Loviatar (low-VIE-a-tar (common) / LOW-vee-a-tar (archaic))

Goddess of secrets and goddess of evil; the Undying, the Archbetrayer, and Mother of All Evil

Loviatar is the Goddess of Secrets and Goddess of Evil, a dark and terrible deity that seeks to destroy the works of the Empyreal Gods and tempts their mortal children to wickedness. She is the only antagonistic deity in the pantheon of the Empyreal Faith, having retained her station as one of the Twelve Sovereigns despite her countless misdeeds.
Worship of Loviatar is often covert. The antagonistic nature of her divine domains and her contentious relationship with the other Empyreal Gods make her a deity that borders on the profane. In some cultures, her worship is considered taboo; in more stringent societies, her worship is deemed outright criminal, punishable by severe penalties. Loviatar's devoted followers gather in secret enclaves and dark corners to seeking guidance in their nefarious endeavors. Temples concealed in forests or nestled deep in remote caverns serve as sanctuaries for worship and contemplation.
As a deity of secrets and evil, Loviatar is believed to tempt mortals to commit wicked acts, leading them astray from the path of righteousness. She is seen as a cunning and manipulative deity that lures mortals with promises of power, wealth, or influence, only to ultimately lead them to destruction. Her teachings and influence are often associated with treachery, deceit, and betrayal, emphasizing the darker aspects of human nature and the allure of forbidden knowledge.

Contents

Music

Religious knowledge

Loviatar's story is one of tragedy and corruption. She is the only member of the Empyreal Gods that has been consumed by villainous desires, making her rebel against the other Empyreals in the myth of Fimbulwinter. She committed the First Treason, forever fracturing the family of the gods. She brought war willingly to Amanor, breaking peace for the first time since the Dawn Wars. In her desperation she created Undeath itself, and forevermore has its taint plagued the cosmos. To this day, Loviatar stands far apart from the Empyreal Gods -- she is evil deified and the epitome of unholiness.
In the myths of the Empyreal Faith, Loviatar has died twice and has given away seven pieces of her soul to her seven Disciples. She exists now only in a weakened spiritual form, yet still exerts great influence on Amanor. Loviatar frequently manifests avatars and communicates with mortals, seducing them to dark and perilous paths with promises of power. She bestows upon her devout followers powers of knowledge and shadow, as well as the unholy gift of necromancy, further spreading the plague of undeath across the world.
Before her fall from grace, Loviatar was one of Oberon's consorts, bearing him many godly children. While some of her offspring are virtuous, many have embraced villainous paths. Most of Loviatar's monstrous children perished in the myth of Ragnarok, a cataclysmic event that reshaped the world of Amanor.

Worship

Loviatar is worshipped all across Amanor, and even in the wide cosmos beyond. As the only evil god of the Empyreal Faith, she has several divine domains that are unique to her, tempting many mortals and eternals to seek her blessings.
The Imperial Ecclesiarchy – the ecumenical parent church of the Empyreal Faith – recognizes Loviatar as the Goddess of Secrets and Goddess of Evil. She is a member of the Triune of Mysteries together with Vaane and Arath-Sodan. All three goddesses are dark and elusive, their divine domains the most mystical aspects of creation. They represent the unknown knowledge of the universe and its temptations; the great advances yet to be discovered, the dark lore so terrible and maddening that it is best left alone, and the primordial secrets that no mortal can ever learn.
The Imperial Church of Loviatar is a small sect of the Ecclesiarchy that functions as the parent church of all loviatarian worship in the Heartlands. It is headquartered in the Hall of Secrets in Viroconium, for the Empire is the only nation in the Heartlands where the worship of Loviatar is not completely taboo. Nonetheless, many Egeans see the Church of Loviatar, and the presence of its temples in their cities, as a subject of great shame.
Although the Empyreal Faith sees Loviatar as a villainous opponent of the Empyreal Gods, she is not counted amongst the Outer Gods – the abominable deities of the great cosmos that would destroy Amanor if not for the protection of the Empyreals. However, her followers have a very dark reputation in most cultures. It is said that loviatarites are willing to undertake almost any imaginable acts of violence and treachery in the name of their goddess.
Loviatar's priests are often highly skilled in the arts of infiltration and secrecy, and her temples can serve as headquarters for criminal organizations and cults. Loviatar is worshipped by criminals and spies, for her powers of knowledge and shadow are unmatched. Many scholars and mages also seek her guidance in their studies of the arcane, for the secrets she commands are thought to include all the mysteries of the universe. However, those who seek her power must be careful, as her blessings come with a heavy price.
Despite her tainted reputation and the challenges faced by her followers, Loviatar's dark gifts remain tempting to those who seek knowledge, power, and secrecy. Her influence is ever pervasive, perpetuating her legacy as the Mother of All Evil in the mythos of Amanor.

Goddess of Secrets

As the Goddess of Secrets, Loviatar helps her worshippers both learn secrets and keep secrets. In this capacity, she is worshipped by kings and merchants, by soldiers and judges, by seedy politicians and cheating spouses. Loviatarian worship has a duplicitous reputation even in the Empire, a nation with more religious freedom than any other in the civilized world. Recognizing this, the Imperial Church of Loviatar goes to great lengths to protect the identities of its patrons. Loviatar's temples are usually visited their in disguise.

Everyone is entitled to their secrets.

— Tenet of the Imperial Church of Loviatar

Not all of Loviatar's worship is seedy, for her domain of secrets is also a domain of knowledge. Scholars give offerings to the goddess when seeking to learn new, previously undiscovered truths about the world and its arcane workings.

Goddess of Evil

As the Goddess of Evil, Loviatar is the greatest and most terrible villain in Empyreal mythology. Although it was the cosmic Outer Gods that first waged war on Amanor when the world was young, it was Loviatar that broke apart the family of the Empyreal Gods with her treason and her lust for forbidden power. The Empyreal Gods shield the world from the influence of the Outer Gods, but Loviatar still finds it easy to infliltrate Amanor and tempt its peoples to evil with promises of power.
To worship Loviatar for the sake of her darkest gifts -- such as blood magic and necromancy -- is forbidden even in Egea. The Empyreal Faith holds as gravest sacrilege both undeath and the blood sacrifice of sapient creatures.
Loviatar is not inclined towards the same righteous morals as the other Empyreals. She will grant dark blessings and teach unholy arts to those that supplicate before her with appropriate reverence. Such heretics risk their very life and soul for power.

Goddess of the Pyre

The title of "Goddess of the Pyre" is bestowed upon Loviatar, as she herself was burned to death as a punishment for the most heinous of crimes. According to Imperial dogma, both execution pyres and burial pyres are considered sacred to Loviatar, as they are believed to consign the soul of the deceased to her custody in the afterlife. The practice of cremation is not widely accepted in most cultures of the Heartlands, as it is believed that it may condemn righteous souls to Loviatar's clutches for eternity, and also risk swelling the ranks of her spiritual servants with wicked souls.
Death by burning is reserved as a punishment for only the most abominable of crimes. Typically, only those who have already embraced the dark favor of the Goddess of Evil are sentenced to immolation. Those found guilty of treason, heresy, or the practice of forbidden magic are often subjected to this gruesome punishment, following the example set by the Empyreals in dealing with the Archbetrayer.
These notions are rejected by many peoples that exist beyond the religious influence of the Imperial Ecclesiarchy. In these cultures, cremation and immolation may be associated with other deities, such as Shan-Ra or Iona. And even if a religion associates death by burning with Loviatar, it may freely allow cremation as a burial ceremony in honor of other Empyreal Gods.

Iconography and religious symbols

The Imperial Church of Loviatar has little use for heraldry or religious imagery. Its temples and cathedrals are known for their black walls and foreboding architecture. The goddess herself can be pictured in statues within the deepest sanctuary of a temple, but other imagery is noticeable by its absence; there are no murals, frescos, paintings, or likenesses of ancient saints.
Heretics and blasphemers use body-painting and tattooing to express their faith in the Goddess of Evil. This is true also for the seven deities known as the Disciples of Loviatar. In some cultures, the symbols and icons of Loviatar and her Goddess-Disciples are interchangeable. Necromantic rituals made before Loviatar's altar can use the sacred symbols of Nepthys, for example.

Perth

Loviatar is the Goddess of Secrets and her sacred symbol is Perth, a primordial glyph that represents the unknown. It pertains to many concepts from mystery and secrecy to hidden things and hidden meanings, from hitherto uncovered lore to unknowability itself. Loviatar is a rebellious goddess that parted ways with her Empyreal family, and thus her symbol carries the meanings of defiance, independence, and forging one's own destiny. Perth also pertains to eldritch lore, occult abilities, femininity, and deadly games.

Spiral Goddess

Loviatar is the Undying Goddess, for she has been slain in the myths of Fimbulwinter and Ragnarok both, and yet she endures in the world to this day. The symbol of the Spiral Goddess is a humanoid figure -- often feminine -- and with a spiral pictured inside her and with long arms that form a circle over her head.
The spiral goddess represents reincarnation and rebirth as an endless cycle -- a notion that is more than a little heretical to the Empyreal Faith, which sees death as holy and undeath as unholy. Loviatar has always returned from death in a form that is different from before, having gained new powers and having learned new truths from death. Reincarnation is always a process of change.

by CraniumBeaver

The spiral goddess can also represent change through adversity before death.
And just as the Undying Goddess is eternal, so too is evil itself. Loviatar represents the undefeatable nature of evil, the inevitability of happiness not lasting, the unavoidability of strife even after the longest peace. The Spiral Goddess is the emblem of this eternal truth.

Septagram

The number seven and its geometrical representations are sacred to Loviatar, for she is mother to seven daughters. The Disciples of Loviatar are mighty and true goddesses all, loyal servants of their dark matriarch and inheritors of her unholy gifts. Each Goddess-Disciple bears within her an aspect of their mother's boundless evil, having received a fragment of Loviatar's soul in ancient myth. Dead and weakened though the Goddess of Evil is in the present day, she has seven faces with which to spread her lies and seven hands with which to strike at her enemies.
The Disciples of Loviatar are commonly represented with the symbol of a seven-pointed star known as Loviatar's Star or the Disciple's Septagram. Loviatar's sacred symbols -- often either Perth or the spiral goddess -- are displayed in the middle of the septagram, while the glyphs of her Disciples can be spread around it.

