III. The Rise of Nations and the Arcane Flame

As civilizations began to flourish across Eldareth, the mortal races began to carve out their own separate nations, each guided by their own customs, traditions, and beliefs. The temples to the gods became central landmarks in their cities and towns, serving as beacons of faith and centers of community where people gathered to worship and seek guidance from the divine.

In these sacred places, priests and priestesses tended to the needs of their congregations, offering prayers and performing rituals to honor the gods and petition for their blessings. The temples became focal points for festivals and ceremonies, celebrating the cycles of nature and marking important milestones in the lives of the people.

Meanwhile, arcane magic, though still in its infancy, began to weave its way into life of mortals. Few were born with the innate gift of sorcery, their bloodlines carrying the spark of magic within them like a hidden flame. These sorcerers, often revered as conduits of mystical power, were sought after for their talents and abilities, serving as advisors, protectors, and scholars in the burgeoning civilizations of Eldareth. Yet, despite the growing presence of arcane magic, it remained a mysterious and elusive force, understood by only a select few.

As time marched on, and the civilizations of Eldareth expanded and evolved, a shadow began to creep across the land. Some among the mortals, disillusioned with the traditional worship of the known gods, turned to darker and more forbidden paths.

These whispers of dark practices spread like wildfire, sparking fear and suspicion among the nations of Eldareth. As tensions escalated, old alliances strained and new rivalries emerged, with nations growing wary of each other's intentions.

In the streets and marketplaces, rumors circulated of secret covens and cults, hidden away in the shadows and practicing rites that defied the natural order. These whispers spoke of dark magic, blood sacrifices, and pacts made with entities beyond mortal comprehension.

Fearing the spread of corruption and malevolence, the rulers of Eldareth enacted harsh measures to root out these dark influences, launching inquisitions to cleanse their lands of heresy and blasphemy. But for every cult uncovered and every ritual thwarted, it seemed that two more took its place, their influence spreading like a cancer through the heart of civilization.