"Greetings, seekers of truth and practitioners of the elemental forces. I am Darahl Firecloak, once known as Tilvenar, and this tome is my offering to you. Within these pages, you shall find the wisdom born of my journey through fire and earth, a testament to the rebirth that I have sought and the lessons I have learned.
My tome is more than a collection of divine edicts; it is a beacon for those who walk the path where earth and flame converge. It is designed to guide you through the mystical interplay of these elements, and to inspire you to forge a new destiny from the remnants of the past. Here, you will discover the harmony of nature's most formidable forces and the transformative power that comes from embracing change. Within these sacred pages, you will find Invocations that call upon the primal forces of earth and fire, crafted to cleanse and fortify both body and spirit. These prayers channel my divine essence, offering you my guidance and protection in your endeavors. Insights into the balance and integration of earth and flame, with practical wisdom for applying these principles to your craft and life. Learn to find beauty in your work, whether you shape metal or mold the land, and uphold the virtues of patience and resilience.Tales of my past, both in my former life as Tilvenar and in my present form. These stories are meant to serve as lessons and inspirations, reflecting my journey of redemption and the nature of my divine mission. Guidance for the Faithful: Practical advice for those who dwell in or travel through volcanic and subterranean realms. This includes survival techniques for harsh environments, ways to form alliances with elemental beings, and the principles of respect and balance. Ritualistic Artifacts: Descriptions of sacred relics associated with me, including their history, significance, and proper use in worship and daily rituals. This tome is a bridge between what was and what is to be. It reflects my own journey from a fallen power to a renewed force of elemental harmony. Through these teachings, I invite you to walk with me on a path of transformation, drawing strength from the elements and forging your own destiny. May the fire of my flame guide your steps, and may the steadfastness of the earth support your endeavors. Welcome to a journey of enlightenment and discovery."
"from the Book of Darahl Firecloak"
Darahl Firecloak, once known as Tilvenar, has a storied past marked by a dramatic fall from grace and a determined quest for redemption. His journey from a revered deity to a figure of renewed significance is a tale of tragedy, transformation, and resilience.
Tilvenar, as he was originally known, was a respected deity among the Seldarine, serving under the guidance of Rillifane Rallathil. His influence extended over the natural forces of earth and flame, where he played a key role in the responsible extraction of materials and the creation of magnificent artifacts. Renowned for his patience and craftsmanship, Tilvenar earned the title of the Even-Tempered, a testament to his skill in balancing nature's forces with the art of creation.
However, Tilvenar's fortunes changed when he became entangled in a sinister plot involving Lolth, then called Avrunshee, and the Fae Queen of Air and Darkness. These powerful adversaries, united by a malevolent design, introduced the Kyrashar Rose, an artifact of great evil, into Tilvenar's possession. The rose's corrupting influence drove Tilvenar to madness, leading his avatars into a rampage that wrought havoc across various elven worlds. This period of insanity severely damaged his reputation and diminished his following.
In the aftermath of his fall, Tilvenar sought to atone for his actions and restore his standing. Embracing a new identity as Darahl Firecloak, he retreated to Mount Celestia Region of Dwarfholme. Here, he set about reinventing himself, focusing on elemental magic associated with earth and fire and learning from the Dwarven Gods. This reinvention marked a shift in his approach, as he began to engage with a broader audience beyond the elven communities, extending his influence to other races and regions.
Darahl Firecloak's new domain, the Twin Towers, stands as a symbol of his dual nature, reaching both into the sky and deep into the earth. These towers, named for their connection to the planes of Elemental Fire and Earth, serve as both a refuge and a beacon for those seeking protection from the harsh elements and threats of the underdark. The towers' exterior, though plain, conceals a richly adorned interior that reflects Darahl's enduring connection to his elven heritage.
Darahl's journey is ongoing, marked by both struggles and aspirations. He remains vigilant against his former enemies, particularly Lolth, and the Queen of Air and Darkness. His efforts to expand his influence and establish himself as a patron for those seeking redemption and transformation continue to shape his path. Darahl also seeks to reconnect with those elves who have forsaken the Seldarine, hoping to guide them back to their roots.
The story of Darahl Firecloak is one of profound change, illustrating how even a fallen power can find new purpose and strive to mend past mistakes while forging a new destiny.
Divine Portfolio:
- Earth and flame phenomena
- Elemental earth and fire magic
- Volcanoes and lava
- Caverns and subterranean realms
- Reinvention and transformation
Religious Dogma:
- Respect and balance in dealing with natural forces of earth and fire
- Responsible extraction and use of natural resources
- Reinvention and personal growth through overcoming adversity
- Protection of subterranean and volcanic regions
Appearance and Symbols:
- Holy Symbol: Two outstretched hands holding a green flame between them
- Regalia:
- Cloak of dark green with flame motifs
- Robes of pale grey-green
Role in Ceremonies:
Darahl's ceremonies often involve rituals that invoke both earth and fire elements, including the lighting of green flames and the use of earth elements in offerings. These ceremonies are conducted in his temples or in natural settings that reflect his divine portfolio.
Treatment of Worshippers, Priests, and Organizations:
- Worshippers are encouraged to seek balance and responsibility in their interactions with nature.
- Priests:
- Act as intermediaries between Darahl and his followers, conducting rituals and providing guidance.
