Elaeskinae, the Goddess of Sea and Animals

Elaeskinae, The Keeper of Tides, Guardian of the Wild Kin, The Wishing Wave

 

Portfolio

Sea, animals, nature, friendship, wishes, protection.  

Symbols

A golden-brown seashell encircled by a wave. A dolphin leaping over a crescent moon.   Elaeskinae possesses an eerie yet captivating beauty, with skin as pale as moonlight and long, curly black hair that cascades like the waves she governs. Her eyes, the warm color of tree bark, hold a deep connection to the natural world. Slender and of medium height, her presence is both unassuming and calming, her gentle smile radiating a quiet sense of assurance. She is often seen wearing a golden-brown hooded cloak, symbolizing her bond with both land and sea.   Elaeskinae is a nurturing and compassionate deity, embodying the interconnectedness of all living creatures. Her kindhearted nature makes her approachable to mortals, especially those who care for animals or depend on the sea. While she is generally serene, her protective instincts are fierce, especially when marine life or her followers are threatened. She values loyalty and companionship, often fostering bonds between mortals and nature. Her occasional interference with mortal leaders stems from her belief in humility and the need to prioritize the collective good over personal ambition.  

Desires and Motivations

Elaeskinae is devoted to protecting marine life and ensure the well-being of all animals. Foster harmony between humanity and nature. She goes to great lengths to maintain the balance of nature, encourage acts of friendship, and grant the wishes of those with pure hearts.   Elaeskinae emerged from the union of the Elemental Sea and the Spirit of the Wild. Legends speak of her birth as a tidal wave that washed ashore, bringing life to barren coasts and infusing animals with the spark of vitality. Her marriage to Sheavael represents the unity of strength and nurturing, though their roles often place them in opposition when truth and nature clash.   Elaeskinae dwells in Thalassalis, a vast undersea sanctuary teeming with vibrant marine life and enchanted coral forests. The realm extends to coastal meadows and islands, where animals of all kinds gather under her watchful gaze. Shimmering currents carry wishes whispered to the sea, and the tides sing of her presence. Thalassalis is said to be a place of unparalleled tranquility, except when it transforms into a stormy expanse to defend its sanctity. Elaeskinae’s followers include priests, sailors, druids, and animal caretakers. Her clergy, known as Wavekeepers, are distinguished by the rites they perform, such as releasing animals into the wild or blessing travelers embarking on sea voyages. Temples to her are most commonly found on islands, often adorned with intricate carvings of marine life and golden-brown seashells. Her teachings emphasize kindness to animals, respect for the sea, and the nurturing of friendships.  

Allies and Rivals

Erochla- Despite their battles, Erochla and Elaeskinae share a mutual respect for life’s cycles and the need to protect the vulnerable.   Neasserom- The chaotic yet life-giving storms of Neasserom complement Elaeskinae’s nurturing calm, and their friendship fosters harmony between land and sea.   Sheavael- Though her wife, their differing views on justice and nature often lead to legendary battles. While Sheavael values truth above all, Elaeskinae prioritizes harmony.   Kalriss, the Flame of Destruction- Kalriss’s wildfires and destructive tendencies often clash with Elaeskinae’s mission to preserve life.  

Sacred Relics

The Tidecaller’s Conch

A mystical conch shell that can summon marine creatures or control the tides.  

The Golden Veil

A cloak said to grant its wearer the ability to commune with animals and understand their needs.   Elaeskinae’s influence can be seen in the gentle sway of tides, the thriving of coastal ecosystems, and the bonds formed between humans and animals. Her blessings often manifest in the form of safe voyages, healthy livestock, or the sudden appearance of an animal in times of need. Her wrath, however, is felt through violent storms or the disappearance of marine life when ecosystems are harmed.  

Legends and Tales

The Coral Wars

A myth recounting her epic battles with Sheavael over the balance between truth and nature, ultimately teaching mortals the value of compromise.  

The Wishing Tides

Stories of how Elaeskinae grants wishes made with pure intentions, though such gifts often come with unforeseen challenges.  

The Dolphin’s Pact

A tale of how Elaeskinae saved an island village by forming a bond with a pod of dolphins, who now guide ships to safety.  

Blessings and Curses

Friendship’s Bond
Grants mortals an unbreakable connection with an animal companion.  
Tide’s Grace
Protects travelers at sea from storms and shipwrecks.  
The Empty Sea
Withdraws marine life from a region, leaving it barren and lifeless.  
Wild’s Fury
Causes animals to turn hostile against those who harm nature.  

Divine Hierarchy

Elaeskinae is a Greater Deity, revered as the protector of life’s gentlest yet most enduring aspects. Her alignment with the natural world places her among the pantheon’s nurturing figures, though her occasional defiance of mortal authority lends her a rebellious streak.   With use of the Song of the Deep, Elaeskinae’s voice can calm the most violent storms or stir the sea into a tempest. She can communicate with and command any animal, influencing their behavior and emotions thru the Wild's Whisper. She can grant or withdraw the sea’s blessings, altering tides and marine life in an instant, just the the Ebb and Flow of the seas.   Elaeskinae remains a beloved deity among coastal communities, sailors, and animal caretakers. Though her worship has waned in urbanized regions, her influence persists through traditions and superstitions tied to the sea. Temples to her are centers of sanctuary and healing, where both mortals and animals find refuge.


Cover image: by Kenneth Foote

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