Andharradh Larethian, The Forest Mother

"I am Andharradh. From the essence of the three greatest elven goddesses am I born. I am three and I am one, three to ensure that treachery never again enters the heart of a goddess of Arvandor, and one to stand at Corellon's side."

I am Andharradh, the confluence of power, wisdom, and grace, born from the divine wellsprings of the Three. In my essence, the winds of Aerdrie Faenya, the passion of Hanali Celanil, and the mysteries of Sehanine Moonbow intertwine, creating a force that is as boundless as the heavens, as deep as the seas, and as eternal as the night. Each goddess weaves a thread into the tapestry of my being, yet together, they are more than the sum of their parts. Together, I am Andharradh.

I am three: three faces, three hearts, three minds. I embody the boundless skies, the ever-renewing love, and the secret depths of the cosmos. From Aerdrie, I inherit the winds that carry the voices of all who soar, the freedom that knows no bounds, and the tempest that protects the vulnerable. From Hanali, I carry the warmth of love that nurtures life, the beauty that softens even the hardest of hearts, and the joy that dances through all things. From Sehanine, I hold the veil of night, the wisdom that comes with dreams, and the quiet strength that endures through all trials.

Yet I am one: a singular force, forged from the need for vigilance and unity. When Araushnee's shadow fell upon the heart of Arvandor, it was not the strength of one goddess that protected our realm, but the strength of many. From this betrayal, I arose, born of necessity and bound by purpose, to ensure that such darkness would never again find purchase in the heart of a goddess. I stand as a bulwark against treachery, my resolve unwavering, my vigilance unending.

At Corellon's side, I stand not as his follower, but as his equal, a partner in the dance of the divine, a guardian of our shared realms. Together, we ensure that the Seldarine remains whole, that our people remain protected, and that the light of Arvandor never dims. Through me, the Three are made whole, and through me, the One endures."

"from the Book of the Seldarine"

Divine Portfolio:

• Growth: Andharradh nurtures the flourishing of life and nature. She represents the cycles of renewal, fertility, and the development of both the natural world and the Elven people.
• Protection: As a fierce guardian of the Seldarine and the elven realms, Andharradh embodies the defense of her people and their sacred lands. She stands against all threats, ensuring the safety and well-being of her followers.
• Wisdom: Andharradh offers guidance and insight, drawing from the collective knowledge of her three aspects. She helps her followers navigate the complexities of life, offering clarity, understanding, and foresight.

Religious Dogma:

1. Reverence for Nature: Followers of Andharradh are devoted to the protection and reverence of the natural world. They believe that nature is a sacred gift from the divine and must be preserved and respected in all its forms. The church teaches that disrupting natural harmony is a sin against the deity and the world itself.
2. Harmony and Balance: The core tenet of Andharradh's teachings is the pursuit of balance and harmony. This principle extends to both the natural environment and the personal lives of the faithful. Adherents are encouraged to seek equilibrium in their actions and decisions, maintaining a peaceful coexistence with both nature and their fellow beings.
3. Respect for All Life: The church upholds the sanctity of all living beings. Followers are expected to show compassion and kindness towards all creatures, whether they are sentient or not. The belief is that all life forms are interconnected, and harming one can affect the balance of the entire ecosystem.
4. Seasonal Celebrations: Rituals and ceremonies in the Church of Andharradh are closely tied to the cycles of the seasons. Important festivals include the Solstice of Renewal, celebrating the rebirth of nature in spring, and the Harvest Festival, giving thanks for the abundance provided by the earth. These celebrations often involve offerings to nature and communal gatherings in natural settings.
5. Spiritual Stewardship: Followers are taught to be stewards of the land, taking on responsibilities for maintaining and improving their natural surroundings. This includes practices like planting trees, cleaning rivers, and ensuring sustainable use of resources. The church emphasizes that taking care of the environment is a sacred duty and an expression of devotion.
6. Wisdom of the Elders: The teachings of Andharradh place great value on the wisdom of nature and the lessons it offers. Elders within the church are revered for their deep understanding of the natural world and their ability to guide others in living in harmony with it. They serve as mentors and advisers, passing down knowledge and traditions through generations.
7. Rituals of Reflection: Followers engage in regular rituals of reflection and meditation to connect with the divine essence present in nature. These practices are designed to foster a deeper understanding of one's place within the natural world and to cultivate a sense of inner peace and unity with the environment.

