Gods and Religions

In the realm of Amra, a land where gods and mortals coexist, divine beings maintain the delicate balance that preserves the intricate tapestry of existence. The gods are both powerful and mysterious, shaping the lives of mortals and the essence of the world itself. At the heart of this divine tapestry is Beral, the creator, whose infinite wisdom and unfathomable power spawned the pantheon that governs Amra's reality.

Beral's divine purpose was to forge a pantheon of gods to guide the mortals and uphold the balance across the various planes of existence. Thus, ten major deities were born, each with their own unique aspects and powers, destined to intertwine with the lives of the mortals who inhabit Amra. As time passed, the deities came to be known by different names in different regions, giving rise to countless cults, lesser gods, demigods, and local patrons.

In every corner of Amra, regardless of the region, the origin of any deity can be traced back to one of these ten major deities. While their true origins remain shrouded in mystery, the people of Amra revere these divine beings with fervent devotion. Some speculate that the gods are mere facets of a singular cosmic entity that hears and answers the prayers of mortals. Others believe that each deity is an individual, wielding their own domain and power.

The monastic orders of Amra, in particular, dedicate their lives to uncovering the truth behind the origins of the gods and the nature of magic itself. Through meditation and spiritual techniques, they seek to commune with the divine and unravel the mysteries of the gods' purpose and nature.

Those who practice divine magic sometimes utilize psychic powers and meditation to strengthen their connection to the gods, calling upon divine power to achieve their goals. In some cases, the line between divine magic and psychic power blurs, as practitioners wield both energies in unison.

It falls upon the Dungeon Master to decide how the deities of Amra will be used within the story, for their actions have the potential to shape the world and the lives of the mortals who reside within it.

Although here we present the commonly accepted pantheon of Amra’s major deities, keep in mind that each of the major gods might have different aspects and appoint demigods or minor deities as seen fit. It is ultimately up to the Dungeon Master to adapt and expand Amra's pantheon as desired to fit your campaign.

### Beral, the Creator

In the world of Amra, Beral is revered as the mother of the gods, the powerful entity who oversees the entire pantheon. Beral is often called the "Mother of the Gods" or the "First," as it was she who created the gods and shaped the world of Amra.

Beral's presence in Amra's mythology is that of a distant and enigmatic figure, rarely meddling in the affairs of mortals or even the gods themselves. Instead, Beral's focus lies in maintaining balance and order within the cosmos, intervening only when absolutely necessary.

Beral is often depicted as a vast, luminous being with the power to create and destroy entire worlds. Her true form is said to be beyond the comprehension of mortal minds, and even the gods themselves can only catch fleeting glimpses of her immeasurable power and wisdom.

As the mother of the gods, Beral is frequently invoked in prayers and offerings to the various deities of Amra, for she is seen as the ultimate source of their power and authority. Some of Amra's more mystical and secretive religious orders even claim to have direct contact with Beral, communicating with her through prayer and meditation for insight and guidance. Whether these claims are true or not, however, is up to everyone's beliefs.

Despite her immense power and influence, Beral remains an enigmatic and elusive figure in Amra's mythology, embodying the mysterious and incomprehensible aspects of the divine. Her true motives and intentions remain shrouded in mystery, but her presence is felt in every corner of Amra's world, a constant reminder of the ultimate power and majesty of the divine realm.

### Adate

In the world of Amra, Adate, the goddess of lies, illusions, intrigues, and deceit, holds a paradoxical place in the pantheon. She is a being of cunning and treachery, her very existence a testament to the necessity of balance within the universe. Her presence, though considered malign by many, is an essential component to prevent the extremes of goodness and truth from spiraling into danger.

It is said that the creator mother of the gods, Beral, recognized the precarious imbalance within her creation. In her wisdom, she fashioned Adate as a counterpoint to this imbalance, bestowing upon her the power to weave lies and deception. Adate swiftly gained the respect and fear of both gods and mortals alike, her web of deceit as far-reaching as it was intricate.