Paraphernalia

Certain religious paraphernalia, including candles, paper, figurines, and statuettes, are integral to Loviatarian worship and are used in various rituals and prayers. They symbolize the darkness, secrecy, and sacrifice that are central to the worship of the goddess of pain and secrets. The specific practices and symbolism of these paraphernalia may vary among different sects and interpretations of the Loviatarian faith.

Candles

Candles play a significant role in Loviatarian worship. They are used as a source of light during rituals and symbolize the fleeting nature of secrets and the impermanence of life. Loviatarian clerics often make special ritual candles that are inscribed with the symbols of the goddess and blessed with dark blessings. The candles are used to light the way into the goddess' sight during secret rituals and are often snuffed out after the rite is complete, shrouding the encounter in mystery.

Paper

Paper is used in Loviatarian worship for writing prayers, incantations, and confessions. However, unlike in other faiths where written prayers are preserved, in Loviatarian worship, paper is often considered as something that must be destroyed to keep secrets hidden; prayer scrolls are set ablaze with the flame of ritual candles, symbolizing the hiding of secrets.
The burning of prayer scrolls also serves as a powerful symbolic gesture of letting go of past sins, regrets, or burdens, and embracing a new beginning. It represents the belief that the purifying flames of Loviatar's blessings can cleanse the soul and offer a fresh start to her worshippers. The ashes of the burned prayer scrolls are often collected and scattered in sacred places or used in other rituals.

Figurines

Figurines and statuettes are used as foci in Loviatarian prayers and rituals. They can represent the object of an incantation, such as a person whose secrets are to be gleaned. They can also be made to represent the supplicant themselves as they seek the dark blessings of the goddess, or they can be figures of other gods from whom the supplicant's deeds must be hidden. These figurines and statuettes are often crafted with great care and intricacy, representing the intricate nature of secrets and the art of concealment.

Rites and rituals

Loviatarian worship is deeply steeped in dark and mysterious rites, rituals, and sacraments. These are often performed in solitude, with individuals communing directly with the goddess herself. Loviatarian worship is considered a deeply personal and introspective practice, where individuals seek to establish a direct connection with the goddess.
Many of the Loviatarian rites and rituals are solitary practices, performed alone in a secluded space. This allows for a deep and intimate communion with the goddess, where worshippers can delve into the hidden mysteries that Loviatar embodies without external distractions. It is during these solitary moments that a worshipper might seek to learn forbidden secrets, reveal hidden knowledge, and obtain insights into esoteric lore. The personal nature of Loviatarian worship also allows for deep introspection and self-examination. Worshippers may engage in acts of personal sacrifice, facing their own fears, doubts, and shadows in the presence of Loviatar, seeking her blessings and guidance in their personal journeys.
While Loviatarian worship may involve communal practices, the emphasis on personal rites and rituals underscores the individual pursuit of knowledge, secrets, and communion with the goddess. It is a solitary path where worshippers seek to establish a personal relationship with Loviatar in their quest for knowledge and power.

Sacrament of Oathbinding

The Sacrament of Oathbinding is a solemn ceremony in Loviatarian worship, embodying the importance of secrecy and the binding nature of oaths. It is performed in darkness with candles used only sparingly. Worshippers inscribe their oaths on paper, pledging their unwavering commitment and loyalty to a goal or cause. After the oaths are sworn, the paper is destroyed by burning, ensuring that the secrets revealed in the oaths are not revealed to others. Oaths sworn in the presence of Loviatar are considered binding and inviolable, with dire consequences for those who break them.

Rite of Sacrifice

Personal sacrifice is a core aspect of Loviatarian worship, symbolizing the willingness to endure hardship and suffering in pursuit of enlightenment and secrets. Rites of Sacrifice are practiced by Loviatarian worshippers as a form of purification and self-discipline. These rituals may include acts of fasting, penance, and self-inflicted pain, such as flagellation or other forms of self-mortification. These acts of sacrifice may be performed in secluded locations or during specific times of the year, marked by special occasions or festivals. The aim of these rituals is to attune oneself to the darker aspects of Loviatar's teachings and to demonstrate dedication and devotion to the faith through personal sacrifice.

Ritual of Discourse

The Ritual of Discourse in Loviatarian worship is a communal practice, never performed alone. Loviatarian worshippers come together in small groups, creating a space where the pursuit of forbidden knowledge and the unlocking of hidden truths can be shared and discussed. The communal aspect of the ritual emphasizes the importance of collective wisdom, the exchange of ideas, and the shared exploration of the mysteries that Loviatar embodies.
During the Ritual of Discourse, Loviatarian worshippers engage in deep discussions, debates, and philosophical inquiries, drawing on their collective knowledge and insights. The exchange of ideas, perspectives, and interpretations is highly valued, as it is believed that the secrets of Loviatar are best understood and revealed through shared discourse.

Incarnations

Canon

The Imperial Church of Loviatar depicts its goddess as a tall and regal woman clad in simple, black robes. Despite her domains of evil and undeath -- which, of course, her Imperial Church does not like to speak of -- she is portrayed as a very human and easily relatable figure, much like many of her fellow Empyreal Sovereigns. However, where Oberon, Seldariel, Iona and others are portrayed in lavish clothes, exquisite jewels and grandiose headdresses, Loviatar's attire is simple and stark as a sign of her seperation from the other Empyreals.
As befits the Goddess of Secrets, there is very little recorded knowledge pertaining to the ways in which Loviatar interacts with her favored worshippers. Most Empyreal Gods answer the prayers of the pious, deliver visions to desperate supplicants, and touch the souls of those that wield their divine magics. The voices, words, and appearances of Empyreal Gods are well documented throughout history, with beggars and saints alike having shared their experiences for the sake of posterity. Loviatar and her worshippers are, of course, the exception; the Goddess of Secrets is an enigma, and her churces keep their knowledge to themselves.

Below: Loviatar's depiction in the Ashen Apocrypha, the holy text of the Imperial Church of Loviatar.

Loviatar, the Goddess of Evil by CraniumBeaver (Midjourney)

Goddess of many faces

The diverse and ever-changing forms of Loviatar are only whispered of behind closed doors by her followers. As the Goddess of Secrets, Loviatar is believed to have countless forms that she assumes when appearing to her devoted, each tailored to the individual's perception and understanding. These forms may vary from being tempting and alluring to regal and majestic, from motherly and comforting to frightening and awe-inspiring.
The followers of Loviatar view these manifestations as a testament to her boundless power and versatility, for only She is able to know the unique needs and desires of every mortal. It is believed that Loviatar appears to her devotees in a form that resonates with them the most, drawing them closer to her and speaking to the most hidden desires within their souls.
Discussions about Loviatar's myriad forms are kept secret and shared only amongst the faithful. The Imperial Church of Loviatar is known for its strict code of secrecy and discretion. The elusive nature of Loviatar and the ever-changing forms in which she appears are considered part of the mystery and allure of her worship, and the whispered exchanges between Loviatarites are like a sacred bond for those who have been touched by the Goddess of Secrets.

Beyond the veil

The zealous individuals who have served Loviatar for an extended period of time and have been touched by her divine secrets may find themselves overwhelmed by the weight of her true aspect. In their maddened ravings and heretical scriptures, they describe Loviatar's true form as a grotesque vastness of pain, hatred, torment, grief, and rage, far removed from the carefully composed avatars of an Empyreal deity.

According to these disturbed accounts, Loviatar's true form -- the so-called Torturous One -- is a raw incarnation of cosmic might and its great cost -- a being possessed of such dark oceans of knowledge that no mind could ever contain, brimming with the kind of power that scours flesh from bone by its presence alone, and writhing in the clutches of adversaries so terrible that knowing their nature would shatter one's mind and soul.

To witness Her presence is to court annihilation.
Her voice is the note of oblivion.
Her thoughts a sea of hatred.
Her visage a mask of madness.
Glorious is Her dark declaration of spite and resentment, the ultimate grudge, forever held.

— The Black Apocrypha

These descriptions paint a terrifying picture of Loviatar, vastly different from the various forms she appears in to her followers. It suggests that her true nature is unfathomable and beyond mortal comprehension, filled with immense power and unimaginable suffering. The revelation of Loviatar's true aspect is believed to be so horrifying that it can drive even the most iron-willed worshippers to madness.
Accounts of the Torturous One are viewed with caution and skepticism by the mainstream followers of Loviatar, as they challenge the carefully crafted image of the goddess that has been upheld by the Imperial Church. Nevertheless, for those few who have delved deep into the mysteries of Loviatar but have yet to glimpse her true form, whispers of Loviatar's true form serve as a stark warning of the overwhelming power and darkness that lies beneath the surface of the enigmatic Goddess of Secrets.

Mythology

Origin

Like all of the Twelve Sovereigns, Loviatar is older than the world itself. The eldest of the Empyreals are family of gods who were once born from a divine source of pure light and fire known as the Empyrean. By their connection to the Empyrean, they learned to wield the power of creation, and with it sought to bring peace and order to a Universe filled with chaos, strife, and wickedness.
Before her fall rom grace in the myth of Fimbulwinter, Loviatar was equal in power and esteem to the greatest of the Twelve Sovereigns. The Empyreal Gods follow the rule of Oberon and Seldariel, the Allfather and the Allmother. With Anthos they form the Triune of Creation. The God of Death is nearly equal in authority to the Allmother and Allfather, and so too was Loviatar once. Together these four gods were the keepers of the power of creation and conceived of the notion of create Amanor.

Family

Loviatar, Oberon, Seldariel, and Anthos are without parents but Empyreal myths describe them as siblings nonetheless. Oberon and Anthos are blood-brothers by all canonical accounts, but Seldariel and Loviatar are often said to be more like kindred spirits, friends or soul-mates both to each other and the two brothers.
The relationships of all Empyreal Gods are a complicated web that defies the mortal boundaries of marriage and sexuality. The gods are able to have children with each other regardless of sex, and many gods have amorous affairs both fleeting and long-lasting with many other gods -- and often even with their own siblings or children. Loviatar is no exception.
Loviatar and Seldariel are the mothers and grandmothers of many younger gods. Loviatar has had children with both Oberon and Anthos, and also with such notable gods as Maelach, Melora, Vaane, Iona, and Etro. Her notable children include Hesiron, Hygemene, and Sariel. Many of her offspring are monstrous villains slain in heroic myths, such as the Fenris Wolf, Jörmungandr the World Serpent, and Loki the Deceiver.
Loviatar was the wife and consort of Oberon before the two gods grew distant and the Allfather took Seldariel to wife instead. Thereafter Loviatar consorted with Laufi, the God of Frost and Thirteenth Sovereign. Together Laufi and Loviatar instigated the divine war of Fimbulwinter which ended in both their deaths.

