Archbishop Gideon Vale
Archbishop Father Gideon Vale (a.k.a. Father Gideon)
Father Gideon Vale is an elderly human with a stern but kind face, weathered by years of hardship and devotion. His silver hair, kept short and neat, frames a pair of piercing blue eyes that seem to see right through to a person’s soul. Standing at six feet 4 inches tall, he is still physically imposing despite his age, with a presence that commands respect and attention. He wears the traditional robes of the Old Ways Church, adorned with ancient symbols and runes, and always carries an intricately carved wooden staff, said to be a relic from before the apocalypse.
Background
Father Gideon Vale was born into a world already under the draconic rule. His parents, devout followers of the Old Ways, raised him in the shadow of the once-glorious city of Bath. From a young age, Gideon was taught the ancient traditions and rituals that had been passed down through generations, long before the dragons' rise to power. The Old Ways Church, a sect that clung to the pre-apocalyptic faiths and merged them with new traditions, became his sanctuary.
Early Life
As a child, Gideon showed a remarkable aptitude for the teachings of the Old Ways. His curiosity about the world and its history led him to become an avid reader and scholar. Under the guidance of the previous head of the church, Father Ambrose, Gideon learned not only about the faith but also about the art of leadership and the importance of compassion.
Rise to Leadership
Tragedy struck when Gideon was in his mid-twenties. A raid by a band of rogue dragonborn devastated the church's main sanctuary and claimed the life of Father Ambrose. In the aftermath, Gideon, filled with grief and determination, rallied the survivors and led a daring mission to reclaim their sacred grounds. His bravery and wisdom in the face of danger earned him the respect of the congregation, and he was unanimously chosen as the new head of the Old Ways Church.
The Old Ways Church Under His Leadership
Under Father Gideon's leadership, the Old Ways Church flourished despite the oppressive draconic rule. He rebuilt the sanctuary, incorporating both old-world architecture and new magical defenses to protect it from future threats. Gideon emphasized the importance of unity and resilience, teaching his followers to honor the past while adapting to the present.
Father Gideon became known for his deep understanding of ancient texts and relics, often sought after for his knowledge by scholars and adventurers alike. He maintained a delicate balance between preserving the old traditions and integrating necessary innovations, ensuring the church's relevance in a changed world.
Personal Philosophy and Vision
Father Gideon believes that the key to surviving and ultimately overcoming the draconic dominion lies in remembering and honoring the old ways while embracing the new realities of their world. He preaches a message of hope, resilience, and unity, encouraging his followers to stand together against the darkness and chaos that threaten their existence.
He is a firm advocate for peaceful coexistence but is not afraid to take up arms when necessary to defend his people and their way of life. His staff, a symbol of his authority and faith, also serves as a powerful conduit for his magical abilities, which he uses to protect and heal.
Goals and Motivations
Father Gideon’s primary goal is to ensure the survival and prosperity of the Old Ways Church and its followers. He seeks to uncover and preserve ancient knowledge and relics, believing they hold the key to restoring balance to the world. Additionally, he is committed to forging alliances with other groups and individuals who share his vision of a free and just society.
Notable Relationships
Mother Elara: A wise and gentle healer who serves as Gideon's closest advisor and confidante. She is deeply respected within the church and acts as a mediator and counselor.
Sir Aldric: A dragonborn knight who, despite his heritage, has pledged his loyalty to the Old Ways Church after being saved by Gideon during a battle. He serves as the church's protector and military leader.
Lyra Blackwood: A young and talented human artificer who looks up to Gideon as a mentor. She provides the church with technological and magical innovations.
Challenges
Father Gideon faces constant threats from the dragonlords who see the Old Ways Church as a beacon of rebellion and hope. He must navigate the delicate politics of alliances and enmities, all while safeguarding the ancient knowledge that could either save or doom their world.
Social
Contacts & Relations
The Arcanists, are dedicated to preserving and wielding ancient arcane knowledge. They see magic and ancient rituals as divine gifts that must be used responsibly to protect and heal the remnants of their world. Their focus on combining faith and magic resonates with the teachings of the Old Ways Church, leading to a complex and multifaceted relationship with Father Gideon Vale.
Relationship Overview
Mutual Respect and Common Goals
Both the Old Ways Church and the Arcanists are deeply committed to preserving ancient knowledge and traditions.
They share a common goal of using their respective wisdom and powers to safeguard humanity and restore balance to the world.
Father Gideon and the leaders of the Arcanists have a deep mutual respect for each other's dedication to their faiths and their communities.
Collaborative Efforts
Joint Rituals and Research: Father Gideon often collaborates with the Arcanists on rituals and research projects. Their combined efforts have led to the discovery and preservation of numerous pre-apocalyptic artifacts and texts.
Defense Alliances: The Old Ways Church and the Arcanists have formed a defensive alliance, pooling their magical and martial resources to protect their followers from external threats, especially from the dragonlords and their minions.
Healing and Restoration: The Arcanists’ expertise in arcane healing complements the Old Ways Church’s traditional methods. They work together to heal the sick and wounded, restore ruined lands, and cleanse areas corrupted by dark magic.
