The Fall of Númenor and the Influence of Sauron

The Corruption of Armenelos

Sauron manipulated King Ar-Pharazôn into destroying the sacred White Tree, Nimloth, and erecting a massive temple in Armenelos. Dedicated to Melkor, this temple became a site of dark rituals where human sacrifices were made, primarily targeting the Faithful under false pretenses of treason to appease the fear of death.

Social Decay and Tyranny

The influence of the temple led to widespread madness, sickness, and violence across Númenor. Sauron fostered internal discord, setting citizens against one another, while the population became increasingly fearful and cursed in their final days.

Imperial Expansion and Cruelty

Despite the internal suffering, the Númenóreans grew militarily and economically powerful under Sauron's guidance. They expanded into Middle-earth as conquerors rather than benefactors, enslaving and sacrificing the local populations to fuel their own dark fortresses and wealth.