Dawn Age

The Dawn Age began as the Empyreal Sovereigns created Amanor and filled it with life. The gods dwelt in the world amongst their children, holding court in different places, some of them together and some alone. In the beginning, Loviatar and Oberon ruled as husband and wife, but their relations eventually grew cold. Oberon preferred the company of Seldariel, and Loviatar departed. She took residence on the north pole of Amanor, where she would dwell until her death. As the mistress of that freezing land she was known as the Hag of the North. Her consort was Laufi, the God of Frost, and their son was named Loki.
After the terrible Dawn Wars -- fought against the invading evils of the Outer Planes -- the peace and splendor of the Dawn Age continued more or less as it had before. But the peace was broken when Loviatar and Laufi commited the First Treason, becoming the first gods to turn against their kin by stealing from the smith-god Hefaetrus his greatest work, the divine machine of plenty known as Sampo. This betrayal sparked an Empyreal civil war that is known in mortal mythology as Fimbulwinter, and forevermore would it fracture the fellowship of the Empyreals.
In Fimbulwinter, Laufi, Loviatar, Nepthys and Svanrigge defended the north pole against the wrath of the Empyreals. To even the odds, Loviatar and Nepthys conceived of abominable rituals and created Undead for the first time. This was a crime perhaps even more terrible than the theft of Sampo, for Undeath has plagued the Universe ever since and given mighty tools for the forces of evil to use against the Empyreals in the Divine Conflict.
Fimbulwinter ended in victory for the Empyreals. Laufi, Nepthys and Loviatar we slain, but both the Traitor Goddess and her disciple endured in undeath. Nepthys and Loviatar would plot for the next few millenia, gathering strength and allies before sparking the flames of war once more. And this time, it was the entire cosmos that would burn.
Ragnarok began with Loviatar's reincarnation and its uncountable battles would rage for a thousand years. Worlds were reduced to ruins, gods were slain, and even the walls of Ulthgard were breached. Loviatar was able to steal the power of Divinity and raise her seven Disciples to godhood.
But in the end, the Empyreals were victorious once more. Loviatar was slain a second time and her seven disciples scattered to the furthest corners of the cosmos. However, Amanor was forever changed. The gods departed the world to safeguard it from afar, leaving their mortal children to forge their own fates. The fey, too, departed Amanor, settling in the verdant utopia of Tír-na-nÓg. Undead and Monsters were banished to Samhain so that Amanor might be rid of their evil.

Black Age

Following their defeat in Ragnarok, Loviatar and her Disciples spent millenia in hiding, working to once again infiltrate Amanor with their dark influence. They are largely held responsible for the evilness of mortal civilizations in the mythical Black Age. It was a time of calamity and strife that was ended only when the gods returned to the world from beyond the Firmament and scoured all evil from the world. In the Divine Calamity, god-wrought disasters annihialted entire civilizations and the Four Horsemen rode across the skies.

Current day

Even though Loviatar remains an active antagonist to the Empyreal Gods, she endures after Ragnarok only as a greatly reduced spirit. According to myth of the Empyreal Faith, she is unable to reach the level of power she once had. As the twisted mockery of life and godhood that she is, Loviatar knows that she can no longer challenge the might of Ulthgard directly, and so she must be content with tormenting mortalkind.

by CraniumBeaver (Midjourney)

Above: Statue of Loviatar in the Hall of Secrets.

Titles
Goddess of Evil
Goddess of Secrets
Goddess of the Pyre
Archbetrayer
Traitor Goddess
Undying Goddess
The Undying
Mother of Treason
Mother of Seven
Lady of Pain
Lady of Chains
The First (of Eight)
Mother of All Evil
Keeper of Secrets
Crone
Hag of the North
The Torturous One
Domains
Secrets, Knowledge
Evil
Trickery, Treachery
Magic
Undeath, Death
Shadow, Darkness
Fire
Affiliation
Empyreal Gods
Disciples of Loviatar
Aliases
Lowitar, Lowi, Louhi
Status
Dead or undead
Origin
Predates the Universe
Age
Immeasurable
Relatives
Oberon (consort)
Laufi (former consort)
Loki (son)
Fenris (son)
Jörmungandr (son)
Hekatoncheiron (son)

Religions

• Empyreal Faith
• Imperial Church of Loviatar

Related Myths

• Fable of the Yellow-Eyed Witch

Dread mother of vengeance
Guide me to your path
From the light take me
In darkness remake me
Fill my heart with wrath
And make this a black day

— Prayer to Loviatar

Sacred tomes

Loviatar considers books to be sacred because they contain valuable knowledge. She particularly treasures tomes that contain forbidden information, such as the spellbooks of powerful necromancers, the writings of mad scholars who glimpsed otherworldly truths, and the prophecies of the apocalypse. However, since anonymity, obscurity, and secrecy are central to many of her rituals, books are inherently at odds with these values. Therefore, Loviatar's sacred texts must be kept hidden from prying eyes, locked away in the darkest of vaults, or circulated only among trusted members of cults and cabals through underground networks. To ensure secrecy, many of these texts are written in code or secret languages, and are deliberately crafted on easily destructible materials such as paper, so they can be quickly disposed of if necessary.
The most well-known of Loviatar's sacred texts are the Ashen Apocrypha and the Black Apocrypha. The most sacred of all is the Necronomicon, a mythical tome of forbidden knowledge that has passed from the hands of one legendary villain to another throughout history.

Loviatar's colors

Black. Black is the color of the unknown, the great void that tempts the bold and frightens the meek. Black is the color of shadow, the cold shroud that covers the deeds of the faithful. Black is the color of death, the final obstacle to overcome on the road to destiny.
Purple. Purple is the color of the night, the dominion of Loviatar's servants. Purple is the sign of the Goddess' favor, for with a purple cloak she blessed her first daughter.
Yellow. Yellow is the color of fire and flame, of the roaring pyre and the whispering candle. By fire was the Archbetrayer executed and by fire are her secrets preserved.

Below: Perth, the symbol of Loviatar.

Below: Septagrams are sacred to Loviatar and her Disciples.

by CraniumBeaver

Below: Loviatar's Star is often displayed with the sacred symbols of Loviatar and all her seven Disciples.

by CraniumBeaver

Below: A septagram surrounding Loviatar's sacred symbol.

by CraniumBeaver

Black candle

Black candles are the rarest and most sacred candles used in the worship of Loviatar. These highly magical objects are produced by clerics of the Imperial Church of Loviatar using secret rites. They are inscribed with both arcane and divine symbols, facilitating powerful enchantments of protection and drawing the attention of Loviatar to her faithful servants.
The sticks of black candles are typically made of stone, metal, glass, or wax, and the wicks are enchanted to maintain a lit flame without the need for fuel. When kindled by any mundane or magical fire source, the flame that lights upon the wick is formed of an artificial, arcane fire. This enchanted flame shields the candle and its surroundings from outside observation and divination, making black candles highly valued for their protective properties. Unlike regular candles, black candles burn indefinitely without melting or consuming the stick.

Violet veil

Worshippers of Loviatar can identify themselves to others by wearing purple-colored apparel. Cloaks, hoods, scarfs, and shrouds are favored by the initiated, and pieces of religious clothing are known as violet veils. The shape and cut of these veils, of course, varies greatly from land and church to another. Both black and purple are sacred colors of Loviatar, and violet veils range between any and all hues between the two.
Loviatarian worship is largely taboo in the Heartlands, and people rarely express their devotion to Loviatar in public. The Imperial Church of Loviatar offers purple-black cloaks to its congregations so that the faithful might protect their identities when visiting a temple of Loviatar. In exotic lands outside the Heartlands where Loviatar is worshipped openly, violet veils can be commonplace even in public.

Lift my spirit, turn my tongue,
To sing in praise of Loviatar,
She suffered torture, burning, death,
For ur she bears her every scar,
Rising above death eternal,
She guides her faithful from afar.
Loviatar, oh queen of shadow and pain,
Beneath your gaze we are but mere pawns.
Your mysteries are vast, your knowledge arcane,
And in your sight we find our souls withdrawn.

Teach us, Loviatar, the secrets of the mind,
That we may reach beyond our earthly woes.
May your guidance lead us, true and kind,
As we pledge our hearts to your darkened thrones.

— Excerpt from a hymn

Lady of Pain

Content warning: self harm.

One of the darker aspects of Loviatar's worship is the use of pain as a form of divination. Loviatar's priests and priestesses believe that pain opens up a channel of communication with the divine, allowing them to gain insights and visions that would be otherwise inaccessible. Thus, they often use various methods of self-harm, such as cutting or burning themselves, to induce a state of heightened awareness and receive messages from Loviatar -- the Lady of Pain.
Those that worship Loviatar as the Lady of Pain most zealously are known as the Thorned Ones. These fanatics follow a strict ascetic lifestyle, eschewing all forms of pleasure and comfort. Instead, they embrace pain and suffering as a means of achieving spiritual enlightenment and communion with their dark goddess. They adorn themselves with spiked chains, piercing their flesh with the barbs as a form of penance and to show their devotion to Loviatar.
The Thorned Ones are a mysterious and reclusive group within the Imperial Church of Loviatar, operating as an almost occult sect in the Heartlands. However, outside the Heartlands, where Loviatar's worship takes on different forms and interpretations, the Thorned Ones are widely respected as an echelon of the goddess's clergy. They are known for their unflinching devotion to Loviatar and their rigorous self-discipline, often subjecting themselves to extreme physical and mental tests to prove their worthiness to the goddess.

Beware the Lady of Chains, for she seeks to bind us all in endless webs of pain! Her shadow falls heavy upon us all, and her whispers bring madness to the sane!

