Elden Gods

 

Core Beliefs:

  Creation Begins With Destruction: To worship The Binder is to understand that the world must be broken before it can be perfected. The gods of light build with fragile materials—love, unity, and mercy—tools of weakness. The Bloodbound reject these illusions. True transformation begins with the shattering of bonds: between people, between flesh and soul, between self and sanity.   Order Is a Cage: Law, morality, and tradition are constructs designed to contain potential. They bind the mind with invisible chains. The Binder revealed this when he split the world, when he silenced the sky and let the truth seep in. His faithful follow this example, destroying systems that limit individual dominance.   Power Is Claimed Through Insight, Maintained Through Control: The Bloodbound seek forbidden knowledge not to understand the world—but to own it. Every truth uncovered is a brick removed from reality’s foundation. Knowledge is to be hoarded, weaponized, and used to dominate. Those who do not grasp it must be bent to serve it.   Suffering Is Enlightenment: Pain, fear, and despair are clarifying. The Binder teaches that only through personal unraveling can one comprehend the deeper strata of existence. His followers embrace pain as holy, and inflict it as instruction.   The Self Is Sacred—But Only When Forged in Shadow: The ultimate goal of the Bloodbound is apotheosis—to become one’s own god through the mastery of others. The Emberborne brought unity and rebirth; The Binder teaches isolation and singularity. There is no salvation, only dominance.  

Practices and Rituals:

  The Rite of Unweaving: A ceremony performed in solitude, where the Bloodbound recite their own name backward while carving runes into blackened stone or flesh. This ritual symbolically undoes their identity, clearing the way for rebirth as a vessel of The Binder’s will.   The Black Binding: A sacred act in which a subordinate, enemy, or even a loved one is magically or physically bound. The ritual affirms the belief that control is compassion—that those too weak to dominate themselves must be dominated for their own good.   The Severed Meal: Once a season, Bloodbound cults consume a meal taken entirely from things cut away: harvested limbs, broken tools, shed skin. This grotesque communion honors The Binder’s belief in taking from ruin what others fear to touch.   Whispers in the Thread: A nightly meditation wherein cultists speak aloud to the “Unspoken”—The Binder’s remaining will, said to dwell in loose strands of shadow magic. Answers come in dreams, or madness.  

Values and Ideals:

  Dominate or Be Dominated: There is no equal standing among mortals. Hierarchies are sacred—who controls, and who obeys. Even within Bloodbound cults, this is law: loyalty flows upward, obedience is proof of understanding.   Emotion Is Weakness Until It’s Weaponized: Anger, grief, joy—these are tools, not truths. Worshipers learn to hollow themselves, using emotions when it suits control or intimidation. Feeling for its own sake is regarded as animalistic.   Magic Is a Blade, Not a Gift: The Binder invented Shadow Binding—not to serve, but to rule. Magic is seen as a mechanism of force. While other faiths teach harmony with the arcane, the Bloodbound strip, bind, and enslave it. The strongest spell is one that removes another’s will.   Unity Breeds Cowards: The Emberborne and her allies fought as one—proof of their weakness. In the Bloodbound creed, partnership is a temporary strategy, never a belief. Isolation brings clarity. Trust is for prey.  

Symbols and Iconography:

  The Broken Circle: A ring cleaved into four segments, representing the fractured continents and the dissolution of false unity. Often carved into skin, branded into stone, or etched into sacrificial tools.   The Black Thread: A long, thin strand—sometimes real, sometimes metaphorical—used in rituals to “bind” targets or “sever” spiritual connection. Worshipers often wear threads woven from the hair of slain enemies.   The Severed Eye: An eye with its lower lid torn away or missing. Symbolizes the sight beyond sanity that The Binder is said to possess. Painted on walls in blood, ash, or shadow ink to mark his presence.   The Crownless Head: A skull with a shattered crown hovering above it. This reflects The Binder’s refusal of divine rule. He destroyed order and ascended without a throne. Followers use it as a mark of individual apotheosis.  

Conclusion:

  To a Bloodbound, The Binder is not a god of comfort or deliverance. He is the god of painful clarity, sacred destruction, and dominion by design. His cults do not pray for protection—they pray for the strength to shatter, and for the wisdom to remake what lies beneath.   They call him not “Lord,” but “Binder.” They do not kneel. They cut away what kneels inside themselves. And when they speak of salvation, they whisper: “The world was built wrong. We are merely finishing the work.”    

