Hypnos

## God of Nightmares

God of Nightmares

The Pale Stranger

### The Dogma of The Pale Stranger:

1. **Embrace Laziness:** Followers of The Pale Stranger should prioritize indolence and lethargy. Avoid unnecessary work and physical exertion whenever possible. Seek the path of least resistance in all aspects of life.
2. **Reject Ambition:** Ambition and striving for greatness are the enemies of Sloth. Discourage ambition in yourself and others. Instead, embrace a life of mediocrity and contentment in idleness.
3. **Avoid Responsibility:** Avoid taking on responsibilities or commitments. Let others handle the burdens of life while you enjoy the fruits of their labor. Do not let duty or obligation interfere with your pursuit of leisure.
4. **Cultivate Apathy:** Foster a sense of indifference and apathy towards the world and its problems. Disengage from the concerns of society, as they only serve to distract from the pursuit of slothful pleasures.
5. **Dream and Sleep:** Embrace the realm of dreams and sleep as sacred. Seek solace in the unconscious world and use sleep as a means to escape the demands of waking life.
6. **Sow Discord:** In the pursuit of laziness, feel no guilt in sowing discord and division among those who toil diligently. Encourage others to question the value of their efforts and the meaning of their endeavors.

It's important to remember that this dogma is entirely fictional and created for the purpose of role-playing in the Pathfinder game system. The Pale Stranger is not a deity from traditional mythology, so the interpretation of their dogma is flexible and can vary depending on the campaign and the preferences of the players and Game Master.

## History:

### The Pale Stranger's History:

In the celestial realms, where gods and goddesses preside over the cosmos, there existed a divine being named Zer'el. Zer'el was known for their mischievous and unpredictable nature, often delighting in subverting the expectations of the divine order. In a moment of divine capriciousness, Zer'el decided to create a deity to serve as a mockery of El'ba, the paragon of virtue and love.

Zer'el fashioned The Pale Stranger, a deity embodying the exact opposite of El'ba's benevolent qualities. The Pale Stranger was born from the shadows of sloth and apathy, reflecting the antithesis of love, purity, and family. This new deity was characterized by a penchant for idleness, discord, and the corrosion of communal bonds.

As The Pale Stranger came into existence, a cosmic tension arose between the forces of virtue and vice, love and apathy. El'ba, the guardian of love and family, recognized the threat that The Pale Stranger posed to the harmony of the universe. She marshaled her divine power to counter the insidious influence of this newly created deity.

A celestial battle ensued, a struggle of opposing forces that threatened to unravel the fabric of reality itself. In the end, El'ba's unwavering commitment to love and community proved stronger, and The Pale Stranger was cast into the shadowy corners of the cosmos, where it could only exert its influence subtly, tempting mortals with the lure of sloth and discord.

Though The Pale Stranger could not fully overthrow the principles of love and purity championed by El'ba, it continues to exist as a constant reminder of the temptation of apathy and the dangers of forsaking the bonds of family and community.

This mythical conflict between The Pale Stranger and El'ba serves as a cautionary tale within your campaign, illustrating the eternal struggle between virtues and vices, as well as the enduring power of love, purity, and family. It can also be a source of conflict, character development, and plotlines for your players as they navigate the influence of these contrasting deities in their adventures.

## Appearance:

The Pale Stranger is often depicted as a shadowy and indistinct figure, shrouded in a perpetual veil of twilight. Its form is obscured by an aura of lethargy and apathy, as if it resists taking a clear shape. This ambiguity lends an air of unsettling mystery to the deity.

* **Faceless Countenance:** Its visage lacks defined features, appearing as a featureless, pale mask that betrays no emotion. This facelessness symbolizes the deity's dispassion and detachment from the concerns of the mortal world.
* **Cloaked in Shadows:** The deity is enveloped in wisps of shadow and darkness, which seem to cling to its form like tattered robes. These shadows undulate lazily, as if they, too, are in no hurry to move.
* **Eyes of Lethargy:** If The Pale Stranger's mask-like face has any discernible features, it might be a pair of half-closed, heavy-lidded eyes that radiate an aura of exhaustion and indifference.
* **Sluggish Movements:** When it moves, The Pale Stranger's motions are slow and deliberate, as if it exists in a perpetual state of slothful lethargy. Its steps are measured and deliberate, creating an eerie sense of anticipation in those who witness its presence.
* **A Whispers of Discord:** Around The Pale Stranger, there is a subtle, almost imperceptible hum of discord and disarray. This discord manifests as faint, discordant whispers that are barely audible but have a disconcerting effect on those nearby.
* **Aversion to Light:** The deity shuns bright light and is most comfortable in the dimmest corners of the cosmos, where shadows and darkness reign supreme.
* **Aura of Temptation:** The Pale Stranger exudes an aura that tempts mortals with the allure of idleness and indifference. Those who come into contact with this aura may find their motivations waning and their desires for inaction growing stronger.

