Than
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Goddess of the Dead Than
Than, the Goddess of Death and Transition, is one of the most revered and enigmatic figures in the divine pantheon. As the eternal custodian of life’s natural balance, she governs the passage of souls from the mortal plane to the Veil, ensuring the cycle of life, death, and reincarnation remains unbroken. Though often feared by mortals, Than is not a malevolent force. Her presence represents the inevitability of endings but also the promise of renewal.
Than’s role transcends mortality, touching all realms and beings. She is both a guide and a guardian, offering comfort to those who accept the inevitability of death and justice to those who defy its sanctity. Her union with Hestina, the Goddess of the Sun, embodies the perfect harmony between light and shadow, life and decay. Mortals invoke her name in solemn moments, not as a harbinger of doom but as a compassionate force ensuring that no soul is ever truly lost.
Divine Domains
Than, the Goddess of Death and Transition, is the sovereign of the Veil—the enigmatic boundary between life and death. Her domain encompasses the natural cycle of existence, presiding over decay, renewal, and the passage of souls to their rightful destinations. With her blackened veins coursing like shadowed rivers beneath her pale skin, Than embodies the quiet power of endings and beginnings. Stern but deeply compassionate, she judges each soul with fairness, offering redemption even to those steeped in darkness. Worshippers honour her as a deity of justice, transformation, and hope, turning to her in rituals of mourning and renewal. Than’s philosophy reflects her unwavering commitment to balance, second chances, and the profound sanctity of every soul’s journey, reminding mortals that death is not an end but a vital step in the eternal cycle of life.
Artifacts
Throughout history, Than has been honoured through a multitude of artifacts, monuments, flora, and fauna. These symbols not only celebrate her dominion over death and transition but also embody the complex duality of her existence—both merciful and formidable, eternal and ever-changing.
Ebonith, a unique black marble veined with crimson and gold, is sacred to Than. This rare material, known for its shifting, lifelike appearance, serves as a central element in her temples and monuments. The Pillars of Transition, towering columns of Ebonith, stand in her most revered sanctuaries, inscribed with depictions of the Veil and the Seven Circles of Virtue. Their shifting veins are said to reflect glimpses of the Veil to those who gaze deeply enough.
At Bul’Derlihiem Rest, the Eternal Pyre burns within a ring of Ebonith, its undying flame surrounded by statues of the Seven Circles of Virtue. The pyre’s crimson and gold glow connects worshippers to the departed, making it a site of pilgrimage and reflection. Similarly, the Throne of the Veil, a grand chair carved entirely from Ebonith, is a focal point of her temples. Though Than herself does not sit upon it, it serves as a ceremonial seat for her High Priests and Priestesses during sacred rites.
The Blade of Mercy, a longsword forged in her honour, represents her compassion and justice. Though she wields no weapons herself, this blade is carried by champions of her virtues. Its veins glow faintly when wielded with true mercy, becoming a symbol of Than’s grace cutting through suffering. Another iconic tribute, the Spiral Gardens, features winding paths of Ebonith leading to altars where flowers and candles are offered. These gardens provide solace and space for rituals of reflection, marking personal and seasonal transitions.
Statues of Than, carved from Ebonith, stand as guardians over graveyards, temples, and sacred sites. These monoliths depict her veiled and serene, with her blackened veins subtly etched into the marble. First crafted by the Tullerians nearly 40,000 years ago, these statues are among the oldest known tributes to any deity and remain a testament to her timeless influence. Within these sacred sites lies the Whispering Hall, a subterranean sanctuary where the faint acoustics of Ebonith amplify prayers into haunting melodies, believed to carry directly to Than.
Beyond man-made artifacts, Than is also revered through her sacred flora and fauna. The Bloodshade Tree, with bark as dark as Ebonith and leaves that turn crimson in autumn, is said to grow where her blessings are strongest. These trees mark the boundaries of consecrated lands, offering their shade to grieving pilgrims. Similarly, the Crimson Bloom, a flower with petals resembling delicate drops of blood, is used in rites of mourning and renewal.