Core Beliefs:

  The Arcane Birthright: Magic is not a gift—it is a birthright of the worthy. To wield arcane power is to touch the divine, and those who lack the spark are lesser beings. The Branded teaches that magic defines a soul’s value; it is both weapon and identity.   The Mark is the Truth: The branded mark—be it physical or metaphorical—is the seal of destiny. When The Branded bore the strange glyph on his hand, he transcended clan, creed, and compassion. The mark signifies a soul called to higher purpose, one that will walk alone in greatness.   Separation is Ascension: To be cast out is not to fall, but to rise. The world rejects what it cannot control. Exile, scorn, and solitude are trials that burn away weakness. The branded must embrace their isolation—it is the crucible of transformation.   The Flame Knows No Humility: Power has no need for humility. The Branded teaches that self-assurance, even arrogance, is not sin—it is clarity. Those who wield true strength should never apologize for it. One must walk above the masses, not among them.   Knowledge is Sovereignty: Forbidden knowledge, lost magic, ancient rites—these are not dangers, but stepping stones. The Branded’s faithful believe that any law or tradition that limits the pursuit of truth is a shackle to be broken.  

Practices and Rituals:

  The Scorching Rite: A solitary ritual in which a follower carves or brands a magical glyph into their flesh, typically on the palm or forearm. It is done in secret and accompanied by meditation on one’s own potential. It is said the glyph will burn if the soul is unworthy.   The Circle of Condemnation: A symbolic rite where the follower draws a perfect summoning circle, then intentionally disrupts it with a chaotic glyph of their own creation. This represents their rejection of tradition and their commitment to the individual path.   Arcane Ascendance: Followers dedicate themselves to studying and mastering forms of magic others consider unnatural, dangerous, or esoteric. In doing so, they mimic The Branded’s own rise through unconventional means.   Denunciation of the Unmarked: Public or private declaration of the follower’s separation from the “unmarked”—those without arcane ability. This may be symbolic or actual, and often includes shedding attachments, titles, or names from their former life.  

Values and Ideals:

  Superiority of the Arcanist: The faithful are told: do not be ashamed of your strength. If others feel small beside you, let them.   Individual Evolution: No one will carry you to greatness. It must be seized alone, often against the world.   Transgression Over Tradition: Progress requires rebellion. True knowledge is not found in libraries—it’s found in what others fear to read.   Pride in Power: A worshiper of The Branded does not kneel, even to other gods. They bow only to power equal or greater—and often, not even then.  

Symbols and Iconography:

  The Branded Palm: A glowing or inked mark of swirling arcane lines on the hand, often radiant or flickering like flame.   The Broken Circle: A summoning circle with a jagged glyph slashed through it—representing defiance of convention.   The Unveiled Eye: An open eye with magical script around the iris, symbolizing the sight of truths forbidden to the unworthy.   Colors: Deep violet, black, and iridescent gold are sacred. They represent mystery, dominance, and revelation.  

Conclusion:

  To walk the path of The Branded is to embrace a life of isolation, ambition, and unapologetic power. It is not a faith for the meek or the indecisive—it demands clarity of purpose and the strength to stand above. Followers do not seek belonging in the world; they seek to rise beyond it. They do not crave approval; they crave ascension.    

Core Beliefs:

