Tur An Tiel--Bones of the Dragon.

The Gods of Tur An Tiel, Part Three: The Sleurithian Pantheon

The Gods of the decadent Sleurithian Empire are strange lot, popular among those who want dieties that don't interfere to much, or those that want a great deal of power for what seems like a little price. Even the best Sleurithian Gods are somewhat self-serving, while the worst are quite bad. It should be noted that Hiddel and Sybal are generally seen as Murelli, and Toreth is occasionally considered among that company as well, though their Sleurithian variants are far more popular.

Toreth, the Seeker of Power, the Dark Star of Heaven
Neutral Evil Greater Power
Head power of the Sleurithian pantheon (mostly because no other power dare challenge him rather than any actual leadership on his part), Toreth is known as the Seeker of Power by his followers--a title that refers to his position of God of Arcane Might. Toreth rules over the gaining of magical power--a position he is well suited for. Toreth seeks to gain magical power through any possible means, no matter how distasteful. Though this has led him to commit numerous acts of villainy, it has also caused him to act against other evil gods when it suited his purposes. He is seen as something of a (rather agressive) national protector by the Sleurithians; the saying "May you fall under the Dark Star" is a rather common curse for them. Toreth is represented as a tall man dressed in black robes, wearing a horned crown.

Immara, Lady of Might and Majesty, the Iron Queen
Lawful Neutral Lesser Power
Toreth's wife, who legend say he sculpted out of iron, and then breathed life into. Immara is a hard and majestic goddess of implacable will, seen as a national protector by the Sleurithians. Immara is the patron of Sleurithian nobles and warriors, a goddess of those higher ones whose augustness allows them to protect the sacred ways of Sleurith. Immara is a god of nobles only, and is not so much worshipped as invoked. She is represented as a tall, stately woman dressed in baroque iron armor.

Karid, the Binder
Lawful Neutral Lesser Power
Toreth and Immara's son, Karid is the god of Sleurithian law and contracts. He is invoked in courts and to make contracts. If anyone swears something on the name of Karid, and then fails their oath in any way it said a horrible (but just) punishment will befall them. Karid is reprensented as a tall man in a purple cloak, who wears a set of linked rings on his right hand.

Hasetha, the Loving Sister, Keeper of the Hearth
Lawful Neutral Lesser Power
Toreth's daughter and Sleurithian Goddess of the family, Hasetha is represented as the model for noble Sleurithian womanhood, and keeper of families. She is usually invoked at weddings, and similar family occasions. Hasetha is more a representation of Sleurithian family togetherness than a greatly worshipped goddess. She is represented as a young woman tending a fire.

Malka, the Purifier, Lady of Discipline
Lawful Neutral Intermediate Power
A young goddess in the Sleurithian pantheon, Malka is none the less a fairly powerful one. Malka is the goddess of purity (a rather nebulous concept as put forth by her priests), and obediance to the law (of Malka). Her priests tend to be quite fervent in their support of her, and quite vicious in their dislike of "mages" (that is to say, anyone who uses arcane magic, and quite a few priests as well). Her popularity in Sleurith wanes and ebbs, though she has recently won the support of the Tyrant of Mathire, and is considered an "acceptable" god by the Archean clergy. Malka is reprensented as a stately woman holding a sceptre and pointing accusingly at those before her.

Khureg, the Taskmaster, Lord of the Chain and Whip
Lawful Evil Lesser Power
Even by the standards of the Sleurithian Pantheon, Khureg is a cruel god. Khureg rules over slavery and forced labor, the god of opression and slave-masters. Khureg's priests and zealots are traditionally slavers, and hold great sway over the ancient Slavers' Guild. Khureg holds that slavery is the proper and just way for those who are priviledged to use the services of those who are not. Khureg's church is closely allied with that of Malka, and like hers, is considered an acceptable faith by the Archean church. Khureg is represented as a huge man wrapped in chains, holding a whip in each hand.

Hiddel, the Fat
Chaotic Evil Intermediate Power
God of greed and merchants, Hiddel's motto is that luck serves those that serve themselves. In Hiddel's creed, he who gives is a fool and he who takes is glorius. Hiddel is well-beloved by greedy merchants who want to avoid pangs of conscience, and has shrines in most Merchants' Emporium halls. He is represented as an immensely fat man, with greedy, cunning eyes.

Taiki, Dame Fortune
Chaotic Neutral Lesser Power
Goddess of good luck and happy occurences, Taiki is worshiped by any who want good fortune. Taiki is seen as a flighty, feckless goddess who deserts those who follow her in a second. She is twin sister to Leuki; the two are usually shown together. Taiki is usually represented as happy young woman with blonde in a yellow dress, smiling broadly.