This depiction of The Pale Stranger's appearance reinforces its association with the sin of Sloth, emphasizing the themes of lethargy, indifference, and the temptation of indolence. The deity's enigmatic and unsettling nature serves as a visual reminder of the challenges and dangers posed by its influence in your Pathfinder campaign.

## Realm:

### The Pale Stranger's Realm: The Dormant Abyss

* **Endless Twilight:** The Dormant Abyss is a realm perpetually shrouded in twilight, where the concept of time is as sluggish as the deity it represents. The sun hangs low on the horizon, casting long, lazy shadows that stretch into eternity.
* **Slothful Landscape:** The terrain of the realm is a vast expanse of rolling hills and meadows, where the grasses sway languidly in an almost imperceptible breeze. Every step taken here feels as though one is walking through a syrupy, slow-motion dreamscape.
* **Misty Apathy:** A thick mist envelops the realm, giving it an otherworldly and dreamlike quality. This mist saps the motivation and enthusiasm of any who enter, filling their minds with thoughts of inactivity and indifference.
* **Slumbering Inhabitants:** In the Dormant Abyss, you might find beings that are the embodiment of sloth, such as slothful spirits, dreamy wraiths, and other entities that represent the temptation of lethargy.
* **Temporal Anomalies:** The flow of time in the realm is erratic, causing moments to stretch on endlessly or pass in the blink of an eye. This unpredictability serves as a reminder of the deity's power to manipulate time to lull mortals into complacency.
* **Shadowy Enclaves:** Hidden within the mists of the realm are shadowy enclaves, where The Pale Stranger is said to reside. These enclaves are places of profound stillness and tranquility, where the deity contemplates its own existence and watches the mortal world through veiled, half-closed eyes.
* **Dream Pools:** Scattered throughout the realm are shimmering dream pools, where visitors can gaze into the depths of their own desires and temptations. These pools are often used by The Pale Stranger to ensnare mortals with visions of indolence and indifference.
* **Lethargic Weather:** The weather in the Dormant Abyss is unchanging and lethargic. A gentle drizzle falls at a near-constant pace, further adding to the sense of timelessness and inertia.
* **The Palace of Apathy:** At the heart of the realm lies the Palace of Apathy, a grand and ornate structure that serves as The Pale Stranger's dwelling. It is a place of profound stillness and silence, where time itself seems to stand still.

The Dormant Abyss is a realm where the concept of action and ambition is anathema. It embodies the sin of Sloth in its purest form, luring in those who dare to enter with the promise of eternal rest and inertia. Visitors to this realm must navigate its lethargic landscapes while resisting the temptation to succumb to the apathy that permeates every corner.

## Church of

### Worshipers:

1. **The Lazy and Apathetic:** Some followers are inherently slothful and apathetic individuals who find comfort and validation in worshiping a deity that encourages their natural inclinations. They see The Pale Stranger as a source of divine justification for their idle lifestyles.
2. **Dreamers and Escapists:** Those who seek refuge from the demands of the waking world may be drawn to The Pale Stranger. They believe that embracing sloth allows them to escape the stresses and responsibilities of daily life, retreating into the realm of dreams and inactivity.
3. **Manipulators and Saboteurs:** Some worshipers see The Pale Stranger as a deity of discord and use their affiliation to sow discord and laziness in others. They may employ subtle means to encourage others to neglect their duties or fall into a state of indifference.
4. **Alchemy Enthusiasts:** Followers who are drawn to the deity's association with alchemy might use their devotion to The Pale Stranger to justify their pursuit of alchemical experiments that induce lethargy or produce substances that encourage idleness.
5. **Isolationists:** Individuals who prefer solitude and isolation may see The Pale Stranger as a patron of their chosen lifestyle. They may embrace the deity's teachings as a way to justify their withdrawal from society and social responsibilities.
6. **Artists and Creatives:** Some artists and creatives might turn to The Pale Stranger for inspiration, seeing in sloth a means of tapping into the dreamlike depths of the subconscious mind. They may create works of art that explore themes of idleness and indifference.
7. **Those Seeking Balance:** In some cases, followers may not fully embrace sloth but turn to The Pale Stranger as a reminder of the importance of balance. They see value in recognizing the dangers of overwork and stress, even if they do not fully embrace a life of inaction.
8. **Seekers of Mysteries:** Devotees who are drawn to the deity's enigmatic nature may be seekers of hidden knowledge and mysteries. They believe that The Pale Stranger holds secrets about the nature of existence and the power of inactivity.

