Odes
Odes is almost always depicted the same way. A tall figure in black regal robes of a magistrate, with a long wig of those who hold such offices, yet his face is never seen. Some depiction show him with a sword.
Odes is stern, rigid, and unyielding in his commitment to the Law. He uses the Counsels to represent both sides of a case, and after a trial Odes presents his Judgment. Now just because he is uncompromising in the letter of the law, this does not mean he is completely uncaring as many of the laws in the Mortal realm were originally created by Odes. Now he sees to higher laws, Laws of Nature, Laws of Physics, Laws of Magic, Laws of Life and Death, and much more.
Odes has presided over many trials and passed judgment on the gods themselves. It was Odes who sent Pugphy out of her domain for her actions and sent Hidum to enforce this. He was also the one who sentenced The Elder to eternal imprisonment and asked Telos to apprehend it. He is feared and respected throughout the Heavens and even in the Nine Hells. He is cursed in the Abyss.
His followers tend to be among the ranks of various lawmakers, and upholders of the law such as Judges, and City Watchmen. There are few churches or temples dedicated to him, but his followers treat every courthouse as his personal holy ground.
He is not in opposition to any god, but will act as an advisor to those who seek his legal counsel. However many of the other gods find him difficult to work with due to his unbending commitment to the Law. Nydra finds many of his qualities inspiring and is constantly trying to get his attention, yet he seems uninterested entirely. A few find him gods find him just as manipulative as the worst devils.
Divine Domains
Order, Inquisition, Keeper,
Divine Symbols & Sigils
The Scales of Judgment
A pair of perfectly balanced scales. Represents Odes’ unwavering commitment to fairness and balance in judgment. The scales signify that no law is above scrutiny, and no case can be decided without weighing both sides carefully. In some depictions, the scales may have chains or bindings connecting them, indicating the inescapable nature of the law.
The Sword of Justice
The sword represents Odes' decisiveness and his ability to cut through ambiguity or falsehoods. It could also symbolize that Odes' rulings are final and irrevocable, much like the strike of a sword.
The Eternal Edict
A solid pillar inscribed with a decree or law, often with rays of light emanating from it. This symbol embodies the law’s role as an eternal and unyielding force that stands the test of time. It suggests that no mortal or god can break the fundamental laws of existence.
Tenets of Faith
"In the eyes of the law, all are equal; no station, no power, no title shall sway its judgment."
Odes teaches that justice must be impartial. The law does not favor the rich, powerful, or influential. All individuals, regardless of their position in society, are subject to the same standards of justice. In the presence of true law, there is no discrimination, and fairness prevails above all else.
"The law is the path to redemption. In following it, even the most fallen can be reborn in the light of justice."
While the law can be harsh and unforgiving, it also offers a path to redemption. Those who break the law can find forgiveness and a return to grace through proper atonement and adherence to the law. The opportunity for change and reform is always present, provided the individual accepts responsibility for their actions.
"No matter how great the crime, all are entitled to a fair trial. The accused shall be heard, and their rights upheld in the eyes of the law."
Odes insists on fairness and due process for all, regardless of the crime committed. Even the guilty must have the opportunity to present their case before judgment is passed. This tenet ensures that justice is carried out with respect for the individual’s dignity and rights, maintaining fairness in all proceedings.
Rituals
The Weighing of the Soul
This is a deeply spiritual ritual for self-reflection, mirroring the ultimate divine judgment. The participant is placed in a darkened chamber, alone with only their thoughts, while they reflect on their moral actions and inner balance. The individual is asked to hold two items—a feather (symbolizing lightness, good deeds) and a stone (symbolizing heaviness, wrongdoing). As they meditate, they must weigh both items carefully, evaluating their actions and whether they lean toward light or darkness. This ritual asks the participant to confront their soul’s true nature—whether they lean toward justice or corruption, righteousness or vice. If the participant reaches balance and finds peace in their choices, they are rewarded with a spiritual blessing. If they struggle and cannot find balance, they are given time to meditate and seek atonement for their misdeeds.
The Penance of Chains
This ritual is for those seeking atonement or wishing to pay a penance for a specific misdeed. The participant physically binds themselves in symbolic chains to reflect on the constraints of their wrongdoing. During this time, they must reflect on their actions, meditate on their guilt, and perform a task of penitence. The chains represent the burden of sin or wrongdoing, reminding the individual of their responsibility and the weight of their actions. The binding is a visual reminder that justice requires accountability, and one must bear the consequences of their decisions. Upon completion, the chains may be broken or released, symbolizing freedom from guilt.
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