Zastillifar

Zastillifar is the mightiest of the gods. Legends say that when he breathes, wars start in the mortal realms. What is certain is that this fifty-foot tall red Rendiol sometimes starts them. Having no qualms about showing his face on Altus to smite an overconfident chief that challenges him, Zastillifar is the most-sighted of the pantheon.

When the gods began creating their domains, Zastillifar took for himself a structure called the Platinum Keep. There, he could watch the other gods and make sure none came too close to his reclusive lair. He made a race of lesser Rendiols in the hope that some day, one would grow strong enough to become his partner.

When the feast to Alnasia was held, Zastillifar took on a humanoid form. Upon learning of Akatu's fate, he returned to his Rendiol body and devoured many demons.

After learning of Feyus' fall, Zastillifar and Zarodossa chased down Darnus in a small bay. Zastillifar plunged into the water and overpowered the evil god, dragging him to the surface and drinking his blood. Though his prison of magical ice could not hold him, Zastillifar knew that Darnus would never break free out of fear of his wrath.

## **Teachings**

Never back down in the face of a challenge. To prove yourself is to gain the approval of Zastillifar. Bravery, determination, and zeal are necessary if one wishes to ascend to the Platinum keep and become a servant of the Great Rendiol after death.

Amassing wealth, creating kingdoms, and cultivating fear of you are all methods of gaining power. Power is true value in Altus, for the gods created races hoping they would be of some value. Although Zastillifar created the Rendiols, anyone who proves their worth will be taken under his wing in the inevitable war against the demons.

Kindness is a weakness to be purged whenever possible. Kindness will cloud your mind with thoughts that might overshadow what is truly important to you. In contrast, attachment is valuable, and things you are attached to should be protected to the death. This includes friends, allies, property, and land.

## Worship

### Prayers

**Thanks:** “A breath of strength for you.”

**I need blessings:** “My resolve is as strong as your hide. Grant me the power so that my arms may be so strong as well.”

**Before dinner:** “Great Rendiol, I thank you for the power that brought me here. I will use this gift of food for the best, and I will share it only with those who I deem worthy. In your name, we feast.”

**Warning:** “I have the courage of a Rendiol.”

**Affection:** “You are welcome in my roost.”

**For a Success:** “Zastillifar, be pleased with this tribute that we have presented to you, and may we enjoy the fruits of our labour in this life so that we may share our fruits with you in the next.”

### Rituals:

**Rendiol Offering:** In lands plagued by Rendiol attacks, chiefs or village leaders are encouraged to place offerings of rare, valuable, or luxury goods in exchange for mercy. Livestock are taken at will.

**Battle:** Before battle, one must pray to Zastillifar for strength. After praying, they must paint their face with the likeness of a Rendiol's so that Zastillifar is more inclined to give his blessing.

**Marriage:** When two followers of Zastillifar wish to be married, they must fight. Whoever is stronger becomes the ruler, and the loser becomes their very valuable property. If a partner wishes to leave, they may do so freely.

**Long Night:** On the 40th of Zastiken, a Rendiol appeared over Werex Bankasorabeau and began setting it ablaze. The smoke from the fire blotted out the sun. To this day, soldiers parade through the city on that day to show that they will not let themselves fall to Rendiols again.

**Rendiol Hunt:** Although they are the children of Zastillifar, killing one is an honour which will attract the favor of Zastillifar himself.

### Behaviour

**Followers:** Many followers of Zastillifar shun civilization and live as tribes in the wilderness.

**Blood:** Blood is the source of strength, and drinking it is nutritious if the source was powerful.

**Warfare:** War and raiding are natural expressions of power, without need for moral justification.