  Honor Above All Else: For followers of The Champion, honor is the highest virtue. They believe that a warrior’s word is sacred, and that actions must align with ideals. Victory must always be won honorably—through skill, strategy, and respect for the rules of combat. Worshipers of The Champion reject any form of deceit, underhanded tactics, or dishonorable combat. To fight for personal glory is to dishonor The Champion's name. A true follower fights for a cause greater than personal ambition and always holds themselves to a standard of integrity, ensuring that their actions serve justice and protection.   The Power of Strength and Discipline: The Champion's followers believe that strength—both physical and mental—is the foundation of all achievement. They are taught that only through relentless discipline, training, and self-control can they achieve greatness. Discipline is seen as divine, as it refines a warrior’s body, mind, and spirit. Followers understand that true warriors do not falter in times of trial, and they apply themselves tirelessly in all aspects of life, from combat to personal development. Strength of will is just as important as physical prowess, and The Champion’s warriors train daily to improve their capabilities, always striving to grow stronger.   The Eternal Cycle of Battle and Honor: Followers of The Champion see life as an endless cycle of battle, growth, and honor. They believe that war is inevitable in the world, and facing it with courage and discipline is not only divine but necessary. To embrace battle is to embrace the journey of self-discovery, growth, and the endless pursuit of personal and spiritual excellence. Every battle, whether won or lost, is a step in the ongoing cycle of proving one’s worth, transforming, and striving to be better than the day before. The Champion’s worshipers do not fear conflict; they embrace it as the means of testing and proving their valor.   Death With Honor: The Champion’s followers believe that honorable death in battle is the greatest sacrifice a warrior can make. They believe that to die fighting for a righteous cause is to earn eternal glory in The Champion’s eyes. Death is not to be feared but honored, and Champion’s warriors are taught to face it with bravery and steadfastness. Followers believe that the greatest warriors live to protect, but they also know that honorable death is part of the divine path, and they strive to die with their honor intact, knowing their sacrifices will serve a greater purpose.  

Practices and Rituals:

  The Oath of the Blade: Before entering battle, followers of The Champion take the Oath of the Blade—a sacred vow to fight with honor, to protect the defenseless, and to remain true to their divine purpose. This vow is often spoken over a consecrated sword and is repeated before every major engagement, ensuring that the warrior is spiritually prepared and committed to the values of The Champion before drawing their blade.   The Rite of Combat: This ritual involves a formal duel or challenge, typically held within the temple grounds or during military training. The Rite of Combat is a test of strength, strategy, and honor. Worshipers of The Champion believe that physical combat, when undertaken in the name of honor and justice, is a form of worship. The duel is not just a fight but a spiritual challenge, one that honors The Champion’s teachings about self-discipline, control, and facing adversity with courage.   The Vigil of the Eternal Knight: A night-long vigil held at the temples of The Champion, where warriors meditate on the sacrifices they’ve made and the path of honor they must walk. The vigil is intended to reaffirm their commitment to The Champion, their people, and their cause. The vigil culminates in the lighting of war torches, symbolizing the eternal flame of honor and service that burns within every true knight.   The Crusade of Blood and Honor: An organized campaign led by The Champion’s clergy, where they send forth their best knights and soldiers to defend the defenseless, eradicate evil, and spread The Champion’s influence across the land. This crusade is marked by righteous wars and protective campaigns, and its goal is not only to bring peace through strength but to teach the world the importance of justice and honor.  

Values and Ideals:

  Discipline as Divine: Followers of The Champion believe that self-discipline is the key to personal and martial success. They strive to perfect their physical body, mental fortitude, and moral code. Every day is an opportunity to sharpen oneself, both as a warrior and as an individual. Discipline is the foundation of all The Champion’s teachings—without it, a warrior cannot achieve true mastery.   Valor and Courage: Followers believe that true valor is found in facing the greatest dangers without hesitation, whether on the battlefield or in life. The Champion’s worshipers understand that courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to stand firm in the face of it. They are called to fight, not because it is easy, but because it is right, and they do so with unwavering bravery.   Unyielding Loyalty: Loyalty is central to The Champion’s faith. His followers swear their allegiance to those who serve honorably, whether it be their king, their country, or their comrades in arms. Betrayal, disloyalty, or treason are unforgivable, and The Champion’s warriors are expected to remain steadfast in their devotion to their cause and those they protect.   Honor in All Things: Honor is the guiding principle for The Champion’s followers in every aspect of their lives. Whether they are fighting on the battlefield, upholding the law, or simply interacting with others, they are expected to live by a code of honesty, integrity, and courageous action. Anything less than honor is seen as a betrayal to The Champion’s teachings.  

Symbol and Iconography:

  Symbol: A sword crossed with a shield, often surrounded by a laurel wreath. This symbolizes both the warrior’s might and their duty to defend, as well as the glory earned through honorable service.   Color: Silver (for purity and discipline) and crimson (for blood and sacrifice).   Sacred Objects: War horns, swords, shields, armors, and banners bearing The Champion’s symbol are used in rituals, battles, and personal rites of passage.  