Two animals hold special significance in her worship. The Onyx Hound, with sleek black fur veined with crimson patterns, is thought to be a manifestation of Than’s presence, often appearing at graveyards or during rites. The Veil Steed, an elegant horse with an otherworldly black coat that shimmers gold under moonlight, symbolises her guidance through the journey of death. These animals are seen as companions of her messengers and are deeply revered by her followers.
Than’s sacred symbols, from the enduring flame of the Eternal Pyre to the spectral beauty of the Onyx Hound, reflect her profound connection to life, death, and the balance between. They stand as a reminder that in her domain, every end holds the promise of a new beginning.
Holy Books & Codes
Than’s sacred texts and teachings trace back nearly 40,000 years to the Tullerian civilisation, where her worship began with cryptic hieroglyphs and carvings. These early inscriptions, etched into tomb walls and obelisks, depicted the Veil, the River of Memory, and Than herself as a shadowy figure. Even older, untranslated writings hint at a time before the Tullerians, though their full meaning remains a mystery.
As mortals’ understanding of the divine grew during the Light Age, Than’s teachings became more structured. Sacrificial rituals and ceremonies were common, and key principles such as the Seven Circles of Virtue emerged, offering moral guidance and shaping worship practices. Texts from this era often addressed the afterlife, outlining the Veil’s regions, including the Middle Ground for reflection and the Lower Regions for judgment of sin.
Over time, these teachings evolved into beautifully illuminated scrolls and books created for temples and noble families. These works, often crafted from black marble veined with crimson and gold, included parables and hymns that illustrated Than’s virtues. Stories like The Parable of the Kin-Slayer and The Dragon’s Guardian emphasised loyalty, courage, and the sacred bond between mortals and dragons.
In the present age, Than’s teachings are preserved in temples but simplified for commonfolk, with priests reading aloud during ceremonies. Despite this accessibility, variations in translation have emerged, often reflecting political agendas of different eras. Modern rituals include the Lament of Passing, where priests guide souls across the symbolic River of Memory using candles and solemn chants.
Throughout history, the central themes of Than’s teachings remain unchanged: the pursuit of reflection, the importance of redemption, and the sacredness of loyalty, courage, and justice. Her influence continues to shape moral and spiritual life, bridging the ancient and the modern.
Divine Symbols & Sigils
Than’s divine imagery is rich with symbolism, reflecting her role as the Goddess of Death and Transition. Central to her representation is the Veil, depicted as flowing fabric or smoke, symbolising the boundary between life and death and the mysteries of the afterlife. This imagery often adorns temples and sacred carvings, offering a sense of solemn beauty. Another prominent symbol is the River of Memory, thought to connect all rivers in some way to her domain. This river is often portrayed as a flowing ribbon of silver or black, with intricate ripples representing the lives and deeds of mortals. Sacred to her followers is black marble veined with crimson and gold, used in altars and temples. The black represents death, crimson symbolises sacrifice and passion, and gold signifies purity and redemption. The Shadowed Flame, a dark fire encircled by a golden glow, is used in rituals to guide souls, symbolising the potential for light and redemption even in the darkest moments.
Among the sigils associated with Than is the Eternal Veil, a circular design with intertwining ribbons symbolising the cycles of life and death, often marking sacred texts and ceremonial robes. The Shadowed Torch, featuring a dark flame encased in a golden spiral, represents Than’s guidance for lost souls and is frequently engraved on gravestones and urns. The River of Memory sigil, with wave-like patterns in black and silver, symbolises the continuity of life and is worn as a pendant by her followers. Another powerful emblem is the Crescent Keeper, a crescent moon encasing a glowing orb, representing Than’s eternal watchfulness over the Veil and her role as an arbiter of redemption. The Guardian’s Palm, a skeletal hand holding a sprouting flower with golden petals edged in crimson, symbolises the balance between death and renewal and is reserved for marking relics or artifacts dedicated to her.
In her honour, a long sword of black marble veined with crimson and gold has become a powerful symbol. Though Than herself wields no weapons, this sword represents justice, transition, and the piercing clarity of truth in the face of death. Rivers, too, hold special significance to her followers, as it is believed that all rivers are ultimately linked to her in some way, serving as reflections of the River of Memory. This connection reinforces her influence over the natural world and the flow of life and death within it.
