Heironeous
Title(s)
The Arch-paladin, The Invincible, Champion of Justice, The Valorous Knight
Alignment
Lawful Good
Symbol
A silver lightning bolt, representing Heironeous’s swift and righteous judgment. His followers often bear this symbol on their shields, armor, or as pendants, and it is frequently displayed in places of worship.
Domains
War, Protection, Good, Law
Followers and Clergy
Heironeous's followers include knights, paladins, soldiers, and anyone who upholds chivalry and justice. His clergy consists of battle priests, knights, and clerics who serve as champions of good and defenders of the weak. They adhere to a strict code of honor known as the Heironean Code, which guides their actions in combat and daily life. Followers of Heironeous wear robes of white or silver, often adorned with blue trim, and carry shields emblazoned with the silver lightning bolt. The clergy hierarchy is structured, with ranks determined by both martial prowess and adherence to the Heironean Code. The highest-ranking members form the Lightning Council, the governing body of the Order of the Chalice, a knightly order dedicated to a secret mission involving Heironeous’s daughter.
Worship Practices
Worship of Heironeous involves daily prayers, martial training, and acts of valor in the service of good. The most sacred ceremonies take place on days of battle or during the full moon, which is seen as a time of renewal and reflection for warriors. Rituals may involve the anointing of weapons and armor, recitations from The Book of the Code, and blessings for those embarking on quests or going to war. Pilgrimages to sacred sites associated with legendary paladins are common among his followers, as are tournaments where knights demonstrate their martial skills in honor of Heironeous. Worshippers often take oaths before combat, dedicating their efforts to the cause of justice.
Character and Doctrine
Heironeous embodies the ideals of chivalry, honor, and valor. He teaches that life is a constant battle for justice and that courage and righteousness must be displayed in the face of evil. His doctrine is codified in the Heironean Code, which outlines three main duties: Duty to the People, Duty to the Arch-paladin, and Duty to a Lady. Followers are expected to act with mercy, protect the weak, remain faithful to the church, and oppose evil wherever it is found. Heironeous believes that virtue and glory are rewards for those who defend the innocent and uphold the law, and he emphasizes the importance of self-sacrifice for the greater good.
Manifestations and Interventions
Heironeous appears as a tall, noble warrior clad in a chainmail robe that moves like cloth, made impervious to most weapons by a secret alchemical solution called meersalm. He has auburn hair and copper-colored skin, and wields a great magical battleaxe, although he has recently been seen favoring a longsword. When he manifests, it is often as a flash of lightning or a sudden surge of courage within a righteous warrior. His interventions typically occur during moments of great need, such as the turning point of a battle, where his blessings may enhance the strength and resolve of his followers, or even shield them from harm.
Divine Relationships and Stories
Heironeous is the half-brother and sworn enemy of Hextor, the god of tyranny and war. The two deities represent opposing ideals, with Heironeous championing justice and honor, while Hextor embodies conquest and cruelty. Their rivalry is ancient and deeply personal, often erupting into divine battles that mirror conflicts among their followers. A secret myth known only to the highest ranks of the Order of the Chalice speaks of Heironeous’s daughter, the Chalice, who was kidnapped by Hextor and given to Dispater, an archdevil. This betrayal is believed to be the root of their enmity. Heironeous is on friendly terms with other deities of justice and good, such as Pelor and St. Cuthbert, with whom he shares common values.
Sacred Items and Symbols
Heironeous's sacred items include weapons of extraordinary quality, especially those blessed for the defense of the innocent. His followers venerate The Book of the Code and The Book of Penitence, which provide teachings on honor and examples of heroic deeds. The silver lightning bolt is a ubiquitous symbol used in ceremonies, displayed on standards, and worn by knights. The battleaxe of Heironeous, often depicted in art, is considered a holy weapon, and any weapon that has been wielded in his name is treated with reverence. Relics such as armor blessed by Heironeous or weapons wielded by saintly paladins are considered especially sacred.
Temples and Shrines
Temples to Heironeous are often built like fortresses, serving as both places of worship and military training grounds. They feature large halls for prayer, armories, and arenas for combat practice. Temples are adorned with tapestries depicting great battles and stained glass windows that portray scenes from the lives of saints. Shrines to Heironeous can also be found at battlefields, knightly orders’ headquarters, or waystations for crusaders. These shrines typically include a statue of Heironeous, a display of his symbol, and an altar where warriors can make oaths or pray for strength before combat.
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