Vandria Gilmadrith, The Law Giver

I am Vandria Gilmadrith, the eternal sentinel of elven grace, guardian of sorrow and justice, and enforcer of lawful order. I dwell on the battlefield, amidst the clash of steel and the roar of conflict, where the chaos of war is my realm. The battlefield is where my presence is most felt, where the icy resolve of my vigilance and the harsh light of my justice guide the hearts of those who fight.

If you seek warmth, comfort, or easy victory, turn not to me but to my mother, Larini. She will provide the solace you desire. I offer no comfort in the heat of battle, for my domain lies in the cold, unyielding nature of law and the stern reality of war.

Though I dwell among the chaos, I am not without passion or purpose. I am beautiful, yet not vain; those who seek my counsel will find it both wise and unwavering. I guide my followers through the trials of warfare, showing them how to dismantle their enemies, scatter their forces, and subvert their allies with strategic precision.

To those who embrace my battlefield wisdom, I offer victory, though it comes with the price of solitude. In the heart of war, you may find yourself estranged from the warmth of camaraderie, for the path I lay before you demands sacrifice and resolve. The price of victory is often the isolation of the heart, as you dedicate yourself to the unyielding pursuit of justice and law.

Come to me if you seek to uphold justice, to wage war with honor, and to enforce the laws of righteousness amidst the chaos. Know that in my guidance, you will find strength and resolve, but also the cold solitude that accompanies a life lived in the relentless pursuit of law and order on the battlefield.

I am Vandria Gilmadrith. Embrace my counsel if you will, but understand that it is a path of sacrifice and unyielding dedication.

"from the Book of Vandria Gilmadrith"

Early Life and Ascension

Vandria Gilmadrith, once known in the mortal realms as a beautiful and carefree elven maiden, began her existence as a child of the Seldarine pantheon, daughter of Larini, the goddess of nature, and Ryael Ae`Sehanine, the God of War, Blood and Vengence. As a young goddess, Vandria shared the exuberant and joyous spirit typical of the Seldarine, basking in the lighthearted and harmonious existence that characterized her kin.

Her early days were marked by her radiant presence among the elves, where she took delight in the beauty of nature and the elegance of elven life. Her laughter was said to be like a melody, and her gaze held the warmth of a summer sun. However, her life took a dramatic turn when she became the consort of Shai`tan, a powerful yet enigmatic god whose influence stretched beyond the elven realms.

A Defining Affair and Transformation

While her relationship with Shai`tan was initially filled with warmth and shared purpose, it soon became a source of profound change for Vandria. During their union, she engaged in an affair with a mysterious human god, an event that marked the beginning of her transformation. The affair, shrouded in secrecy and fraught with emotional turbulence, left Vandria scarred and altered. The once carefree goddess became increasingly distant and melancholic, her laughter replaced by a solemn resolve.

As the weight of her emotional burden grew, Vandria found herself drawn to the ideals of vigilance and justice. Her transformation was profound: no longer the embodiment of carefree joy, she now took on the mantle of a stern and formidable goddess dedicated to the principles of law and order. Her demeanor became as cold and unyielding as the battlefield where she would come to dwell.

Rise as a Goddess of War and Law

In her new role, Vandria took up residence amidst the chaos of battlefields, where her presence was felt most keenly. Her realm became the war-torn landscapes where elven armies clashed with their foes. Here, she guided her followers with a firm hand, teaching them the art of strategic warfare and the importance of maintaining order and justice even amidst the chaos of conflict.

Her commitment to her new domains of Law and War became apparent in her actions. She sought to prevent wars whenever possible, but when conflict was unavoidable, she worked to minimize the suffering and loss of life. Her approach was methodical and disciplined, reflecting her belief in the necessity of enforcing order and justice through every means available.

The Cold Embrace of Vigilance

Vandria's guidance on the battlefield is marked by a cold, calculated precision. She is known for her ability to turn the tide of battle, using her knowledge of strategy and her divine powers to ensure that her followers are victorious. Her cold resolve, however, comes at a cost. Those who embraced her teachings often find themselves estranged from the warmth of personal relationships, as the pursuit of victory and justice demanded a price of solitude and emotional distance.

Despite her harsh demeanor, Vandria remains a figure of respect and reverence among her followers. Her wisdom in the ways of war and law is unmatched, and her ability to enforce justice with an unyielding hand makes her a formidable force. She remains distant from other gods, even within the Seldarine, choosing instead to focus on her duties and the burdens of her divine role.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

Today, Vandria Gilmadrith stands as a symbol of elven strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Her legacy is one of vigilance, justice, and unyielding commitment to law and order. Her influence is felt most strongly on the battlefield, where her teachings guide elven warriors and strategists.