Her symbols and sigils are prominently displayed in her temples, woven into ceremonial garments, and inscribed on relics and artifacts. They serve as reminders of her teachings: that even in the face of death and shadow, light and redemption are always within reach.
Tenets of Faith
Than’s tenets of faith are deeply rooted in the cycles of life, death, and renewal, guiding her followers to embrace balance, compassion, and accountability. At the heart of her teachings is the belief in the sanctity of life and death, with death seen not as an end but as a transition into new understanding. Her faithful are called to honour the Veil, the sacred boundary between realms, by treating the dead with dignity and ensuring their proper passage. Acts of desecration, such as disrupting burial rites or exploiting the dead, are seen as grave affronts to her will.
Compassion and humility are pillars of her faith. Than’s followers are taught to approach life with kindness, recognising the shared humanity in all beings. Even in death, this compassion extends, as her faithful offer comfort to grieving souls and guide them through loss. Loyalty to family and kin is also paramount, as Than holds the bonds of blood and love in the highest regard. Betrayal of these bonds is considered one of the gravest sins, reflecting her belief in the sacred interconnectedness of life.
Courage and fortitude are virtues that Than demands of her followers. Death is inevitable, but the strength to face it with dignity and grace is seen as the ultimate act of faith. Her teachings encourage resilience in the face of hardship and the courage to confront one’s own flaws and mortality. Justice and fairness are equally critical, with her faithful striving to act with honour in all their dealings. The balance of life and death is mirrored in the balance of truth and consequence, a sacred duty for those who serve her.
Preserving the legacy of the dead is a sacred duty among Than’s faithful. The works, histories, and creations of those who have passed are viewed as echoes of their lives, deserving of respect and protection. To destroy these remnants is seen as a violation of the Veil, severing the link between past and present. Her followers are charged with cherishing the stories and achievements of those who came before, ensuring that history continues to guide and teach the living.
Finally, Than’s faith embraces the possibility of redemption. No soul, no matter how tainted, is beyond the chance for growth and renewal. Her followers are tasked with offering paths to atonement for those who seek it, fostering a belief in the transformative power of remorse and forgiveness. Through these tenets, Than’s faith weaves a profound tapestry of life, death, and the eternal cycles that connect them, urging all who walk her path to find meaning and balance in every moment.
Verse: The Keeper’s Promise
“Let not the veil of time erase, The hands that built, the hearts that raced. What’s forged in life shall ever remain, A guiding light through joy and pain. To shatter the works of the silent past, Is to break the bonds that hold us fast. Preserve their stories, guard their grace, Honour the dead, and their sacred place.”Holidays
Than’s sacred seasons, Pyraenyre (autumn) and Thanyre (winter), are deeply revered by her followers as times of reflection, honouring the dead, and embracing the balance between life and death. These seasons signify the waning of life’s warmth and vitality, leading to rest, transformation, and eventual renewal. The holy days during these periods are marked by solemnity, celebration of memory, and acts of devotion to Than’s principles.
During Pyraenyre, the Ember’s Descent, followers observe the First Flame’s Fall, a holy day on the first day of the season. This day symbolises the gradual transition into the darker half of the year. Candles are lit in remembrance of ancestors, representing the lingering warmth of life as it yields to rest. Midway through Pyraenyre, communities celebrate the Feast of Shadows, coming together to honour family and kinship. Graveyards are visited, and offerings are left to commemorate legacies and acknowledge the inevitability of change.
In Thanyre, the Veil’s Embrace, the holy days take on a more solemn tone. The Long Silence, observed during the first snowfall or coldest day of Thanyre, is a time for quiet reflection. Followers fast or take solitary walks to honour the passage of souls through the Veil. Veilnight, held on the longest night of Thanyre, is believed to be the time when the Veil is thinnest. Rituals are performed to honour the recently departed, seek guidance from ancestors, and achieve closure through forgiveness. If an eclipse occurs during Thanyre, the event, known as Eclipsera, becomes the holiest occasion for Than’s worship. Rituals are performed to renew vows, and rare communal ceremonies symbolise the unity between the living and the dead.
