Alathrien Sotheril, The Runesmith

In the Name of the Eternal Runes,

I am Alathrien Sotheril, the Runesmith, bearer of the sacred glyphs and seeker of the hidden mysteries etched in the fabric of reality. With reverence and purpose, I present to you the tome that binds together the celestial wisdom of the Seldarine, a compendium of divine revelations, arcane secrets, and the sacred art of rune magic.

In these pages, you will find the echoes of our ancestors, the luminous truths that have guided the Elven kind through ages of enlightenment and trials. As the divine progeny of Alathrien, I stand before you not only as a humble servant but as a guardian of the ancient art that bridges the known and the unknown, the seen and the unseen.

The Runesmith's path is one of meticulous study, unwavering discipline, and a profound connection to the arcane. Within this sacred text, I have inscribed the very essence of rune magic, the sacred symbols and enigmatic glyphs that have been revealed to me through divine insight. Each rune, each glyph, is a conduit of power and knowledge, a thread woven into the grand tapestry of existence by the hand of the Divine.

This scripture serves as a beacon for all who seek to understand the profound depths of magical lore and the intricate dance of cosmic forces. It is a guide for those who wish to unravel the secrets hidden within the ancient runes, to craft magical artifacts imbued with divine purpose, and to uphold the sacred traditions that have been handed down through generations.

May these teachings illuminate your path, inspire your pursuits, and grant you the wisdom to wield the runes with both grace and power. As you delve into these sacred words, remember that the pursuit of knowledge and mastery is not just a personal journey but a sacred duty to honor the legacy of the Seldarine."

"Alathrien Sotheril, The Runesmith, Guardian of the Sacred Glyphs"

In the heart of the Elven pantheon, among the ancient gods and goddesses who watch over their people, stands Alathrien Sotheril, the Runesmith. He is a figure of mystery and power, revered by those who seek the deeper mysteries of rune magic, the ancient and arcane art that binds the cosmos. Yet, Alathrien's story is one of paradoxes, of light and shadow, of divine purpose and mortal ambition.

Alathrien's origins are woven into the intricate tapestry of the god Trystan Avachel`Sotheril, the Veiled God of Magic and Knowledge. Born not in the traditional sense but as an extension of Trystan's essence, Alathrien is both an avatar and something more. He believes himself to be the true son of Trystan, not merely a fragment of the god's will but a distinct entity, shaped by the same forces yet walking a different path.

Where Alathrien embraces the enigma, shrouding his truths in layers of secrecy, Alathrien embodies clarity and precision. His domain is rune magic, the ancient art of inscribing the power of creation itself into symbols that can shape reality. To Alathrien, each rune is a key to the divine, a tool to unlock the hidden structures of the world. His followers, devoted scholars and practitioners of the arcane, revere him as the ultimate master of this sacred art.

Alathrien's appearance reflects his devotion to his craft. Draped in flowing robes of pure white, his attire is a stark contrast to the dark, shadowy garments favored by Alathrien's clergy. Every inch of his robes is covered in intricate, glowing runes, symbols of power that shift and shimmer with his every movement. These runes are not merely decorative—they are living spells, woven into the very fabric of his being. His face is partially obscured by a delicate, semi-transparent veil, also inscribed with protective wards and ancient symbols. Unlike Alathrien's veil, which conceals, Alathrien's veil reveals the depth of his knowledge, a paradoxical symbol of the balance between the known and the unknown.

In the divine hierarchy, Alathrien is a figure of profound respect but also of some controversy. His belief that he is the son of Alathrien, rather than merely an aspect of the greater god, sets him apart. It gives him a sense of purpose and identity that is both empowering and isolating. He is not as powerful as Alathrien, yet within his domain of rune magic, he is unmatched. This focus on a single aspect of the arcane has made him a specialist among the gods, a deity whom mortals turn to when they seek the precision and clarity that rune magic can provide.