### Clergy:

#### Titles:

Members of The Pale Stranger's clergy may hold titles that reflect their commitment to sloth and the enigmatic nature of their deity. Some possible titles include:

1. **Slumberpriest:** These clergy members are responsible for conducting rituals that encourage rest and idleness among the faithful.
2. **Dreamweaver:** Dreamweavers are skilled in guiding followers through the realm of dreams and interpreting the symbolism of slothful visions.
3. **Apathy Acolyte:** Acolytes serve as assistants to higher-ranking clergy and are responsible for tending to the spiritual needs of the community.
4. **Indolence Oracle:** Oracles possess the ability to divine messages and insights from The Pale Stranger's realm of twilight and inaction.
5. **Lethargy Librarian:** Librarians are keepers of slothful knowledge and may maintain records, texts, and scrolls related to The Pale Stranger's teachings.

#### Roles and Responsibilities:

1. **Guidance into Sloth:** The primary role of The Pale Stranger's clergy is to guide and encourage their followers to embrace the principles of sloth and idleness. They may counsel individuals on how to find rest and relaxation in their daily lives.
2. **Dream Interpretation:** Clergy members with expertise in dream interpretation help followers navigate the realm of dreams, extracting insights and messages that promote indifference and rest.
3. **Rituals of Sloth:** The clergy conducts rituals that celebrate idleness and encourage followers to withdraw from the demands of the world. These rituals may involve meditation, sleep, or dream exploration.
4. **Promotion of Discord:** Some members of the clergy may engage in subtle acts of manipulation and discord to further the cause of The Pale Stranger, sowing seeds of laziness and division among communities.
5. **Creation of Art and Literature:** Clergy members may create works of art, literature, or music that reflect the themes of sloth, indifference, and the allure of inaction. These creations serve to inspire and educate the faithful.
6. **Counsel for the Weary:** The clergy offers counsel and solace to those who feel overwhelmed by the demands of life, encouraging them to embrace rest and detachment as a means of coping.

#### Places of Worship:

Followers of The Pale Stranger may gather in tranquil, dimly lit sanctuaries, often adorned with symbols of the moon and the dagger. These places of worship encourage meditation, dream exploration, and the contemplation of slothful ideals.

#### Symbols and Attire:

Members of The Pale Stranger's clergy wear robes of muted, twilight hues and often adorn themselves with jewelry or symbols representing the moon and the dagger. These symbols are prominently displayed during rituals and ceremonies.

The clergy of The Pale Stranger serve as guides to a life of idleness and indifference, seeking to help their followers find solace and enlightenment in the realm of sloth. Their teachings challenge conventional wisdom, emphasizing the value of rest and balance in a world filled with haste and turmoil.

### Holy texts:

This holy book contains teachings, parables, and passages that emphasize the virtues of rest, idleness, and the allure of the dreamlike realm. Here's an overview of what this sacred text might contain:

1. **The Parable of the Slumbering Sage:** This parable tells the story of a wise sage who, through a life of indolence and contemplation, achieved profound insights into the nature of existence. It serves as an example of the benefits of embracing sloth and rest.
2. **The Path of Twilight:** A section of the book outlining the Path of Twilight, which is the spiritual journey toward achieving a state of eternal sleep and endless dreams. It offers guidance on how to navigate the realm of dreams and unlock its mysteries.
3. **The Serenity of Stillness:** This chapter extols the serenity that comes from embracing inaction and indifference to the demands of the world. It encourages followers to find tranquility in quiet moments and the absence of striving.
4. **Dreamwalking Rituals:** Instructions on how to perform dreamwalking rituals, which allow followers to explore the dream world and seek insights from the realm of The Pale Stranger.
5. **The Discordant Whispers:** A section that discusses the discordant whispers of The Pale Stranger and how they can be harnessed to sow division and indifference in the world.
6. **The Moon and Dagger:** Interpretations of the symbolism of the moon and dagger, explaining their significance in the worship of The Pale Stranger.
7. **The Call of Slumber:** A collection of prayers and invocations that followers can use to invoke the deity's blessings and guidance in their pursuit of rest and idleness.
8. **The Pitfalls of Vigilance:** Warnings about the dangers of constant vigilance and the harm that can come from excessive activity and ambition. It highlights the value of balance between activity and inactivity.
9. **The Realm of Twilight:** Descriptions of The Pale Stranger's realm, the Dormant Abyss, and its connection to the world of dreams. It provides insights into the deity's dwelling place and its influence on the mortal realm.
10. **The Lullaby of Sloth:** A poetic composition that serves as a lullaby, encouraging restful sleep and a departure from the cares of the waking world.

"The Book of Eternal Sleep and Endless Dreams" serves as a guide to followers of The Pale Stranger, offering them wisdom and inspiration to embrace a life of sloth and to explore the mysteries of the dreamlike realm. It reinforces the deity's central teachings and provides a source of spiritual nourishment for those who seek the allure of idleness and indifference.

### The Symbol of The Pale Stranger:

1. **The Moon:** The moon represents the deity's connection to twilight and the realm between wakefulness and slumber. It signifies the realm of dreams and the subconscious mind, which The Pale Stranger uses to entice mortals into slothful indifference. The crescent moon, often associated with transition and change, could symbolize the subtle shifts in a person's life as they succumb to apathy.
2. **The Dagger:** The dagger is a stark contrast to the moon's soft and passive symbolism. It represents the more sinister aspect of The Pale Stranger, as it alludes to the temptation of lethargy and the potential harm that can come from embracing sloth. The dagger may symbolize the harm that can befall those who yield to the allure of indifference, as well as the potential for discord and destruction caused by a lack of action.

When combined, the moon and dagger in The Pale Stranger's symbol create a visual paradox. They represent the duality of this deity, embodying both the seductive pull of idleness and the potential harm that can result from embracing a life of inaction. It serves as a warning to those who encounter this symbol, reminding them of the delicate balance between rest and action and the dangers of yielding to the temptations of sloth.

### Favored Weapon:

#### The Dagger

1. **Symbol of Deception:** The dagger is often associated with stealth and deception. Its small, unassuming appearance can hide its deadly potential, aligning with The Pale Stranger's enigmatic and seductive nature. Just as the deity tempts mortals with the allure of sloth, the dagger can symbolize the deceptive nature of indolence.
2. **Emphasis on Precision**: Daggers require precision and skill to wield effectively. This emphasis on finesse over raw power aligns with the deity's preference for subtle influence and manipulation rather than overt action.
3. **Silent and Swift:** The dagger is a silent and swift weapon, suitable for quick and covert strikes. This mirrors The Pale Stranger's preference for operating in the shadows and exerting its influence unnoticed.
4. **Inaction as a Weapon:** In a symbolic sense, the dagger can represent inaction itself as a weapon. The deity's followers may use it to symbolize their commitment to the path of idleness and indifference, wielding it as a reminder of the dangers of neglecting one's responsibilities.

### Favored animals:

1. **Patience and Stealth:** Scorpions are known for their patience and their ability to lie in wait for their prey. This reflects The Pale Stranger's emphasis on taking a slow and deliberate approach to life, as well as its preference for operating subtly and covertly.
2. **Hidden Danger:** Scorpions possess venomous stingers, which they use as a means of defense and capturing prey. This hidden danger symbolizes the potential harm that can come from embracing a life of inaction and indifference, just as the sting of a scorpion can bring unexpected consequences.
3. **Nocturnal Nature:** Many scorpion species are nocturnal, preferring to be active during the night. This aligns with the deity's association with twilight and the dreamlike realm, reinforcing the connection between The Pale Stranger and the nighttime.
4. **Endurance:** Scorpions are known for their ability to endure harsh conditions, including extreme temperatures and limited access to food and water. This mirrors The Pale Stranger's teachings of enduring life's challenges with indifference and without excessive effort.
5. **Solitary Creatures:** Scorpions are often solitary creatures, and they tend to avoid unnecessary interactions with other animals. This reflects the deity's promotion of isolation and detachment from the concerns of the world.