Leuki, Lord Mishap
Chaotic Neutral Lesser Power
God of Misfortune and ill luck, Leuki is worshipped by people with grudges and those who wish to ward him off. Leuki is seen by some as spiteful and malevolent, by others as dutiful and just. He is Taiki's twin brother; the two are usually shown together. He is usually represented as a young man with red hair, in a red shift, smiling amusedly.


Sybal, Queen of Secrets, Mistress of Deceit
Neutral Evil Greater Power
The Queen of Secrets and Deceit is a great power in Sleurith, and indeed elsewhere, for lies and intrigue hold much power in the world. A cunning and deceptive goddess, Sybal always has a scheme hatching, and a plot in the works. Sybal's priests are a dangerous, deceptive lot, always ferreting out secrets and plotting. Most in authority try to stay friendly with them, rather than risk their anger. She is a sister to Toreth, though the two are rivals, as are their priesthoods. Sybal also faces a rival in Malka, who seems opposed to her cult's secretive and devious ways. Sybal is usually represented as an attractive woman white on one side, black on the other.

Whisper, the Silent, Lady of Thieves
Chaotic Evil (Neutral) Lesser Power
Goddess of Thievery, Whisper is a goddess of dark alleyways and soft boots. Whisper delights in skilled thefts and clever robberies--the more elaborately planned the better. She will steal anything, and doesn't really care much about its worth. Whisper's cult is small, but growing. She is usually represented as a pair of eyes, and grasping gloves--Whisper is a skilled shapeshifter, and her followers consider it a crime to represent her in an unchanging form.

Tulk, King of Beggers
Chaotic Good Demipower
God of all beggers and mendicants, Tulk implores the fortunate to share with the unfortunate. He has a small following, but quite devoted. His priests are beggars themselves, and usually give what help they can to their brethren. Tulk is usually represented as a clever-looking man in rags with a begging bowl.

Ulea, Lady of Evening
Chaotic Neutral Demipower
Ulea is goddess of those women who work at night. Another way of puting it is that she's goddess of prostitutes. Ulea's cult is small, but she is...well-beloved by many. I'll leave it at that. She is usually represented as a beautiful, and scantily clad woman.

Hesi, Lord of Art
Chaotic Neutral Demipower
Toreth's youngest son, Hesi is something of a disapointment to his father. Hesi is god of art and artists. His cult is small, but growing. His priests often make great works of art using magical aid. Hesi is usually shown as a young man, dressed exquisitely well, holding a brush in one hand, and a quill in the other.

The Gods of Tur An Tiel, Part Four; The Syran Pantheon

The Syran Pantheon are the god of the great Syran Empire, arguably the greatest of human nations on Eldheim. Illustrious and majestic, the Syran Pantheon are generally a formal, even slightly staid bunch. The Syran Gods prize discipline, and a certain level of self-sufficiency in their followers. It should be noted that the Syrans worship gods of the Aellari, Murelli, and even the Sleurithian pantheon as well, though the Syran Pantheon remains first in their hearts.

Syr, Emperor of All, High King of the Gods
Lawful Neutral Greater Power
High God of the Empire of Syra, Syr is a rigid, but just lord, horrible in his anger, and fast in his friendship. Syr extorts his people to follow his ways and laws in their dealings with the world, and to be courageous above all. Syr is the patron of the Empire, its protector, and God of its Emperors. Syr is well-beloved in Syr, and more or less hated everywhere else. His priests are very formal, and tend to perform the rituals of the state, including crowning the Emperor. He is usually represented as a man on a throne, clad in mail, and holding a spear.

Parda, Queen of the Gods, Lady of the Healing Waters
Lawful Good Intermediate Power
Syr's wife, Parda is the goddess of rivers and healing, the goddess who sustains the life of Syra. She is worshipped by farmers, and river-dwellers, and all Syrans who desire healing. A kind and gentle Queen, Parda balances her stern and often fearsome husband. Parda is more popular outside of Syra than Syr, but not much. She is represented as stately woman in a blue gown, holding a javelin.

Ram-Hoth, Lord of the Mountains, King of Peaks
Lawful Neutral Intermediate Power
Parda's brother, Ram-Hoth is the god of mountains and stone. Worshipped by Syran miners, and many Nibelungen, Ram-Hoth is a gruff, fierce wild man who interacts little with his fellow gods, but can be counted on to come if needed. The King of Peaks is a prickly god, slow to act, and set in his ways. He is usually represented as a huge, craggy faced man, holding a pick.

Amut, Falcon of Syr, The Undefeated General
Lawful Evil Intermediate Power
Syr's right-hand man, Amut is a vicious warrior who has never tasted defeat in battle. Amut never retreats, and never allows his opponents to retreat. He is loved by many Syran knights and soldiers, who hope to imitate his courage in battle (or as some would put it, his blood madness). Amut's priests are fierce warriors, often more concerned with slaughter than honor. He is usually represented as a fierce looking young man wearing plate armor, the helmet in the shape of a falcon's head.