Though she remains a recluse among the gods, her impact is significant. Her followers, driven by grief and a desire for justice, continue to seek her guidance, honoring her as a deity who embodies the harsh realities of war and the unrelenting pursuit of lawful order.

In the annals of the Seldarine, Vandria's story is a testament to the capacity for change and the strength required to uphold justice amidst the chaos of conflict. Her cold, disciplined approach to her divine duties serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of a greater, often solitary, purpose.

Divine Portfolio:

• Domains: Grave, War, Law
• Symbol: A silver-white medallion combining a stylized sword with a radiant sunburst.
• Appearance: Clad in elven plate mail, adorned with an ornate silver helmet, carrying a greatsword and a longbow.
• Key Attributes: Vigilance, Justice, Strategic Warfare
• Followers: Elven paladins and those driven by grief, seeking vengeance or protection.

Religious Dogma:

1. Embrace vigilance and preparedness in all aspects of life and war.
2. Strive to minimize suffering and loss of life in conflict; work to end wars as swiftly as possible.
3. Uphold the principles of justice and order, even amidst chaos and battle.
4. Seek to channel grief and sorrow into strength and resolve.
5. Honor the sacrifices made for victory and justice, and accept the emotional costs of such pursuits.
6. Maintain a disciplined approach to warfare, ensuring that strategies are well-considered and effective.
7. Respect the boundaries of law and the sanctity of the divine order, even when enforcing them requires personal sacrifice.

Appearance and Symbols:

• Holy Symbol: A silver-white medallion combining a stylized sword with a radiant sunburst. The sword, pointing downward and forming the shape of a cross, is surrounded by intricate, swirling patterns giving an aura of divine light. The edges of the medallion are adorned with delicate engravings, enhancing its mystical and sacred nature.
• Regalia:
  1. Elven Plate Mail: A gleaming suit of elven plate mail that shines with a radiant light, symbolizing her divine protection and martial prowess.
  2. Ornate Silver Helmet: An intricately designed helmet without a visor, allowing her sorrowful eyes to remain visible, signifying her eternal vigilance and sorrow.
  3. Greatsword and Longbow: Weapons she carries in battle, representing her readiness and skill in combat.

Role in Ceremonies: Vandria Gilmadrith is invoked in ceremonies related to warfare, vigilance, and justice. Her presence is felt during rituals aimed at seeking divine guidance for strategic decisions, and in ceremonies honoring those who have fallen in battle. Her ceremonies often include solemn rituals and prayers that emphasize the importance of discipline, justice, and the acceptance of the harsh realities of war.

Treatment of Worshippers, Priests, and Organizations

• Worshippers: Worshippers of Vandria Gilmadrith are generally those driven by grief and a desire for justice. They are treated with respect and reverence, especially if they show dedication to her principles of vigilance and strategic warfare. While her followers are often motivated by personal loss or a quest for vengeance, Vandria's divine guidance is offered to those who seek to channel their sorrow into meaningful action and justice.
• Priests:
  • Responsibilities: Priests of Vandria are tasked with guiding worshippers in matters of war, justice, and strategic planning. They offer counsel to those involved in conflict and help them to channel their grief and rage into disciplined actions. Priests also conduct ceremonies to honor fallen warriors and seek divine favor for successful campaigns.
  • Treatment: Priests are held in high regard within their communities, especially by those who value vigilance and strategic insight. However, they are expected to maintain a stoic demeanor and to embody the harsh realities of war that Vandria represents. They may face challenges due to their cold, detached nature, which can create barriers with those seeking warmth and comfort.
• Organizations:
  • Hierarchical Structure: Organizations dedicated to Vandria often have a structured hierarchy reflecting the principles of order and discipline she embodies. At the top are high-ranking clerics or paladins who provide guidance and leadership. Beneath them are various ranks of priests and clerics who manage local worship and support worshippers. The hierarchy emphasizes strategic roles and a disciplined approach to both war and religious duties.
  • Functions: These organizations are involved in strategic planning and warfare, often providing counsel to leaders and participating in battles. They also engage in rituals to honor fallen warriors and maintain readiness for future conflicts.
• Punishment and Discipline:
  • Discipline within the worshippers and clergy of Vandria is strict, reflecting her own nature. Failure to adhere to her principles or conduct oneself with the required level of vigilance and justice can result in severe consequences.
  • Common forms of punishment include public censure, withdrawal of divine favor, and in extreme cases, expulsion from the organization. Such measures are meant to ensure that all adherents uphold the standards of vigilance and discipline that Vandria demands.

