Eurykrates (pronounced your-eh-KRAH-tees) was a Hellean hero-god and founder of the short-lived Grand Empire of Hellea. He attained hero-godhood in Y4584* in the midst of his conquests of the peninsula, dying not longer after in Y4592*. Despite this short time as a minor divinity, Eurykrates left an enduring legacy to the people of Hellea.
Description
Born in what is now Ephardia around Y4552*, Eurykrates was the son of a minor local ruler. Full of ambition and a drive to bring together the disparate peoples of Hellea into something larger, in Y4572* he raised a loyal army and set about unifying the kingdoms and city-states of the peninsula under himself. These campaigns grew in scope over the next 18 years, as the strength of Eurykrates' army increased alongside his aspirations. Through his exploits Eurykrates attained the status of a hero-god in Y4584*, and by Y4590* his empire reached its zenith.
The fortunes of Eurykrates and his empire would change in Y4592*. After declaring his intent to conquer the lands of Rothurland, Eurykrates traveled with his army to the frontier at the Naveza River, near the modern town of Third Bridge. Following a prophecy delivered to him by one of his cyclopean seers, Eurykrates set off alone into the forests, believing a great power was there that could aid him in his next conquest. Instead, he met his end after he was unceremoniously slain by a tribe of giants.
Location of worship
Eurykrates was worshiped across Hellea, but especially in the northwest regions of the peninsula. Many temples were constructed to him despite his short life, quite a few of which remain intact. Most have since been converted primarily into temples for more recent hero-gods.
To the modern-day people of Hellea, Eurykrates has a mixed legacy. He is simultaneously a hero who managed to bring together Hellea into a great empire, as well as a cautionary tale of how even hero-gods are not safe from the dangers of mortal life.
Holy text
Eurykrates had no holy text.