Seraphina Character in Nethdria | World Anvil

Seraphina

Goddess of Love and Emotion

Seraphina is the Goddess of Love, Emotion, Sensuality, Motherhood, Fertility, and Passion, considered a very popular goddess among humans, halflings, and many fey races. From her rose quartz palace along the sweet pink river banks of her celestial realm, Rosebloom, she instructs her devotees to find solace in love, community, hope, and tenderness. She is also called the Heavenly Mother for her protective embrace of her followers. She has a playful, affectionate disposition, encouraging mortals to enjoy the good things the divines created with wisdom and temperance.   Around the continent, many chapels dedicate themselves to Seraphina, though her priesthood differs in some key ways from conventional clergy - not only do they offer services to couples seeking marriage, but they are also freely permitted, even encouraged, to express themselves sexually. It's common for her priests and priestesses to celebrate the goddess through fertility rituals, finding the tender touch of Seraphina in their adoration of the flesh.  

Worship

Individuals devoted to Seraphina engage in regular personal reflection, taking moments of solitude to connect with their own emotions and the feelings of others. Through meditation, prayer, or introspection, they strive to deepen their understanding of love, nurture their empathy, and align their actions with the compassionate path set forth by the Goddess.   Devotees often present offerings to Seraphina as an expression of devotion and gratitude. Fresh roses, particularly of vibrant colors and intoxicating fragrances, are laid at her altars or sacred spaces, symbolizing the beauty and passion inherent in love. Fragrant incense, such as rose or sandalwood, is burned to fill the air with a soothing ambiance and evoke a sense of sacred connection.

Divine Domains

Love, emotion, passion, fertility

Artifacts

Elixir of Passion

A rare and potent elixir distilled from the nectar of enchanted roses grown in Seraphina's realm. This elixir is said to awaken dormant passions, deepen emotional connections, and enhance sensual experiences. It is used in rituals dedicated to love, intimacy, and the celebration of life's profound moments. Chapels in service to her have a portion of the elixir that they use for their sexual rituals, anointments of babies, and marriage ceremonies.  

Harmony's Embrace

A celestial bow crafted from the finest rosewood, infused with the essence of Seraphina's divine love and compassion. Its elegant curves are adorned with intricate carvings of entwined roses, shimmering with a soft, iridescent glow. When drawn, the bowstring, woven from strands of ethereal light, hums with a melodious resonance, captivating all who hear it.   Harmony's Embrace possesses a unique enchantment that reflects Seraphina's benevolent nature. Its arrows, guided by the love-infused energies of the bow, carry not only physical force but also a soothing, healing essence. When fired upon allies, these enchanted arrows mend wounds, ease emotional distress, and restore vitality, spreading a wave of comfort and serenity. Conversely, when directed at foes, the arrows sow seeds of compassion and empathy, temporarily pacifying aggression and prompting introspection.

Divine Symbols & Sigils

A heart with divine rays behind it, rose quartz, a rose

Tenets of Faith

Love. Combat the forces of evil and darkness with love and mercy.   Protect. Protect those who cannot protect themselves.   Kindness. Where compassion is found, strengthen it.   Understand. Come to a common understanding before resorting to bloodshed.   Selflessness. Do good to others even when there is no strategic reason, what goes around comes around.

Holidays

Rosebloom Festival

Held during the peak of spring, when nature bursts forth in vibrant colors and fragrant blossoms, the Rosebloom Festival is a grand celebration of love and fertility. The streets and homes are adorned with cascades of roses in all hues, and the air is filled with their sweet fragrance. Couples exchange tokens of affection, and matchmaking activities take place, guided by the belief that Seraphina's blessings can unite soulmates. The festival culminates in a grand ball, where attendees don elegant attire and dance under the soft glow of rose-hued lanterns.  

Feast of Maternal Gratitude

This heartfelt celebration takes place on the full moon of the harvest season, honoring the divine gift of motherhood and the nurturing power of Seraphina. Families gather for a lavish feast, expressing gratitude for the mothers in their lives. Elaborate dishes featuring ingredients known for their fertility symbolism, such as pomegranates and figs, are prepared. Gifts of appreciation are presented to mothers, and heartfelt prayers are offered for their well-being and the prosperity of future generations.  

Lovers' Embrace

Observed on the first day of summer, the Lovers' Embrace marks a time when passions run high and the world brims with the energy of love. Couples exchange vows of commitment in serene gardens adorned with blooming roses. Festivities include poetry recitals, love-themed art exhibitions, and intimate musical performances. The day is seen as an opportunity for individuals to express their affections openly and to renew the bonds of love in their lives.  

Day of Compassionate Unity

Celebrated during the winter solstice, the Day of Compassionate Unity highlights the importance of community, kindness, and compassion. People come together to perform acts of charity, extending support to the less fortunate. Warm meals and gifts are distributed, and community centers organize events promoting solidarity and empathy. The day concludes with a candle-lit ceremony, where individuals pledge to carry the virtues of love, kindness, and compassion throughout the year, spreading Seraphina's message of unity and hope.
Divine Classification
God
Realm
Church/Cult
Children
Eyes
Pink
Hair
Blonde, very long and wavy
Skin Tone/Pigmentation
Light