Appearance and Symbols:

• Holy Symbol: An inverted silver triangle inscribed on both faces with three circles as representations of Aerdrie Faenya, Hanali Celanil, and Sehanine Moonbow.
• Regalia:
  1. Ceremonial Garb: Priests may wear garments reflecting one or all aspects of Andharradh. This can include robes, cloaks, and sashes adorned with intricate patterns and symbols representing the Triune Goddess.
  2. Combat Attire: In battle, clerics favor ornate elven chain mail or, on rare occasions, elven plate mail. They often use long and short bows, swords, and spears, with shields displaying the symbol of the Triune Goddess and heraldic charges representing the individual goddesses.
• Role in Ceremonies: Clerics and druids of Andharradh participate in rituals and ceremonies reflecting the attributes of the Three goddesses. During holy days such as the Melding of the Three (Shieldmeet), they perform cooperative magic and sing hymns in honor of Andharradh. Temples and ceremonies often blend elements of Aerdrie Faenya, Hanali Celanil, and Sehanine Moonbow, symbolizing their unity and diversity.

Treatment of Worshippers, Priests, and Organizations

• Worshippers:
  • Worshippers of Andharradh are viewed with respect and reverence within elven societies. Their devotion is seen as a testament to their commitment to the ideals of unity and diversity represented by the Triune Goddess. However, opinions on Andharradh can vary among different elven subraces:
    • Moon Elves: They hold Andharradh in high regard, often venerating her as a central deity. They celebrate her aspects with elaborate rituals and view her as a counterpart to Corellon Larethian, sometimes even considering Corellon as her consort.
    • Sun Elves: There is a division in their perception of Andharradh. Some Sun Elves regard her as a separate, minor deity with an exaggerated status, while others believe she is a misinterpretation of Sehanine Moonbow. This view affects how Andharradh is represented in Sun Elven religious practices and art.
    • Wood and Wild Elves: These subraces generally do not show special affection for Andharradh. Their spiritual practices and priorities may lead them to focus more on deities relevant to their specific lifestyles and environments.
• Priests:
  • Priests of Andharradh, known as Triune Seekers (novices), Trimorphs (full priests), and Circle Singers (specialty priests), are respected figures in their communities. Their roles include:
    • Guidance: Providing spiritual guidance to worshippers, helping them understand and embody the teachings of Andharradh.
    • Ceremonies: Conducting religious ceremonies and rituals, including those celebrating the aspects of the Triune Goddess and significant holy days like the Melding of the Three.
    • Representation: Acting as representatives of Andharradh in both spiritual and civic matters, often engaging with other faith leaders and communities.
    • Education: Educating their communities about the importance of unity and diversity, as well as the virtues and teachings of Andharradh.
• Organizations:
  • Hierarchical Structure: The organizational hierarchy within the Andharradhan church is designed to facilitate effective worship and administration. The structure includes:
    • Triune Seekers: Novices who are in the early stages of their spiritual training. They learn about the faith, participate in rituals, and prepare for their future roles.
    • Trimorphs: Full priests who have completed their training and are fully involved in the religious and administrative aspects of the faith. They lead ceremonies, offer guidance, and uphold the doctrines of Andharradh.
    • Circle Singers: Specialty priests who focus on specific aspects of Andharradh's worship or particular areas of expertise, such as totemic magic or cooperative magic.
• Punishment and Discipline:
  • Discipline within the Andharradhan faith is approached with a focus on understanding and rehabilitation. The aim is to correct behavior while maintaining the integrity and harmony of the faith:
    • Minor Infractions: May result in temporary restrictions on ceremonial duties or additional penance to realign with the principles of Andharradh.
    • Serious Infractions: Could lead to a period of exclusion from certain aspects of religious life, requiring the individual to undergo significant penance and reflection before being readmitted to full participation.
    • Rehabilitation: Emphasis is placed on personal growth and improvement. Priests and worshippers are encouraged to seek guidance from senior clergy and engage in activities that reaffirm their commitment to Andharradh's teachings.