Philosophical Differences
Approach to Magic: While both groups value ancient knowledge, the Old Ways Church tends to be more cautious about using powerful magic, fearing potential corruption. The Arcanists, however, view magic as an essential part of their faith and are more inclined to push the boundaries of arcane power.
Doctrine and Rituals: There are occasional tensions over doctrinal differences and the specifics of certain rituals. The Old Ways Church emphasizes balance and harmony with nature, while the Arcanists focus on the direct application of arcane power and divine will.
Diplomatic Challenges
Navigating Alliances: Father Gideon must carefully navigate the political landscape, balancing the Old Ways Church’s alliance with the Arcanists against the need to maintain relationships with other factions. This sometimes leads to diplomatic challenges, especially when their interests conflict.
Handling Extremists: Within both groups, there are more radical elements who distrust the other side. Father Gideon works tirelessly to mediate and prevent these factions from undermining their shared goals.
Personal Relationships
Rabbi Ezra Stern: Rabbi Ezra Stern, the leader of the Arcanists, shares a close and respectful relationship with Father Gideon. They often engage in deep theological and philosophical discussions, exploring the intersections of their faiths and the mysteries of their world.
Elara and Miriam: Mother Elara, Gideon’s closest advisor, has a strong bond with Miriam Stern, Rabbi Ezra’s daughter and a powerful Arcanist. Their friendship symbolizes the potential for unity and collaboration between their groups.
Key Events in Their Relationship
The Battle of the Whispering Ruins
A joint operation where the Old Ways Church and the Arcanists defended a sacred site from a dragonborn warlord’s forces. Their combined might secured a decisive victory and deepened their bond.
The Cleansing of the Shadow Mire
A collaborative effort to cleanse a corrupted area of the Whispering Woods, where the Arcanists’ arcane magic and the Old Ways Church’s natural rituals worked in harmony to restore the land.
The Council of the Ancients
A summit where leaders of both factions, along with other allied groups, gathered to discuss strategies against the dragonlords. Father Gideon’s diplomatic skills were crucial in mediating disputes and forging a united front.
Father Gideons relationship with the Arcanists is one of deep respect, fruitful collaboration, and occasional tension. Their shared dedication to preserving ancient knowledge and protecting their communities forms the foundation of a strong alliance, while their philosophical and doctrinal differences present challenges that require careful navigation. Together, they stand as a formidable force against the darkness and tyranny that threaten their world
The Crusaders are driven by a fierce dedication to reclaiming and protecting sacred lands from the draconic overlords and other threats. They embody a warrior ethos and possess a strict code of conduct, emphasizing martial prowess and unwavering faith. The relationship between Father Gideon Vale and the Crusaders is marked by a blend of mutual respect, cautious collaboration, and underlying tension due to their differing approaches and philosophies.
Relationship Overview
Mutual Respect for Devotion
Both Father Gideon and the leaders of the Crusaders recognize and respect each other’s unwavering commitment to their faith and their people. This shared dedication forms the basis of their relationship.
Father Gideon admires the Crusaders’ courage and discipline, while the Crusaders respect his wisdom and spiritual leadership.
Collaborative Defense Efforts
Joint Military Campaigns: The Old Ways Church and the Crusaders have occasionally joined forces to repel attacks from dragonborn raiders and other threats. Their combined forces have proven to be highly effective in battle.
Resource Sharing: During times of crisis, they have shared resources, such as food, medical supplies, and intelligence, to ensure the survival and safety of their communities.
Philosophical and Methodological Differences
Approach to Conflict: Father Gideon advocates for balance, diplomacy, and careful use of power, whereas the Crusaders are more inclined towards direct action and military solutions. This difference sometimes leads to disagreements on strategy and tactics.
Religious Doctrine: The Crusaders’ interpretation of their faith is more militant and exclusive, while the Old Ways Church emphasizes inclusivity and harmony with nature. These doctrinal differences can create friction, especially during joint operations.
Diplomatic and Political Challenges
Balancing Alliances: Father Gideon must navigate the complex political landscape, balancing the Old Ways Church’s relationships with the Crusaders and other factions. This requires careful diplomacy to prevent conflicts of interest.
Handling Extremists: Both groups have more radical elements who distrust the other side. Father Gideon works to mitigate these tensions and foster a sense of unity and common purpose.
Personal Relationships
Commander Amir Al-Qadim: The leader of the Crusaders, Commander Khalid ibn Rashid, has a cautious but respectful relationship with Father Gideon. They have collaborated on several campaigns and share a mutual understanding of the stakes involved in their fight against the dragonlords.
Brother Tariq: A younger and more idealistic Crusader who admires Father Gideon’s wisdom and often serves as a liaison between the two groups.
Key Events in Their Relationship
The Siege of Haven’s Reach
A major conflict where the Old Ways Church and the Crusaders successfully defended a critical sanctuary from a massive dragonborn assault. Their combined efforts and strategic coordination turned the tide of battle, cementing their tactical alliance.
