Shoka

The Matron (a.k.a. Defender of the Flock, the Hunting Hawk of Athelia)

The LXVI (The 66th)

God Queen of the Athelians. She is the only surviving God Queen of the original four Gods that were worshipped by the Athelians at the start of the War of Zealots and Martyrs. It was she who, alongside Abelech the Apostate, helped him in the Darcassian conquest of Kiimati. Once Shoka was a Queen of Athelia. As a mortal woman she laid the groundwork for the future relationship between the Darcassians and the Athelians. While she was Queen she united many of the tribes under her banner and protected them from enemies. Fearing for her people's safety, she undertook a pilgrimage to Zarmuda where she passed all the trials and ascended. She continued her faith journey, eventually ascending to Godhood as the 66th of the God Kings and Queens. Shoka is the patron of horses, the protector of Athelians, archery, and shepherds. Athelians worship her by ringing bells that recall the humble occupation of many Athelian tribesmen. Other times Athelians will inscribe their names on a chunk of wood and recite a prayer. They then burn the wood, hoping that the smoke will carry their request to Shoka. She is often portrayed like any regular Athelian horse archer. Shoka is followed into battle by the ancestral spirits of Athelians past. Alongside her riders Shoka is followed by all kinds of predators that prowl the Athelian Steppes. Shoka represents the fierce savagery Athelians display in battle as well as the quiet, gentle life of wandering and living off the land as many Athelians do.

"She is our Hawkeyed Matron, stronger than any Wyvern, faster than any horse, and braver than all that walk or ride upon the land." Agadai Catheric, Shaman Queen of Athelia

Religions