Temples and Influence

• Temples:
  • Temples dedicated to Andharradh are designed to reflect the characteristics of the three goddesses that make up the Triune Goddess. They can either emphasize the style of one of the three goddesses or blend elements from all three:
    • Individual Styles: Some temples focus on the distinct architectural and aesthetic styles associated with Aerdrie Faenya, Hanali Celanil, or Sehanine Moonbow. For example, a temple dedicated to Aerdrie Faenya might feature soaring spires and feather motifs, while one dedicated to Hanali Celanil might emphasize romantic and ornate decorations.
    • Blended Styles: Other temples integrate elements from all three aspects of Andharradh, creating a harmonious and eclectic space that symbolizes the unity and diversity of the Triune Goddess. These temples often have diverse and intricate designs, incorporating symbols, colors, and motifs associated with each aspect of Andharradh.
    • Symbolism: Each temple prominently displays the holy symbol of Andharradh—a silver triangle with the symbols of the three goddesses. This symbol serves as a focal point for worship and devotion.
• Influence:
  • Andharradh's influence extends across various aspects of elven culture and society:
    • Spiritual Life: The worship of Andharradh shapes the spiritual practices and rituals of her followers, guiding their understanding of unity and diversity. Her influence is particularly strong among Moon Elves, who incorporate her teachings into their daily lives and religious observances.
    • Art and Culture: The artistic and cultural expressions of Andharradh's followers often reflect the themes of creativity, life, and artistry. Temples and public spaces might feature art inspired by the goddess's aspects, including works that celebrate the beauty and complexity of nature and the divine.
    • Political and Social Structures: Andharradh's principles of unity and cooperation can impact social and political dynamics within elven communities. Her teachings might influence policies related to governance, community cohesion, and inter-group relations, promoting harmony and collective action.
  • Role in Society:
    • Andharradh plays a significant role in shaping the values and behaviors of her worshippers. Her presence and influence are evident in:
      • Community Events: Festivals and ceremonies celebrating Andharradh's aspects often bring communities together, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among her followers.
      • Education and Guidance: Priests and clerics of Andharradh provide guidance and education to their communities, helping individuals understand and apply the goddess's teachings in their lives.
      • Charitable Activities: Temples and worshippers of Andharradh may be involved in charitable activities and support for the less fortunate, reflecting the goddess's emphasis on compassion and cooperation.
• Philosophical Influence:
  • Andharradh's philosophy emphasizes the strength found in unity and diversity. This belief encourages her followers to embrace different perspectives and talents, fostering collaboration and mutual respect.
  • Her teachings promote the idea that through combining various skills and viewpoints, greater creativity and problem-solving abilities are achieved. This philosophy underpins many aspects of elven culture and spirituality.
• Cultural Impact:
  • Andharradh has significantly influenced elven culture by inspiring festivals, rituals, and artistic expressions that celebrate cooperation and diversity. Her impact is seen in communal art projects, collaborative magical works, and shared celebrations.
  • Her teachings also influence social structures within elven communities, encouraging a system where different roles and talents are valued and integrated into the society's framework.

Legacy

1. The creation of the Triune Goddess, Andharradh, symbolizes the elven ideal of unity through diversity. This legacy is reflected in the way Elves approach their communal and individual endeavors.
2. The Melding of the Three, celebrated quadrennially, serves as a testament to Andharradh's enduring influence, emphasizing the values of harmony and cooperative effort among the Elves.
3. Her presence in various elven traditions ensures that the principles of unity and collaboration are perpetuated through generations, influencing both spiritual practices and societal norms.
4. Andharradh's teachings have inspired numerous artistic and magical works, demonstrating the effectiveness of combining diverse talents and ideas to achieve excellence and innovation.
5. Her impact extends to the structure of elven societies, where her philosophy encourages a balanced integration of different roles and perspectives, enhancing overall social cohesion and productivity.
6. The Influence on Elven Society: In elven society, Andharradh's legacy is evident in the strong emphasis on collaboration and mutual respect. Her teachings guide the Elves in their approach to community life, artistic endeavors, and magical practices, fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated and individual contributions are valued.