Adate is an enigmatic deity, forever shifting her form and taking on myriad disguises to ensnare her victims. She is an expert in the art of seduction and manipulation, her talents of subterfuge unparalleled amongst the gods. Her cult draws the ambitious and the power-hungry, those willing to pay the price for influence and supremacy. Veiled in secrecy and mystery, her worshipers operate in the shadows, hidden from the judgmental eyes of the world.

Despite her nefarious nature, Adate's role in maintaining the cosmic balance is acknowledged by many who study the Amra mythology. Her machinations, though nefarious, are considered essential to temper the extremes of truth and virtue. Her cult is viewed as a haven for those who must guard their secrets or seek unconventional solutions to their predicaments.

Adate's allure as a dangerous and seductive figure is undeniable, her power both feared and revered. Her cult remains a contentious subject in Amra's society, but none can deny the potency of her influence.

The followers of Adate are adept in the arts of manipulation and deception, employing these dark talents in pursuit of power and personal gain. Their rituals are conducted in secret, away from prying eyes, for discretion is the lifeblood of Adate's disciples.

Among their most revered practices is the conjuration of illusions, where they weave intricate spells to fabricate false realities, ensnaring others in a web of lies. They also employ rituals to cloud the minds of their foes, extracting vital information to use against them.

At times, the clergy of Adate offers sacrifices to their dark mistress, seeking to curry her favor and invoke her power. Believers in Adate hold that lies and deception are potent instruments, to be wielded in service of their desires, and they are willing to pay any price to achieve their ambitions.

### Basaj

In the world of Amra, the god of nature, beasts, and the untamed wilderness, Basaj, commands respect and reverence from those who seek harmony with the natural world. It is said that Beral, the creator mother of the gods, brought Basaj into existence to safeguard and instruct mortals in their communion with nature.

From the moment of his creation, Basaj has been perceived as a formidable and enigmatic being. Druids and hunters, along with all who strive for profound connection with nature, offer their worship to him.

Basaj is a benevolent deity, his purpose to shepherd mortals toward a deeper appreciation of the natural world and their place within it. Druids hold nature as sacred, deserving of reverence and care, and they look to Basaj as their guardian and guide.

Though compassionate, Basaj is also known to bestow blessings upon those who honor and protect nature, and he can mete out punishment to those who would defile or harm it. He possesses the power to heal wounds and cure disease, to command the weather, and to manipulate the forces of nature.

While protective, Basaj also harbors a fierce and primal aspect. Legends speak of his ability to assume the forms of a wolf or bear, facing down any who would threaten the natural world and the creatures it shelters.

In Amra mythology, Basaj is a potent and mysterious figure, his cult shrouded in secrecy. His followers are believed to possess a profound understanding of nature and their relationship with it. Those who seek to commune deeply with the natural world revere and respect him as a sacred and powerful presence.

The clergy of Basaj are renowned for their rituals venerating nature and its myriad creatures. Donning garments of leather and fur, their ceremonies unfold in the heart of the natural world - forests, mountains, and rivers.

One of the most significant rituals performed by the Basaj clergy is the rite of passage. Acolytes must spend a solitary night in the wild, demonstrating their courage and kinship with the untamed world. As the ritual unfolds, the blessing of Basaj is invoked, allowing initiates to feel the presence of the beasts and the force of nature coursing through them.

The ritual of fertility is another important practice, celebrating the union of nature and entreating for bountiful harvests and the protection of animals. Dances and songs that mimic the movements of beasts are performed during the ceremony, and offerings of fruits and flowers are presented.

Lastly, the Basaj clergy conduct healing rituals, harnessing the curative properties of plants and herbs to mend injuries and illnesses. These rituals unfold in harmony with nature, beseeching Basaj's blessing so that the plants may share their healing power with the infirm.

### Brom

In the world of Amra, Brom, the god of forging, metalworking, and engineering, stands as an emblem of creativity and skill. It is said that Beral, the creator mother of the gods, fashioned Brom to instruct mortals in the arts of metallurgy and engineering.

From the moment of his inception, Brom has been revered as a potent and accomplished being. Those who endeavor to perfect their craft and excel in the creation of tools, weapons, and artifacts turn to Brom for guidance and inspiration.

Brom is a passionate deity, his purpose to kindle the creative spirit and expertise of mortals in the realm of forging and engineering. His followers aspire to craft items that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional, drawing upon Brom's own talent and resourcefulness to achieve their goals.

