Tarian, God Of Dance

(a.k.a. The Weaver Of Steps / The Eternal Choreographer)

"Tarian dances not for beauty alone, but to shape the very flow of fate. In his steps, we find both freedom and destiny intertwined."

— Limerra Dawndancer, mystic and philosopher of Aeralisara.

Tarian, The God Of Dance, is revered deity of dance and performance, and who is the embodiment of grace, motion, and the eternal rhythm that flows through all existence. He is not just an elven deity, but is also known as the Weaver of Steps and the Eternal Choreographer, he inspires mortals to embrace life as a dance, balancing freedom with discipline and chaos with order. Revered by artists, warriors, and seekers of transformation, Tarian's presence is felt in every flowing motion and heartfelt performance. His teachings celebrate creativity, harmony, and the power of change, urging his followers to leave behind stagnation and step boldly into life’s rhythm.

Realm

Tarian resides in The Rhythmic Expanse, a realm of endless shifting light and shadow where every element moves to an eternal rhythm. The plane is a boundless, dreamlike tapestry of flowing colors and shifting landscapes that seem to dance of their own accord, rolling hills sway like waves, forests hum with synchronized motion, and rivers twirl in spirals rather than straight courses.
In the heart of The Rhythmic Expanse lies The Pavilion of Eternal Motion, a grand, luminous structure suspended in the air. It is said to be made of woven starlight and threads of raw energy, constantly changing shape in harmony with the rhythms of existence. Here, Tarian presides over a ceaseless, divine performance with ethereal beings, dancers, musicians, and choreographers of unimaginable grace, who craft the dances that shape the flows of time and destiny in the mortal world.
Mortals who glimpse The Rhythmic Expanse often describe it as overwhelming, as though their bodies instinctively yearned to move in harmony with its unending music. It is a realm of inspiration, change, and profound beauty, but it is also perilous to those who resist its pull, as stillness has no place in Tarian’s domain.

Divine Domains

Major Domains:
Dance And Movement: Tarian is the absolute patron of dance, motion, and grace, influencing everything from artful performances to the natural flow of rivers and the shifting winds. He represents both freedom of movement and the discipline required to perfect it.
Creativity And Expression: Tarian inspires mortals to express themselves through motion, whether in art, combat, or ritual. He is closely associated with innovation and fluid adaptation in creative pursuits.
Rhythm And Balance: As a deity of rhythm, Tarian governs the harmony of life, emphasizing the cyclical nature of existence, day and night, growth and decay, chaos and order. His influence ensures balance through change.
Minor Domains:
Martial Arts: Tarian subtly blesses warriors who incorporate dance-like movements into combat, fostering precision, agility, and flow in battle.
Celebration And Festivity: While Baldoria presides over revelry, Tarian influences festivals and gatherings where dance is central, ensuring joy and beauty in communal expression.
Transitions And Change: Tarian holds sway over moments of transformation, such as rites of passage, turning points in life, or shifts in nature, ensuring they proceed with grace and purpose.
Winds And Currents: Tarian has a minor connection to air and water currents, embodying their ceaseless motion and fluidity. Sailors and wanderers often invoke him to navigate smooth and rhythmic paths.

"Every step we take, every movement we make, we honor the Eternal Choreographer. To dance is to live, and to live is to praise Tarian."

— Feralla Twirljump, High Priestess of the Rhythmic Order.