Divine Attributes:

• Domains: Andharradh encompasses domains related to unity, diversity, protection, and beauty. Her influence spans across various aspects of life, including art, magic, and nature.
• Symbolism: The inverted silver triangle with the symbols of Aerdrie Faenya, Hanali Celanil, and Sehanine Moonbow represents the fusion of the three goddesses into one. This symbol signifies the balance and harmony that Andharradh embodies.
• Manifestations: Andharradh can manifest in any of her three aspects — Aerdrie Faenya with her feathered hair and bird-like wings, Hanali Celanil as a beautiful maiden in silk, or Sehanine Moonbow as an ethereal figure clad in moonlight.
• Divine Powers: As the Triune Goddess, Andharradh possesses a range of divine powers, including the ability to inspire creativity, facilitate cooperation, and protect her followers from evil forces. Her power is reflected in the harmonious blending of her aspects.
• Behavioral Traits: Andharradh embodies the combined traits of her aspects: the whimsical and impulsive nature of Aerdrie Faenya, the romantic and affectionate demeanor of Hanali Celanil, and the serene and ephemeral qualities of Sehanine Moonbow. These traits are evident in her interactions with her worshippers and her approach to guiding them.

Organizational Structure of Religion

The Hierarchy of the Faith:

• Triune Seekers: Novices who are beginning their training and learning the ways of Andharradh. They are responsible for basic duties and are under the guidance of more experienced priests.
• Trimorphs: Full priests of Andharradh who are dedicated to one or more aspects of the Triune Goddess. They lead ceremonies, offer guidance to lower-ranking members, and uphold the teachings of the faith.
• Circle Singers: Specialty priests who have a deeper connection with the Triune Goddess and her aspects. They are known for their unique magical abilities and play a significant role in rituals and ceremonies.
• High Priests/Priestesses: Senior clergy who oversee multiple temples or regions. They are responsible for significant religious decisions, maintaining the cohesion of the faith, and ensuring that the teachings of Andharradh are upheld.
• Archpriests/Archpriestsesses: The highest-ranking members of the clergy who have direct access to the divine aspects of Andharradh. They act as intermediaries between the goddess and her followers and often engage in diplomatic or high-level spiritual roles.
• The Triune Council: A governing body composed of the highest-ranking clergy members, including the Archpriests and High Priests. They make important decisions regarding the direction and administration of the faith.

Religious Orders and their Organizational Structure

• Fighting Orders

  1. The Guardians of the Triune: A prestigious order dedicated to protecting the temples and sacred sites of Andharradh. They are skilled in both combat and magic, serving as elite defenders of the faith.
  2. The Sentinels of Unity: An order focused on maintaining peace and harmony within elven societies. They are known for their diplomatic skills and are often involved in resolving conflicts and disputes.
  3. The Vanguards of the Goddess: Elite warriors who undertake quests and missions to uphold the values of Andharradh. They are frequently dispatched to combat evil forces threatening the realms of the Elves.
  4. The Shieldbearers: An order dedicated to the defense of the faithful and the promotion of justice. They provide protection and support during religious ceremonies and are known for their resilience and dedication.

• Clerical Orders

  1. The Luminaries: An order of clerics who specialize in the study and application of Andharradh's teachings related to light and magic. They are often involved in scholarly pursuits and magical research.
  2. The Harmonists: Clerics who focus on promoting unity and cooperation among different races and communities. They are known for their mediation skills and efforts in fostering harmonious relationships.
  3. The Weavers of Destiny: This order is dedicated to guiding and advising individuals on their personal paths and destinies, drawing upon the wisdom of Andharradh's aspects to provide insight and direction.
  4. The Sacred Scribes: An order responsible for maintaining and preserving the sacred texts and rituals of Andharradh. They ensure that the knowledge and traditions of the faith are accurately recorded and passed down.