Temples and Influence

• Temples: Temples dedicated to Vandria Gilmadrith are often located in strategic or militarily significant locations. These temples serve as centers for strategic planning, training for warfare, and rites of remembrance for fallen warriors. They are built to reflect her divine attributes, with designs that emphasize strength, vigilance, and the harsh realities of conflict. The architecture is often austere and practical, featuring sturdy construction and minimal decoration to symbolize the seriousness of her domain.
• Influence:
  • Vandria's influence is most strongly felt in regions prone to conflict or where strategic decisions are critical. Her teachings impact military tactics and the conduct of wars, guiding leaders and soldiers to act with discipline and purpose. Her principles also influence the legal systems in places where order and justice are paramount, reinforcing the importance of lawful conduct even in the midst of strife.
• Role in Society: In societies where Vandria's worship is prevalent, her influence extends beyond warfare into the realms of law and governance. Her followers and priests are often consulted for their strategic insights and their ability to impose order. Her teachings help shape societal attitudes towards conflict, justice, and discipline, making her a significant figure in both the military and legal spheres. Her role also involves offering guidance during times of grief, helping communities to channel their sorrow into constructive action.

Temples and Influence

• Temples: Temples dedicated to Vandria Gilmadrith are often located in strategic or militarily significant locations. These temples serve as centers for strategic planning, training for warfare, and rites of remembrance for fallen warriors. They are built to reflect her divine attributes, with designs that emphasize strength, vigilance, and the harsh realities of conflict. The architecture is often austere and practical, featuring sturdy construction and minimal decoration to symbolize the seriousness of her domain.
• Influence:
  • Vandria's influence is most strongly felt in regions prone to conflict or where strategic decisions are critical. Her teachings impact military tactics and the conduct of wars, guiding leaders and soldiers to act with discipline and purpose. Her principles also influence the legal systems in places where order and justice are paramount, reinforcing the importance of lawful conduct even in the midst of strife.
• Philosophical Influence: Vandria's philosophy promotes a rigorous approach to justice, strategy, and emotional resilience. Her teachings emphasize the need for cold, calculated decisions in times of war and advocate for a stoic acceptance of the sacrifices that come with conflict. Her influence encourages a disciplined mindset, where personal grief and emotion are channeled into strategic advantage and lawful behavior.
• Cultural Impact: In cultures that revere Vandria, there is a profound respect for discipline, strategic planning, and the acceptance of hardship. Her influence is reflected in cultural practices that honor fallen warriors and in societal norms that prioritize order and justice. Her worshippers and followers are often seen as embodiments of these values, influencing cultural attitudes towards warfare and the role of grief in personal and collective resilience.

Legacy

1. Vandria Gilmadrith's legacy is marked by her role in shaping strategic and legal principles within elven society. Her teachings on vigilance and justice continue to guide elven leaders and soldiers.
2. Her influence extends into the design and function of temples dedicated to her, which serve as both religious centers and strategic hubs for planning and training.
3. Her philosophical impact encourages a disciplined approach to both warfare and personal grief, reinforcing the value of emotional resilience and strategic thinking.
4. The cultural practices honoring fallen warriors and the societal respect for order and justice reflect her lasting impact on elven traditions.
5. Her legacy in the legal sphere emphasizes the importance of lawful conduct even during conflict, influencing the development of just and orderly societies.
6. The Influence on Elven Society: In elven society, Vandria's teachings foster a culture of strategic acumen, disciplined behavior, and respect for the sacrifices made during wartime. Her influence is evident in the societal values that prioritize justice, resilience, and the careful management of conflict.

Divine Attributes:

• Vigilance: Vandria is revered for her unwavering vigilance. She watches over the battlefield and the realm, ensuring that no threat goes unnoticed. Her presence instills a heightened awareness and readiness in her followers, particularly in times of conflict.
• Grief: As a goddess of grief, Vandria embodies the sorrow and mourning that come with loss. She provides comfort and guidance to those who are grieving, helping them channel their pain into strength and purpose.
• War: Vandria is a patron of war and strategy. She is known for her tactical brilliance and her ability to guide warriors in both planning and execution of warfare. Her teachings emphasize the importance of strategic foresight and disciplined conduct during conflict.
• Law: Her divine connection to law reflects her commitment to justice and order. Vandria's influence extends into legal systems, reinforcing the importance of lawful behavior and fair adjudication, even in the midst of strife.
• Emotional Resilience: Vandria exemplifies the ability to endure and manage emotions, particularly in the face of adversity. Her followers are encouraged to cultivate a stoic approach to personal and collective grief, maintaining focus and discipline despite emotional challenges.