Holy Books & Codes

The Eternal Rhythm: written by the elven bard and high priest of The Rhythmic Order, Neldrion Freeswing. This foundational text outlines Tarian's philosophy, emphasizing the balance between freedom and discipline through dance and motion. It is divided into three sections: Harmony Of Life, which describes the divine rhythm governing existence, The Sacred Steps, which details rituals and sacred dances, and The Balance Within, offering guidance on achieving spiritual alignment through movement.
The Steps of Creation: Penned by Opalla Noonwind, a devout follower of Tarian. This is a poetic account of the creation of the world, told as a divine dance choreographed by Tarian. It describes the interplay of chaos and order as the foundation of existence, portraying the gods as performers in an eternal ballet. The book is cherished for its vivid imagery and often recited in ceremonies.
The Flowing Codex: Written by the master blacksmith Barentinell Jaberswing. This is a practical guide blending Tarian’s teachings with martial and creative disciplines. It includes instructions on crafting weapons, performing martial dances, and maintaining fluidity in all aspects of life. The Dance Of Blades, a sacred combat ritual, is described in detail.
The Choreography Of Existence: Scripted by Tiltarra Goodviews, the leader of The Rhythmic Order. This is a theological treatise exploring the deeper implications of Tarian’s philosophy. It frames life’s challenges as parts of a cosmic performance, with each individual playing a vital role. The text also includes meditative practices and symbolic dances meant to connect practitioners to the divine.
The Whispering Steps: Collected by Ravykin Songbreezel. This is a collection of songs, hymns, and chants inspired by Tarian, accompanied by instructions for their corresponding dances. It is used in festivals and rites to invoke Tarian’s blessing, promote unity, and inspire creativity.

"Tarian’s rhythm is in the rustle of leaves, the sway of tides, and the heartbeat of existence. Even the stars spin in his dance."

— Tranquilla Windsway, priestess of The Rhythmic Order.

Tenets of Faith

These tenets guide Tarian’s followers, from priests and performers to everyday believers, in their pursuit of a meaningful, dynamic life aligned with his teachings.
Life Is A Dance: Embrace every moment as a step in the grand performance of existence. Live with intention, fluidity, and grace, adapting to the rhythm of the world around you.
Balance In Motion: Strive for harmony between freedom and discipline, chaos and order. Just as a dancer needs balance to perform, so too must life find equilibrium.
Honor The Rhythm: Recognize and respect the rhythms of nature, society, and the self. Celebrate cycles of change, growth, and renewal as part of the eternal dance.
Express Through Movement: Whether in joy or sorrow, express your emotions and identity through motion, creativity, and artistry. Stagnation of the body or spirit is a denial of Tarian’s gift.
Impact Through Action: Understand that every step leaves an imprint on the world. Act with purpose, knowing your movements influence the harmony or discord of the greater whole.
Celebrate Transformation: Welcome change as an essential part of life’s choreography. Adapt to new challenges and embrace growth as part of your personal dance.
Inspire Others To Move: Encourage others to break free from stagnation, whether through art, guidance, or action. Lead by example, showing the beauty of motion and creativity.

"Some fear Tarian’s lessons, for they demand movement and change. But without his steps, the world would rot in stillness and despair."

— Remalla Highcloud, travelling sage of Ayin Kara.

Holidays

Followers of Tarian, observe several important holidays that celebrate his divine influence. They reflect the depth of Tarian’s core values and influence over dance and performance.

The Festival Of The Eternal Dance: Held during the spring equinox. This is a joyous celebration marking the renewal of life’s rhythm. Followers gather in public squares or temples to perform dances that symbolize the cycles of nature and the interconnectedness of all things. The highlight is The Dance Of Unity, where participants of all ages and backgrounds join in a massive, synchronized performance.
The Veil’s Unfolding: Held on the night of the full moon during midsummer. This mystical celebration honors Tarian’s connection to The Rhythmic Expanse. Participants don starlit veils and masks, symbolizing their transformation into divine performers. The night is filled with interpretive dances and rituals said to draw Tarian’s presence closer to the mortal realm.
The Day Of First Steps: Celebrated individually by followers on anniversaries of significant personal milestones, such as births, weddings, or initiations into Tarian’s faith. Followers honor the divine rhythm of change by performing a private or communal dance symbolizing their transition into a new phase of life.
The Harmonious Convergence: Held every five years during the autumn equinox. A grand festival where followers from all over the world gather at a sacred site, often a Hall Of Flow. They offer elaborate performances, share artistic creations, and engage in rituals of balance, symbolizing Tarian’s philosophy. The event culminates in a mesmerizing performance called The Steps Of Creation, reenacting Tarian’s role in shaping existence.
The Night Of Silent Steps: Celebrated on the longest night of the year, during the winter solstice. This is a somber yet profound holiday where followers reflect on the stillness that precedes movement. They perform slow, meditative dances, using this quiet night to connect with Tarian and reaffirm their commitment to breaking stagnation.