Shuan, the Peaceful Blade, He Who Holds
Lawful Good Lesser Power
God of Mercy and Law, Shuan is the god that keeps the peace in Syran society. Shuan holds that violence should be used only to end fights and in self-defense, and that killing should be avoided when possible. He is less than respected by many, and mocked by some. Shuan's priests are often found aiding in the arrest of criminals, and questing to bring justice and mercy to those around them. Shuan is represented as aged man holding a short sword, a quiet smile on his face.

Nerys of the Coin, Lady of Wealth, the Fickle Mistress
Chaotic Neutral Intermediate Power
Syran Goddess of Wealth, Nerys is a fickle goddess who rarely stays with those she favors very long. A man can through intelligence, cunning, and insight court her favor and keep it for years, but in the end, even they can be undone with a flick of her hand. Nerys is worshipped by merchants, and is beginning to become more popular than Hiddel. Her priests are often bankers and merchants as well. Nerys is represented as a tall woman with golden eyes. She is merried (somewhat unhappily) to Shuan.

Maia, the Eye of Truth, The Enduring Name
Lawful Neutral (Good) Lesser Power
Syr and Parda's daughter, and betrothed of Turhan, Maia is the goddess of Truth. She guards truthful statements, and right action, and judges those who come before her. It must be noted that Maia is impartial, but merciless in her judgement--the guilty are punished, whatever their reasons. Maia's priests act as guards and judges. Maia is represented as a young woman holding a shortspear.

Cabel, Duke of Winds and Storms
Neutral Lesser Power
Cabel is the Syran god of the Wind, son of Syr and Parda. He is a confident, indeed somewhat arrogant god, who laughs at the world, and charges boldly into battle, and who causes storms at a whim. Cabel is a favorite god for young warriors, though most Syrans tend to dislike his unpredictablity. He is represented as a handsome young man, with a bag at his side, leaning on a great sword and smiling.

Turhan, Scribe of the Gods, the Holy Historian
Neutral (Good) Demipower
The son of Shuan and Nerys, Turhan is a bookish god, devoted to the study and recording of history. Turhan chronicles the slow march of time with an impartial quill, though he seems to somewhat favor the righteous over the wicked. Turhan's following is small, even in Syra. His priests are librarians and scholars--many are actually wizards, and sorcerers. Turhan is represented as a young man, dressed as a scholar, holding a book and quill.

The Gods of Tur An Tiel, Part Five; The Archean Pantheon

The Archean Pantheon is worshiped by the strict and theocratic Archeans, and by few others. It is a pantheon that prides loyalty and obedience above all else, and prefers strictness to compassion and mercy. The Archeans live dour lives, and would like others to do the same. They acknowledge few other gods, accepting only Malka and Khureg, and considering all other gods demonic and heretical.

Arch, the Perfect Lord, the Most Lawful
Lawful Neutral Greater Power
The High God of the Archeans, Arch is a stern god whose word is law to his followers. Arch bids his people to obey his laws in all things, and stay loyal to him, and him alone. Arch's priests rule Archean society, and punish all lawbreakers. Arch is represented as a huge man on a throne, holding a hammer.

Remios, the Watcher, Guardian of Order
Lawful Neutral Intermediate Power
Like the rest of his fellows in the Archean pantheon, Remios is said to have been a mortal who Arch lifted to godhood. Remios was a great warrior in life, and once defended the first Temple of Arch from a hundred enemy warriors single-handedly. For this action, Arch raised him up to heaven, to serve as the God of Protection. Remios is a dutiful power who serves his master loyally, and without question. He is represented as a tall man, holding a halberd.

Vale, the Lady of Peace, Friend to the Loyal
Lawful Neutral (Evil) Intermediate Power
A young priestess of Arch who opposed the Rusinians, Vale's church is a powerful one. It is said that Vale roused her people into revolt against the Dynasts in the Valley of Luren, and had most of them killed. Afterwards, Vale set out to create a powerful nation of Archeans, loyal to the church, but found resistance from the nobles. She ruled for a year, but was felled by an assassin's dagger. Vale is the Archean goddess of rule, inspirational leadership, and the keeping of loyalty. She is represented as a tall, smiling woman with a sword in her hand.

Thraunus, the Aged, Maker of Ways and Walls
Lawful Neutral (Good) Lesser Power
A great architect, as an old man Thraunus designed the first Temple of Arch, for which Arch raised him to the God of Construction. Thraunus's priests are in charge of making buildings and roads in Archea, and are generally found out on some church business. Thraunus is represented as an old man holding a motar and a hammer.