Yet, Alathrien's journey to divinity was not without struggle. As a mortal, or so the myths say, he was a master of rune magic, a prodigy who surpassed even his most accomplished peers. His ambition was boundless, driving him to seek out the deepest secrets of the runes, even those forbidden by his mentors. It was this relentless pursuit of knowledge that drew the attention of Alathrien, who saw in Alathrien a reflection of his own hunger for the arcane. Some say that Alathrien tested him, leading him down a path that would ultimately elevate him to godhood. Others believe that Alathrien's ascension was a reward for his unwavering dedication to the runes, a recognition that he had mastered a form of magic that even the gods could not ignore.

As a deity, Alathrien's teachings emphasize discipline, clarity, and the responsible use of power. His followers are taught to approach rune magic with reverence, understanding that each rune holds a piece of the divine and that to misuse such power is to court disaster. Yet, Alathrien is not without mercy. He encourages his followers to learn from their mistakes, to see failure as a step on the path to mastery.

Though he is an aspect of Alathrien, Alathrien's alignment is principled, a reflection of his belief in order and balance. He stands as a counterpoint to Alathrien's more enigmatic nature, offering his followers a clear path to understanding the mysteries of the universe through the precise application of rune magic. To worship Alathrien is to seek mastery over the arcane, to dedicate oneself to the pursuit of knowledge in its most structured form.

In the grand halls of the Seldarine, Alathrien Sotheril stands as a testament to the power of focused knowledge, a beacon for those who seek to understand the universe through the lens of rune magic, and a god whose purpose is as clear and unyielding as the runes he commands.

Divine Portfolio:

Rune Magic: Mastery over the ancient art of inscribing divine power into symbols.
Arcane Knowledge: Guardian and teacher of esoteric and arcane wisdom.
Clarity and Precision: Represents the exactness and focus required in both thought and magic.
Innovation in Magic: Encourages the discovery of new runes and their applications.
Divine Heritage: Embodies the connection between mortal ambition and divine purpose.

Religious Dogma

Devotion to the Craft: True understanding comes through dedication to the art of Rune Magic. Every rune inscribed is a step towards enlightenment.
Balance of Power: The use of rune magic must be balanced with wisdom. Power without control leads to ruin.
Pursuit of Knowledge: Followers must constantly seek new knowledge and expand their understanding of the arcane.
Precision and Clarity: In all things, one must strive for precision. A single mistake in the runes can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
Respect the Divine: Alathrien's followers must respect the divine heritage that flows through them, recognizing their place in the grand design of Alathrien's teachings.

Appearance and Symbols

Holy Symbol: A glowing, ember-like flame or light surrounded by elegant, flowing patterns that resemble stylized leaves or vines. These patterns extend outward in symmetrical directions, giving the symbol a sense of balance and harmony.
Regalia:
1. Robe of Runes: A flowing white robe adorned with shimmering runes that glow with a soft light.
2. The Veil of Clarity: A semi-transparent white veil inscribed with intricate runic patterns, symbolizing Alathrien's connection to both the arcane and divine.
3. Runic Staff: A staff made of silverwood, topped with a crystal etched with runes, used in both battle and rituals.

Role in Ceremonies: Alathrien's presence is invoked during rituals of rune magic, where he is called upon to bless the inscriptions and grant clarity to those who seek knowledge through the arcane symbols. In grand ceremonies, his followers wear white robes covered in glowing runes, symbolizing their dedication to his teachings and their role as bearers of his divine legacy.

Treatment of Worshippers, Priests, and Organizations

Worshippers:
- Worshippers of Alathrien are treated with respect and are encouraged to pursue knowledge and mastery of rune magic. They are expected to uphold principles of discipline and order, dedicating themselves to the study of the arcane and the divine. In return, they are blessed with clarity of mind and the ability to inscribe powerful runes.
Priests:
- Priests of Alathrien are expected to serve as both scholars and protectors of rune magic. They lead by example, maintaining strict discipline and ensuring that the knowledge of runes is used responsibly. Their role includes teaching initiates, leading rituals, and overseeing the creation of sacred runes.
Organizations:
- Hierarchical Structure: Alathrien's religious organizations are structured in a hierarchical manner, with the High Runesmith at the top, followed by the Rune Masters, Rune Keepers, and initiates. Each level has specific responsibilities, ensuring that knowledge is passed down and protected.
Punishment and Discipline:
- Any misuse of rune magic or violation of the sacred laws is met with strict punishment. Disciplinary actions range from temporary bans on using magic to more severe penalties, such as exile from the order. The most serious offenses may result in the removal of one's ability to inscribe or activate runes, effectively cutting the individual off from the divine power of Alathrien.