— A preacher at a street corner

Mind Palace

Loviatar's planar dimension of Havelmar is a desolate and empty realm of nightmarish landscapes and harrowing ruins. In its center stands a tower of black stone -- the physical manifestation of the Archbetrayer's very mind and soul. With hundreds upon hundreds of floors both above and below ground, the Black Key is an amalgamation of the goddess's life; her most traumatic experiences, soul-rending nightmares, as well as her most demented visions of the future. The tower's countless floors halls and chambers contain physical and magical manifestations of the Archbetrayer's memories. Some rooms contain precious artifacts, some house prisoners that will never escape, while others contain shackled fragments of Loviatar's personality -- undesirable elements of herself that she has decided to be rid of. A multitude of Loviatar's simulacrums roam the unlighted halls, their minds eternally bent on perfecting the goddess's great schemes.
The tower extends up towards the sky like a blade of obsidian, piercing through the clouds into an empty night sky. The higher levels are both alien and strangely familiar, as if drawn from the dreams of the gods themselves. The atmosphere there is oppressive, suffused with a sense of dread and foreboding that lingers in the air like a palpable mist. The lower levels are blood-drenched battlefields, rotting vaults, twisted dungeons and treacherous labyrinths, echoing with the sounds of anguish. At the very bottom is a void-like expanse of darkness where stand the Nine Doors of Secrets.

Further reading

The Archbetrayer Loviatar, keeper of secrets and mistress of malevolence, is the embodiment of the evil within us all. She who whispers truths into the ears of the wicked, and entices the righteous with her honeyed lies. Beware her gifts, for they come at a great cost. To delve too deep into her web of secrets is to risk the very soul of your being. Her existence is a testament to the depravity of mortalkind, for she embodies the darkest aspects of our nature and seeks only to bring forth the most twisted and corrupted desires of our hearts.

— Fundamentals of the Empyrean

Cosmic knowledge

This section describes Loviatar with absolute truth rather than descriptions from religious canon.
Loviatar is one of the most powerful entities in the Universe, a being of such awesome might that she, more than most, deserves the title of god. True to mortal myth, she is of the oldest generation of gods, born from cosmic energies into an indescribable existence before the beginning of Time. In this, she stands together with Oberon, Anthos, and Seldariel. Only Arath-Sodan is possessed of a greater breadth of experience and power, for she was an ancient even in the unknowable Time Before Time that ended with the collapse of the entire earlier universe.
Loviatar and her kindred were born from the raw energies of the Animus and the Grail as the two Progenitor Relics drifted together in the endless wasteland of the Void. Their small bubble of pseudo-reality was not governed by the laws of Time and Space until Arath-Sodan came to uplift their nascent people. She brought with her the Relics of Time, Space, and Magic, setting Loviatar and her kind to war against the Old Gods to claim the sixth and final relic: the Aether, the Relic of Matter.
After a great war, the Old Gods were banished to the Void, but of the primitive people Arath-Sodan had roused to war only four individuals remained to stand beside her: Loviatar, Oberon, Anthos, and Seldariel. Together they possessed all six Progenitor Relics, merging them to form the Creation Engines known as the Trinity and Pandora's Box. From those two mighty machines the Universe was born and time itself began. With the power of the Creation Engines, these Five Survivors of the were able to mold this new, fledgling universe to their desire.
However, many trials and tragedies followed the five gods' attempts at creation. Pandora's Box had birthed a myriad lifeforms, some of them strong enough to challenge the five, and many of them hostile. Arath-Sodan grew distant, but Loviatar and her three companions formed a family around themselves. Together they loved and quarrelled, they played and warred, they grieved and laughed – until a grave mistake sparked war amongst them and began a cycle of hatred that tore apart the ties that had bound them.
In the current day, Loviatar has died twice at the hands of the Empyreal Gods. Her need for vengeance is all-consuming. She works ceaselessly to bring about the downfall of the Empyreal Gods and the shattering of Ulthgard's power. Loviatar is undeniably the most active and most dangerous opponent of the Empyreals, but her actions are hidden by an endless web of deception. She constantly furthers her millenia-long plans, commanding an endless multitude of minions all across the universe and manipulating even her unwitting enemies into furthering her goals.

Below: A twisted avatar of Loviatar's current form.

Loviatar by Smerdulak

My heart? I have filled my heart with hate.

— Loviatar

Her greatest assets are her seven Disciples, blackhearted mortals that she helped ascend to Divinity in ages past. Each Disciple is a god in their own right with hosts of armies and other assets at their disposal. All these assets are Loviatar's to command by proxy – so long as her errant daughters remain loyal to her... But one must not underestimate Loviatar's own power, for she truly is the watcher that moves unseen, the hidden hand behind great events, and one that knows all motivations and learns all plans.

Personality and traits

Loviatar is the ultimate antagonist – a divine revenant, eternal and undying. She has sworn eternal enmity against the Empyreal Gods; her soul burns with a consuming hatred that fuels her every action, always working towards an inscrutable plan of vengeance against Ulthgard and its dynasty. She is ruthless to the core, viewing all creatures and events through the lens of how they can serve her ultimate purpose. She is capable of great cruelty and will not hesitate to sacrifice even her closest allies if it furthers her plan.
Despite her cold and calculating nature, Loviatar is not without her own emotional complexities. She has known moments of love, joy, and grief, though such feelings are leashed tight within her black heart. She is a master of self-control and rarely allows her emotions to dictate her actions. Instead, she is singularly focused on her goals, willing to endure any hardship or sacrifice to achieve them.
Loviatar is a skilled manipulator and strategist, able to create complex webs of deception and intrigue. She is a watcher and a planner, always anticipating the moves of her enemies and working to undermine them. Her plans span millenia, and the seeds of her schemes bear fruit over the turning of ages.

Powers and abilities

Magic. Loviatar the Unbowed was the first of her kin to know the gift of magic and the first Empyreal to possess the Arcanomicon. With that mighty relic in hand, Loviatar's control over magic is awe-inspiring. She can summon natural disasters that devastate entire worlds, command gods to do her bidding, and reshape the fabric of reality with a mere thought. Her spells are devastating in their power and complexity, capable of bending even time and space to her will. Ever since having to relinquish the Arcanomicon to Vaane, the Goddess of Magic, Loviatar has been consumed with an insatiable thirst for magical power. As she studied the arcane arts over many millenia, Loviatar's mastery over magic grew at an unprecedented pace. She delved into the darkest and most forbidden branches of magic, unraveling the mysteries of necromancy, runemagic and blood magic. She is perhaps the greatest spellcaster in all existence,.
Might. In the immeasurable ages before the creation of the Universe, as the war against the Old Gods raged on, Loviatar the Pursuer stood at the forefront as a formidable warrior. Her prowess in battle was legendary, as she wielded both blade and spell with deadly precision. With her sword Lightbriner in hand, she carved her way through hordes of eldritch horrors while unleashing terrifying spells of destruction. Loviatar's unwavering resolve made her a force to be reckoned with: She fearlessly charged into the fray, leading her comrades with courage and determination. Her strategic mind earned her the admiration of her fellow warriors, and she became one of the most respected fighters among her people.
Knowledge.Loviatar the Crone possesses such knowledge that transcends the conventional boundaries of understanding. Though she knows much of the universe and even of the alien worlds beyond, her expertise lies in the realm of the mind and soul, delving into the psychological workings of mortals and gods alike. She possesses an unparalleled understanding of the wants, weaknesses, and strengths of all creatures in existence, gained through manipulation, empowerment, and observation. Loviatar's knowledge extends beyond mere empathy, delving into the deepest aspects of the psyche: the hidden motivations, and the innermost desires. Her knowledge encompasses the darkest secrets of the mind and soul, allowing her to wield singular influence and control over those who cross her path – and even those who do not.
Secrets. Loviatar the Keeper of Secrets guards within her divine realm the Nine Doors of Secrets. These ancient portals hold the most unfathomable and terrible truths of the cosmos. From the intricate workings of the universe to the deepest truths of the soul, Loviatar's secrets encompass a vast array of mysteries. As the guardian of these Nine Doors, she wields terrible power, holding the keys to uncontested levels of knowledge. Only Loviatar has ventured beyond each of the Nine Doors. Even her most trusted servants, her Disciples, have been granted passage through only a single door each – an event that has forevermore defined their divine domains and shaped their destinies.
Undeath. Loviatar the Mother of All Evil wields an awesome mastery over the powers of undeath. Her sheer artistry in manipulating the forces of life and death is unmatched, born from eldritch secrets and forbidden pacts made with the Old Gods. Although several younger gods have rise to claim the domain of Undeath as theirs, Loviatar's dominion over necromancy is absolute, and her dark arts strike terror into the hearts of gods and mortals alike.
Eldritch Power. Through her dark pacts with the Old Gods, Loviatar the Torturous One has gained eldritch powers that transcend the boundaries of magic and can even break the laws of the universe. Such abilities are born from the endless Void, drawing upon the raw essence of cosmic horror that lurks beyond the veil of reality. Her most dire incantations echo with the madness-inducing cadence of alien tongues that can drive gods to insanity – even herself, should she be careless. Loviatar's eldritch powers are a reflection of the undefeatable power that lies beyond the cosmos, and she is able to leverage that power only by having made dire barters with the Old Gods.
Shapeshifting. Like all gods, Loviatar, She of Many Faces, can use her vast magical power to shapeshift at will. She can alter her appearance, voice, and aura to deceive mortals, eternals, and gods alike. She can take on the guise of trusted allies, authority figures, or even loved ones, manipulating perceptions and gaining access. Her shapeshifting prowess enables her to infiltrate some the most guarded sanctuaries, although the Empyreal Gods guard themselves well against her tricks.
Phylactery. Loviatar the Eternal One is bound by the shackles of undeath, an existence that transcends the mortal coil. Her immortality is sustained by a web of eldritch magic woven through several phylacteries, each holding a fragment of her soul. These phylacteries are scattered across the multiverse, hidden in the most forbidden and inaccessible realms, ensuring that Loviatar's essence is safeguarded from destruction. Even if her physical form is destroyed, her soul is drawn back to these phylacteries, restoring her to life once again.
The Great Plan. Loviatar the Eternal Machinator possesses an unmatched intellect, meticulously calculating every variable and possibility in her ultimate plan. Her knowledge and wisdom allow her to anticipate her enemies' moves, manipulate events with precision, and stay steps ahead of her opponents. Loviatar's strategic genius is unmatched, allowing her to orchestrate battles, political intrigues, and complex machinations with uncanny foresight, as if she has already seen every possible future. Loviatar plans are not perfect, of course, for the future is not set in stone. Her predictions are thwarted from time to time, and even her many layers of contingencies can fail. But she is swift to recalculate, adjusting to setbacks with cunning adaptability.
Spirit Projection. Loviatar the All-Seeing One can use to magic project her senses across the universe, allowing her to see and hear distant events and entities. Her awareness is not constrained by physical limitations, and she can perceive almost anything, anywhere, as long as she knows where to look. Her gaze spans the cosmos, granting her knowledge of the myriad events transpiring on every world of the universe.