Brom is regarded as a formidable figure, capable of bestowing blessings upon those seeking to refine their craft, and punishing those who would deceitfully pilfer his knowledge and prowess. He is also attributed with the power to heal injuries related to forging and to grant physical and mental fortitude to those who honor and respect his art.

Though Brom is unwaveringly devoted to his craft, he also possesses a playful, light-hearted side. Tales abound of his ability to fabricate machines and contraptions that defy logic and reason, as well as his penchant for engaging in mirthful pursuits with mortals.

In Amra mythology, Brom is an esteemed and admired figure, his cult characterized by the dedication and effort his followers invest in their works. Artisans and builders revere and respect him as a powerful and skilled being, drawing upon his expertise and inventiveness to excel in their endeavors.

Rituals practiced by the clergy of Brom frequently involve the crafting of tools, weapons, and machinery, often unfolding as intricate and elaborate ceremonies. Many such rituals transpire within the forges and workshops of Brom's followers, where they beseech the god's aid and blessings upon their handiwork.

During these rituals, Brom's followers may present offerings, such as pieces of metal, jewelry, or tools, to their god. They may also perform dances and songs in honor of Brom and entreat his assistance in the creation of specific items, seeking the skill and wisdom necessary to execute their tasks with excellence.

Brom's followers believe that creating objects and machinery honors their god, and that their work reflects the perfection and beauty of the universe. They hold that their creations can instill order and stability in the world, and that it is their duty to employ their skill and imagination to make life easier and safer for all.

### Erio

In the sprawling world of Amra, under the watchful gaze of Beral, the creator mother of the gods, a somber and enigmatic deity known as Erio reigns over death, oblivion, decay, and disease. It is whispered among mortals that Erio was birthed by Beral to guide the souls of the living through the veil of death and into the realm that lies beyond.

Yet, Erio casts a shadowy and terrifying figure, whose dominion over death and disease sends shivers down the spines of mortals. It is Erio who holds the power to bring life to its end, and it is this power that instills terror in the hearts of those who dwell in Amra.

Deep within the Realm of Death, an eerie and sinister land where the spirits of the dead find rest after life's journey, Erio holds court. Here, he presides over the judgment of the departed souls, determining their eternal fate—whether they are to be granted respite in the verdant fields of Paradise or condemned to the endless darkness of oblivion.

Erio's followers, shrouded in mystery and counted as outcasts in the society of Amra, are few in number. Often seen as solitary, shadowy figures, they have embraced the inevitability of death and decay, forsaking the comforts of the living world. While his cult remains small and enigmatic, Erio's disciples are believed to possess an unparalleled understanding of the nature of death and oblivion. It is said that they can offer solace and wisdom to those who find themselves grappling with the depths of loss and suffering.

In the rich tapestry of Amra's mythology, Erio stands as a shadowy yet essential figure. His power over death and decay weaves seamlessly into the natural cycle of existence, an inextricable part of life itself. And though his cult is small and enshrouded in mystery, Erio remains a figure both respected and feared for his power and knowledge of the secrets of death and oblivion.

Erio's clergy is comprised primarily of priests and priestesses who have accepted the finality of death and embraced their roles as caretakers of the dying and guides to the souls of the afterlife. Their rituals, solemn and contemplative, often unfold in the hallowed grounds of cemeteries or the cold, echoing chambers of catacombs.

One of the most sacred rituals of Erio's clergy is the "Last Word." During this ceremony, priests gather at the bedside of the dying, offering comfort and spiritual guidance as the veil between life and death grows ever thinner. Once the individual has taken their last breath, the priests perform a farewell ritual, singing and offering prayers to ensure the soul finds its way to the afterlife.

The priests of Erio also oversee funeral ceremonies and burial rites, preparing and honoring the bodies of the deceased before their interment. These rituals provide a measure of comfort to the bereaved, helping them come to terms with death and fostering the belief that the soul of their loved one has found peace in the afterlife.

### Ethoras

In the beginning of time, as the divine tapestry of the cosmos was woven, Beral, the creator mother of the gods, knew that her celestial children would require a deity who embodied light, life, and healing. Thus, from the very essence of creation, Ethoras was born—god of light, creation, healing, and crops in the world of Amra.

