Iorath
Iorath is an Ascendant Divinity, the Bastion of Hope, the Keeper of Unyielding Resolve, and the Warden of New Beginnings. Iorath embodies the strength to endure and the determination to rebuild, guiding mortals through hardship and inspiring them to persist against all odds. Unlike deities of war, Iorath’s focus lies in defense, resilience, and the preservation of what is worth protecting.
Beliefs and Worshippers
Iorath’s doctrine centers on perseverance and hope. Followers are encouraged to endure hardships with grace and to strive for renewal in the face of despair. Iorath does not demand aggression or conquest; instead, he teaches that strength lies in standing firm and guiding others through adversity. He values community, selflessness, and quiet resolve over flamboyant displays of power.
Worshippers of Iorath are often healers, defenders, and leaders in communities struck by disaster or conflict. Many of his followers are builders, tasked with rebuilding what was lost, or caretakers of sanctuaries for those displaced by war or calamity. His clergy, dedicate themselves to creating safe havens and mentoring mortals in resilience. Temples devoted to him are often referred to as Bastions.
Communities recovering from war or natural disasters often honor Iorath, and many refugees find solace in his teachings. His temples are practical sanctuaries as much as places of worship, offering food, shelter, and guidance.
Depictions
Iorath is typically portrayed as a calm and sturdy dwarf, clad in practical armor with a simple but immovable shield. His hammer, Foundation, symbolizes strength and stability, often depicted resting on the ground as a sign of protection rather than aggression. His expression is resolute but compassionate, exuding an aura of quiet strength.
He is often shown standing at the gates of a city or on the walls of a fortification, guarding against unseen threats. Surrounding imagery often features sprouting plants or restored homes, representing his association with renewal and growth after hardship.
History
During the Divine War, Iorath stood as a bulwark against chaos, shielding mortals and other Divinities alike. He was instrumental in establishing boundaries to protect vulnerable planes from devastation. When mortal settlements were razed, Iorath guided survivors to safety, often helping them rebuild from the ashes.
His most renowned act was during the Thaumaclysm. While the pre-divinity Fae gods warred Iorath created havens for mortals and Fae alike. When Talia cried her tears and sundered the lost now-lost lands of Azariam, Iorath led the Ascendant Divinities to protect the rest of Adragal.
The mountain city of Shatterhelm was founded by the avatar of Iorath just before the Thaumaclysm. Now a dwarven keep, Shatterhelm maintains its practice of harboring all who would come for succor.
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