Temples and Influence

Temples:
- Temples dedicated to Alathrien Sotheril are often grand structures carved from pristine white stone, adorned with intricate rune engravings that pulse with divine energy. These temples are centers of learning, where initiates and scholars gather to study the sacred art of rune magic. The central chamber, known as the Hall of Runes, houses the most powerful and ancient runes, which are said to hold the essence of Alathrien himself.
Influence:
- Alathrien's influence is vast, particularly among the elven nobility and scholars who seek his blessings for wisdom and mastery of rune magic. His teachings have shaped the magical traditions of many elven societies, making his clergy highly respected and influential.
Role in Society: The followers of Alathrien often serve as advisors, educators, and guardians of magical knowledge. They are called upon to inscribe protective runes on cities, craft powerful rune weapons, and teach the next generation of mages. In times of war, they are also sought after for their ability to empower warriors with divine rune magic, turning the tide of battle.

Philosophical Influence:

Alathrien's teachings emphasize the pursuit of knowledge through discipline, reflection, and respect for the ancient traditions of rune magic. His philosophy promotes the idea that mastery of runes is a path to enlightenment, connecting the mortal mind with the divine through the sacred symbols.

Cultural Impact: Alathrien's presence is felt in elven art, literature, and architecture. His symbols and runes are engraved on monuments, woven into tapestries, and referenced in elven poetry. His influence has also spread beyond elven society, impacting other races who have come to respect the power of runes.

Role in Society: The followers of Alathrien often serve as advisors, educators, and guardians of magical knowledge. They are called upon to inscribe protective runes on cities, craft powerful rune weapons, and teach the next generation of mages. In times of war, they are also sought after for their ability to empower warriors with divine rune magic, turning the tide of battle.

Legacy

Enduring Influence: Alathrien's teachings continue to influence generations of elven mages and scholars. His dedication to rune magic has ensured that this ancient art remains a vital part of elven culture.
Rune Craftsmanship: His legacy is also evident in the craftsmanship of rune weapons and artifacts that are revered as powerful relics. These creations are passed down through elven families as symbols of their connection to Alathrien's divine teachings.
Establishment of Rune Academies: Alathrien's followers have established rune academies throughout elven lands. These academies have become centers of learning and are instrumental in preserving the ancient traditions of rune magic.
Elven Unity: Alathrien's emphasis on knowledge and mastery of the arcane has united various elven factions under a common pursuit of wisdom. His teachings foster collaboration between different elven communities.
Celestial Alignment: The alignment of the stars and celestial bodies during significant rituals dedicated to Alathrien has been seen as divine signs, further solidifying his importance in elven spiritual life.
The Influence on Elven Society: In elven society, Alathrien is revered not only as a god but as a symbol of what elves strive to become – enlightened, wise, and in harmony with the cosmic forces of the universe. His influence shapes everything from education to politics, ensuring that elven culture remains deeply rooted in the magical traditions of the past while continually advancing towards new horizons.

Divine Attributes:

Divine Power: Alathrien Sotheril is a god of considerable power, though he is not as powerful as his father, Alathrien. His dominion over rune magic is unparalleled, making him the supreme authority in this specialized field. Alathrien's divine power is focused on imbuing runes with immense magical energy, allowing them to affect reality in profound ways.
Alignment: Principled, Alathrien embodies a balance of lawful and good tendencies. His strict adherence to the laws of magic and the principles of his teachings guide his every action, making him a deity who values discipline, knowledge, and righteousness.
Domain: Rune Magic, Knowledge, Protection. Alathrien's domain encompasses the ancient and sacred art of rune magic. He is also a god of knowledge, particularly the hidden and arcane aspects of it. Protection is another key aspect of his domain, as his runes are often used to shield, ward, and safeguard those who invoke his name.
Personality: Alathrien is a god of order, wisdom, and discipline. He is patient and thoughtful, always encouraging his followers to think deeply before taking action. Despite his strict nature, he is also compassionate and seeks to guide his followers towards enlightenment and understanding.
Symbolism: His divine symbols often include intricate runes, usually inscribed in sacred geometrical patterns that represent the balance between the mortal and divine realms. The most common representation of his power is the "Rune of Enlightenment," which is said to unlock hidden knowledge when inscribed on sacred objects.

