We don't have complete answers yet, but... Basically, this world's magic destabilized somehow Don't worry, casting's still safe, creating odd regions across the world that have abnormal effects going on. The people are essentially gone, and something about the rifts - probably something with an intellect and motivation - is now pulling people from various worlds here.

We're hoping that by stabilizing enough regions, we can get the resources to go home safely. But... Well, it's been months since I arrived, and no firm luck yet.