Appearance

Loviatar endures in this age of the world as an undead spirit, having bound her soul to several phylacteries scattered across the cosmos. As a deity of unfathomable and alien power, the true appearance of her incorporeal form defies description. Her visage is an ethereal manifestation of eldritch might, both awe-inspiring and terrifying, radiating an oppressive aura that shrouds her in an eldritch darkness. Her form is ever-changing, shifting and swirling with the ebb and flow of eldritch energies. Her eyes, when glimpsed, burn with an otherworldly intensity, hinting at the unimaginable power and knowledge she holds.
Loviatar never appears to others in her true form, but conjures for herself avatars of her own choosing. Whether it be a regal queen, a monstrous creature, or a humble mortal, Loviatar's physical form is but a facade, concealing the true essence of her godly being. Her shapeshifting abilities allow her to adapt to any environment or encounter, remaining enigmatic and elusive as she navigates mortal realms and beyond.

Assets

Loviatar commands vast resources across the cosmos, including a nigh-uncountable number of followers and worshippers who serve her out of fear or reverence. Her most trusted servants are her Disciples, who wield immense power in their own right and act as her agents throughout the universe. Through them, Loviatar commands legions that conquer entire world, assassins that can murder gods, and magicians possessed of mythic power. With such mighty assets she influences events on a cosmic scale. Her dark magic and unparalleled mastery of strategy allow her to manipulate even the most powerful forces in the universe, and she is feared by all who know of her.

History

Loviatar is a creature older than time. She has gone from a shunned recluse to a celebrated hero, only to end up as the enemy of all. Her story is intertwined with the creation of the cosmos, the trials and tribulations of the Empyreal Gods, the endless wars fought in defense of Amanor, and the betrayals and tragedies that have unfolded in the halls of the holy. Her history is that of the world itself, spanning aeons of hardship and strife, filled with complexities that go beyond the notions of good and evil.

Early life

In the aftermath of the Time Before Time, after the collapse of its universe by the actions of the Old Gods, the Progenitor Relics known as the Grail and the Animus had been left drifting together in the endless Void. From their combined energies – the very essences of life and souls – spread out a small bubble of reality within which emerged a single, nascent world. Far from the influence of the other four Relics that lay scattered across the Void – the Timewheel, the Tesseract, the Aether and the Arcanomicon – this miniature universe was devoid of the familiar concepts of Time, Space, Matter and Magic. It was an unthinkable and unknowable place of hazy, half-baked reality.
The great powers of the Grail and the Animus mingled and intertwined, forming a tree-like web of flowing energy. From this Great Tree a sentient race of spirit-creatures was born. Their lives were indescribable, untethered by the constraints of the physical world. In their impossible realm they spent unmeasurable periods of existence, observing each other and the strange reality around them, marveling at the magic of the Great Tree. In a universe without time and space and matter, the people barely changed at all. They developed communication – of a sort – but they did not even have names for each other. They formed a society, but they had no laws or morals, no philosophies or ideals.
One of this primordial people was a strange recluse, a shunned creature that was different from her kind. This Pariah had a mind that worked in unique ways. While she could see patterns with remarkable clarity, she struggled with understanding communication in the same way others did. Her thoughts were a labyrinth of wonders, and she often got lost in her own mind, captivated by the world around her and within her. The Pariah found beauty and intrigue in the smallest details, but failed to convey her thoughts to others. She was in awe of the power of the Relics, finding solace in the raw beauty of their workings. She wandered through the world, a solitary figure lost in her own musings, shunned by her kin for being different.

Reshaped reality

Arath-Sodan, a void-touched planeswalker and the sole survivor of the Time Before Time, arrived at the Great Tree, bringing with her the Timewheel, the Tesseract and the Arcanomicon -- the Progenitor Relics of Time, Space, and Magic. As these Relics infused the world with their energies, the previously timeless and spaceless realm began to take on new dimensions and laws. Time now flowed in a linear fashion. Space asserted itself upon the world, giving rise to distance, direction and position. Magic sparked into existence, bringing forth arcane energy within which lie possibilities beyond imagination.
The arrival of Arath-Sodan and her Relics had a profound impact on the people of the world. They were suddenly confronted with the concepts of past, present and future, which altered their perception and understanding. The once unchanging and unbounded society of beings now faced the challenges and opportunities of a dynamic universe. Although lacking the Relic of Matter, Arath-Sodan was adept enough with magic to use the Arcanomicon to conjure forth elemental matter into the world. She created earth, water, and sky, for she had known of such things in the Time Before Time. Plants like flowers and grass were brought into being as Arath-Sodan gave elemental form to the different expressions life and souls that had come forth from the ever-swirling vortex of energy that was the Great Tree.
Arath-Sodan chose to guide and uplift the people of Ulthgard because she saw their potential for growth and advanccement. She recognized unique abilities and perspectives in many of them, and believed that with her guidance and with the power of the Progenitor Relics, the people could seize for themselves a greater destiny – they could begin to take the first steps towards building a new reality to replace the one that had been lost.
She understood that the people lacked basic understanding of language, philosophy, science, and culture, and she patiently took on the role of a teacher and guide. She started with the basics, teaching them the nuances of communication and language, enabling them to express their thoughts and ideas. Even the shunned Pariah attended Promethea's teaching, and she learned much, but she still wasn't able to express herself. The others gave her a name: Louhi, derived from their newfound word for rocks, crags, and caves – for it was amidst such that she liked to spend her lonesome time.
By her wondrous deeds, Arath-Sodan appeared to the people as a god, and they would forevermore look up to her with reverence. She named the Great Tree Yggdrasil in honor of some vestige of memory from the Time Before Time. The people named their homeland Ulthgard, and their mentor – who claimed to have no name for herself – they called Promethea, the Forethinker.

Gift of magic

Promethea's powers were vast, and she gifted the Ulthgardians with humanoid bodies, for she herself was of a humanoid race – one that had ruled the universe in the Time Before Time. Although she was of flesh and blood, she gave the people of Ulthgard bodies of primal matter to make them strong and resilient, binding their ethereal souls to golems of arcane, semi-solid metal. Their metallic forms lacked the soft, organic features found in Promethea, but nonetheless, the once formless Ulthgardians now had tangible, corporeal forms that could interact with the world around them.
Next, Promethea called out four individuals who had caught her eye, those who showed great potential. She bestowed upon them the Animus, the Grail, the Tesseract, and the Arcanomicon, four of the five Relics, keeping to herself only the Timewheel. These chosen champions would become imbued with the energy and knowledge of these relics, empowering them to become leaders and visionaries in this nascent world, destined to shape its future with their newfound abilities.
To receive the Animus, she named the timid but clever Tuisto, while the empathic Frigga received the Grail. Oberon, possessed of great strength and charisma, was given the Tesseract. The last to be called was Louhi, and her naming was a surprise to all. Promethea fetched her from a field of stones, escorting her by hand as a great crowd watched in disbelieving silence.

Promethea placed the shining crystal known as the Arcanomicon in Louhi's hands, and as soon as she touched it, a torrent of magic flowed into her being. As the magic coursed within her, Louhi's consciousness expanded, allowing her to see into the minds of the people gathered around her. She was suddenly aware of her own strangeness, of her inability to communicate with others. And she no longer wanted to be alone. She wanted to be with others, to understand, to learn from them and of them. And so, with newfound insight and an instinctive control over magic, Louhi used her powers to alter herself, making her mind more like those of her kin.
The transformation was instant and profound. She stood tall and proud, meeting everyone's gaze and speaking floral language with great clarity and authority. She was no longer shunned. She was equal. Her people welcomed her as one of their own, her unique perspective now a gift that would enrich their entire society.
Louhi, ever perceptive of the world's beauty, was struck by the contrast between her people's metallic exteriors and the softness of Promethea's appearance. One day, Louhi gently persuaded their mentor to reveal her face -- something she had never done before. The sight of Promethea's unseeing eyes, curving eyebrows, and cascading white hair captivated the Ulthgardians, who found beauty in her organic elegance.
Inspired by their mentor's grace, the Ulthgardians aspired to resemble her in this aspect. Sensing their desire, Louhi wielded her magic to alter the appearance of those who wished it. She granted her people hair, eye-color, complexion and blemishes, bestowing upon them the uniqueness of organic appearance.

Below: Promethea unmasked.

Promethea by CraniumBeaver (Midjourney)

Below: The Four Relic bearers.

Louhi, the Sorceress by CraniumBeaver (Midjourney)

Oberon, the Shaper by CraniumBeaver (Midjourney)

Frigga, the Gardener by CraniumBeaver (Midjourney)

Tuisto, the Nurturer by CraniumBeaver (Midjourney)

Ulthgard ascendant

After assinging her champions to roles of leadership, Promethea patiently introduced the people of Ulthgard to the wonders of philosophy, helping them grasp abstract concepts and develop critical thinking skills. With time, she guided them towards the principles of science, teaching them to observe, experiment, and analyze the world around them. She nurtured their curiosity and encouraged exploration, gradually uplifting their understanding of the world and its workings.
Promethea's guidance and teachings paved the way for the people to develop their own culture, customs, and ways of life, creating a foundation for their civilization to flourish and grow in profound ways. She was a teacher, not a tyrant, allowing the much younger beings to fight as much as they loved, to wage war as much as they created beauty, to fail as much as they succeeded.
As Louhi delved deeper into the secrets of the Arcanomicon, her understanding grew, and she unlocked ever more magical talents. Through mastering the Relic's power, she became the greatest magician among her kind. However, over the long ages that the civilization of Ulthgard developed, Louhi had time to not only hone her magical abilities but also learn martial skills and dabble in the ways of the warrior. Unlike the tender Frigga, Louhi was drawn to the fierce displays of combat where the greatest warriors of Ulthgard met in contests of strength – famous fighters like mighty Gudri, cunning Berik and wise Oberon, the leader of their people. She never joined their sparring, but found herself spending much more time with the warriors of her people rather than the scholars and magicians.