Laithe, Lady of Happiness, The Cupholder
Lawful Good Demipower
Said by some to be Arch's daughter, Laithe held the cup from which Arch drank when he was exhausted from the creation of the Valley of Luren. A merry, happy power, she is unlike most of her fellows in the Archean pantheon, and popular with many people as a goddess of healing. She is represented a laughing young woman holding a cup.

The Gods of Tur An Tiel, Part Six; The Savage Powers

The Savage Powers is not so much a pantheon as a grouping of the gods worshipped by those brutal races that dwell wherever they will, their hands against all. By this is meant Goblinkind, Giants, and Kobolds. These races are rarely known for their piety, and many of them will worship a Murelli, a Cultic Diety, or even a fiend instead. The Savage Powers are not a pantheon of acceptance and alliance--rather they a quarrelling fighting collection of powers.

THE SAVAGE POWERS

Ymir, The Imprisoned, King of Giants
Lawful Evil Greater Power
Lord and Maker of the Jotun, and ruler of the servitor races of their design, the Ettin and Goblins, Ymir sought to conquer and control the whole of Tur An Tiel, and was captured and bound in the center of the World for his crimes. Since then he has plotted and schemed to free himself. He is clever and subtle both by nature and necessity, for his followers are few, and his enemies many. Ymir is a bitter god, his temper fearsome, and the rites of his worshippers dire. He is worshipped by Jotun, and those of the Ettin who retain the cunning to remember him. He is represented as a pair of eyes, glaring balefully, and two bound hands.

Maegresh, the Skulking Lord, the Goblin King
Neutral Evil Intermediate Power
God of Goblins, Maegresh was once a minor servant of Ymir who betrayed his lord. Now he sits fearful on his stolen throne, waiting for the day when his former master returns. Maegresh is cowardly and paranoid, putting little trust in his servants, for after all, should Ymir have trusted him? He rules Goblinkind with a distracted air, occasionally bothering to intercede on their behalf, but in general demanding much, and giving little. Maegresh's priests are found among most races of Goblins, and are expected to sing his praises loudly, and often. Maegresh is represented as a tall, thin Goblin with nervous eyes, sitting on a throne.

Ithara, the Helpmate, the Dreaded Mother
Neutral Evil Lesser Power
Maegresh's mate, Ithara is a once-mortal Goblin witch who stole the secret of Godhood from him. Maegresh has little trust for her, but she pleases him physically at least, and her counsel is generally good. In truth Ithara always seeks to gain more power for herself, using subtle and clever means to get it. Priestesses of Ithara are told to marry chiefs and Goblins of power, and serve them as dutiful wives, the whole time seeking to dominate and control them. Ithara is represented as a female Goblin wearing a pale white robe, embroidered with symbols, whose hair has been dyed with blood, and whose claws are long and sharp.

Ordos, the Strong
Neutral Evil Lesser Power
Maegresh's son, Ordos is strong, and little else. A hulking figure, he is subserviant to his parents, a fool, and a coward when he is in pain. Ordos charges into battle, (throwing things when it suits him) and retreats just as fast. Ordos is worshipped greatly by Trolls, who find his boastful strength greatly to their liking. He is generally represented as a huge Troll, bulging with muscle, a dull look in his eyes.

Ilvet, the Worg Lord, the Hunter
Lawful Evil Demipower
Maegresh's lieutenant, Ilvet is a former servant of Amraphel who fled his service, and joined with the Goblin King. Wild, yet disciplined Ilvet bids Goblins to follow his example, and those of his "creations" (though corruptions is a truer term) the worgs. Brutal and evil, Ilvet is worshipped by wild, militant tribes of Hill and Mountain Goblins who seek their living through rapine. Ilvet is represented as a tall Goblin of commanding features, who bears much of the nature of the wolf.

Skali, the Howling
Chaotic Evil Demipower
A mysterious power, of uncertain origin, Skali is Maegresh's messenger, Goblin god of fear and death. Goblins more placate Skali than worship him, fearing his visits which can decimate even the greatest tribes. Skali has few priests, and they are a strange, half-maddened buch. Skali is represented as a small, slight Goblin with pitch-black skin, and bright red eyes, an insane smile on his face.

Onurga, the Shark
Lawful Evil Demipower
More a primal appetite than a god, Onurga is the devouring nature of the sea brought to life. Worshipped by Sea Goblins (called by some Sahuagin) and some pirates, Onurga seems dully aware of their worship, and rewards it. Onurga seems to desire little, other than food and sacrifice. Ancient and mysterious, he is represented as a shark of incredible size and power.

