Pantheon of the Nine
The Pantheon of the Nine is the most widely followed group of deities in Gevadun. Each realm hosts temples for each deity and large cathedrals dedicated to the nine collectively. The nine deities were born at the beginning of the universe. Although they were once very active in the affairs of the universe, they have become increasingly hands-off as mortals have risen to prominence. They are generally viewed as benevolent; even the more aggressive deities in the pantheon are not overtly destructive.
Villitrix, Queen of Beasts (CG)
Villitrix is the Queen of Beasts and Lady of Monsters. She holds dominion over the large and unsightly creatures that roam the lands. Many hunters pray to her for good fortune and favor on their next hunt, while fishermen seek her protection so that the beasts of the sea won't disrupt their fishing trips. Villitrix is famous for her heated rivalry with her sister, Villia.
Her holy symbol is a stag's head. Villitrix is described as a beautiful but wild woman dressed in animal hides; it is said that wherever she walks, plants will sprout from the ground.
Omar, God of Duty (LG)
Omar is the chief deity of the Pantheon of the Nine, embodying the principles of Law, Duty, and Peace. He is willing to raise his spear to protect the land, yet he also advocates for peace and prosperity among the people. Many righteous warriors pray to Omar for protection during their ventures. Notably, it was Omar who mortally wounded Raimeth.
His holy symbol is a spear, or, in some representations, just the spearhead. Omar is depicted as a muscular, tanned man wearing a toga. He has short, curly hair and a beard, and his eyes glow with white fire. He is always seen with a spear in his right hand.
Trinder, Sword Singer (NG)
Trinder the Sword Singer is the sword-wielding warrior god of the Pantheon of the Nine. As the god of war, he watches over the soldiers and warriors of Gevadun. Those who seek his favor often pray to Trinder. He takes a keen interest in all forms of combat, from massive tactical engagements to one-on-one duels. It is customary to offer a prayer to Trinder before most battles in larger arenas.
His holy symbol consists of two crossed swords. Trinder is described as a muscular man with wings, dressed in light, airy clothing and a silk tunic, who constantly wields two curved swords.
Ergos, The Wealthy (CN)
Ergos is the god of wealth and riches. Trading dynasties display effigies and statues of Ergos throughout their buildings to show him respect. Many scheming entrepreneurs seeking quick riches make substantial offerings to Ergos in hopes of gaining good fortune. Dwarves also offer prayers to Ergos before embarking on dangerous mining expeditions.
His holy symbol is a scale with stacks of coins on both sides. Ergos is depicted as a man entirely covered in white robes, with a solid golden mask concealing his face.
The Messenger (LN)
The Messenger is the deity responsible for delivering messages to and from Gevadun. Sages and oracles pray to the Messenger for insight, while couriers seek his protection during long, treacherous journeys. This enigmatic god seems to have no motivation other than to fulfill his duty.
The Messenger's holy symbol is a feather. The messenger is believed to take the form of a humble and inconspicuous pigeon.
Strain, The Lord of Death (TN)
Strain is the god of the dead and the afterlife. He is the initial source of necromancy and the undead. Strain neither supports nor condemns necromancy; however, in rare instances, he has been known to teach certain mages the secrets required to manipulate the forces of life and death. Graveyards and burial sites often feature imagery associated with Strain, and undertakers invoke his name while praying for the departed during burial ceremonies. Last rites and funerals commonly incorporate Strain's imagery and prayers.
His holy symbol is a skull. Strain is likened to a collection of dark clouds, swirling with bones and the souls of the dead, resembling a storm.
Arax, The Hound (CE)
Arax is a peculiar god who embodies selfishness and self-reliance. His followers are often nomads and hermits who lead challenging lives. As the most belligerent deity in the Pantheon of the Nine, many brigands, bandits, and pirates pray to him for success in their plundering. The nature of Arax's relationship with the other gods remains unclear, although it is suspected to be tense.
Arax's holy symbol is a circle with an "X" crossing through it. Arax is described as having the muscular body of a man and the head of a rabid dog.
Villia, Goddess of Deceit (LE)
Villia is the goddess of lies, deceit, and scheming. She is the sister of Villitirx and is considered far more sinister than her sibling. Liars, cheaters, thieves, and charlatans pray to Villia for good fortune in their exploits. Her scheming nature makes her the most controversial deity in the Pantheon of the Nine. However, not all lies are malicious; innocent untruths also appease Villia. Lying is not inherently harmful, and as deceptions are told and plots are devised, Villia is satisfied.
Her holy symbol is a hand missing the ring finger. Villia is depicted as a stunning woman in elegant dark attire, seated upon a plush velvet throne.
Noxe, The Serpent (NE)
Noxe is an enigma among the Nine Divine. Little is known about him except that he embodies the qualities of a snake. Noxe is precise, cold-blooded, callous, and voracious. These traits are not necessarily malicious but can easily lead one to a life of evil. Throughout history, the most notable followers of Noxe have been incredibly ambitious individuals.
Noxe’s holy symbol is a winding serpent. Noxe is described as a colossal serpent that coils around the entirety of Gevadun.