Conclusion:

  To worship The Champion is to dedicate oneself to a lifetime of service, discipline, and honor. His followers are warriors at heart, believing that battle is a divine calling—not for personal glory, but for the protection of others and the greater good. The Champion is a god of martial strength and strategic wisdom, and his faith emphasizes that victory must be earned with honor, sacrifice, and the unwavering courage to do what is right. His followers live by the sword and the shield, walking the sacred path of the knight—one of sacrifice, loyalty, and perpetual growth.  

Core Beliefs:

  Flame is Transformation, Not Destruction: Fire, to The Emberborne’s faithful, is not a symbol of annihilation, but of change. All hardship, pain, and suffering are seen as trials of purification—the flames that burn away weakness, doubt, and pride. Through this belief, followers embrace struggle as a sacred experience.   Power is Earned, Not Claimed: The Emberborne rose not through birthright or divine appointment, but through study, suffering, and self-mastery. Worshipers believe true power must be forged through time, humility, and purpose, not bestowed without cost. Those who seek power for vanity or conquest are seen as cursed imitators of forgotten evil gods.   Magic Is a Language of Will: Magic, to The Emberborne's faithful, is not a gift of the gods nor a privilege of bloodlines—it is the expression of one’s inner will made manifest. Magic is viewed as a sacred extension of self-discipline, intellect, and purpose. Followers believe that The Emberborne mastered magic not through talent alone, but through relentless study and spiritual clarity. To embrace magic is to confront one’s limits and transmute them.   Flamebearers do not treat magic with blind reverence, nor do they see it as something dangerous to be locked away. Instead, they are taught to respect its weight, to refine it like one would a sword, and to wield it with restraint and clarity of intent.  

Practices and Rituals:

  The Trial of Ashes: A rite of initiation. The faithful walk barefoot over heated coals or scorched stone while reciting the Five Virtues of the Sacred Flame: Resolve, Patience, Compassion, Discipline, and Clarity. Pain endured in silence honors The Emberborne's suffering after the battle with the great dragon.   The Emberwatch: A solitary, day-long vigil kept beside a single flame. Practiced annually, the devotee must keep the fire alive through wind, rain, or exhaustion. The ritual symbolizes the burden of keeping hope alive in dark times, just as The Emberborne did during the world’s darkest hour.   The Molten Path Pilgrimage: A sacred journey to sites touched by The Emberborne—especially the pit where the great dragon fell, or the ruins of evil’s cathedral. Worshipers leave offerings of melted glass, hand-forged blades, or pages of burned fears. The journey is said to test one’s purpose.   The Peace Sign: The two-finger gesture The Emberborne once used awkwardly in place of greetings has become a holy symbol among her faithful. It is offered before dialogue, battle, or judgment as a sign of humility and good intention. Some followers never lower it in conversation, emulating the Eladrin’s innocence.  

Values and Ideals:

  Discipline Over Emotion: The Emberborne, though capable of immense emotion, often remained still, composed, and quiet. Her faithful strive for that same control—not by suppression, but through understanding. Rage, joy, sorrow—these are to be examined, not indulged.   Suffering Without Bitterness: Pain is sacred. Complaining or wallowing is discouraged, as it cheapens the trial. To feel anguish and still move forward is to walk the path of The Emberborne. In this way, pain becomes proof of one's worth.   Purpose Above Glory: The Emberborne never sought recognition. Thus, her followers tend to avoid public adoration. They prefer anonymity and let their deeds speak. In their view, the flame should be felt—not flaunted.  

Symbols and Iconography:

  The Eternal Flame: A stylized white or green flame is the primary symbol of The Emberborne’s faith. Often depicted cradled in a hand or hovering above footprints, it represents transformation, burden, and continuity of will.   The Peace Sign: Two fingers raised in calm greeting, often carved onto doorways or drawn in ash during ceremonies. It symbolizes respect, cautious peace, and connection without judgment.   The Fallen Star Dagger: Often depicted as a crystal dagger with shifting shape. Not worshiped as an artifact, but honored as the vessel of final purpose. Miniatures of the dagger are worn by warriors or given as blessings to those embarking on dangerous missions.   The Molten Path: A trail of scorched or glowing footprints often marks sacred ground or places of past pilgrimages. It reminds the faithful that each step in suffering leaves behind a legacy of hope.  