Organizational Structure of Religion

The Hierarchy of the Faith:

• High Priest/Priestess: The highest-ranking cleric within Vandria's faith, responsible for overseeing all religious activities, making critical decisions regarding doctrine and practice, and representing Vandria in both divine and mortal matters.
• Archpriests/Archpriestesses: Senior clerics who manage large temples or regions, supervising lower-ranking priests and coordinating major religious events and rituals.
• Priests/Priestesses: Clerics who lead local worship services, perform ceremonies, and provide spiritual guidance to the faithful. They are directly involved in the day-to-day religious activities.
• Deacons/Deaconesses: Assist priests and priestesses in their duties, often focusing on specific aspects of worship or community support. They help manage temple activities and outreach programs.
• Novices: New initiates into the faith, undergoing training and education in Vandria's doctrines and practices. They assist in various temple functions and begin their path toward full clerical status.

Religious Orders and their Organizational Structure

• Fighting Orders

  1. The Order of the Vigilant Blade: Elite warriors dedicated to upholding Vandria's principles on the battlefield. They are skilled in both strategy and combat, serving as leaders in times of war.
  2. The Shield of the Fallen: An order focused on protecting the faithful and honoring the memory of those who have died in battle. They provide both martial and spiritual support to their comrades.
  3. The Guardians of the Last Stand: Specialize in the defense of key locations and strongholds during times of conflict. They are known for their unyielding courage and tactical prowess.
  4. The Sentinels of Vigilance: Serve as scouts and spies, gathering intelligence and ensuring that threats are detected and neutralized before they can endanger Vandria's followers.

• Clerical Orders

  1. The Order of Eternal Remembrance: Focuses on guiding the grieving and honoring those who have fallen. They conduct memorials and provide counsel to the bereaved.
  2. The Keepers of the Sacred Law: Ensure that Vandria's teachings on justice and law are upheld within the faith and in broader society. They provide legal advice and support to ensure fairness and order.
  3. The Circle of Strategic Insight: Dedicated to the study and application of strategy and warfare. They provide guidance on military tactics and support to those engaged in conflict.
  4. The Order of Emotional Resilience: Helps followers cultivate emotional strength and resilience, offering support and training to deal with grief and maintain focus amidst adversity.
  5. The Scholars of the Divine: Engage in theological research and interpretation of Vandria's doctrines. They preserve sacred texts and contribute to the development of religious philosophy.

Each of these orders plays a crucial role in the overarching structure of Vandria Gilmadrith'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 Sword of Sorrow: A legendary greatsword associated with Vandria, said to be imbued with the essence of her grief and the power to cut through both physical and magical barriers.
2. The Medallion of Vigilance: A silver-white medallion worn by her high priests and priestesses, symbolizing their commitment to vigilance and justice. It is believed to offer protection against evil forces.
3. The Helm of Eternal Watch: An ornate silver helmet worn by the Order of the Vigilant Blade. It is said to grant the wearer enhanced awareness and insight, helping them perceive threats before they materialize.
4. The Staff of Resolve: A staff carried by high-ranking clerics, symbolizing their role in guiding and leading through times of conflict. It is rumored to enhance the bearer's ability to command and inspire others.

Religious Practices

• Vigilant Prayers: Followers of Vandria engage in solemn prayers during times of conflict and grief, seeking her guidance and strength. These prayers are often performed at dawn and dusk, symbolizing the light and darkness of battle.
• Rituals of Remembrance: Regular ceremonies are held to honor fallen warriors and those who have suffered in battle. These rituals include offerings of food, flowers, and symbolic items representing the lives lost.
• Martial Training: Devotees undergo rigorous training in combat and strategy, reflecting Vandria's emphasis on preparedness and vigilance. This practice includes both physical training and strategic planning exercises.
• Council of Grief: A special gathering where followers share their sorrows and seek solace. It is a time for communal support and to find strength through shared experiences of loss.

Celebrated Holidays

Festival of the Fallen:

• Celebration: A major holiday dedicated to remembering those who have died in battle. The festival includes grand ceremonies, storytelling, and the lighting of memorial candles to honor the deceased.
• Activities: Includes public speeches by high priests, performances by the Order of the Vigilant Blade, and communal feasts. Followers also participate in symbolic battles and reenactments to commemorate the struggles faced by the fallen.
• Date: Celebrated annually on the eve of the autumn equinox, symbolizing the transition between light and darkness.

