The Gods of Winterweir
The role of the gods is a constant theme in fantasy settings. Too often, it degenerates into the idea of the Game Master using the gods as little more than glorified NPCs. Still, mythological settings often have the gods as movers and shakers for events. Is there anything more terrifying than an army lead by a evil deity? Is it not appropriate for Perseus to receive Pegasus from the command of Zeus himself?Winterweir takes a view based on the Hyborean Age by Robert E. Howard and the Dream Cycle of H.P. Lovecraft. "Gods" are a name that mortals give certain entities. Some of these beings are so beyond humanity that they are utterly unaffected by humans attempts to deal with them. One should sooner see a moth extinguish the Sun than a human being defeat Heton.
Yet, there are other beings that are considerably more down to Earth that mortals worship in Winterweir. Elemental entities that dwell in rivers and Eldrich Horrors that lie lurking in the darkness of other dimensions. These beings are no less "Gods" as human beings reckon things on Winterweir and are significantly more vulnerable to the sword or magic.
In fact, no one is really sure if the gods actually exist on Winterweir. Oh certainly, one can journey to the Dream Lands and visit Kaalon's domain or speak to the psychic impressions of shades left behind. However, is that truly the God of the Dead or a being that was created by all of humanity's prayers giving it life? For most people, the question is academic. But it cuts to the heart of the question of whether humans need the gods or the gods need humans.
EXAMPLE PANTHEON: THE GREAT TWELVE
The Great Twelve are the chief pantheon worshiped in Alacarn. The people of Alacarn actually worship thousands of local gods that vary from region to region but almost all people know the names of the Great Twelve. They are the most popular gods and the longest lasting, extending from the time that the Alacarn Empire covered the whole of the continent.
Heton
The King of the Gods. The God of Knowledge. The God of Light. The God of Rulership. Heton is a deity that is worshiped primarily by the nobility. He is a god more interested in the status quo than justice and many accuse his clergy of corruption or power mongering.
Demae
The Harvest Goddess. Demae is revered by all farmers as the Lady of Nature and the mother of all mortal races. Demae is also a bloody handed goddess who requires routine sacrifices to keep the soil fertile.
Filanti
The Goddess of Fire and Creation. Filanti is a whimsical goddess that is appeased by gifts of gemstones and burnt offerings. Her followers include anyone who wishes to create or destroy an enemy through flame.
Kaalon
The gentlest of the deities, Kaalon is simultaneously both the god of Death, the Underworld, and of Healing. His followers are martyrs who encourage compassion, self-sacrifice, and mercy. He is also the patron of Necromancy.
Obaq
The God of Forests and the Wilderness. Obaq cares nothing for any other being but his animals and worshipers. He does not judge morality and merely grants prayers as befits the offerings granted. He is most popular amongst the Valken Animal Men.
Paalok
The six armed and one eyed god of war. Paalok is the God of Rain and War. A bloody handed and cruel deity, Paalok is revered by noble souls who nevertheless dedicate themselves to warfare. Paalok will grant his favor to anyone who wields a sword, good or evil, so long as he receives his blood offerings.
Sybus
The Goddess of Love and Magic. Sybus is a mysterious deity who is prone to violent mood swings. The wife of Heton, she is mother of most deities in the Great Twelve. Ultimately, she is the most powerful because she controls all of destiny. Only Kaalon has managed to escape it.
Tyros
The God of Justice. Tyros is the enforcer of the spirit of the law versus Heton's observance of the letter. Tyros sponsors many champions to go forth and do good within the bounds of Alacarn. As such, many view his Magistrates with contempt and hostility as interfering busy bodies while others view them as great heroes.
Vaasti
The Goddess of Secrets, Lies, and Darkness. Vaasti is a malevolent goddess who most mortals pray to in order to gain protection from her wrath. Vaasti has many sects devoted to her amongst those plotting treason.
Veethor
The God of Coin, Greed, and Wealth. Veethor's clergy do not disguise their corruption but also run the only pan-continental banking system in the land. Veethor is not a cruel god but he encourages the worst sort of success.
Vulthoo
Vulthoo is the God of Oceans, Rivers, and Athletic prowess. He is the lover of Veethor in an unconventional relationship that nevertheless guarantees the peace between maritime travel and trade. Vulthoo's followers are amongst the most fit and able in the world.
Wynessa