These sacred days serve as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of existence and the divine care Than offers to all souls as they pass through the Veil.
Divine Goals & Aspirations
Than’s divine goals are rooted in her unwavering commitment to the balance of life and death, guiding the cycles of existence while offering solace and redemption to all souls. Her aspirations extend beyond the Veil, weaving through the mortal and immortal realms, shaping the essence of existence itself.
1. Maintaining the Balance of Life and Death
Than’s foremost goal is to ensure the balance between the realms of life and death. She strives to prevent any force, mortal or divine, from disrupting this equilibrium, whether through unnatural immortality, necromancy, or the destruction of souls. Death is not an end but a vital part of the cycle, and Than safeguards its sanctity.2. Ensuring the Proper Passage of Souls
As the keeper of the Veil, Than oversees the journey of souls from the mortal plane to their eternal destinations. Her divine purpose includes ensuring that all souls receive judgment that is fair, just, and reflective of their lives. She resists forces that seek to corrupt or manipulate this sacred journey.3. Preserving the Legacy of the Dead
Than seeks to protect the stories, creations, and achievements of those who have passed, believing that their legacies are vital to guiding the living. Through her followers, she inspires the preservation of history, art, and wisdom, ensuring that the echoes of the past continue to enrich the present and the future.4. Offering Redemption to the Lost
Central to Than’s divine philosophy is the belief that no soul is beyond redemption. Her goal is to provide opportunities for growth and forgiveness, even for those who have committed grave sins. Through the Veil, she offers pathways for the tainted to confront their actions and seek transformation.5. Guarding Against Stygian Corruption
Than stands as a bulwark against the encroachment of Stygian corruption, a force that seeks to destroy the natural order of life and death. Her divine efforts focus on purging this influence wherever it spreads, ensuring that the purity of the Veil and the sanctity of the afterlife remain intact.6. Cultivating Compassion and Justice
Than’s divine mission includes fostering virtues such as kindness, loyalty, and fairness among mortals and immortals alike. She inspires her followers to embody these values, creating a world that reflects the balance and harmony she champions.7. Strengthening Sacred Bonds
Than places immense importance on the bonds of family, kinship, and the connections between mortals and dragons. Her divine goal is to nurture these relationships, which she sees as reflections of the interconnected cycles of life and death. Through these goals, Than’s divine presence shapes the mortal and immortal realms alike, standing as a guardian, guide, and source of inspiration for all who walk her path. Her unwavering dedication to balance, redemption, and legacy defines her as one of the most profound and enduring deities in existence.Physical Description
General Physical Condition
Than embodies the balance of life and death, appearing as an ethereal yet skeletal figure. Her presence is both intimidating and serene, blending decay with timeless beauty, symbolising the cycle she governs.
Body Features
Than’s body is tall and graceful, draped in dark, flowing robes that appear to merge with shadows. Her ribcage is exposed, mimicking the image of death itself, yet her aura radiates authority and calm.
Facial Features
Than’s face is skeletal yet hauntingly beautiful, with sharp features and soulful eyes. Her expression carries a sense of somber understanding and unyielding wisdom, reflecting her role as the Goddess of Death.
Identifying Characteristics
Her crown, crafted from the bones of ancient beings, marks her as a deity of death and transition. The skeletal ribcage visible beneath her robes and her ever-present veil of black shadow make her instantly recognisable among deities and mortals alike.
Physical quirks
Than moves with an eerie stillness, as though unaffected by the physical limitations of the world. Her presence seems to dim the surrounding light, and the air grows colder when she is near. A faint wisp of shadows trails her, as if she carries the essence of the Veil itself.
Apparel & Accessories
Than wears a black, shroud-like robe that conceals much of her figure, save for the skeletal ribcage and crown. The fabric seems to absorb light, shifting like liquid shadow. Her crown is adorned with jagged, bone-like structures, and her veil flows endlessly, evoking a feeling of eternity.
Mental characteristics
Personal history
Than’s existence predates the creation of mortal life, her essence born from the first flicker of decay as the universe began to take form. She was shaped as a primordial force to maintain the natural balance between life and death, ensuring that existence could sustain itself without succumbing to stagnation. From the beginning, Than has walked the delicate line between endings and beginnings.