Conclusion:

  In totality, the worship of The Emberborne is not about dominance or divine miracles, but about quiet resilience, enduring purpose, and the sacred nature of pain that shapes those who carry the weight of the world. Her followers do not call for her aid with shouting— They walk forward. They burn quietly. And they do not stop.    

Core Beliefs:

  The Power of Knowledge and Secrecy: The foundation of The Ethnarch’s teachings is the belief that knowledge, especially hidden knowledge, holds the key to true power. Her followers believe that the secrets of the world, whether divine or mortal, can only be understood by those who seek beyond the surface. The Ethnarch embodies the idea that truths are concealed for a reason, and that those who can unravel the mysteries of life will be able to shape the course of their own destiny. However, knowledge is not freely given—it must be earned through perseverance, subtlety, and careful observation.   Strategic Power and Subtle Influence: The Ethnarch represents the idea that power through influence is far greater than direct domination. Her followers believe in the art of subtlety: influencing events from the shadows rather than taking front-and-center control. They understand that true strength comes from carefully calculated actions, not from raw force. The Ethnarch’s worshipers value strategic thinking, diplomacy, and covert methods of achieving their goals. They are skilled in the ways of persuasion, negotiation, and manipulation, understanding that often the most effective action is the one taken quietly, behind the scenes.   Balance Between Light and Darkness: To worship The Ethnarch is to embrace the balance of light and darkness, both in the world and within oneself. Her followers do not see the dark as inherently evil but as a necessary counterpart to the light. The Ethnarch’s teachings emphasize that to fully understand the truth, one must acknowledge both the visible and the hidden, the righteous and the flawed. Her followers are encouraged to integrate the light of knowledge with the shadow of secrecy, knowing that both are integral to navigating the complexities of existence.   The Pursuit of Self-Mastery: The Ethnarch’s followers place a high value on personal growth and self-discipline. They believe that to wield great power in the world, one must first master themselves—their desires, emotions, and impulses. The Ethnarch is not a goddess who favors those who seek power for selfish reasons, but those who use their abilities with purpose and control. Her faith teaches that true mastery is about understanding oneself, confronting one’s flaws, and transforming them into strengths. To walk the path of The Ethnarch is to embark on a journey of self-reflection and continuous improvement.   The Art of Secrecy and Silence: Worshipers of The Ethnarch are taught that not all knowledge should be shared, and that silence is a powerful tool. To them, there is strength in holding back—in withholding one's plans, motivations, and intentions until the right moment. Secrets, whether personal or universal, are sacred and should be guarded carefully. The Ethnarch’s followers believe in being enigmatic, in knowing when to speak and when to remain silent. They believe that control over what is known and what remains hidden is an essential skill that leads to true power.  

Practices and Rituals:

  The Rite of Reflection: A central practice for The Ethnarch’s followers, the Rite of Reflection is a ritual dedicated to personal introspection. Once a month, worshipers retreat into solitude, where they spend time contemplating their actions, choices, and the knowledge they have acquired. They are encouraged to examine themselves and their relationships, seeking to understand their motivations and uncover any hidden truths. This rite is about inner growth and gaining clarity of purpose.   The Veil of Secrets: This ritual involves performing a task in secrecy—whether it is solving a puzzle, revealing a hidden truth, or completing a personal goal without the knowledge of others. The Veil of Secrets represents the art of working behind the scenes, achieving one's objectives without drawing attention. Followers believe that success achieved quietly holds greater meaning and that acting in silence is a sacred act of worship to The Ethnarch.   The Gathering of Knowledge: Once a year, The Ethnarch’s followers come together for the Gathering of Knowledge, a sacred event where they share insights, secrets, and wisdom that they have gathered throughout the year. The ritual is not about openly revealing everything but about selectively sharing pieces of knowledge with those deemed worthy. This is a time for mutual learning and for reinforcing the importance of knowing when to speak and when to listen.   The Silent Vigil: The Silent Vigil is an individual practice that worshipers perform on the night of a new moon. It involves sitting in complete silence, meditating in the darkness, and seeking guidance from The Ethnarch. This vigil is a time to refine one's thoughts, to listen for divine whispers, and to connect with the hidden aspects of the world. Followers believe this is a time when secrets of the universe can be revealed to them, and they are taught to keep their experiences shrouded in secrecy.  