The Purging of the Black Mire
A joint operation to cleanse a corrupted area influenced by the Black Myst. The Crusaders provided military support while the Old Ways Church conducted the necessary rituals. This mission highlighted their complementary strengths and the importance of collaboration.
The Council of Unity
A diplomatic summit organized by Father Gideon to foster greater unity among various factions resisting the dragonlords. Despite initial skepticism, the Crusaders participated, leading to significant breakthroughs in mutual understanding and cooperation.
Father Gideon Vale’s relationship with the Crusaders is a delicate balance of mutual respect, strategic collaboration, and underlying tension. Their shared dedication to protecting their people and reclaiming sacred lands unites them, while their differing philosophies and approaches to conflict pose challenges. Through careful diplomacy, joint efforts in defense, and a shared recognition of the greater threat posed by the dragonlords, Father Gideon and the Crusaders manage to maintain a functional and occasionally strong alliance. This relationship highlights the complexities and potential for unity in a world overshadowed by draconic tyranny.
The Church of Current Day Saints, a splinter group from the Mormon Church, has adapted its faith to the post-apocalyptic world, emphasizing survival, innovation, and community building. Their beliefs center around modern interpretations of divine guidance, practical application of religious teachings, and a focus on resilience and adaptation in the face of draconic rule. The relationship between Father Gideon Vale and the Church of Current Day Saints is characterized by mutual respect, cooperative efforts, and occasional philosophical divergences.
Relationship Overview
Mutual Respect for Innovation and Adaptation
Both Father Gideon and the leaders of the Church of Current Day Saints respect each other’s efforts to preserve their faiths while adapting to the harsh realities of the world.
Father Gideon admires their resourcefulness and dedication to community building, while they respect his deep knowledge of ancient traditions and his spiritual leadership.
Collaborative Efforts
Community Support: The Old Ways Church and the Church of Current Day Saints often collaborate on community support projects, such as building shelters, organizing food supplies, and providing medical care to those in need.
Education and Knowledge Sharing: Both groups value knowledge, and they frequently exchange information about ancient texts, survival techniques, and innovations that can benefit their communities.
Philosophical and Theological Differences
Approach to Faith: The Old Ways Church focuses on preserving and honoring ancient traditions, while the Church of Current Day Saints emphasizes innovation and modern interpretations of their faith. This difference can lead to theological debates and differing priorities in their collaborative efforts.
Use of Technology: The Church of Current Day Saints is more open to using technology and modern inventions in their daily lives and religious practices, whereas the Old Ways Church is more cautious and selective about integrating new technologies.
Diplomatic and Political Challenges
Balancing Priorities: Father Gideon must balance the Old Ways Church’s priorities with those of the Church of Current Day Saints, ensuring that their collaborative efforts are equitable and beneficial to both groups.
Handling Internal Disagreements: Both churches have members who are wary of the other’s beliefs and practices. Father Gideon works to foster understanding and cooperation, mitigating potential conflicts.
Personal Relationships
Bishop Aaron Carlisle: The leader of the Church of Current Day Saints, Bishop Aaron Carlisle, shares a respectful and cooperative relationship with Father Gideon. They often discuss ways to improve their communities and share insights on blending old and new traditions.
Elder Hannah Morrison: A prominent member of the Church of Current Day Saints who specializes in technological innovations. She works closely with the Old Ways Church, on joint projects that benefit both communities.
Key Events in Their Relationship
The Restoration of the Grand Library
A joint effort to restore a grand library in Rugby, combining the Old Ways Church’s knowledge of ancient texts with the Church of Current Day Saints’ expertise in preserving and cataloging information. This project strengthened their bond and provided a valuable resource for both communities.
The Festival of Unity
An annual event co-organized by both churches to celebrate their shared values of faith, resilience, and community. The festival includes religious ceremonies, knowledge-sharing workshops, and communal feasts, fostering a sense of unity and mutual respect.
The Defense of Sanctuary Ridge
A collaborative defense effort where both churches united their forces to protect a vital sanctuary from a dragonborn raiding party. Their combined strategic planning and resourcefulness led to a successful defense, further solidifying their alliance.
Father Gideon Vale’s relationship with the Church of Current Day Saints is marked by mutual respect, collaborative efforts, and occasional philosophical differences. Their shared commitment to preserving their faiths and supporting their communities creates a strong foundation for their alliance. Through joint projects, community support, and cooperative defense efforts, they work together to build a resilient and united front against the challenges of their post-apocalyptic world. Despite their differences, their relationship exemplifies the potential for unity and cooperation in the face of adversity.

Age
56
Children
Current Residence
Rugby
Sex
Male
Gender
Male
Eyes
Bright blue
Hair
Silver, kept short and neat
Height
6ft 4
Quotes & Catchphrases
"You may be a drgonlord Ser Brightgleam, but these people are under MY protection" Father Gideon to Ser Brightgleam after the battle of Sanctuary ridge.
Belief/Deity
The Old ways
Aligned Organization
Other Affiliations
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