Intellectual Characteristics
Than’s Intellectual Characteristics
Than, the Goddess of Death and Transition, is a being of profound wisdom, unparalleled insight, and balanced judgment. Her intellectual traits shape her role as the steward of death and the cycle of existence, granting her a unique perspective on life, mortality, and the essence of the cosmos.Timeless Wisdom
Than’s knowledge spans the entirety of existence, from the origins of the cosmos to the ever-evolving cycles of life and death. This timeless wisdom enables her to discern the patterns that govern existence, granting her unparalleled insight into the workings of the universe. Mortals and gods alike seek her counsel during times of imbalance, for she offers clarity where others see only chaos.Unyielding Rationality
Guided by logic and impartiality, Than approaches her role with a steadfast commitment to maintaining the balance of life and death. Her decisions are devoid of personal bias, rooted instead in the natural order of the cosmos. While she empathises with the struggles of mortals, her rationality ensures that her actions align with the greater good, even when they seem harsh or unfathomable to those affected.Profound Intuition
Than’s connection to the Veil grants her an almost supernatural ability to perceive the essence of a soul. She can sense a being’s fears, desires, and potential for transformation, enabling her to judge with remarkable precision. Her intuitive depth allows her to see opportunities for redemption where others might see only failure, inspiring growth in those who seek her guidance.Philosophical Depth
Than is a deeply philosophical entity, contemplating the interplay of life and death as a profound and eternal dance. She views endings not as destruction but as moments of transformation and renewal. Her teachings are often layered with metaphor and nuance, challenging those who hear them to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Her musings on mortality and existence resonate with those who seek deeper understanding.Strategic Vision
Though not a deity of war, Than is a master strategist in maintaining the balance of realms. Her decisions are guided by long-term considerations, ensuring the harmony of existence. Her foresight allows her to act decisively against threats like the Stygian Realm’s corruption, balancing the scales of existence with precision and care.Linguistic and Cultural Mastery
As the guide of countless souls from diverse cultures and races, Than has mastered their languages, beliefs, and traditions. Her ability to adapt her teachings and messages to resonate with each individual ensures her guidance is understood across all boundaries. This cultural fluency allows her to build bridges between gods, mortals, and the realms they inhabit.Creative Insight
Though associated with endings, Than is a force of creativity and renewal. She views death as a beginning, a transformation that births new possibilities. This creative perspective drives her to craft innovative solutions to cosmic dilemmas. Her creation of the Unliving—designed as a response to the Vesyrian King’s betrayal of her favoured mortal—is a testament to her ability to blend justice, mercy, and balance into a single act.Favouring Mortals
While Than is impartial in her governance of the cycle of life and death, she has, on rare occasions, extended her favour to mortals. This favour is not given lightly; only two mortals in history have earned her admiration. Brina, the First Dragon Rider, was one such mortal, whose courage and humility led Than to grant her a place beside her Behemoth dragon in the Fire Realm after death. These acts of favour reveal Than’s capacity for personal connection and her willingness to transcend impartiality when a mortal’s character profoundly moves her.Detachment with Compassion
Than’s intellectual traits balance detachment with a deep sense of compassion. She understands that death is a necessary part of existence, yet she does not dismiss the emotional and existential weight it carries for mortals. Her ability to guide others through loss and transition with both empathy and impartiality cements her role as a guide and caretaker, rather than merely an overseer.Impact of Than’s Intellectual Characteristics
Than’s wisdom, intuition, and philosophical depth make her a revered figure among gods and mortals. Her rare acts of favour reveal her capacity for personal connection, while her impartiality and strategic foresight ensure the continuity of the cycles she governs. Than transcends the boundaries of her domain, embodying the balance between logic and compassion, endings and beginnings, and the infinite dance of life and death.Morality & Philosophy
Than’s Philosophy
Than’s philosophy is deeply rooted in balance, redemption, and the transformative power of choice. Her beliefs reflect a profound understanding of life’s complexities, the inevitability of death, and the enduring potential for renewal. Her actions and decisions are guided by the following principles:1. Balance Above All