Kvet-Ti, Lord-of-All-He-Surveys, the Annoying One
Lawful Evil Demipower
God of Kobolds, (and they do well to remember that) Kvet-Ti is thought to be a mortal member of that race who ascended to Godhood as a result of an experiment by his Dragon master. (The experiment failed, it's said, to convert his master into a God, though it did convert her to a corpse.) Small, egotistcal, and disliked by all, (his title "Lord-of-All-He-Surveys" is an insult given to him by Ilyet, as due to his small size, he does not survey much,) Kvet-Ti is given grudging respect only by the Kobolds, mostly out of that race's need to have a god of some sort looking out for them. Kvet-Ti's priests are rarer than he'd like, and often ignored and humiliated by the Sorcerers. Kvet-Ti is represented as a Kobold dressed in rich silks, wearing a golden crown.

Vathek, the Iron Fist, Lord of Might
Lawful Evil Demipower
A strange one among the Savage Powers, Vathek is a relative newcomer who is only just now making his inroads among Goblinkind. A former servant of Amraphel like Ilvet (though Vathek still pledges at least a surface loyalty), the Iron Fist has set himself up as a rival to Maegresh. Unlike Ilvet, Vathek is a god of civilization for the hordes of Goblinkind, a power that calls for them to step forward and take their rightful place in the World. Vathek's priests prescibe to a rigid discipline, and where they are found, they control their fellows. Vathek is worshipped in the strange Goblin nation of Vathi, and by a few independent tribes of Mountain Goblins, but by few others, though this situation may change... He is represented as a tall diabolic figure, clad in plate mail, and with spiked gauntlets, the right hand raised in a clenched fist.

Gods of Tur An Tiel, Part Seven; The Cultic Gods

The so-called Cultic Gods are not a pantheon--they are a collection of miscellaeneous powers who fit in with no other group. Though contrast between the individual dieties is quite striking, they all share some attributes--they fit in no other alliance, though they may be mentioned in passing in religious texts of the formal pantheons, they are often secretive, and their religious practices are usually shrouded in mystery.

Redos, The Faceless One, the Incomprehensible
Chaotic Evil (Neutral) Greater Power
An ancient, and malignant miasma, Redos is a strange power who rules (or seems to rule) the Beyond, that strange place that lies at the end of time, and space. A vile, devouring evil, Redos slowly spreads outward, seeking to engulf worlds. Its mind (Redos has no gender) is completely foreign to the people of Tur An Tiel--its desires, unknowable. Redos is worshiped by strange mad cultists who seek to further its unfathomable ends, whether out of a sick longing for reward at its tendrils, or merely an innate desire to serve it is impossible to say. Redos is represented through a large variety of obtruse and estoric symbols, though it is said it sometimes appears as man with no face, clad in rags that are in fact its hanging skin.

Sirus, the Rotting King, the Lord of Decay, He-Who-Sees-the-Fall-of-Man
Neutral Evil Intermediate Power
Once Sirus was the god of the Rus people, their Lord of Harvests. No longer. Now Sirus is the Rotting King, the half-dead god who presides over the slow decay of all ripeness. Sirus is a strange and bitter god, who extors his followers to quicken the decay that will one day overwhelm all, so they can hasten his kingdom. Sirus is worshipped by the corrupt, and depraved who delight to see what is fresh wither. Many Rus worship him in the hope that he will restore them to their former greatness. Sirus's priests are corrupt clerics and druids, all skilled in matters of desecration. Many become a strange form of lich when they feel properly "learned". Sirus is represented as a withered corpse dressed in kingly garments, his eyes glowing a rotten green.

Vod, Old One-Eye, the Trickster, Lord of the North, the Hanging God
Chaotic Neutral (Evil) Intermediate Power
The mysterious god of many Nordveni (the Ashveni worship their own strange powers) Vod is a sort of trickster, a one-eyed sorcerer who hung himself to gain a knowledge of death. The Nordveni put everything from war to magic at Vod's booted feet. Vod is an unusual power, as he seems to have no connection to any of the other powers of Tur An Tiel, and indeed seems to have originated on another world, whose destruction he fled. Cunning, decietful, and patient, Vod seems to be gaining worshipers on the Bones of the Dragon slowly, but surely. He is represented as an old man with one-eye, either in traveler's garb, or in full battle mail.

The Deirj, Lord of Dooms, The Great, Grey, Grim God
Neutral Intermediate Power
The ogres of Tur An Tiel are a varied bunch, adopting the religious practices of others. In the North, many worship Vod, in the Sleurithian Empire, they worship those strange gods, while others worship Vaaldusk, or Ymir, or Maegresh. But in truth, most ogres favor one god above all others--the Deirj, the grim Lord of Dooms who they say guides their fates. The Deirj is he who unleashes hardship on all who dwell on Tur An Tiel, to make them strong. The ogres say they are his most loved race, for they are a people who love to stand by their own power. The Deirj is pictured by them a colossal ogre, clad in a grey cloak, and grey of hue, holding an axe.