The Hierarchy of the Faith:

High Runesmith: At the top of Alathrien's religious hierarchy is the High Runesmith. This individual is the supreme leader of the faith, acting as Alathrien's chosen representative in the mortal world. The High Runesmith is selected based on their mastery of arcane knowledge, deep understanding of Alathrien's teachings. The position is held for life, unless the High Runesmith steps down voluntarily or is removed due to corruption or madness. The High Runesmith resides in the Grand Temple, which is hidden deep within an ancient forest or mountain range, and is responsible for guiding the faithful, interpreting Alathrien's will, and maintaining the balance between the various orders within the religion.
The Council of Smiths: Below the High Archmage is the Council of Smiths, a group of the most powerful and knowledgeable Runesmiths and scholars within the faith. The council consists of seven members.
Rune Masters: These are regional leaders who oversee large territories, such as entire provinces or major cities. The Rune Masters are responsible for ensuring that the faith is maintained and that the teachings of Alathrien are properly upheld. They manage the local temples and academies, supervise the training of priests and mages, and ensure that the secrecy and sanctity of the faith are preserved. Rune Masters are often former members of the Council of Smiths or highly esteemed scholars who have proven their devotion and expertise.
Rune Keepers: Rune Keepers are high-ranking priests and scholars who manage individual temples and oversee the day-to-day operations of the faith at a local level. They are the primary religious leaders for most followers of Alathrien and are responsible for conducting rituals, safeguarding forbidden knowledge, and guiding their congregations. Rune Keepers also play a crucial role in identifying potential recruits for the faith's inner circles, as well as ensuring that those who delve into dangerous knowledge are prepared for the risks.
Initiates.: Initiates are the lower-ranking priests and mages who serve the temples and assist the Rune Keepers. They are often those who have proven their dedication to Alathrien's teachings but are still undergoing training in the deeper mysteries of the faith. Initiates are tasked with maintaining the temples, copying sacred texts, and performing minor rituals. They wear robes symbolizing their role.