Than views the universe as a delicate tapestry woven from interconnected forces, where life and death, joy and sorrow, creation and decay must coexist in harmony. She believes that death is not an end but a necessary transition, allowing for renewal and growth. By maintaining balance, she ensures that no force dominates or corrupts the natural order. Her marriage to Hestina, the radiant Goddess of the Sun, embodies this philosophy. Together, they symbolise the interplay of opposites—light and darkness, life and death—working in harmony to sustain the cosmos. Than’s love for Hestina is a reminder that opposites can complement and enrich one another, creating a greater whole.2. Redemption Is Always Possible
Than holds an unshakable belief that no soul is beyond redemption, regardless of the weight of its sins or the depths of its corruption. She understands that mortals are shaped by circumstances, choices, and desires, and she offers every soul the opportunity to reflect, atone, and evolve. This belief is exemplified in her judgment of souls. Even those who have willingly embraced darkness are given the chance to face their truths and seek forgiveness, provided they have the courage to confront their guilt and remorse. Than’s philosophy rejects the notion of eternal condemnation, instead championing the idea that growth and transformation are always within reach.3. Mercy in Justice
While Than upholds the law of balance, she tempers justice with mercy. Her creation of the Unliving, despite its tragic outcome, reflects her willingness to act out of compassion for those who have suffered great injustice. The Mescryean Prince’s torment moved her to grant him the power to seek justice, even though it meant walking the fine line between vengeance and chaos. To Than, justice is not about punishment alone; it is about understanding, healing, and restoring equilibrium. Her mercy does not stem from weakness but from a profound understanding of the pain that fuels mortal actions. She seeks to guide, not condemn, those who have faltered.4. Love and Connection Are Eternal
Than believes that love and connection transcend life and death. Her decision to allow Brina, the First Dragon Rider, to remain with her Behemoth dragon, Valdyrron, in the Fire Realm is a testament to this philosophy. She recognises the sacredness of their bond and honours the power of love to bridge even the most profound divides. Her love for Hestina reinforces this belief. Together, they exemplify the idea that love is a force that unites, strengthens, and inspires. Than’s philosophy emphasises that love, in all its forms, is one of the most enduring and transformative aspects of existence.5. Strength Through Transition
Than views change and transformation as integral to the cycle of existence. Death is not a finality but a transition to something new, a step toward renewal and growth. This belief extends to her actions, from overseeing the reincarnation of souls to allowing mortals to face trials that test and shape their character. Her philosophy embraces the pain and struggle of transformation, recognising it as a catalyst for strength and wisdom. By confronting their fears and embracing change, Than believes mortals and immortals alike can reach their fullest potential.6. The Burden of Power
Than understands that great power comes with immense responsibility and sacrifice. Her own existence as the Goddess of Death is a testament to this burden. She carries the weight of ensuring cosmic balance, a task that often requires difficult and painful decisions. Her creation of the Unliving, though rooted in compassion, serves as a reminder of the consequences of wielding power without foresight. Than acknowledges her mistakes and learns from them, embodying the humility and resilience she values in others.Than’s Legacy
Than’s philosophy is one of hope, resilience, and the enduring potential for redemption. She teaches that life and death are not opposites but partners in an eternal dance, and that every choice, no matter how small, contributes to the balance of existence. Through her wisdom and compassion, Than offers a guiding light to all who seek understanding, justice, and renewal.Taboos
Taboos in Than’s Philosophy
Than, as the Goddess of Death and Transition, maintains the delicate balance between life and death, ensuring the cycle of decay, renewal, and transformation. Her philosophy is deeply rooted in respect for the natural order, and any actions that disrupt or exploit these sacred cycles are considered grave taboos. These violations often reflect hubris, greed, or a rejection of the fundamental truths of existence.The Denial of Death