"The Veil’s Unfolding reminds us that no mask is permanent. Through Tarian’s dance, we shed the old and become anew, over and over."

— Maestralla Suncape, head choreographer of the Shimmerveil Troupe.

Divine Goals & Aspirations

Known Goals:
Inspire Creativity And Movement: Tarian seeks to fill the world with beauty and expression through dance, music, and artistic motion. He encourages mortals to embrace creativity as a way to connect with the divine and to one another.
Promote Harmony Through Balance: Tarian’s philosophy emphasizes the importance of balance in all things. One goal is to foster harmony between chaos and order, ensuring the cycles of life and nature remain unbroken.
Combat Stagnation: He actively opposes stagnation, whether in society, the natural world, or individual lives. Tarian inspires change and transformation as a divine necessity.

Secret Goals:
Guide The Eternal Choreography: Tarian subtly influences the "cosmic dance," weaving mortal events into a greater pattern. This secretive role positions him as an unseen conductor of fate, ensuring that the grand design remains in rhythm, even if mortals are unaware.
Unite Mortals Through Dance: Beyond inspiring individuality, Tarian’s deeper goal is to unify mortals through shared motion and expression, breaking down barriers of culture, race, and creed by reminding them of their collective role in the divine performance.
Reveal The Rhythmic Expanse: Tarian seeks to open pathways between The Rhythmic Expanse and the mortal realm, allowing mortals to glimpse the divine beauty of his plane and deepen their understanding of his philosophy.

"To resist Tarian is to stand still in the river of life, clinging to rocks as the current carves its path. Better to move, to flow, to dance."

— Parallanor Greenseeker, Ranger, master tracker and devout follower.

Physical Description

General Physical Condition

Tarian's avatar may appear differently to different people depending on his mood and circumstances, however he is often depicted as the embodiment of elven physical perfection, exuding both strength and grace. His lithe and athletic frame is a testament to fluidity and precision, with every movement appearing effortless yet purposeful. His form is lean rather than bulky, with long, toned limbs that seem perpetually in motion, as if even standing still is a dance. Tarian’s eyes shimmer like molten gold, filled with a hypnotic brilliance that seems to follow the rhythm of unseen music, drawing others into his grace. His hair flows like cascading silver threads, with subtle streaks of iridescent hues that shift like a living aurora when he moves. His skin shimmers faintly, as though touched by moonlight, and his every gesture radiates an otherworldly elegance that captivates all who behold him.

"Many mistake Tarian’s grace for simplicity. But the truth is, even his lightest steps carry the weight of the cosmos."

— Pendale Gracehand, elven poet and chronicler of divine lore.

Mental characteristics

Morality & Philosophy

Tarian, the God of Dance, embodies the philosophy that life itself is a continuous dance, a balance between freedom and discipline, chaos and order. His morality centers on the idea that movement, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, is essential for growth and harmony. Tarian encourages his followers to embrace change, express their individuality through movement, and find beauty in fleeting moments of perfection.
His philosophy emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things, likening every action to a step in the grand choreography of existence. Tarian values creativity, adaptability, and the courage to perform one's unique role in the world's dance, even in the face of adversity. Stagnation, he believes, is the true sin, as it disrupts the natural rhythm of life.

"Tarian’s touch is in the clash of swords as much as the swirl of skirts. He dances in the heat of battle, as well as in the revel of joy."

— Karana Swifthand, martial artist and dancer.

Pantheon:

Tarian is most closely affiliated with the elven pantheon known as the Eight Points Of Light. These deities consist of Raksturs, God Of Nature, Spurcus, God Of Beasts, Mimea, Goddess Of Plants, Alegria, Goddess Of Serenity And Happiness, Sanaa, Goddess Of Art, Baldoria, Goddess Of Revelry, Daina, Goddess Of Music And Songs, and Tarian, God Of Dance.

Divine Classification

God - The Recens

Alignment

Chaotic Good

Circumstances of Birth

Heeding the prayers from dancers and performers, Tarian was born from the Divine Essence shortly after civilizations developed in Domen Aria.