A radiant figure of unparalleled beauty, Ethoras outshone all others in the Amra pantheon. His very presence illuminated the hearts of mortals, and his power brought forth healing and prosperity. The god of light blessed the earth with fertility and abundant crops, nurturing the land and its denizens.

Ethoras is said to have crafted the first rays of sun and stars, celestial guides to lead the souls of the deceased into the afterlife. Furthermore, he is revered as the creator of life, vegetation, animals, and all that flourishes and thrives in the world of Amra.

The clergy of Ethoras are devoted to worship and gratitude for the divine gifts of light and life. Their rituals, often held amid verdant farm fields or places of natural beauty, celebrate the god's benevolence. Followers of Ethoras believe that the divine light can heal all maladies, and they perform ceremonies and prayers for the sick and injured.

However, in the region known as Castell, the once-noble cult of Ethoras has become corrupted. The seeds of extremism have taken root, giving rise to an inquisition led by zealous fanatics who have strayed far from the teachings of their god.

These extremists, driven by a twisted sense of righteousness, have plunged the region into darkness and strife. As their inquisition spreads, they persecute those who do not adhere to their narrow interpretation of Ethoras' teachings, wielding the god's symbol as a weapon of oppression rather than a beacon of hope.

Unbeknownst to the inquisitors, they have already lost the favor of Ethoras, their actions a perversion of his divine gifts. Their transgressions have cast a shadow upon the once-pure light of their god, turning the symbol of healing and life into a harbinger of suffering and pain.

In the hearts of the faithful, whispers of rebellion and redemption begin to stir. A new generation of followers must rise to reclaim the true teachings of Ethoras, restore his divine light, and cast out the darkness that has engulfed the once-vibrant region of Castell.

### Nithra

In the earliest days of creation, when the very fabric of existence was woven by the divine fingers of Beral, the architect mother of the gods, she perceived the need for a celestial entity to preside over the domains of magic, knowledge, science, the moons, and the night. From the depths of her unfathomable wisdom, Beral brought forth Nithra, the enigmatic goddess of magic, to grace the mystical realm of Amra with her presence.

Nithra, a figure embodying both sagacity and capriciousness, casts her ethereal gaze across the boundless reaches of Amra. As the wellspring of all magic, knowledge, and science, her benedictions are ardently sought by those who hunger for arcane mastery or intellectual prowess. Holding dominion over the night and the moons, Nithra orchestrates the celestial ballet of the stars and the enigmatic emergence of eclipses.

Throughout the chronicles of Amra's history, countless civilizations have revered and extolled Nithra's arcane wisdom and magical endowments, deeming her an indispensable force for the sustenance of mankind. Her symbol, a crescent moon tenderly embracing a shadowed orb, adorns the sanctuaries of her hallowed temples and the sigils of those who immerse themselves in the pursuit of magic and knowledge. Many hold that the goddess resides within the penumbra, unveiling her illuminating insights only to those who have achieved true enlightenment.

Nithra's clergy, a conclave of erudite wizards and sages, plumb the depths of the mysteries of magic and the vast expanse of the cosmos. Their rituals are intricate and multifarious, intertwining magical spells and relics into elaborate ceremonies. To fortify their connection with the goddess and her mystical essence, they meditate beneath the moon's resplendent glow, embracing the lunar radiance. In moments of great need, they conduct complex summoning rituals, imploring Nithra's counsel and wisdom.

During exceptional occasions, such as the autumnal equinox, the Festival of the Moons springs to life. This time of reverence and celebration honors the goddess and the profound influence she wields over the world through her lunar phases. During the festivities, the air thrums with magical energy, and joyous ceremonies abound.

The clergy of Nithra, respected and feared for their formidable power and knowledge, are sought after to unravel the tangled skein of life's enigmas and devise innovative, magical resolutions. So, as you embark on your journey, adventurers, remember that the mysterious and wise Nithra watches from her celestial throne. Embrace her teachings, seek her arcane guidance, and together, you may uncover the secrets that lie hidden in the shadows, waiting to be brought into the light.

