The Wager of Octessence was struck between eight magical entities to determine whom was the most powerful. Instead of fighting amongst themselves, the entities arranged the creation of eight enchanted items to empower eight Exemplars who would fight in their stead. When all eight Exemplars were activated, they would conquer the Earth and split it into eight armies, battling until one Exemplar was left standing.
Other members unrelated to the X-Men include Farallah, Watoomb, Ikonn, Balthakk, Raggadorr, Krakkan, and Valtorr.
