Magic and mysticism

"Myths tell stories of great magicians from long ago that could bend reality at whim and used their power to sway both land and kingdoms are plenty. Magic used to be something more than myth and tales for children. But during era of conflict, the way people looked at the mystical arts went from a thing of inspiration and awe to become synonymous with superstition, fear and evil." - John Hartman, explorer and Royal academy fellow.  

Even though the mysterious is a part of the world it is a sensitive topic. Throughout history there have been many that have practiced the mystical arts but in the modern age, depending on where in the world one is as well as what culture one adheres to, the view and regard for the mystical varies greatly.

In the empires of Evperia most people view magic and mysticism as either superstition or a dark and evil thing only practiced by either savages that were banished a long time ago or solitary outcasts in the wilderness. This view comes to a large degree from the church of the Light Bearer, which holds the belief that to practice magic is to invite and surrender to the corruption of darkness. Anyone that openly practice mysticism would quickly learn to keep their knowledge hidden as the repercussion would come swiftly, often in the form of witch hunters or the like. However there is a remerging interest for the mystical that has taken hold among the established middle classes of the empires, but whether it's real or a trick is heatedly debated while also stirring the memories of the age of conflict. In recent time however there has been a resurgence of interest in the mystical among the burgeoning middle class as well as the upper classes. Most see it as a means to add some entertainment to parties and social gatherings but some take their interest further, devoting significant time and resources in pursuit of hidden knowledge or power. 

Those that devote themselves to learn about the occult claim it to be both an art and a skill, and only those with true dedication may master it. A common belief says that there are mystical powers in words and symbols, a thing that still matters even in the modern world.