Birthplace

The Divine Essence

Current Residence

The Pavilion Of Eternal Motion, in the realm known as The Rhythmic Expanse.

Gender

Male

Eyes

Golden, hypnotic eyes that seems to follow a rhythmic musical beat.

Hair

Cascading, iridescent hued, silver hair that shifts and flows with every movement.

Skin Tone/Pigmentation

White, shimmery, ethereal moonlight colored skin.

Appears in...

• Riddle Of The Elven Pantheon

Divine Symbols & Sigils

Tarian, is represented by several divine symbols and sigils, each imbued with deep meaning that reflects his essence and domains. These symbols are commonly worn as pendants, embroidered on garments, or displayed in sacred spaces to invoke Tarian’s blessings and guidance.
The Spiraling Step: A circular symbol of interwoven, flowing lines forming the shape of a dancer mid-spin. It represents the eternal rhythm of life and the interconnectedness of all things through motion. The circular design emphasizes unity, balance, and the unending flow of existence.
The Crescent Veil: A crescent moon adorned with trailing ribbons or threads that mimic the movement of fabric in a dance. It symbolizes grace, fluidity, and the divine inspiration Tarian grants to his followers. The crescent shape reflects the cycles of change and the harmony of opposites.
The Radiant Footprint: A single, glowing footprint surrounded by faint ripples, as if stepping on water. It represents Tarian’s divine touch and the power of motion to shape the world. The ripples signify the impact of every step, reminding followers that even the smallest actions resonate through life.
The Twin Ribbons: Two parallel, spiraling ribbons in silver and gold that twist together without ever touching. It reflects the balance of freedom and discipline in Tarian’s teachings. The ribbons symbolize the dualities of existence, chaos and order, light and dark, movement and stillness.
The Starlit Mask: A sleek, featureless mask adorned with tiny, glittering stars along its edges. It represents the transformative power of dance, allowing mortals to step beyond their limitations and into a divine performance. The stars signify inspiration, mystery, and the connection to The Rhythmic Expanse.

Religious Artifacts:

The Silver Slippers: A pair of radiant, silver-threaded slippers that shimmer with ethereal light. When worn, they grant the wearer unparalleled grace and agility, allowing them to perform impossible feats of movement and precision. In battle, they imbue the wearer with the ability to anticipate and avoid attacks as if they are part of a dance. The slippers also inspire others nearby, boosting morale and cohesion. They were crafted by a legendary elven artisan and devout follower, Cyrinalla Moonstep. She claimed Tarian visited her in a dream and guided her hand in weaving starlight into the fabric of the slippers. They are believed to reside in the Hall Of Flow in the elven city of Aeralisara, though rumors persist they were stolen during a war.
The Chimeblade: A slender, curved sword forged of enchanted steel that sings with every swing, its notes harmonizing with the wielder’s movements. The blade enhances its bearer’s combat skills, blending offense and defense into a seamless rhythm. It can project waves of sound capable of disarming or incapacitating foes. It was forged by the master blacksmith Jaelit Starcalla, who was a devout follower of Tarian and renowned for blending martial craftsmanship with artistry. Legend says Jaelit danced as he forged the blade, channeling Tarian’s essence. It was lost during the fall of the city of Sterrendans, it is said to lie in the ruins, guarded by spectral dancers who test the worthiness of any seeking to claim it.
The Luminous Veil: A shimmering cloak of translucent light that flows like liquid silk. It is said to grant its wearer the ability to move unseen when in motion, rendering them invisible as they dance through the shadows. The veil is also a symbol of divine protection, shielding its bearer from magical attacks. It was created by the priestess Kelyra Starwhirla, leader of The Rhythmic Order. She imbued the veil with the prayers and movements of hundreds of Tarian’s followers during a month long festival of devotion. It is kept as a sacred relic in the Pavilion Of Eternal Motion in Tarian’s ethereal realm. Only those deemed worthy by Tarian’s priests may summon it into the mortal world.
The Orb Of Harmony: A perfectly smooth, iridescent sphere that pulses with a steady, rhythmic glow. It harmonizes discordant energies, bringing peace and unity to those who touch it. The orb is used in ceremonies to mend broken alliances or to soothe unrest in chaotic regions. It was forged by Raftatarn Steepvale, a wandering bard and priest of Tarian. She claimed to have sung and danced continuously for a year to infuse the orb with divine power. It is currently held by the Shimmerveil Troupe, who use it in their performances to inspire harmony in audiences and protect themselves from malevolent forces.
The Stepstone: A large, polished, circular stone engraved with intricate, ever-shifting patterns that resemble a dance in motion. When placed in a location, it imbues the area with Tarian’s blessing, creating a sanctuary where no violence can occur, and all are compelled to move in harmonious rhythm. It was commissioned by The Silent Step sect and carved by Miranli Travella, a wandering stonemason and devotee. The artifact was consecrated through a series of elaborate rituals performed by The Rhythmic Order. Its last known use was during a peace summit between warring factions 3000 years ago, after which it disappeared. Some believe it was destroyed, others claim it was hidden by The Keepers Of Stillness to undermine Tarian’s influence.