Holy Artifacts

The Rune Tome: An ancient, arcane book bound in black leather with silver runes. The RuneTome is said to contain all that is and ever will be known about rune Magic and the Runes of Elves, Dwarves and Dragons.
The Crystal Rune Staff: A glistening, polished staff made from an unknown Diamond-like material. It is adorned with runes that glow faintly with a purple light. The staff is a conduit for Alathrien's divine power and is used in rituals and arcane practices.
Religious Practices
- Rite of the Rune Seer: A profound ceremony dedicated to unveiling the hidden meanings and mystical insights encoded within ancient runes. The Rite of the Rune Seer is typically conducted in the presence of a Rune Sage or a member of the Order of the Rune Keepers.
  Procedure:
  1. Preparation: Participants assemble in a sanctified chamber inscribed with rune symbols and protective wards. The space is softly illuminated by rune-lit lanterns and candles.
  2. Invocation: The ritual commences with the chanting of sacred runic verses and the presentation of rune-inscribed artifacts or relics.
  3. Revelation: The Rune Sage performs a series of rune readings or utilizes enchanted artifacts to interpret hidden meanings. This might involve reciting ancient rune scripts, performing rune scrying, or invoking divine wisdom.
  4. Conclusion: The rite concludes with the ceremonial recording of the revealed insights, often through runic inscriptions or magical glyphs. Participants may receive a blessing or insight related to the runic revelations.
- Trial of the Runes: An exhaustive test designed to assess the mastery, knowledge, and integrity of candidates for the Order of the Rune Keepers. The Trial of the Runes is a comprehensive examination of both magical proficiency and ethical adherence.
  Procedure:
  1. Initiation: Candidates undergo a series of rune-based and intellectual challenges, designed to test their abilities and commitment to Alathrien’s teachings.
  2. Challenges: The trial may include solving intricate rune puzzles, navigating enchanted rune mazes, or resisting temptations of forbidden runic knowledge.
  3. Judgment: The candidates are evaluated by the High Rune Keeper and senior members based on their performance and adherence to Alathrien’s code. Successful candidates are inducted into the Order with full honors.
- Veiled Vigil: A contemplative practice where worshippers engage in profound meditation and reflection in a secluded, rune-inscribed environment. The Veiled Vigil is intended to deepen the practitioner's connection with hidden runic knowledge and divine insight.
  Procedure:
  1. Preparation: Worshippers enter a serene, dimly lit space adorned with rune symbols and symbols of secrecy.
  2. Meditation: Participants meditate, focusing on inner thoughts and seeking to connect with the divine essence of Alathrien through runic symbols. They may use artifacts such as the Rune-etched Dagger or the Enigmatic Tome during this practice.
  3. Revelation: During the vigil, worshippers may receive visions or insights related to their personal quest for runic knowledge or their role within Alathrien’s divine plan.
  4. Closing: The vigil concludes with a ceremonial lighting of a single rune-etched lantern, symbolizing the illumination of hidden truths.
- Celestial Rune Ceremony: A ritual performed during celestial events, such as eclipses or significant astronomical alignments. The Celestial Rune Ceremony is designed to harness cosmic energies and enhance the worshippers' connection to the divine mysteries of the cosmos.
  Procedure:
  1. Preparation: The ceremony is held outdoors or in a specially prepared chamber with a view of the celestial event. Participants gather and prepare sacred runic symbols and artifacts.
  2. Invocation: The ritual involves chanting cosmic rune invocations and performing symbolic acts to align with the celestial energies.
  3. Ceremony: Worshippers use artifacts like the Celestial Rune Sphere to channel cosmic power and seek divine guidance. Special prayers or invocations are made to Alathrien.
  4. Conclusion: The ceremony ends with a communal reflection on the insights gained and a ceremonial offering of thanks to the divine.
- Arcane Rites: A scholarly practice where worshippers engage in the study of ancient runic texts, magical lore, and divine mysteries. The Arcane Rites is an ongoing process of exploration and learning.
  Procedure:
  1. Study Sessions: Worshippers gather in study circles or sacred libraries to read and discuss texts related to Alathrien’s teachings and runic knowledge.
  2. Debate and Reflection: Participants engage in debates and reflections on the interpretations of ancient runic texts and magical theories.
  3. Knowledge Sharing: Insights gained from the study are shared with the broader community through lectures, written works, or magical demonstrations.
  4. Integration: The knowledge gained is integrated into personal practice and ritual, enhancing the worshipper's understanding and connection to the divine realm.
- Obsidian Rune Offering: A ritual offering made to honor Alathrien and seek his favor or insight. The Obsidian Rune Offering involves presenting symbolic gifts or artifacts inscribed with runes to the deity.
  Procedure:
  1. Preparation: Worshippers prepare offerings such as obsidian runestones, dark gemstones, or crafted items inscribed with runes that symbolize their devotion and respect.
  2. Presentation: Offerings are presented at a sacred altar or in a designated ritual space, accompanied by prayers and invocations to Alathrien.
  3. Blessing: The offerings are blessed through ceremonial acts or magical rituals, seeking divine favor or guidance.
  4. Conclusion: The ritual ends with a communal reflection and a symbolic act of sealing the offering, often through a special runic inscription or magical enchantment.
Celebrated Holidays

1. Rune Renewal

Date: Narvunye 1st (January 1st)

Description: Marks the beginning of the new celestial year and symbolizes renewal and new beginnings through the study and inscription of new runes. The day is devoted to reflection on past achievements and setting intentions for the year ahead, guided by the energy of the Rune Weaver.