Alignment: Beneficent

Size: 13 feet (Imposing presence)

Horror/Awe Factor: 16

OCCs:

• Warrior of Vigilance: A dedicated combatant who upholds Vandria's principles on the battlefield, combining martial prowess with strategic insight to protect and serve her divine mandate.
• Cleric of Grief: A priest who specializes in providing spiritual guidance and comfort to those who are grieving, often performing rituals to honor the fallen and seek Vandria's blessings in times of sorrow.
• Strategist of War: A tactician and military advisor who uses their expertise to plan and execute campaigns in alignment with Vandria's teachings on strategic warfare and the minimization of conflict.
• Champion of the Faith: An elite warrior dedicated to upholding Vandria's laws and principles, often undertaking dangerous missions to enforce justice and protect her followers.
• Guardian of the Fallen: A specialized cleric tasked with the protection and memorialization of fallen heroes, ensuring their deeds are remembered and their spirits honored.

Deific Powers of Vandria Gilmadrith

Vandria Gilmadrith 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: Vandria Gilmadrith has the full range of Clerical Magic and Healing Magic.

Magic Powers:

Vandria Gilmadrith has access to all forms of divine and elemental magic associated with her portfolio. This includes control over water and air, as well as powerful protective and offensive spells.

Psionic Powers: Class of Psionic: Mindmage
600 ISP

Favoured Weapons

Vandria Gilmadrith favors weapons that reflect her martial prowess and tactical acumen. Her personal weapons are not only expertly crafted but also enchanted to enhance her combat abilities:

• Longsword: Aegisblade
  Damage: 2d6+6
  Range: Melee
  Special Properties: +2 to hit and damage, grants the wielder +2 to Armor Class. Aegisblade can also cast "Shield" spell once per day.
  
• Battle Axe: Stormcleaver
  Damage: 3d6+4
  Range: Melee
  Special Properties: +3 to hit and damage, can cast "Call Lightning" spell once per day. Stormcleaver is also known to be exceptionally effective against creatures of darkness.
  
• Halberd: Vortex Spear
  Damage: 2d6+5
  Range: Melee
  Special Properties: +2 to hit and damage, grants the wielder the ability to use "Whirlwind" attack once per day, affecting all enemies within a 10-foot radius.
  
• Throwing Daggers: Shard's Edge
  Damage: 1d4+3
  Range: 30 feet
  Special Properties: +2 to hit and damage, these daggers return to the wielder's hand after being thrown. Shard's Edge can also be used to cast "Magic Missile" once per day.
  

Armour:

Vandria Gilmadrith typically wears:

• Elven Plate Mail: Aegis Plate
  Armor Class: -2
  Special Properties: +4 to Strength and Dexterity when worn, provides resistance to elemental damage (fire, ice, and lightning). Aegis Plate also has a built-in "Shield" spell effect that activates automatically in combat, offering an additional +2 to Armor Class.
  
• Heavy Shield: Guardian's Shield
  Armor Class: -1
  Special Properties: +3 to Armor Class, can cast "Protection from Evil" spell once per day. Guardian's Shield is also imbued with a protective aura that reduces damage from critical hits by half.
  

Alliances/Allies:

• Elven Paladins: Loyal followers who uphold her principles of vigilance and protection.
• Order of the Silver Flame: A sacred order dedicated to defending the realm and fighting against dark forces.
• Ancient Elven Sorcerers: Mystics who share her affinity for elemental magic and strategic warfare.

Enemies:

• Devil Lords: Fiends who oppose her ideals of justice and order.
• Gods of Darkness: Deities who thrive on chaos and destruction, contrary to her divine principles.
• Chaos Cults: Organizations dedicated to spreading discord and undermining established order.

Vulnerabilities:

• Emotional Coldness: Her detached nature can make her vulnerable to those who exploit emotional weaknesses.
• Love of Battle: Her thrill for combat might lead to reckless decisions in the heat of battle.
• Stubbornness: Her inflexible nature can make her resistant to necessary change or advice.

Minions:

• Warrior Priests: Devout followers who assist her in combat and strategic planning.
• Elemental Guardians: Beings summoned from the elemental planes to aid in battle and protect sacred sites.
• Rangers of Vigilance: Elite scouts and spies who provide intelligence and ensure her plans are executed effectively.