Worshippers And Organizations Of Tarian

The Rhythmic Order: The most prominent organization devoted to Tarian, The Rhythmic Order, consists of dancers, bards, and martial artists who believe that dance is the ultimate expression of divine will. Their grand temples, called Halls Of Flow, feature wide, open spaces adorned with enchanted mosaics that shift in rhythm with the movements of those inside. Followers of The Order use dance to invoke blessings, celebrate festivals, and even train warriors, blending combat with the grace of dance.
The Shimmerveil Troupe: A nomadic group of performers who see Tarian as their muse. They travel the world, spreading his philosophy through awe-inspiring performances that blur the line between mortal artistry and divine inspiration. The Troupe is said to include secret priests of Tarian who use sacred dances to heal or guide lost souls.
The Silent Step: A secretive cult that believes Tarian's philosophy has a darker interpretation. They claim that stagnation, the great sin in Tarian’s doctrine, must be purged through destruction. This shadowy sect trains assassins who kill those they deem "unmoving", tyrants, hoarders of knowledge, or anyone resisting progress. Their signature, leaving a black feather at the scene, symbolizes the step of change.

Factions And Opposition Of Tarian

The Keepers Of Stillness: A devout faction that opposes Tarian’s teachings, believing his emphasis on movement and change brings chaos and instability. They worship a supposed, rival deity of stasis and permanence, striving to preserve traditions, maintain rigid order, and suppress what they see as Tarian’s chaotic influence. Their temples are austere, with rigid geometric designs that reject the fluid artistry associated with Tarian.
The Anchorites Of The Root: This reclusive sect opposes Tarian’s disdain for stagnation. They argue that roots must remain steadfast for the tree to flourish, and that his teachings threaten to uproot the foundation of society. Their doctrine venerates stillness, reflection, and tradition over action and spontaneity, making them vocal critics of his philosophy.

Rumors

The Forbidden Dance: Some whisper of a sacred dance known as The Final Step, taught only to Tarian’s most devout followers. It is said to grant the dancer immense power but at the cost of their mortal life, transforming them into an eternal performer within The Rhythmic Expanse.
A Rival Deity: It is rumored that Tarian was once a mortal who ascended to godhood by outdancing a rival deity of stasis in a contest of cosmic proportions. The defeated deity's essence supposedly lingers, seeking revenge by creating forces of stagnation to counter Tarian’s influence.
The Hidden Spiral: Followers of Tarian speak of a secret, ever-shifting temple called The Hidden Spiral that appears only to those deemed worthy. Legends claim the temple holds the blueprint for the "perfect dance," said to harmonize all planes of existence but feared for the potential unintended chaos it might unleash.
The Shadowed Step: Some believe that Tarian harbors a darker side, tied to The Silent Step cult, whose assassins claim to carry out his will. While The Rhythmic Order denounces this, others suggest Tarian condones their actions as a necessary part of maintaining the cosmic balance.
The Mortal Choreographer: It is rumored that Tarian walks among mortals in disguise, taking the form of a wandering dancer or choreographer to inspire and guide the most gifted performers. Many who claim to have seen him, describe a figure of extraordinary grace, but his identity remains unconfirmed.