Traditions:
- Runic Cleansing: Followers participate in purification ceremonies involving rune-inscribed water and sacred symbols to clear away past mistakes and renew their commitment to Alathrien's path.
- Runic Resolutions: Personal and spiritual goals for the new year are inscribed on runestones or scrolls and ceremonially set into motion.
- Feast of the Runes: A grand feast featuring dishes and drinks with rune-shaped decorations, accompanied by storytelling about past discoveries and achievements.
- Gifts of Glyphs: Exchanging rune-inscribed books, scrolls, and magical artifacts to inspire ongoing exploration and growth.
- Celestial Rune Observations: Rituals under the stars to seek guidance from Alathrien for the year ahead through runic symbols.
2. The Shadow's Cipher

Date: New Moon Night (Narvunye, January 15th)

Description: Observed during the new moon, symbolizing Alathrien's mastery over secrecy and the unknown through hidden runic knowledge, and a time for introspection.

Traditions:
- Cipher Rituals: Performing rituals in total darkness with rune-inscribed objects to understand secrecy and the arcane.
- Silent Rune Reflection: A period of solitary reflection with rune texts to connect with Alathrien and contemplate hidden truths.
- Ceremonial Shrouding: Donning dark robes or veils inscribed with runes during rituals.
- Offering of Shadows: Offering items representing darkness or secrets, such as black gemstones or shadowy rune artifacts.
3. The Runeveil Ascendant

Date: Winter Solstice (Narvunye 21st)

Description: Celebrates the longest night of the year when the veil between the known and unknown is thinnest, symbolizing Alathrien's divine presence and the revelation of hidden truths through runic insights.

Traditions:
- Runic Illuminations: Lighting candles inscribed with runes in darkened temples to pierce the veil of darkness and gain insight.
- Divination Rites: Performing rune-based divination rituals to receive prophetic visions from Alathrien.
- Feasts of the Veil: A communal feast with foods symbolizing light and darkness, accompanied by stories of Alathrien's deeds and runic revelations.
- Gift Exchange of Glyphs: Sharing gifts related to runic knowledge and magical artifacts.
4. The Equinox of Harmony

Date: Autumn Equinox (Ivanneth, September 23rd)

Description: Celebrates the balance between light and dark, reflecting Alathrien's teachings on harmony between opposing forces through runic balance.

Traditions:
- Balance Rituals: Ceremonies to achieve personal and communal balance using runic symbols to represent harmony.
- Symbolic Rune Offerings: Items representing light and shadow inscribed with runes offered in rituals.
- Festive Gatherings: Festivals featuring storytelling, artistic performances, and reenactments that highlight the balance of runic forces.
- Light and Shadow Rites: Activities involving runic symbols of light and shadow to symbolize opposing forces.
5. Eclipse of the Runes

Date: Occurs during celestial eclipses or significant alignments (Ringae, December 10th if no eclipse occurs)

Description: Aligned with cosmic events, celebrating the balance between light and darkness and Alathrien's influence over hidden runic knowledge and cosmic mysteries.

Traditions:
- Celestial Rune Rituals: Ceremonies during the eclipse to harness cosmic energies and seek divine guidance through runic symbols.
- Observatory Gatherings: Followers gather in observatories to perform rune-based rituals and chants during celestial events.
- Arcane Rune Displays: Magical exhibitions and performances highlighting Alathrien's arcane influence and runic power.
- Meditative Rune Practices: Reflection and meditation with rune-inscribed artifacts to connect with Alathrien during the celestial event.

Alathrien Sotheril, The Runesmith

God of Elven Rune Magic

Divine Portfolio:

Religious Dogma

Appearance and Symbols

Treatment of Worshippers, Priests, and Organizations

Temples and Influence

Philosophical Influence:

Legacy

Divine Attributes:

The Hierarchy of the Faith:

Holy Artifacts

Religious Practices

Celebrated Holidays

1. Rune Renewal

2. The Shadow's Cipher

3. The Runeveil Ascendant

4. The Equinox of Harmony

5. Eclipse of the Runes

1. Celestial Shield

2. Foresight

3. Divine Ward

4. Truth's Revelation

5. Harmonious Resonance

6. Divine Judgement

7. Omniscient Gaze

8. Ethereal Passage

9. Temporal Pause

10. Wisdom of the Ages

11. Fate's Favor

12. Celestial Sanctuary

13. Mobile Sphereof Destruction

14. Transmutation

Favoured Weapons

Chundra, the Godsblade

Shalandare, the Nightblade

Festaeus, the Sacred Cleaver