Each of these orders plays a crucial role in the overarching structure of Andharradh's religious and mystical framework, ensuring the protection, preservation, and enforcement of divine principles across various aspects of her followers. All are pledged to support in the defense of her church.
See the Religious Orders section for more detail.

Holy Artifacts

1. The Triune Amulet: A sacred amulet featuring the intertwined symbols of Aerdrie Faenya, Hanali Celanil, and Sehanine Moonbow. It is believed to offer protection and clarity to its wearer and is often worn by high-ranking priests and priestesses during significant ceremonies.
2. Celestial Chalice: A beautifully crafted chalice used in rituals and ceremonies, made from silver and adorned with gemstones representing the Three Goddesses. It is used to hold sacred liquids during rites and blessings.
3. Wings of Unity: A ceremonial cloak with embroidered feathers symbolizing Aerdrie Faenya. This artifact is worn by priests during major festivals and serves as a symbol of divine protection and unity.
4. Heart of Gold Pendant: An ornate pendant representing Hanali Celanil's influence. It is used in marriage ceremonies and is believed to bless the union with love and harmony.
5. Moonbeam Staff: A staff imbued with the essence of Sehanine Moonbow, used by druids and clerics in night rituals and moonlit ceremonies. It is said to guide the faithful during nocturnal rites and divinations.

Religious Practices

• Morning Invocation: Each day begins with a collective or individual prayer to Andharradh, invoking the guidance of the Three Goddesses. The faithful gather in temples or perform personal rituals at dawn to seek blessings for the day ahead.
• Triune Meditation: Practiced during the full moon, this meditation involves chanting hymns and visualizing the harmonious merging of the Three Goddesses. It aims to align the practitioners with the divine energy and wisdom of Andharradh.
• Harvest Blessings: During the harvest season, priests conduct rituals to honor the abundance of nature and seek Andharradh's favor for a bountiful yield. Offerings of fruits, grains, and crafted goods are made in gratitude.
• Festival of Unity: A significant annual event where the faithful participate in communal feasts, music, and dance to celebrate the unity and diversity embodied by Andharradh. The festival includes the performance of elaborate rites and the creation of collaborative art.

Celebrated Holidays

• Melding of the Three

  : Celebrated quadrennially on Cinnaeloscor (Day of Corellon's Peace), this holiday marks the unification of Aerdrie Faenya, Hanali Celanil, and Sehanine Moonbow into Andharradh. It is a day of grand ceremonies, singing of hymns, and invoking cooperative magic to promote peace and unity.

• Moonlight Reverie

  : Held during the midsummer full moon, this holiday honors Sehanine Moonbow. It features nocturnal ceremonies, moonlit dances, and offerings to ensure favorable omens and dreams. It is a time for reflection and seeking guidance in personal matters.

• Heart's Embrace

  : Celebrated during the winter solstice, this festival is dedicated to Hanali Celanil. It focuses on themes of love, romance, and compassion. Festivities include exchanging tokens of affection, storytelling, and communal feasts designed to strengthen bonds among the faithful.

• Wings of Dawn

  : Marking the first day of spring, this holiday honors Aerdrie Faenya and celebrates new beginnings. The faithful engage in rituals that involve flight-themed activities, such as kite flying and symbolic “ascending” ceremonies to welcome the season of renewal.