Values and Ideals:

  Wisdom and Discernment Over Brute Force: Followers of The Ethnarch believe that true power lies in knowledge—not brute force. They understand that forceful actions often lead to consequences, but careful planning, subtle influence, and wisdom can achieve the same goals without drawing attention. They are taught to approach challenges with intellect, using their knowledge to gain an upper hand rather than relying on raw strength.   Balance and Harmony Between Opposing Forces: The Ethnarch's followers believe in balancing opposing forces—light and darkness, action and inaction, exposure and concealment. To them, the world is a complex web of dualities, and understanding how to navigate those contradictions is what gives them power. They strive to live in harmony with the tensions that exist within themselves and the world, embracing both their shadowed side and their illuminated potential.   Control and Discipline Over Impulse: Followers of The Ethnarch value self-control above all. They are taught that true mastery of self is the foundation of all power. Impulses and emotions must be tempered with reason and wisdom. Cybel’s followers believe that one cannot control the world around them unless they have first controlled themselves—their desires, thoughts, and actions. Discipline is the key to unlocking the potential of their abilities.   Embrace of Mystery and Hidden Truths: The Ethnarch's followers revere mystery—whether it’s the mystery of their own lives or the greater mysteries of existence. They are taught that the unknown is sacred, and they believe in constantly seeking out what is hidden, whether in their own hearts or in the world at large. Worshipers understand that secrecy has power, and the pursuit of hidden knowledge is a lifelong journey. To them, unraveling mysteries is the path to divine wisdom.  

Symbol and Iconography:

  Symbol: A veiled eye, representing the hidden truths that The Ethnarch sees and reveals only to those worthy. Alternatively, a curtain or shimmering veil could symbolize the boundary between the known and unknown, between light and shadow.   Color: Silver (symbolizing knowledge, reflection, and clarity) and smoky grey (representing secrecy, the unknown, and the shadowed aspects of life).   Sacred Objects: Mirrors, books, and scrolls filled with knowledge, as well as silver chains or veils, are used in The Ethnarch’s worship. Mirrors symbolize self-reflection and the truth of seeing both within and beyond.  

Conclusion:

  To worship The Ethnarch is to embrace a life of introspection, strategic action, and mastery over self. Her followers are dedicated to the pursuit of hidden knowledge, the art of subtle influence, and the balance between light and darkness. The Ethnarch’s divine teachings encourage them to control their impulses, value wisdom above brute force, and navigate the world through intellect and careful planning. She is a goddess of secrets, transformation, and the pursuit of mastery—both of the self and the world around them. Her followers are those who seek to change the world quietly, weaving their influence from the shadows, with a hand in every aspect of the unseen.  

Core Beliefs:

  The Power of Leadership: Worshipers of The Severant believe that leadership is a divine calling—one that demands both strength and compassion. A true leader is not one who commands through fear alone but through the ability to inspire, protect, and serve their people. They believe that to lead is to take on the responsibility of upholding the well-being of the community, always placing the greater good above personal gain.   Justice Above All: At the heart of Severant’s belief system is justice—a sense of fairness that transcends personal biases. Followers are taught that justice is not merely about punishment but about maintaining balance and order. They are taught to act in a manner that respects the rights of others, and they hold their leaders accountable for fairness. When injustice occurs, it is their duty to correct it, not with mindless cruelty, but with measured strength and cruelty, guided by a clear moral compass.   Resilience in the Face of Adversity: The worshipers of The Severant hold that resilience is the true measure of strength. They believe that hardships, both personal and societal, are inevitable, and how one responds to these challenges defines their character. The Severant represents the unyielding spirit, the belief that no setback is permanent, and that true greatness is born through perseverance. Followers of The Severant see failure not as defeat but as an opportunity to rise stronger.   Empire-Building and Legacy: To follow The Severant is to understand the importance of building—be it empires, communities, or personal legacies. His worshipers believe that their actions, while fleeting in time, can contribute to something lasting. They believe that just as The Severant rebuilt the world into a formidable empire, so too must they contribute to the growth and prosperity of their people, creating systems and structures that uphold order and justice for future generations.   The Duty of the Protector: Worshipers of The Severant are taught that their primary duty is to protect those who are weaker or unable to protect themselves. This responsibility does not only apply to rulers but to anyone who has the strength to defend and serve others. Protecting family, community, and the realm is seen as one of the highest callings.  

