Donkailion

Donkailion and Phitolis: Once the same nation, but split into two over differences in how their gods should be worshiped. Donkailion sought to cling to the original ways of life and worship, praying to the gods and practicing magic. Phitolis wanted to be progressive with their incorporation of worship into society and focus on military prowess and politics. Even ages after the peaceful separation of the two nations, there are still similarities in their art and even their deities, creating a twinning of their religious icons. The two cities hold a yearly competition between each other involving physical aptitude and mental prowess as a symbolic representation of the war avoided by them so long ago. As such, each city has constructed massive colosseums to house the games, called The Duals. Unlike most physical competitions, these were battles of spirit and devotion. Participants are not judged by their peers, but by the holy effigies that represent each deity and their domain. Elaborate statues with impeccable detailing. The more devote the performer, the grander blessing offered by the statue. The highest honor know has only occurred once in history, direct possession.