Bastesh, the Goddess of Fertility and Companionship

Bastesh is a caring goddess, a being that embodies the virtue of compassion to the extreme. The goddess is believed to not have a taste for flair or eccentricity at her station regarding her appearance or actions. Depictions of this goddess range in variations from culture to culture. In general though, the goddess is a young milky skinned maiden, wild red hair in bounds of curls and mismatched irises of blue and purple. Her limbs are thick and her body curved, well in proportion with a well fed mother of two. Dressed in a simple shawl of white and gold trim with a light purple bottom, Bastesh a flowered crown atop her brow of flora local to the region. The alluring scent of perfume follows her wherever she goes and she always moves with a light hop in her steps. With full lips and a pleasing smile, the goddess as alluring as she is comforting. Simple wooden and brass jewelry adorn her frame further but nothing ever too extravagant.    The companionship that followers of Bastesh bestow to others vary depending on the person. Innkeepers might slash prices to those who cannot afford a bed for the night and throw in a complimentary breakfast the next day. A concubine might serve their customer's carnal needs but will then tend to their mental health and stay afterwards to be that shoulder to lean on. An expected mother might bake special treats for the hamlet's children to show her compassion and caring for her own child through devotion to the goddess. To give oneself to others is one of the core tenants of the goddess. That being said, Bastesh is no fool and those who accept her gifts but do not return the favor soon find themselves paying more forward than they received.    Fertility festivals normally take place during the spring months. During these times, maidens adorn themselves in flowery garments in order to emulate the goddess. During this time, courtship rituals to the region take place under the close auspice of the goddess.    Compassion is said to be the ultimate weapon to many. Indeed it is a powerful tool to turn those who would have a blade to one's throat. Bastesh's teachings state this and her relationship with Festang is a prime example. The feral and often aggressive gods of wind and storms finds itself comforted in Bastesh's presence, so much so that stories of the goddess's followers walking through thunderstorms without harm have become a tale of the goddess's true strength. Whether these stories are true or not is unverified.