Into the Void

Promethea watched with pride as the civilization of Ulthgard flourished under the guidance of her four Relic Bearers. She nurtured their growth, fostering a deep sense of curiosity and exploration within them. As the civilization matured, Promethea led them towards new horizons, ready for them to venture beyond their small bubble of reality and explore the great Void that lay beyond. The Relic Bearers rose to the occasion, guiding their people into the alien Void. Promethea urged them to use their Relics wisely, tapping into their immense power to navigate uncharted realms and surmount the impossible obstacles awaiting them. Louhi and Oberon were chosen as the leaders of this great expedition.
Their journey was fraught with hardships. The endless Void, untouched by the laws of creation and ungoverned by the natural laws they knew, presented daunting challenges. The Ulthgardians faced inexplicable phenomena, navigated surreal landscapes, and encountered voidspawned aberrations—monstrous, otherworldly creatures bent on halting their progress. Undeterred, they wielded their martial skills, magical talents, and Relic powers to overcome every challenge.
Louhi and Oberon cooperated seamlessly, with Oberon at the forefront, using the Tesseract to mold the Void into comprehensible three-dimensional space. Louhi, trailing closely behind, employed her vast arsenal of spells to shield the explorers from danger. During these perilous expeditions, Louhi formed deep bonds with many warriors. She admired Oberon for his bravery and patience in battle, leading the charge against the voidspawned aberrations. Gudri, known for his indomitable strength and loyalty, stood by Louhi's side, protecting her and their comrades with fearless resolve. Through the countless challenges they faced together, Louhi, Oberon, and Gudri forged bonds of camaraderie, solidified by their shared hardships.

Below: The four Relic Bearers braving the dangerous Void.

Void wastes by CraniumBeaver (Midjourney)

Shaping the Void

As the Ulthgardians journeyed under Promethea's guidance, they harnessed the power of the five Relics to permanently transform the Void. They channeled the Relics' energy and turned it from an incomprehensible realm of chaos into a place governed by the laws of nature, physics, time, and space. From the Great Tree Yggdrasil they expanded their fledgling universe, establishing a realm of order and structure, with Frigga and Tuisto using the Grail and the Animus to ensure the Great Tree traveled with them as they ventured forth into the void.
Oberon enforced the laws of space while Promethea introduced the flow of time. Louhi skillfully manipulated the Arcanomicon's power to populate their expanding reality with matter and geometry, laying the foundation for their new lands. Her adept use of the Arcanomicon provided their realm with structure and form. In response, Frigga invoked the Grail's power to infuse life and beauty into their newly-formed domain, drawing forth the essence of life from the vortex of Yggdrassil. She crafted lush gardens teeming with blooming flowers and majestic trees, creating a breathtaking landscape radiating nature's splendor.
Louhi and Frigga's collaboration resulted in a harmonious fusion of magic and nature, molding their reality into a realm of abundance and wonder. Through the shared experience of shaping their reality, Louhi and Frigga grew to appreciate each other's unique abilities and contributions.

Delving deeper and challenging the Old Gods

As the Ulthgardians explored the unknown, they discovered slumbering Old Gods, ancient beings of immense power. Heeding Promethea's warning not to disturb these primordial entities, they initially chose to leave them undisturbed. Promethea had spoken of great disasters that had befallen her world and people in the Time Before Time.
However, as the Ulthgardians expanded their realm, their many triumphs fueled a sense of invincibility. The presence of the Old Gods stirred feelings of unease and discomfort, challenging their sense of superiority. Louhi, Gudri, and a group of other heroes decided to challenge one of the slumbering Old Gods, despite Promethea's advice. Louhi was intrigued by the prospect but also mindful of the warnings regarding the dangers posed by the Old Gods.
Amidst differing opinions, the group proceeded with their plan to wake and challenge the Old God. Louhi joined her comrades out of loyalty. The battle was disastrous, with every warrior falling to the eldritch horror. Louhi, as the last one standing, picked up fallen Gudri's sword and delivered a desperate attack that ultimately brought the abomination down.
Promethea disapproved of Louhi's actions but couldn't deny the significance of the Old God's demise. She retreated for a while, contemplating the ramifications of Louhi's deed. Louhi carried Gudri's sword as a cherished memento and symbol of their bond. Her heroism earned her widespread acclaim, but it also brought her unease, as she grappled with the guilt and regret of the deep and personal loss she had experienced.

by CraniumBeaver (Midjourney)

Above: Louhi face to face with an awakened Old God.

Conquering the Void

After returning from isolation, Promethea summoned Ulthgard's leaders and declared a new strategy: to hunt down and eliminate the Old Gods one at a time, using their full might in each battle. The Ulthgardians, now emboldened by the belief that the Old Gods could be vanquished, rallied behind her vision.
Each encounter with an Old God was a monumental undertaking, requiring immense coordination, strategy, and sacrifice. Promethea personally participated in the campaign, her awesome power inspiring the Ulthgardians to new heights of heroism. Together, they began a relentless search for the Old Gods.
The campaign against the Old Gods in the Void proved grueling. Louhi fought tirelessly on countless battlefields, favoring swordplay and channeling arcane energy through her weapon. Her sword, Lightbringer, shone like a beacon on the battlefield, while she was referred to as the Pursuer for her dauntlessness.
As the Ulthgardians fought battle after battle, the toll was heavy, and relationships were strained under the pressure. Louhi, Oberon, Frigga, and Tuisto, who had been like a family, found themselves grappling with the challenges of the campaign. Tensions arose from divergent strategies, differing opinions, and the weight of responsibilities.
Louhi shouldered much of the burden of command, making tough decisions that were not always popular. Oberon, who had always been quick to please others, now fumbled with his leadership. In one instance, he made a crucial tactical error, greatly disappointing Louhi and causing severe losses for their forces. Frigga was endlessly bereaved in the face of death and war, while Anthos became grim and isolated. Promethea, focused solely on the destruction of the Old Gods, appeared to have a heart of stone, leaving many Ulthgardians feeling estranged.
The Ulthgardians campaign drew to a sudden close when Promethea announced their final destination: a desolate world inhabited by the aquatic aboleths. This world held the sixth and final Progenitor Relic: the Aether, the Relic of Matter. The discovery of this relic had the potential to change the fate of the cosmos.

Below: Louhi the Pursuer.

Louhi the Pursuer by CraniumBeaver (Midjourney)

The Aboleth War

The Aboleth War began with the Ulthgardian invasion of the aboleth-infested world, which Promethea named Vestrilor. The Ulthgardians faced many foes during their journey through the Void, but the presence of several Old Gods on Vestrilor was a daunting prospect. Louhi, Oberon, and their comrades prepared for the invasion with meticulous care.
The war started with a surprise attack against Zhaatlu, a slumbering Old God. In the ensuing battle, Louhi found herself ensnared in the aboleths' psychic grip, saved only by Oberon's intervention. As the battle raged on, Louhi managed to deal a decisive blow that shattered her sword but allowed Promethea to slay Zhaatlu. With the Old God's death, the Ulthgardians established a foothold on Vestrilor and rooted the Great Tree Yggdrassil upon it.
The war against the aboleths was brutal and grueling. Louhi, now wielding a reforged Lightbringer, continued to be at the forefront of the battles. As the Ulthgardians pushed deeper into the aboleths' domain, they devised new strategies, formed alliances, and unleashed the power of the Progenitor Relics. However, the war took a toll on the Ulthgardians, and they had to create entire armies of warrior automata to replenish their ranks. Tuisto gave these valkyries souls that were smaller and simpler than those of the Ulthgardians themselves, allowing him to more easily replenish their numbers.
During a crucial battle, Louhi and Tuisto led a strike team to infiltrate an aboleth stronghold, while Oberon and Frigga provided a distraction. When the distraction failed, Louhi and Tuisto decided to unleash the full might of the Arcanomicon, using overwhelming force in order to spare their troops a difficult battle. Unfortunately, Louhi's great spells awoke a previously undetected Old God, and the battle turned into a slaughter. Promethea's temporal magics saved the Ulthgardians, but the majority of their force was lost. The aftermath left lingering tension between the four Relic Bearers, for each found reason to blame the others for the catastrophe.
The simultaneous awakening of three Old Gods marked the beginning of the war's end. Two of them, Aghronar and Xaliria, engaged the Ulthgardian forces, driving them back to defend the Great Tree and threatening to undo all their progress. The third, Ushuigath, had a different strategy. It slipped away unseen and appeared instantly at Ulthgard itself, laying waste to the heart of the civilization.
With Ulthgard in ruins, Ushuigath began tracing the path of the Ulthgardians back to Vestrilor, devouring the beautiful, flourishing gardens they had created along the way. As the Ulthgardians learned of the trail of destruction the Old God left in its wake, they realized the gravity of their situation. The once-lush gardens, symbols of their hope and determination, were now desolate reminders of the relentless power of the Old Gods. And they could do nothing to stop Ushuigath, for they could not spare any of their strength from Vestrilor.
The casualties the Ulthgardians bore in their final defense of Yggdrassil were crushing. Their automata perished in legions, and even the mighty Ulthgardian warriors themselves – their numbers carefully preserved throughout the war – were ground to dust in only a few short battles. The Ulthgardians gradually lost all hope in victory, their numbers decimated and their spirits weighed down by the overwhelming power of the Old Gods. The Aboleths, too, were devastated by the relentless battles, their once-mighty civilization crumbling as their awakened gods wreaked careless havoc across the world.
In a desperate bid to turn the tide, Oberon, Frigga, and Louhi managed to slay Aghronar in a fierce battle that pushed them to their limits. Though their triumph was hard-won, it was too little too late, for by that point only a handful of their forces remained to defend Yggdrassil against Xaliria and Ushuigath, the latter having just made its way to Vestrilor.
In a desperate last stand, the beleaguered Ulthgardians sacrificed everything to buy time for Promethea to prepare a miraculous incantation, channeling all her power to the Timewheel. When she finally unleashed her magics, the spell tore the two Old Gods from reality and banished them into the depths of time, leaving only echoes of their terrifying presence.
The Yggdrassilians had won the war, but at a terrible cost. As the last sparks of Promethea's incantation faded away, the world of Vestrilor was a graveyard. Only corpses remained of the aboleths and their thrall servants. The Old Gods were dead or vanished. But so too were the Ulthgardians spent: of their entire people, only the four Relic Bearers remained alive to stand beside Promethea. Even Ulthgard itself was gone, its civilization a despoiled ruin.
Promethea was greatly changed after her temporal incantation. She was aloof and distracted, and behaved in a strange manner. In a moment of clarity, she told her Relic Bearers that she had become burdened by the great weight of memories from the many lifetimes she lived in the Time Before Time. She gave the Four her true name, Arath-Sodan, and spoke to them cryptically about her life which spanned hundreds of thousands of years as well as immeasurable lengths of existence spent traveling the impossible Void before coming to uplift Ulthgard. Arath-Sodan's dire recollections started to slowly eat away at her mental state, beginning an unavoidable spiral of decline by which she would distance herself from the Ulthgardians over the coming millenia, turning from a beloved mentor into an addled recluse.

