ending and the fate of the Source. The climax revolves around the final confrontation in the Void, where the player must decide the ultimate destiny of magic on the continent. These choices determine if the Godwoken become tyrants, saviors, or something entirely new.

Did You Know?

• The term 'Sourcerer' is often used colloquially by fans to describe any mage who uses Source magic aggressively, but it has no official title in the game's hierarchy.
• The actual 'awakening' event in the lore refers to the Divine resurrecting four specific individuals known as the Godwoken.
• Source magic is so dangerous that using it without proper control can lead to physical mutation or death.
• The game's opening crypt scene is a customizable prologue, meaning every player experiences their own version of 'awakening'.