Practices and Rituals:

  The Oath of the Strong: Initiates into the worship of The Severant take the Oath of the Strong, a solemn vow to live a life of leadership, justice, and resilience. This vow is made before an altar where the symbol of The Severant, the unbroken chain, is prominently displayed. The oath emphasizes their role in upholding the values that The Severant represents—leading by example, seeking justice, and enduring through adversity.   The Warrior’s Vigil: For those who seek to honor The Severant through action, the Warrior’s Vigil is a sacred practice. Worshipers spend an entire day fasting, meditating, and training in combat or intellectual pursuits. This ritual symbolizes their commitment to self-discipline, resilience, and the protection of others. It is often held before important battles or decisions, with followers seeking guidance from their god on how best to act.   Tribute to the Fallen: Every year, worshipers gather to honor those who have fallen in the pursuit of justice, leadership, or the protection of the realm. This ceremony, called The Flame of Resolve, involves lighting a great bonfire and offering tributes—both symbolic and tangible—to the memory of the brave. It is said that the flames represent the eternal resilience of those who serve The Severant and the enduring legacy they leave behind.   The Day of Sovereignty: Every year, on a chosen day, followers of The Severant celebrate The Day of Sovereignty, a day of remembrance for the strength of rulers who have uplifted their people. The faithful honor both the divine and mortal aspects of leadership, celebrating the role of rulers in shaping their realm with justice, strength, and wisdom.   The Trial of the Emperor: During times of crisis or hardship, followers of The Severant may partake in The Trial of the Emperor. This ritual involves an intense period of self-reflection and sacrifice, where worshipers are expected to confront their greatest fears or failures. It’s seen as a rite of passage to understand true resilience and the divine nature of enduring through the toughest trials, with the goal of emerging stronger, much like The Severant did when he rebuilt the empire.  

Values and Ideals:

  Integrity and Accountability: Worshipers of The Severant hold integrity as their guiding principle. They believe that a leader must be morally incorruptible and that the weight of leadership requires constant self-accountability. They strive to act with honor and honesty in all things, understanding that their actions affect the future of their people.   Strength through Unity: While The Severant is a god of individual strength, he emphasizes that true power comes from unity. His followers value cooperation and community. They believe that no individual is greater than the collective will of the people, and that collaboration, as seen in The Severant's rise to power, leads to the prosperity of the whole.   Endurance and Legacy: A follower of The Severant believes in leaving a legacy that transcends their mortal life. They understand that while they are bound by time, their contributions—be they in leadership, justice, or service—can echo through the ages. Endurance is not merely about surviving hardship but about creating something that stands the test of time.   Self-Sacrifice for the Greater Good: Followers of The Severant are taught that true strength is found in the willingness to sacrifice for the greater good. They are ready to make personal sacrifices if it means protecting their people, ensuring justice, or furthering the stability and strength of their empire.  

Symbol and Iconography:

  Symbol: The unbroken chain—representing the unyielding nature of leadership and the interconnectedness of those who stand together. The tiger could also be a symbol, representing the strength and nobility of a ruler.   Temple: The Severant’s temples are grand, often built in the shape of towering spires to symbolize the height of empire and the strength of its foundation. The interior would feature massive stone carvings and murals depicting great acts of leadership, battle, and triumph.   Ritual Objects: Gold chains (representing unity and leadership) and tiger-shaped statues would be common offerings, as well as red gemstones, symbolizing sacrifice and power.  

Conclusion:

  To be a worshiper of The Severant is to devote oneself to the ideals of leadership, justice, resilience, and the creation of a lasting legacy. It is to understand that true strength is not just personal might, but the strength to uplift and protect others, to endure through hardships, and to leave behind a world better than the one you found. It is a faith centered around empire-building, both the literal construction of civilizations and the internal fortitude required to weather the storms of time.