- Maintain knowledge of elemental magic and natural phenomena.
- Organizations:
- Hierarchical Structure: Includes high priests, elemental scholars, and protectors of sacred sites.
- Punishment and Discipline:
- Failure to uphold the principles of balance and responsibility may result in disciplinary actions or exile from the priesthood.
Temples and Influence:
- Temples: The Twin Towers, located in Abellio in Arcadia, serve as the primary centers of worship. The towers are adorned with fine elven metalwork and artwork depicting Darahl's connection to both fire and earth.
- Influence:
- Role in Society: Darahl's influence extends to areas dealing with elemental magic, mining, and subterranean protection.
- Philosophical Influence: Emphasizes balance, responsibility, and personal transformation.
- Cultural Impact: Revered in regions with volcanic activity and subterranean dwellings.
Legacy:
- Darahl's reinvention has restored his status as a demipower and garnered respect among elemental and earth-related deities.
- His temples and teachings continue to influence those who work with earth and fire elements.
- Darahl's story of redemption serves as an example of personal growth and overcoming past failures.
- His ongoing efforts to reconnect with lost elven communities reflect his commitment to healing and renewal.
- The Influence on Elven Society: In elven society, Darahl is remembered as a deity of patience and craftsmanship, with a growing following in subterranean and volcanic regions.
Divine Attributes:
- Unwavering patience and perseverance
- Mastery over elemental earth and fire
- Commitment to balance and responsible use of natural resources
Organizational Structure of Religion
The Hierarchy of the Faith:
- High Priests and Priestesses
- Elemental Scholars and Magicians
- Protectors and Guardians of Sacred Sites
- Devoted Worshippers
Religious Orders and their Organizational Structure
Fighting Orders
- Order of the Green Flame - Defenders of sacred sites and practitioners of combat magic.
- Order of the Earth Wardens - Protectors of subterranean realms and volcanic regions.
Clerical Orders
- Order of the Forged Path - Priests specializing in elemental magic and crafting.
- Order of the Flame Keepers - Custodians of sacred fires and ceremonial practices.
- Order of the Stone Wardens - Guardians of earth-related rituals and ceremonies.
Each of these orders plays a crucial role in the overarching structure of Darahl Firecloak's religious and mystical framework, ensuring the protection, preservation, and enforcement of divine principles across various aspects of his followers. All are pledged to support in the defense of his church.
See the Religious Orders section for more detail.
Holy Artifacts:
- The Kyrashar Rose - A corrupted artifact that once led to Tilvenar's fall; now a symbol of redemption and caution.
Religious Practices:
- Rituals involving the invocation of earth and fire elements.
- Offerings and ceremonies conducted in natural settings and temples.
- Observance of personal growth and reinvention.
Celebrated Holidays:
Rebirth of the Flame - Celebrated annually to mark Darahl's transformation and renewal.
Alignment: Unprincipled
Size: 13 feet (Imposing presence)
Horror/Awe Factor: 16
OCCs:
- Elemental Mages
- Earth and Fire Priests
- Guardians of Sacred Sites
Darahl Firecloak possesses the full range of powers typical of deities, allowing him to perform all prototypical deific powers at regular cost. In addition, Darahl has the following special powers:
1. Elemental Command
Range: 300 feet (90 meters)
Duration: Concentration
Cost: 400 P.P.E.
Darahl can exert control over elemental forces of earth and fire. This ability allows him to manipulate volcanic eruptions, create firestorms, or reshape the earth to form barriers or openings.
2. Subterranean Mastery
Range: 500 feet (150 meters)
Duration: 30 minutes
Cost: 300 P.P.E.
Darahl has mastery over subterranean realms, including caves and underground passages. He can create tunnels, access hidden areas, and command creatures dwelling within the earth.
3. Flame Resurrection
Range: Touch
Duration: Permanent
Cost: 800 P.P.E.
Darahl can resurrect individuals from the ashes of destruction. This power symbolizes rebirth and renewal through the transformative power of fire and is used only in crucial moments.
4. Earth's Endurance
Range: 100 feet (30 meters)
Duration: 1 hour
Cost: 250 P.P.E.
Darahl can bestow upon his followers the endurance and resilience of the earth. This includes enhancing physical durability, resistance to elemental attacks, and faster recovery from injuries.
5. Night's Veil
Range: 200 feet (60 meters)
Duration: 15 minutes
Cost: 500 P.P.E.
Darahl invokes a powerful veil of darkness that covers a large area. Within this veil, all light is absorbed, creating an impenetrable darkness. The veil grants a +8 to Stealth and Concealment for all allies within, while enemies suffer a -10 penalty to Perception and attack rolls. The veil also obscures magical detection and divination attempts.
Priest/Healing Powers: Darahl Firecloak has the full range of Clerical Magic and Healing Magic.
Magic Powers: Darahl can perform all Fire and Earth Elemental spells
Psionic Powers: Class of Psionic: Master Psionic 400 ISP
Favoured Weapons
- Flaming Sword
- Earthshard Mace
Armour: Plate Armour of the Flame
Alliances/Allies:
- The Order of the Eternal Flame
- The Council of Earth's Guardians
Enemies:
- The Shadowed Legion
- Agents of the Abyss
Vulnerabilities:
- Water-based attacks
- Dark magic that manipulates shadows
Minions:
- Fire Elementals
- Earth Golems