Creation of the universe

In the aftermath of the Aboleth War, the four Relic Bearers and Arath-Sodan -- the Five Survivors -- walked the lifeless world in search of the sixth and final Progenitor Relic, the Aether. Amidst the desolation, they finally discovered it hidden deep beneath the earth. Arath-Sodan, profoundly moved by their discovery, revealed to the others that the Relics could be combined into two mighty artifacts: the Trinity and Pandora's Box. With these artifacts, they could forge a new universe with but a thought. However, she also warned the others of the inherent dangers of creating these two artifacts. Their powers were immensely potent and difficult to control, threatening to wreak unimaginable chaos if mishandled.
After much debate, the loneliness and desperation of the Five Survivors prevailed. They resolved to create these mighty artifacts, and Arath-Sodan showed them the way. The Tesseract, the Timewheel, and the Arcanomicon formed the Trinity, from which sprang forth the three-dimensional sphere of the Universe. The sphere expanded rapidly, becoming a vast cosmic expanse governed by the laws of space and time, criss-crossed by ley-lines. The remaining three Relics -- the Aether, the Grail, and the Animus -- formed Pandora's Box, which the survivors hesitantly opened.
In an explosion of spontaneous creation, the energies of Pandora's Box infused with the Great Tree Yggdrassil. The incorporeal Tree violently expanded and took on material form, transforming into a colossal tree-like structure of elemental matter that filled the entire sphere of the Universe. Moreover, new lifeforms of astonishing variance and complexity appeared across the newly-formed Universe, populating its many worlds and heralding the dawn of a new era of existence.
So was the Universe created in the beginning of Time. Fearful of the spontanous workings of the Trinity and the Box, the Five Survivors disassembled them once more. They each reclaimed their Relics, and Oberon proudly claimed possession of the Aether.

Brave new world

In the marvelous universe that unfolded before them, Louhi and her fellow Relic Bearers marveled at the cosmos and its many wonders, and as they ventured forth, they discovered a myriad of fantastical creatures, including the first demons, angels, and elementals. What was more, the Four found themselves to have been profoundly changed by their exposure to the energies realeased by Pandora's Box: they were able to sire and birth children.
The Relics had bestowed upon the Four powers that made them akin to gods when compared to the other lifeforms inhabiting the universe. Louhi wielded the Arcanomicon, which lent her immense control over the magic that now permeated the cosmos, allowing her to coax the world to change to her will. While her comrades each examined reality through a lens of their own, Louhi's interest lay on understanding the deeper connections between magic and nature, as well as the minds and souls of living things.
After a wondrous but brief tour of the universe, the Four settled down together. They desired peace after a lifetime of war, and wished to create a family amidst the vastness of the universe. Arath-Sodan, however, chose to withdraw from the others, her lingering connection to the Timewheel and the consequences of her actions having taken a toll on her. Plagued by sporadic episodes of disorientation and confusion, she retreated into solitude, leaving the four Relic Bearers to explore the universe they had birthed.
Giving themselves over to their new desires, Louhi and Oberon fell deeply in love, and from their union several children were born. However, their passionate relationship did not last. Eventually, Oberon found solace in the wise and calm Frigga, and soon after the two departed to explore the cosmos side by side -- and Oberon took the children with him. Heartbroken and betrayed, Louhi found comfort in Tuisto's arms. Their affair, though heartfelt, was doomed to sorrow. Desiring solitude, Louhi ventured alone into the vast universe. Tuisto, left to raise his newborn child Valdis on his own, also sought his own path.
Each of the Four, on their journeys, bore witness to the unfolding story of this new reality. Louhi, with great wit and understanding, marveled at the infinite possibilities they had unleashed and the beauty that had blossomed in this brave new universe. As she travelled, Louhi discovered countless worlds teeming with life, each holding secrets waiting to be unveiled. Her connection to the Arcanomicon allowed her to decipher the magical patterns that wove through these realms, revealing a deeper understanding of the forces that bound them together.
Driven by her insatiable curiosity, Louhi delved into the inner workings of the creatures she met, seeking to comprehend their desires, motivations, and patterns of behavior. She became increasingly fascinated by the emotions and thoughts that guided these beings, and she sought to unravel the mysteries of the mind and soul. This brought her into close relations with many an eternal creature, and with some, she forged lasting companionships.

Reunion

After long ages spent wandering the cosmos, the Four felt a yearning to reunite and share in the experiences they had gathered during their time apart. Oberon and Frigga, who had walked the paths of the world tree together, returned to the fold with a bountiful family of a dozen offspring and a host of friends who had become part of their extended family. Their journey together had brought them wisdom and new perspectives, enriching their bond.
Louhi returned alone, her heart burdened by the passage of time. Upon her return, she discovered that the child, Valdis, had died while she was away. Valdis had been a sickly and pained child, and despite Tuisto could not heal her illness despite his best efforts. The guilt Louhi felt over this turn of events was dark and terrible. The reconnection with Tuisto, now marked by the shared tragedy, proved to be challenging, for their long separation had left chasms of unspoken emotions between them.
Louhi was compelled to stay not only for the sake of stricken Tuisto, but also to observe Oberon's relationship with Frigga and their offspring. As the Four spent more and more time together, Louhi could not help but feel a twinge of resentment towards Oberon and Frigga for bringing their vast family and friends into the once-intimate circle that the Relic Bearers had shared. She longed for the simplicity of their earlier days, before the complexities of passion and familial relations had altered the simple balance that once existed between them.
Despite her grievances, Louhi lived with her new family for some time. Together they loved and quarreled, grieved and laughed. Some wounds healed, while others only scarred -- and some grew ever deeper. Their great family expanded as the Four had more children with each other and with other creatures of the cosmos. And then suddenly they had their first grandchildren, and before they knew it, a new generation of Ulthgardians set out on their own quests int othe universe. Amidst the vibrant tapestry of life that was the young universe, the Ulthgardians forged deep connections and relationships -- but also deep resentments and rivalries -- sharing in all the joy, love, envy and sorrow of existence.
Over all this slow time, the many species of the Universe advanced outside the Ulthgardians' influence, learning to master techonology and magic. As powerful sorcerers learned spells of translocation and traversal, the cosmos opened up to their peoples. Unbeknownst to the Four, the face of the universe would soon be scarred by the fires of war...

Utopia

As the Four recounted the many stories of their travels to each other and their family, they discussed at length the many struggles -- and the great potential -- of the younger races. They began to feel a growing desire to uplift and guide these beings, much like Arath-Sodan had once done for nascent Ulthgard before the dawn of Time. They recognized that with their vast knowledge and the divine powers granted by the Progenitor Relics, they had the ability to bring about positive change for these civilizations, helping them to overcome adversity and reach for greatness.
Together, they debated how to create worlds of utopic splendor, where tranquility and perfection would reign supreme -- where all beings, including themselves, could live in peace and plenty. Each person held a unique vision of the perfect paradise. Louhi, with her deep understanding of the mind and soul, believed that a world that was governed by great intellect and spirit would foster unending harmony. Frigga envisioned a world teeming with lush gardens and vibrant ecosystems, where all creatures could thrive. Tuisto sought to create a realm there was no suffering or sickness or death, while proud Oberon aspired to build a world governed by order and equality.
However, the Four and their children managed to create no world nor civilization that pleased all of them. Each eventually began their individual experiments, shaping worlds that reflected their unique visions of utopia. Louhi, fascinated by the intricacies of the mind and soul, sought to create an autocratic society of enlightenment and magic. In Norna -- a world she had carefully engineered and sculpted by hand -- knowledge and arcane power reigned supreme, and peace and prosperity were the hallmarks of existence. The society flourished under her strict rule, and its citizens enjoyed lives free from want or strife.
However, the cosmos was seething with violent conflict, and its wars and tensions began to encroach upon her realm -- some of those wars sparked by her family members and their own utopia projects. These external pressures gradually seeped into Louhi's corner of the cosmos, threatening the harmony that she had so meticulously crafted. She was furious with her family for their carelessness, for she herself had done nothing to provoke aggression towards Norna.
Despite her efforts to maintain the peace and stability of her society, the outside forces proved too great to overcome. Norna, once a beacon of enlightenment and magic, crumbled under the weight of the cosmic conflicts that raged around it, ultimately descending into chaos and destruction, as the flames of war consumed its once-great achievements.

Great War

The Ulthgardians, once again faced with the prospect of war, found themselves struggling to adapt to the chaos engulfing the cosmos. Oberon, recognizing the need to take action, found it difficult to persuade Louhi to join the battle once more. She bore a grudge for the fall of Norna, and she had grown weary of the seemingly endless cycles of conflict.
It took much convincing, but Louhi finally agreed to fight alongside her family. Lead by godly champions that wielded the powers of creation itself and reinforced by Tuisto's legions of valkyries, the Ulthgardian offensive was overwhelmingly devastating. Louhi found every victory more empty than the last. Over their campaigns, the two of them momentarily rekindled the once-bright spark of love and passion between them. This reunion, though intense, had disastrous consequences, as the emotional turmoil and personal struggles it unleashed only added to the chaos of the ongoing war.
Despite the Ulthgardians' unmatched prowess in battle, the vast scale of the conflict meant that there were always more enemies to fight. No matter how many foes they vanquished, the tide of battle seemed unending, and the Ulthgardians gained no lasting peace or security from their participation in the war. And indeed, nevermore would the universe know peace, for the endless battles continue to this day as the so-called Divine Conflict.

