Akmens (akh-mens)

God of gems, stone, and the underground
Allies: Rodina, Farraige, Arven
Enemies: Öken
Temples: Caves, crystals, mines
Worshippers: Explorers, miners, pathfinders
Sacred animal: Mole
Sacred colors: Black and red
Holy symbol: A pickaxe with a gleaming gem in its handle
[DnD 5e] Domains: Forge, Twilight
  Akmens' name is often uttered by the Yasamaqi, as they believe that he crafted the continent that they live in, and that any boons they stumble onto to are actually a gift from him. If one were to represent the Yasamaqi pantheon as a family, then Akmens is the father. Strict but fair, caring for his children yet wanting to see them become stronger. The kind of person to impose a challenge just hard enough to test you, and congratulate you when you win.   Akmens is responsible for the creation of Yasamaq itself. There are, however, a variety of legends regarding his current role. Some say he travels through the walls, reaching into his bags and spreading ores and gems there; others say the location of said materials has always been planned by Akmens. Regardless, he is also responsible for the well-being of those that push the frontiers of Yasamaq forward: whenever a new tunnel is about to be dug, people pray to Akmens to make sure that is the way they're supposed to go.   The worship of Akmens is very common amongst Yasamaqi, even if it is not necessarily done within a traditional temple. Anything that offers safe passage for just a moment can be used to pray to Akmens, and crystals themselves are considered a gift of the god. Some believe they can be used to directly communicate with him. Most Yasamaqi have prayed to Akmens at least once in their lives, even those that have mostly stayed in Mundegap; if only for protection for their loved ones.   As with all Yasamaqi gods, the look of Akmens changes often, but most see him as a powerful, fatherly figure, with gleaming gems for eyes and teeth. Clerics of Akmens confirm that this is what he looks like, though none can agree on the specifics of his race, or even his hair color.

Holidays

The 1st of Spring is often associated with Akmens, as it is believed this is the day where he created Yasamaq.

Common rituals and gestures

The people of Yasamaq know a number of chants that can be sung when digging tunnels or to get ore out of the earth. These chants are meant to honour Akmens, and ask him for his bountiful blessings. That being said, these chants must be sung very quietly, as to not alert the many monsters of Öken.

Divine Intercessions

The blessings of Akmens grant those who receive it plentiful gems and ore in their digging efforts, and allows them to dig tunnels without the danger of attracting Öken's attention. His curses, however, are more violent; they often involve turning the recipients to stone or into gems. This curse is often partial, transforming only a few legs. Only the worst of the worst get fully turned.

Aphorisms

Akmens' aphorisms mostly relate to the blessings of the earth that he grants.   Akmens' bounty: Said of a particularly large ore or gem.     Akmens' pickaxe guide us!: An aphorism used just before a tunnel is dug; a way to get the attention of the god and ask for his guidance.   Look for the gleam!: Often uttered when deep in darkness, this invites people to look for gems or crystals for guidance.