The Nameless One, The Wanderer, the Unbound God
Chaotic Evil Lesser(?) Power
This mysterious power is a mystery to all mortals in Tur An Tiel.
His name is never uttered.
His past is never spoken of.
His existence is never confirmed.
And yet his cult endures. It is unknown why, though some speak (vaguely) of a horrendous crime in his past that resulted in his banishment. Others (his cultists especially) say that he is not unnamed out of punishment, but fear, for he has sworn no covenant with the other powers, and they hold no sway over him. Some accounts connect him to the foul disease "the Black Breath", or as some call it, "the Blight". He is never represented--however his cultists use as a symbol a red sphere.

Amraphel, the Black Blade, the Lord of Devils
Lawful Evil Lesser Power
An old, fallen power, Amraphel is the Lord of Devils. He rules the beasts from his citadel in the infernal city of Dis, the center of their realm. Fierce and disciplined, Amraphel leads his troops forever into battle against Arioch, his opposite, and nemesis. Amraphel is worshiped by mortals who wish to court the favor of devils. These are commonly called "infernalists". He is represented as a tall, majestic looking man holding a black sword. He is winged, and his left foot is a hoof.

Arioch, the Many-Clawed, the Prince of Demons
Chaotic Evil Lesser Power
Ancient nemesis to Amraphel, Arioch rules Demons from the his castle in the demonic city of Pandemonium, the center of their realm. Wild and cunning, Arioch hatches a million schemes against his rival, the only thing saving Amraphel being Arioch's lack of patience. Arioch is worshiped by those he has initimidated, and those who wish to court the favor of demons. These are commonly called "diabolists". He is represented in many ways, but usually as a great beast with many claws.

Bel Faegar, the Unholy One, the Beast, He-Who-Death-Cannot-Hold
Chaotic Evil Lesser Power
God of Vampires, Bel Faegar is an ancient hunger that cannot be sated. Feared even by Thanatos, Bel Faegar plots and dreams of world ruled by his children, the Undead Lords. Bel Faegar is said to have sprung from the rotting remains of a huge worm that set forth to devour the World. The Beast is widely worshipped in the bleak kingdom of Urek Mersa, and is seldom worshipped elsewhere. He has entered into an alliance with Sirus and Xailoth, called "the Unholy Three" with the intent to overthrow Thanatos. The outcome of this would-be coup is yet to be seen. Bel Faegar is represented as tall, horned creature, eyes glowing red, fangs dripping with blood.

Triphanos, Lord of Shipwrights, the God Who Fell, the Drowned Lord
Neutral Good Lesser Power
Patron God of the Iskerne, Triphanos is said to have fallen on their isles, where he taught them to build ships, and to make their living from the seas. Eventually he fell afoul with either Evesha or Onurga (tales vary as to which), and was forced into combat against them to save his people. He won, but was forced to stay in the sea to keep them safe. The Iskerne leave him offerings at festival times, and invoke them to keep their ships safe. He is represented as a tall bearded man, dripping with water.

Xailoth, the Black-Cloaked, the Cold Lord, He-Who-Stands-In-Darkness
Neutral Evil Lesser Power
A god who was once a man, Xailoth is a former Sleurithian necromancer who obtained godhood after a failure to achieve a superior form of lichhood using a sphere of anhilation. The attempt killed his body, but his mind lived on, and became God of Undeath. Xailoth is a lesser, rarely worshipped power, making his way through cunning and skill. His cult is small, but includes many necromancers. He is represented as a tall pale man, dressed head to toe in a long black cloak.

Sisethena, Our Lady of Shadows
Neutral Lesser Power
The mysterious goddess of the Ulheru, it is said that "Our Lady of Shadows", (the meaning of the name Sisethena) gave up her mortal life to give Ulheru their powers over shadows and illusion. Her worship is a closely guarded secret of the race's. She is never represented.

Lydeth, the Worm that Gnaws, the Lurker in the Darkness, the Blind Lady
A mysterious goddess, Lydeth is the lady of deep, dark places beneath the earth. She is worshipped by many Dark Goblins, as well as twisted and evil humans, elves and Nibelungen. She is subtle and treacherous, with a great hatred for many of her rival gods. She seems to bear especial hatred for Thanatos and Malkys--some legends say Thanatos defeated her, and then gave her to Malkys as a toy. She is traditionally represented as a woman with the tail of a worm below the waist, and blind, white eyes. Her symbol is a coiled tail.

Evesha, Mistress of the Deep
Chaotic Evil Demipower
Goddess of Sea Monsters and Storms, Evesha is a cruel servant of Arioch's, and creator of krakens and other such beasts. She is worshipped by them and degenerate pirates. She is represented as a beautiful woman on the top, with a squid's tentacles below

Aurdal, the Burner
Chaotic Evil Demipower
The mad god of destroying fire, Aurdal serves Arioch, though like Evesha rebelliously. Aurdal seeks to burn all things, as do his cultists. He is represented as a man made out of flames.