Glimpse of terror

In one particularly perilous encounter during the Ulthgardians' campaign against the bloodthirsty peoples of the universe, the Four Relic Bearers found themselves facing a vicious and cunning adversary – the warlord Karzagar, who led a ruthless horde of marauders known as the Drakthar. This horde had amassed a vast empire through terror and violence, leaving in their wake a trail of destruction. Karzagar had become infamous throughout the cosmos for his insatiable hunger for conquest. He had learned of the legendary Ulthgardians and their divine powers, and sought to test his mettle against them, believing that defeating them would further solidify his rule..
The Ulthgardians were drawn into a fierce battle against the Drakthar hordes on the once-verdant world of Elyria. The planet had been transformed into a desolate wasteland by Kharzak's forces, its once-lush forests and gleaming cities reduced to ashes. As the Ulthgardians fought to protect the remnants of Elyria's people and drive back the Drakthar, they wanted to punish Karzagar's bloodthirst -- as well as his dangerous ambition -- with unstoppable force. They devised a magical ritual which would channel the energies of the Progenitor Relics to scatter the Drakthar legions and heal the world of Elyria with a single stroke.
As the combined might of the Relics surged forth, Karzagar and his vile forces were swept away, and Elyria blossomed once more into a verdant paradise. Yet, amidst the tempest of arcane energies, Louhi and Frigga found themselves entwined in a shared vision: an Old God from the Void beyond space and time, bore witness to the formidable power of their incantation, its indescribable multitude of malevolent eyes gazing upon the two women. It not only saw them -- it knew them.
The vision left the Ulthgardians deeply unsettled. Had they roused an Old God from its slumber? Or perhaps more than one? Were these unknowable beings returning, or already on their way? With Arath-Sodan's whereabouts unknown, the Four faced a disquieting uncertainty. The Relics' great might could not be unleashed without forethought. The vision served as a dire omen, compelling them to reflect upon the ramifications of wielding such power, and casting a pall of doubt over the future of their campaign.

Creation of Amanor

Disillusioned and weary, the Ulthgardians resolved to abandon the war, choosing to remove themselves entirely from planar politics. Naturally, some of the younger generations found it difficult to leave the vast cosmos behind. They had not witnessed the horrors of the Old Gods and thus harbored no fear for them. Despite the Four's earnest warnings and tales of the dangers that lurked in the great beyond, these spirited youths remained determined to explore the universe. It was Oberon's unwavering resolve that ultimately brought their children to heed their words. They would no longer meddle with other species. Instead, they journeyed to the cosmic center, the very place where they had once opened Pandora's Box, intending to create a single world for themselves to inhabit.
Trepidation gripped them as they once more assembled Pandora's Box from the Aether, the Grail, and the Animus. Fearful that the ritual might inadvertently summon the Old Gods, they proceeded with the utmost caution. Taking great care, they opened the Box only the slightest bit, just enough to allow a sliver of its power to escape.
From the Box emerged a swirling mass of chaotic magics, a maelstrom of elemental matter imbued with the energies of life and sentience. From this storm of raw creation, a wondrous and singular world of green and blue emerged: a planet of oceans and forests, of deserts and mountains. This vibrant, spherical haven took shape before their eyes, offering the Ulthgardians a sanctuary where they could retreat from the chaos that had consumed the universe. And the named their new home Amanor.

The Dawn Age begins

Amanor was a wondrous world of natural diversity, with different biomes and changing seasons, teeming with flora and fauna that the Ulthgardians had never before seen. The land flourished under the watchful gaze of two astral bodies born from the Box: Iona and Etro, who took the form of the sun and the moon. These living entities orbited close around Amanor, providing light and guiding the cycles of day and night, of summer and winter. And in this wondrous garden walked a newborn race of beautiful and childlike creatures: the first of the fey.
The Ulthgardians settled on Amanor to live among its many inhabitants. Their intent was not to uplift or impose their will upon the diverse creatures, but rather to immerse themselves in the simplicity and serenity of a life connected to nature. They embraced the rhythm of the seasons and the harmonious existence that Amanor offered, finding solace and reprieve from the strife they had known throughout their long lives. Tuisto, ever consumed by grief and fear of loss, used the power of the Animus to create the Cycle of Souls. This cosmic mechanism allows souls to linger in the world as spirits for years or even decades before joining the Living Infinite.
These times would later be known as the Dawn Age of Amanor, and forever would it be harkened back to as a golden age of harmony.

Discord

Over the years they spent on Amanor, a change occurred in the Ulthgardians' approach to their self-imposed exile. Oberon granted Frigga permission to use the Grail and the Aether to create an entirely new species of fey. In her skilled hands, the Sidhe were born -- a mighty race of eternals that would later become known as the Firstborn of the Gods. Such a display of favoritism by Oberon, however, stirred feelings of resentment in Louhi, and she questioned why Frigga was permitted to reshape the world in such a manner, while the others were expected not to dabble with the powers of creation.
The creation of the Sidhe was not the last time the Empyreals would wield the awesome power of their Relics on Amanor, and each new time further deepened the divides amongst them. Louhi was not the only one feeling resentment for the duplicity, but she was perhaps the most outspoken.
But questions of divine responsibility were not the only thing dividing the Empyreals. Their family grew and grew, its bloodlines forking and branching, mixing with the mortals and eternals of Amanor. Immortal relatives give rise to eternal relationships, and such bonds can become stronger than steel over the turning of ages -- but so too can they be made brittle.
How Louhi's relations with the other Empyreal Gods developed in the Dawn Age is an unrecountable saga of frienships and rivalries, of promises made and grievances suffered, of unanswered slights and deeds of kindness, of vengeance sworn and alliances made. In a family as vast and colorful as that of the Ulthgardians, justice is biased and truth is malleable -- believable lies can turn glory to disgrace, and deep-rooted feelings and lofty ideals can mean the difference between life and death. Parents bore the sins of their offspring, innocent were sentenced under false pretenses, the most important of words were left unsaid when they would have been needed most, and the deepest of grudges began from the most childish of whims.
Suffice it to say, that after several millenia spent on Amanor, Louhi was no-one's favorite relative.

Mortal life

But not even in this haven of natural splendor could Louhi discover the sense of belonging and tranquility that had long eluded her on her cosmic journeys. Her heart weighed down by regret, she distanced herself from others.
In her seclusion, Louhi harnessed her magic to perform a spell more powerful and transformative than any that had ever been cast. She reshaped her mind and her body, seeking to experience existence through the eyes of a mortal. Desperate for a reprieve from her past, Louhi chose to forget, to immerse herself in the simplicity of a human life. She meticulously extracted every memory of her life as an Ulthgardian and stored them within a physical vessel, hidden from her future self. Then, she transformed her essence into that of a human infant, nestling herself within the womb of a primitive woman.
And so, Louhi was reborn, living an entire human life, devoid of the knowledge of her true nature and the cosmic powers she had once wielded. As a mortal, she navigated the hardships and sorrows, the trials and triumphs, that shaped her new existence, all the while oblivious to the extraordinary heritage that lay dormant within her. When her mortal form died, a pre-planned magical contingency ...
*TBA*

The Dawn Wars

The Dawn Wars were a fierce and devastating series of conflicts that saw the Ulthgardians standing in defense of their world alongside fey, beasts, and elementals, all fighting as one against the invading forces. Louhi joined Oberon, Frigga, and Tuisto in battle, their shared hardships and the need to protect Amanor serving to unite them once more, if only temporarily. Demons, angels, and other powerful beings from across the cosmos had breached the veil that protected Amanor, seeking to conquer and claim the hidden paradise for themselves. As the battles raged on, the Ulthgardians' mastery of the Progenitor Relics proved invaluable in turning the tide against the relentless invaders.
Throughout the Dawn Wars, the unity of Amanor's defenders stood as a testament to the deep bond that had formed between the world's inhabitants and the Ulthgardians. However, tensions arose between the Ulthgardians as they argued over how their impenetrable spells of shielding might have been breached. Louhi was blamed for incompetence, while she, in turn, accused Oberon and Frigga of being careless with their family. She believed that it must have been one of their several runaway children who had betrayed the secret of Amanor to the warlords of the cosmos.

Divinity

*TBA*

Hag of the North

*TBA*

Fimbulwinter

*TBA*

Death

The Hag of the North was brought before the gathered Empyreals, defiant in her defeat, spitting curses and insults. She was bound in enchanted shackles that sapped her of magic, but the other gods were suspicious of her secret arts and feared to hear her speak. Oberon stepped forth, forced open Louhi's mouth, and ripped off her tongue with bare hands. He then gave voice to his dissappointment in his former consort and proclaimed the judgment of the Empyreals. The Allfather dragged the Hag to a stake on top of a great mound of stone and wood, and the pyre was lit with pure elemental fire drawn from the Aether. And the Traitor Goddess burned.

As white-hot flames engulfed her, Louhi's tongueless screams rang across the last battlefield of Fimbulwinter, piercing through the crackle and hiss of the pyre. A delicate snow was falling from a cloudless night sky, and so great was the fire's warmth that the flakes turned to rain and ice melted on the ground. The Empyreals observed the execution in silence, fierce Oberon at the front, his face flush with rage, clenched fists burning with magic. Louhi's wails were joined by the sobbing of young Loki, who was sad to see her mother come to such suffering. It was then that Nyx stepped forth, laying hands on the boy and easing his sorrow. Perhaps to distract the boy from his mother's screams, Nyx began a mournful dirge. Oberon shot her a deadly glare, at which the goddess Seldariel joined the singing, stepping beside her daughter as a sign of protection.

I dream of old age
I dream of death
Where stars haunt darkling skies
Old and dead -- dark and red
You have two faces
O grim silence

— Dirge sung by Nyx and Seldariel beside Loviatar's pyre

And so died the feared Hag of the North, crying her agony and rage on a pyre, as a great god and fallen hero that was sung for only by an innocent child and the sister she had grown to hate. In great pain she died, screaming her throat bloody as the flames reached inside her, and eerie snow fell ever thicker. Swearing vengeance she died, face to face with her young son, face to face with enemies that once were her family. And all their hearts were broken by betrayal.

Undeath

*TBA*

Gathering the Chosen

*TBA*

Ragnarok begins

*TBA*

The Disciples rise

*TBA*

Ragnarok ends

*TBA*

Evil will not die with me, for evil is not of me! Lay at my feet all the blame you cannot bear yourself, but 'twas not me that made the world this way. Evil is in me just as much as it is in you, and just so 'tis too in the hearts our children. But I did not seed it there, I only make use of it!

— Loviatar before her death in Ragnarok

Eternal machinator

*TBA*
Loviatar's greatest desire is vengeance upon the Empyreal Gods. To achieve ultimate victory, she weaves a great web of machinations that stretches across all the universe, moving innumerable pieces on an endless gaming board with unwavering patience. Her schemes are nested within other schemes, hidden behind feints, complex to the point of absurdity, and stretched over millenia. Innumerable are her faithful servants, uncountable the creatures that do her work unknowingly. No war is fought in the Divine Conflict without her having a stake in it, and no secret plain is laid without her having prepared for it.