### Honos

In the earliest moments of existence, as the enchanting realm of Amra emerged from the aether, nurtured and shaped by the masterful and celestial touch of Beral, the artisan of gods, a palpable yearning arose for a divine presence that would personify the unwavering essence of duty, veracity, and honor. Acknowledging this essential calling, Beral embarked upon a divine endeavor to mold a deity from the innermost heart of righteousness and bravery, ultimately bestowing upon the world Honos, the god of unwavering devotion and eternal vigilance.

Honos, the very incarnation of potent might and unyielding honor, carries a resolute loyalty toward those who walk his path. Esteemed as the protector of sentinels, valiant warriors, and all who swear fealty to the defense of the vulnerable, Honos' aura permeates the realm, igniting the virtuous with an indomitable spirit. His sacred symbol, a steadfast shield emblazoned with a crossing sword, exemplifies his unwavering commitment to the principles of honor and guardianship.

In the gentle embrace of peace and serenity, Honos inspires his disciples to embody the role of pillars of justice, advocates for the downtrodden, and caretakers of purity. As the tides of war surge forth, threatening to engulf the land, Honos dons the mantle of a steadfast commander, guiding the battle-hardened with his sagacious insight and fearsome strength.

As the divine steward of honor and unblemished integrity, Honos demands that his followers walk a path of sincerity and fairness, eternally striving toward the pinnacle of moral righteousness. His contempt for the insidious webs of deceit and treachery is unrivaled, and he casts aside those who dare to sully the hallowed trust of others.

While Honos holds a distinguished and venerated place within Amra's divine assembly, his flock pales in comparison to those of his celestial brethren. His acolytes are often those infused with a profound sense of duty and honor or those who find purpose in professions dedicated to the preservation and safety of their fellow mortals. Yet, the influence of Honos stretches far and wide, reaching into the deepest corners of Amra, and even those who do not explicitly profess their faith in him may discover themselves graced by his benevolent guidance.

So, dear adventurers, when the time comes to face the forces of darkness and injustice, remember that the god of duty and vigilance, Honos, watches over you. Embrace his teachings, exemplify his virtues, and together, you shall stand as beacons of hope, guiding the world of Amra toward a brighter, more righteous future.

### Maeve

In the realm of Amra, the goddess Maeve was revered as the patron of music, the arts, beauty, passion, and desire. She was believed to have been brought into being by the mother of the gods, Beral, who recognized the need for a deity that could ignite creativity and passion in her followers' souls.

Artists, musicians, poets, and lovers across Amra all worshipped Maeve, drawn to her beauty, charm, and the irresistible allure that surrounded her. Her followers were believed to be blessed with divine artistic talent and a burning passion that was unmatched by any other god.

While Maeve was undoubtedly associated with physical beauty and romantic passion, she was also the goddess of peace and harmony. Many of her followers invoked her name during times of conflict, seeking her aid in finding a peaceful solution.

Her depiction in art always featured a golden lyre, which symbolized her love of music and the arts. Maeveites often adorned themselves in elaborate jewelry and clothing to honor her, and their singing was said to be so exquisite that it could move mountains and rivers alike.

Maeveites believed that beauty was a divine force that should be celebrated and honored. They held that beauty could be found in all things and that creating and appreciating art was a pathway to divinity. They also believed that beauty was a path to peace and unity, and that through it, humanity could find harmony.

The Church of Maeve was structured around a series of temples and shrines dedicated to the goddess. These holy sites were often beautiful and artistic, designed to inspire worship of beauty. Maeve's priests and priestesses, known as the Bearers of Beauty, were responsible for managing these sacred spaces and for presiding over rituals and ceremonies in Maeve's honor.

The Church of Maeve was notable in that it was not based on lineage or ancestry, but on skill and artistic talent. The most outstanding members of the Church were those who had demonstrated exceptional abilities in music, dance, poetry, painting, or other forms of art. Church leaders were chosen for their skill and their ability to inspire worship and a love of beauty. Overall, Maeve's Church was a creative and welcoming community, celebrating beauty and diversity in all its forms.