Atreos, the Baleful, God-Emperor of the Azerai
Lord of the mysterious Azerai, Atreos led these otherworldly beings in their conquest of Tur An Tiel. He was eventually killed, though reports indicate his bodiless spirit remains on the Bones of the Dragon. He took the form of (and naturally was normally represented as) a tall being, clad in baroque armor, its eyes glowing with baleful light. His symbol was (and is) a heel, crushing a skull.

Arthu Camides, the Scarred God
Neutral Good Demipower
God of the Talos, Arthu Camides is the Sleurithian wizard who created the race, who they claim has ascended to divinity. Arthu is a god of suffering and healing, who looks out for his manufactured race. He is generally represented in crude sculptures as a scarred Sleurithian wizard.

Seizrandi, the Prophet
Unknown Power
A mysterious god, Seizrandi is said to know all of the future, and to have revealed portions of it in his book, the Seizran. He has no priests, and is not represented, for now is not the time.

Vaaldusk, the Cruel, Godkiller and Elfslayer
Neutral Evil Demipower???
The famed Sleurithian tyrant and general who marched in the War of Twin Darks, many hold that Vaaldusk sought and obtained godhood. That is all they agree on, though many seem him as lord of cruel ambition...

Heresiarchs
The Power-Less
Heresiarchs are not gods, but priests--they worship not powers, but ideas. Their cults are usually small--many are simply wandering lunatics preaching their odd faith. They are not generally well-liked by the conventional priesthood, but occasionally tolerated.

Well, I'm finished with the gods (for now). Anyone want me to do something else next? Please, tell me--I'm all ears.

Maps?

Glad to See You Back!

Rhialto -

I know that I popped by (infrequently) on the old boards, but I just have to say how much I enjoy the flavor and detail of your creation! I agree with Cevalic...some maps would be cool!

Keep up the awesome work!

Old One

Well, got the maps down. Next request...?

Okay, next up, the races of Tur An Tiel. First--ELVES!!!

THE ELVES OF TUR AN TIEL

Chapter 1

The Creation Myth of the Elves

'In the Beginning, there was the World. And the World was Good. And Evil came into the World, sowing discord, and soon violence began, and brother fought brother. And so Gonovon Lamefoot set out, to work his craft in peace. And he cast, and he cast, and made many wonders, until at last he had made the Pearl Without Price. And so Gonovon Lamefoot became Gonovon Wondersmith.'

'And Sebera the Great Dragon came and destroyed many of his works, and devoured the Pearl Without Price. And the Pearl burned within the Dragon, and drove him mad, causing to him to begin even greater destrucion. And then Gonovon knew that he must oppose the Dragon, lest all be destroyed, and the Pearl lost. And Gonovon forged his arms for 100 days, and 100 nights. And then he went forth to face the Dragon. For 200 nights and 201 days, they fought. Then finally, Gonovon shattered Sebera's head with his hammer. And so Gonovon Wondersmith became Gonovon Dragonslayer.'

'And Gonovon searched for the Pearl Without Price, but it had been consumed in the bowels of the Dragon, which now shone with strange magic. And Gonovon, to replace his lost treasure, took the Bones of the Dragons, and cast. And he cast plain, and he cast mountain, and he cast vale, and he cast hill, and finally, he cast it into the shape of a sphere. And when all was done, he named it Tur An Tiel, the Bones of the Dragon. And so Gonovon Dragonslayer became Gonovon Worldshaper.'

'And Gonovon traveled over the World he had made, and found it beautiful, though somehow lacking. And at last he reached the Heart of the World. And there he found, entombed in crystal, a beautiful woman, who lay as if sleeping. And Gonovon tried to free the woman, but lacked the strength. And at last he tired, and slept.'

'And as he slept, Cernunnos the Huntsman, and his sister Syme the Jugbearer came to Tur An Tiel from the Outer World with their people, fleeing war. And they found Tur An Tiel passing fair. And Cernunnos smote the ground with his spear, and animals sprang to life, ready for the hunt. And Syme poured from her Jug, and the rivers, lakes and oceans of the world appeared, and were filled with fish and other life. And as Cernunnus took out his pipe and began to play, Syme danced upon the newly-created oceans.'

'And Gonovon awoke, and was in awe of the changes that happened to his World. And he saw Syme dancing, and his heart was filled with love for her, though he was too frightened to speak of it. And he went forth, and spoke to the siblings, and the three swore a vow to protect and nuture the young World. At this moment there was a great cracking, and the woman of the crystal appeared before them, and declared that she was Terra, the Spirit of the World, and that their selfless vow had awoken her. With that she waved her hand, and the World of Tur An Tiel became vibrant, and full of life.'

