Kemmler wanted a legacy, why else write his books to spread necromancy. So what if prior to his attempt at his dark Ascension ritual, he created some kind of pseudo necromantic mantle. So even if he failed, that power will ensure the continual spread and rise of the necromantic arts.
Since the outer gates are an actual never never location, I wondered if there was a place that reflects the borders of life. A claim or hold on such a location would be a source of great power.