In Than’s eyes, death is not an end but a vital transformation. Denying or attempting to escape it entirely through unnatural means—such as forbidden necromancy, soul-binding, or immortality—violates the natural balance. This rejection of death disrupts the cycle of decay and rebirth, which she holds sacred. Those who defy this principle act against the very essence of life, trapping themselves in a stagnant existence devoid of growth or renewal.Exploitation of Souls
Souls are fragments of life’s essence and must be treated with the utmost dignity. Than views the use of souls as tools, currency, or sources of power as a profound affront to her domain. Whether it is the Stygian creatures consuming souls for strength or mortals enslaving them for magic, such acts degrade the sanctity of existence and deny souls their rightful passage through the Veil.Interference with the Veil
The Veil, the boundary between life and death, serves as a sacred barrier ensuring the smooth transition of souls. Any attempts to manipulate, breach, or control the Veil for personal ambition are intolerable to Than. These actions endanger the cosmic order, weakening the divide between realms and unleashing chaos upon existence. The Veil is a guardian of balance, and meddling with it is considered one of the gravest taboos.Preventing Redemption
Than believes that all beings, no matter how lost or corrupted, deserve the opportunity for redemption. Denying a soul the chance to atone for its deeds or forcing it into eternal punishment without fair judgment contradicts her teachings. Redemption is at the core of Than’s philosophy, reflecting her deep conviction in the potential for growth and healing, even in the most broken spirits.Taking Life Without Purpose
Although Than governs death, she also respects the sanctity of life. Killing without purpose—whether for sport, cruelty, or greed—is a violation of her principles. Death must serve a greater purpose within the cycle of existence, whether as a natural conclusion, a sacrificial act, or part of renewal. Senseless violence, particularly on a mass scale, disrupts the delicate balance she strives to protect.Defiling the Dead
Than holds the physical remains of the deceased in reverence as vessels that once housed life. Defiling corpses, tombs, or sacred burial grounds is an act of profound disrespect to her domain. Such desecration dishonours the dead, disrupts their transition, and denies the dignity they deserve. Practices such as raising the dead without regard for their souls or looting graves for personal gain are clear violations of this taboo.Hubris in Mortality
Than despises arrogance, especially among mortals or immortals who believe themselves above the cycles of life and death. Such hubris denies the humility necessary to grow and learn from the gifts of mortality. Tyrants who seek to conquer death or deities who reject the limitations of existence often face Than’s disapproval, as their actions disturb the balance and harmony she strives to maintain.Consequences of Violating Than’s Taboos
Those who transgress Than’s principles often face severe consequences. Depending on the nature and severity of the violation, punishments can range from being denied redemption to suffering eternal torment. However, true to her philosophy, Than rarely closes the door to atonement. Even the gravest offenders may find a path to redemption if they show true remorse and a willingness to change. In this way, Than balances unyielding justice with compassionate mercy, ensuring that all beings are guided toward growth and balance.Relationships
Artwork Credit: The stunning visualisation of Than as the Goddess of Death is inspired by art created by badasserywomen on Tumblr. Special thanks to the artist for inspiring this interpretation of Than.
Titles
Goddess of Death and Transition
Keeper of the Cycle
Wife of Hestina, Goddess of the Sun
Symbol
The skeletal ribcage adorned with a veil of shadow represents Than’s dominion over death and renewal.
Domains
Death
Transition of Souls
Life and Decay Cycle
Allied Deities
Hestina: Wife and Goddess of the Sun, representing the balance of life and death.
Vaereth: Protégé and Deity of Witchcraft and Forbidden Knowledge.
Valthyra: Ally and Goddess of Earth, aiding in the renewal of life.
Devotional Practices
Mourning rituals to honour the passage of loved ones.
Offerings at graveyards, often in the form of black flowers or ash.
Reflective fasts to seek Than’s guidance in understanding life’s impermanence
Legends of Mortals Favoured by Than
Brina, the First Dragon Rider: Than allowed her soul to remain with her Behemoth dragon, Valdyrron, out of respect for her unyielding courage and loyalty. The Mescryean Prince: Favoured by Than, his tragic betrayal inspired the creation of the Unliving, offering his people a chance for retribution.
Divine Classification
Primordial Goddess
Species
Realm
Church/Cult
Age
Everlasting
Family
Spouses
Hestina
(Wife)
Siblings
Children
Pronouns
She/Her
Sex
Female
Gender
Woman
Presentation
Feminine
Eyes
Black
Hair
Short, black
Skin Tone/Pigmentation
Pale white, skull like
Height
7'
Ruled Locations
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