'And others came from the Outer World to Tur An Tiel, and found it Good, and dedicated themselves to the health of the World. And Gonovon declared his love for Syme, and they wed, and had three sons, Lleu, Oghma, and Dian. And together Gonovon, Syme and Cernunnos made the Four Dawn Races of Man, the gentle Sleurithians of Air, the passionate Hytherans of Fire, the sturdy Orenes of Earth, and the wise Nerai of Water. And there was peace on the world.'

'But there was one of the Outer World wise in the ways of Evil, called Thanatos, who was so far gone in the Dark Path that fair seemed foul to him, and foul fair. And he went to his palace upon the Void, and called forth a great army of Death. And they marched upon the World, and caused much evil, but at length were forced back. But Thanatos was not defeated, and as he nursed his wounds, he plotted to unleash an even greater force.'

'And while he plotted, he met with Melkys Verminlord. Now Melkys was a great Prince of his people, but he had sought after knowledge that was forbidden, and had been cast out. He had come earlier to Tur An Tiel in secret, and had worked in dark, hidden places to overthrow it, creating vile things to serve him, but he had been discovered, and most of his creations destroyed. Since that time, Melkys had lurked at the edges of Tur An Tiel, waiting for his chance to strike again. He offered his services to Thanatos, and bred a great horde of foul beasts to serve with Thanatos's army, and together the two assaulted Tur An Tiel.'

'And together the pair attacked Tur An Tiel. And the Orenes and Hytherans were slain utterly, and many Sleurithians and Nerei as well, and many fair places despoiled. And Gonovon and the others went forth to oppose him, but his power was great, and all seemed lost. And so Cernunnos called together the greatest, and wisest of his people and said, "We need powerful soldiers to fight against the dark forces of Thanatos, and Melkys Verminlord. I would ask you to be them, but as you are, you can not stand against them. We could make you so you were, but know that you would become mortal, and though your years would be long, you would in time die." And his people answered him, saying, "We will do this, for we love the World, and will not see it perish." And so Gonovon, Syme and Cernunnos cast and the people were made flesh, and became the Wild Folk, the Valesti.'

'And for awhile Thanatos and Melkys were held back. But Thanatos called forth even greater dark soldiers, and Melkys Verminlord bred even viler creatures, and soon they held the field, under the leadership of Thanatos's dark lieutenants, Arazid of the Knife, and Hazolth, the Bloodyhanded. And Gonovon fought Thanatos, and Cernunnos charged against Melkys's servant Durgeth the Jackal, while Syme and Melkys spent their power against each other. And Lleu Lightbringer went forth and faced Hazolth, while Oghma Clubwielder strode laughing into battle with Arazid, and Dian Healhands gave health to the soldiers of light. And though they fought bravely, all seemed lost.'

'And then Terra called forth her power, and from her sprang seven daughters, creations of light and beauty. And all but one, they strove against the horde. And Morgaine battered them with mighty winds, and Daphne confused their eyes with illusion, and Surya stood back-to-back with Oghma, and fought lustily against Thanatos's forces. But Phoebe stood back, singing, and called the Valesti to her. And many did not come, for they were afraid, and others did not come for the lust of killing was upon them. But some saw Phoebe, and loved her, and they went immediately to her side. And with Phoebe, at first with trepidition, but at last with courage, they sang Life. And there were others, well-loved by Gonovan, wise in the ways of Making, and when they heard the song, they went forth, and joined, and they sang Wisdom. And many of those fighting, when they heard, joined then, and they sang Courage. And all over the battlefield, the song was heard.'

'And the Song swept over the World, healing the lands and rivers, and soldiers of the Light. And when Thanatos's forces heard the Song, many weaker ones were destroyed outright, and the stronger fled, as did Melkys Verminlord, who was ever a coward. And Surya and Oghma smote down Arazid and Hazolth, and as Thanatos stood over the weakening Gonovan, Lleu Lightbringer came forward, and he channeled the Song in his blade and ran Thanatos through. And Thanatos writhed out in agony, as the Song boiled through his poisoned blood, the antithesis of his being. And Terra bound Thanatos saying that while he could threaten the World, he could never again come close to destroying it. And Thanatos, weakened and in utter agony, agreed. And as Thanatos left to heal, he plotted how he might betray his agreement, and gain vengeance. For the Dark Reaper of Souls hated Tur An Tiel, and wished to see it destroyed.'

'In the ashes of the Gods' War, those lost were mourned, and Astra gathered the spirits of the dead Sleurithians and Nerei, and the lost Hytherans and Orenes, and changed them into spirits of the elements. And the Nerai could not be cured of their poison by Dian, so they left across the ocean, to search for a remedy there. As for those of the Valesti who had taken up the Song, they were changed from what they had been. The Song had burned away their wildness, turning them into something finer. In the beauty of the Song, and the rigour of the Gods' War a new race had been born--the Eldari, the Noble Elves.'