Death of the Original King
The ancient betrayal that birthed two immortal species and ignited an eternal war.
The Death of the Original King refers to the pivotal assassination of Alexander Corvinus, the progenitor of both Vampires and Lycans, marking the end of his ancient reign over humanity. This event is the catalyst for the entire Underworld saga, as it triggered the schism between his two sons, Marius and Raze, who would go on to found the warring factions that dominate the series' timeline.
- Victim
- Alexander Corvinus
- Perpetrator
- Human Hunters (led by a betrayed servant)
- Outcome
- Creation of the Vampire and Lycan races
- Era
- Ancient History / Pre-First Film
- Significance
- Origin of the Eternal War
Lore & Background
The assassination did not result in Corvinus's death as intended. Instead, the fatal wound triggered a supernatural transformation that split his essence into two distinct lineages based on the blood of those present at the scene. His son Marius inherited the traits of strength and night, becoming the first Vampire, while his other son Raze absorbed the primal ferocity and transformation abilities, becoming the first Lycan. This event created the biological divide that would fuel thousands of years of conflict.
In Their Own Story
The torchlight flickered against the cold stone walls of the ancient throne room as the king's breath grew shallow. He had ruled for an eternity, but tonight, the betrayal cut deeper than any blade. As the poison took hold, his body did not wither; it convulsed with a terrifying energy that shattered the silence. From the shadows, two figures watched in horror and awe—their father's blood seeping into the earth, birthing monsters from the very act of murder.
Reader's Guide
The narrative arc begins in ancient times with Corvinus's assassination, an event revealed through flashbacks and lore throughout the film series. This single moment explains the existence of the Vampire Elders and the Lycan clans. Marius and Raze immediately turned on one another, fleeing into separate hiding places to cultivate their new powers. Marius established the secretive Vampire society, while Raze created the feral Lycans. Their feud defined the early history of both species. The timeline connects directly to the modern era when the last pure bloods are hunted and the ancient secrets resurface. The revelation that both races share a common ancestor challenges the long-held belief that they are natural enemies, setting the stage for potential unity or total extinction.
Did You Know?
- Alexander Corvinus was originally a mortal human before his genetic mutation made him immortal.
- The creation of Vampires and Lycans happened simultaneously during the moment of Corvinus's death.
- Marius and Raze were brothers who became the first leaders of their respective species after killing their father's followers.
More in Story & Timeline
Elsewhere in the Underworld universe
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