Alignment: Scrupulous

Size: 13 feet (Imposing presence)

Horror/Awe Factor: 16

OCCs:

• Divine Enchanter: Andharradh, as a goddess, performs enchantments and blessings that weave together the powers of love, nature, and moonlight. Her enchantments often involve complex rituals that combine elements of Aerdrie Faenya's whimsy, Hanali Celanil's passion, and Sehanine Moonbow's serenity.
• Celestial Healer: In her role as a goddess, Andharradh channels profound healing energies to mend the wounds of both body and spirit. Her healing abilities transcend normal limits, incorporating aspects of Hanali Celanil's nurturing and Sehanine Moonbow's restorative powers to bring comfort and renewal to her followers.
• Moonlight Mystic: Andharradh practices the mystical arts associated with Sehanine Moonbow, delving into the secrets of the moon and dreams. As a Moonlight Mystic, she performs rituals that reveal hidden truths, guide souls, and influence the dreamscape.
• Nature's Sovereign: This O.C.C. reflects Andharradh's connection to nature through Aerdrie Faenya's influence. She commands the forces of nature, oversees the balance of natural realms, and fosters the growth and protection of sacred lands.
• Arcane Artificer: Andharradh crafts divine artifacts and relics that embody her multifaceted nature. As an Arcane Artificer, she infuses objects with magical properties that reflect the unity and diversity of her aspects, creating items of immense power and significance.
• Celestial Warrior: This role encompasses Andharradh's ability to protect and defend the realms from evil. As a Celestial Warrior, she wields divine might and strategic prowess, embodying the martial and protective aspects of the goddess's nature to safeguard her followers and her domain.

Deific Powers of Andharradh
Andharradh has the full range of powers over her followers, and can perform all prototypical deific powers at regular cost, as well as the following special powers:

Priest/Healing Powers: Has the full range of Clerical Magic and Healing Magic.

Magic Powers: Andharradh wields a broad array of divine magic, including:

• Divine Blessings: Grants powerful blessings to her followers, enhancing their abilities and protection.
• Elemental Control: Manipulates the elements of nature, particularly related to wind, water, and moonlight.
• Illusions: Creates intricate illusions to aid in guidance or deception, drawing from Sehanine Moonbow's domain.
• Restorative Magic: Heals injuries and cures diseases, incorporating aspects of Hanali Celanil's nurturing magic.
• Summoning: Calls forth celestial beings or natural entities to assist in her divine tasks.

Psionic Powers: Class of Psionic: Mind Mage. Has 650 ISP. Has all Psionic Disiplines. Andharradh utilizes most uses the following psionic abilities to:

• Telepathy: Communicate mentally with her followers and other deities.
• Clairvoyance: Gain insight into distant or hidden events.
• Empathy: Sense and influence the emotions of others, promoting harmony and understanding.
• Precognition: Foresee potential future events and guide her followers accordingly.

Favoured Weapons

Andharradh's favored weapons reflect her divine nature:

• Celestial Longbow: A radiant longbow that harnesses moonlight and divine power.
• Moonlit Sword: A blade that gleams with the essence of the moon, effective in both combat and magical rituals.
• Staff of Unity: A staff symbolizing the merger of the Three, used for channeling her combined divine energies.

Armour: Andharradh is typically adorned in:

• Moonlight Plate: Elegant armor imbued with the soft glow of moonlight, offering both protection and grace.
• Nature's Warden: Armor made from living wood and enchanted with nature's magic, symbolizing her connection to the natural world.

Alliances/Allies:

• Corellon Larethian: The leader of the Seldarine, with whom Andharradh shares a close and cooperative relationship.
• Eilistraee: The drow goddess of good, who aligns with Andharradh in opposing evil deities.

Enemies:

• Lolth: The dark goddess of the drow, representing the antithesis of Andharradh's divine principles.
• Talos: The god of destruction, opposing Andharradh's protective and harmonious aspects.
• Malar: The god of the hunt and savagery, whose chaotic nature conflicts with Andharradh's ideals of balance and harmony.

Vulnerabilities:

• Dark Magic: Powerful dark or chaotic magic may disrupt or weaken her divine influence.
• Corruption: Influence from evil deities or entities can challenge her protective and nurturing aspects.
• Disruption of Harmony: Acts that cause significant imbalance or disharmony in the natural world may affect her powers.

Minions:

• Celestial Guardians: Divine beings tasked with protecting sacred sites and aiding followers.
• Forest Spirits: Enigmatic entities that assist in maintaining natural balance and aiding in rituals.
• Moonlit Acolytes: Devout followers skilled in the divine and mystical arts, serving as her primary agents.