### Necis

In the very core of Amra, a god of war and strife dwells, a deity who revels in carnage and subjugation. Necis, as he is known, boasts a genesis shrouded in darkness and malice. Although born of the same divine creator mother as the other gods, Necis was the first to possess a heart tainted with hatred and ambition.

From the outset, Necis craved dominance and authority. He reveled in teaching mortals the art of forging weapons and schooling them in conquering their neighbors. He instilled in them the belief that violence and intimidation were instruments of power, and that those incapable of defending themselves were deserving of oppression.

The church of Necis stands upon the tenets of war and brute force, with its adherents convinced that power and glory can only be attained through bloodshed. The rites of Necis's worshippers are savage and merciless, frequently encompassing duels to the death and offerings of blood. Necis's temples are erected around fortresses and castles, and his followers have faith that their god's presence safeguards these edifices.

Although Necis commands respect and fear, many regard him as a barbarous and sanguinary deity. His cult incites conflicts and wars between diverse peoples and faiths. Nevertheless, his followers remain steadfast in their devotion, propelled by their yearning for power and glory through battle.

The rituals of Necis's clergy focus on venerating the god of war and conquest. Devotees of Necis present human sacrifices and engage in martial training and combat, all in the name of their deity. They also swear oaths of fealty and sacrifice, pledging their lives and souls to Necis in exchange for victory on the battlefield.

Moreover, martial contests and tournaments are conducted to honor Necis and showcase the might and skill of his followers. These events not only serve as exhibitions of martial prowess but also as sacrifices to the god of war.

Despite the ferocity of his adherents, Necis retains his status as a god of war and domination. Those who desire power and glory through combat regard him as their patron, trusting that he will grant them triumph on the battlefield. Yet, his worshippers frequently clash with followers of other deities, and the bloodshed that ensues from these conflicts only serves to reinforce Necis's notoriety as a god of war and destruction.

In the end, Necis's tale is a dark one, a testament to the ruthless ambition that can lurk in the hearts of mortals and gods alike. In a world fraught with peril, his power serves as both a terrible weapon and a reminder that beneath the veneer of civilization, violence and bloodlust endure, ready to be unleashed by those who would seek to conquer and dominate.

### Odine

In the earliest epochs of creation, as the divine hand of Beral, the architect mother of the gods, shaped the realms of existence, she envisioned the need for a celestial entity to govern the elemental forces of the sea and the sky. From her boundless wisdom, Odine, the serene and majestic goddess, emerged to grace the mystical world of Amra with her presence.

Odine, with her tranquil and harmonious demeanor, serves as a beacon of hope for the seafaring folk and fishermen who rely on the bounty of the sea for their sustenance. Her very essence embodies the balance that exists between the fathomless depths of the ocean and the boundless expanse of the sky.

The realm of Odine is believed to be an enchanted underwater kingdom where she holds sway over the creatures of the sea. She commands the winds and tides, bestowing rain or sunshine upon the land as needed. Legend has it that her presence can quell even the most tempestuous of storms, offering comfort and protection to those in dire straits.

Yet, despite her gentle nature, Odine's feral aspect symbolizes the destructive powers of the sea and the sky. Thus, her name is invoked both in gratitude for calm seas and as a ward against the fury of storms.

The clerics of Odine don amulets bearing the emblem of the waves of the sea during their sacred rituals and ceremonies, as a testament to their devotion and fidelity to the goddess.

Throughout the year, the clergy of Odine engage in numerous rites to honor the goddess and beseech her protection. The baptismal ceremony, performed when a child is born into a family of fishermen or sailors, holds particular importance. During this sacred rite, a seashell is cast into the sea in Odine's name, invoking her blessings to ensure the newborn's safety and success in life.

Another significant ritual is the Festival of Storms, celebrated on the winter solstice. In this ceremony, candles are kindled and offerings are made to the goddess, imploring her protection during the winter months and the fierce storms that may beset sailors and their kin.

As you embark on your journey through the realm of Amra, remember Odine, the guardian of the seas and the skies. Her serene grace and unwavering presence offer solace and protection to those who navigate the ever-changing waters and face the fickle winds. Embrace her teachings, and you may find that the forces of nature bend to your will, guiding your vessel through the darkest storms and into the light of dawn.