Table of Contents
I. Divine Order
II. The One True God of Light: Nuyith and the Unfathomable Curu
III. The Father of Fears: Fashra's Folly and the Shattering of Cosmic Balance
IV. Uscun's Divine Ascension: The Hero Who Joined the Unseen Pantheon
V. The Advent of Urkan, The First Primordial Deity: The Divider and Seer
VI. Miltsa: The Dual Queen of Love and Longing
VII. Scuren: The Fearless Warrior
VIII. Suthear: The Eternal Child
IX. Phear and Indera: The Divine Parents
X. The Underworld Children: Fashra's Counterattack
XI. Parin: The Trickster Ascendant
XII. Lanorius: The Sovereign Deity of Poetry
XIII. The Tale of Reths and Prowa: Origins of the Deities of Sorrow and Indifference
XIV. The Sealing of the Lowest Underground Chamber: The Unending Ascent of Ravian
XV. The Sealing of the Second Underground Chamber: Pradon the Wrathful One
XVI. The Ascension of Foggia: The Goddess of Spiritual Awakening
I. Divine Order
I. Unseen Deities
Definition: These are the enigmatic, supremely powerful deities who exist beyond the realm of mortal perception and interaction. Their influence is foundational to the very existence of the Entreisean Realms. Influence: Beyond Universal Attributes: Inaccessible and shrouded in mystery, they are the ultimate arbiters of cosmic balance and justice. Their edicts are inviolable and their power unquestionable. Guardianship: Uscun serves as the eternal guardian of this realm, ensuring no mortal or lesser deity gains access to Nuyith and Curu. Ascension Mechanism: Ascending to this rank is nearly impossible, requiring one to defeat Uscun and face Nuyith and Curu with unparalleled valor.
II. Primordial Deities Definition: Deities that embody foundational concepts and elements of existence. They have ascended to meet Uscun and have been imbued with incomparable power. Influence: Universal Rebirth Mechanism: When dethroned or expired, they are born into new bodies yet retain their primordial essence. Ascension Process: To become a Primordial Deity, one must ascend to meet Uscun. Fashra will exert all efforts to coax the ascending one into either challenging Uscun or joining his army intended for the recapture of Curu. If one's faith remains steadfast against Fashra's attempts, Uscun will elevate them to the status of a Primordial Deity. Alternatively, Fashra may offer the prospect of defeating Uscun, which, if accomplished, would elevate the ascending one to the status of an Unseen Deity, the ultimate rank. Life Expectancy: Eternal
III. Sovereign Deities Definition: Deities who rule over critical elements or concepts but do not necessarily represent universal laws. Influence: Global to Continental Governance: They may have specific realms or territories within the Entreisean Realms where their influence is most potent. Ascension Process: The path to Sovereign Deity is identical to that of becoming a Primordial Deity. One must ascend to meet Uscun, while facing Fashra's machinations. It is not predetermined what rank the ascending one will achieve; this is judged solely by Uscun's evaluation of their faith, attributes, and potential sphere of influence. An individual could, therefore, ascend with the intention of becoming a Primordial Deity, only to find themselves granted Sovereign status instead, or vice versa. Life Expectancy: Mortal Body 500 years, Divine Body Eternal
IV. Royal Deities Definition: Deities who preside over entire kingdoms, granting them divine protection and governance. Influence: National Attributes: Often possess royal paraphernalia like crowns, scepters, etc. Life Expectancy: 300 years
V. Noble Deities Definition: These gods hold sway over smaller geopolitical units like duchies, counties, and baronies. Influence: Regional Governance: Vary in power and influence, sometimes subject to the Royal Deities. Life Expectancy: 200 years
VI. Ecclesiastical Deities Definition: These are the divine figures of religious hierarchy, akin to popes and bishops. Influence: Spiritual and Religious Attributes: Mainly concerned with the moral and spiritual guidance of their followers. Life Expectancy: 300 years
VII. Chivalric Deities Definition: These gods are the divine embodiments of knights and warriors. Influence: Tactical and Local Attributes: Valor, courage, and martial skill are their main attributes, often acting as guardians or protectors of specific locations or communities. Life Expectancy: 150 years
Subfaiths of the Entreisean Religion The Entreisean religion, while unified in its foundational belief in Nuyith, Curu, Fashra, and Uscun, fragments into seven prominent subfaiths. These subfaiths diverge in their interpretation of who has been truly accepted by Uscun as either a Primordial or Sovereign Deity, and who might have been fraudulently elevated by Fashra.
Quoden Adherents of Quoden hold a stringent criterion for who qualifies as a deity truly accepted by Uscun. They are highly skeptical of the claims of other subfaiths and are vigilant against potential deceptions by Fashra.
Foggianism Followers of Foggianism adopt a more mystical approach, believing that one can only truly discern the nature of a deity through profound spiritual experiences. They consider themselves the most attuned to detect Fashra's lies.
Poramoian This subfaith concentrates on the moral and ethical characteristics of a deity. They believe that any deity exhibiting virtuous qualities must have been accepted by Uscun, while the opposite suggests influence from Fashra.
Orzendianism Orzendians focus on historical records and documented miracles to verify the legitimacy of a deity's acceptance by Uscun. They trust empirical evidence over spiritual or ethical considerations.
Crearni Crearni followers emphasize the importance of personal revelation and prophetic experiences in determining the true nature of a deity. They argue that Uscun would reveal the truth to the faithful, safeguarding them from Fashra's deceit.
Cipproian Cipproians take a syncretic approach, integrating elements from all the other subfaiths. They believe that a multidimensional understanding is necessary to guard against the snares set forth by Fashra.
Oirtan: Adherents of Oirtan contend that the purity of intention behind any action determines its divine acceptance by Uscun, often leading them to unconventional interpretations of events and deeds. They argue that the enigmatic workings of Uscun can lead to outcomes misunderstood by other subfaiths, allowing for a broader spectrum of actions not to be automatically attributed to Fashra.
While the events of history remain constant across all subfaiths, skepticism arises when it comes to the acceptance and elevation of deities by Uscun. Each subfaith harbors reservations about the deities revered by the others, speculating whether their ascendance was the work of Uscun or a nefarious scheme crafted by Fashra.
Each subfaith may possess its own doctrines, rituals, and ecclesiastical leaders; however, they are all united under a singular religious authority, commonly referred to as the Primordial Vicar. The title serves to emphasize the individual's role as the highest arbiter of religious matters across all subfaiths. No ascension to positions of religious leadership within any of these subfaiths occurs without the final consent of the Primordial Vicar. This hierarchical structure ensures a degree of unity and cohesion among the various religious communities, while still allowing for a range of beliefs and practices.
Upon the ascension of a Royal Deity to a superior rank, their successor assumes control of their prior throne. In the majority of instances, the ascending Royal Deity serves as the liege to their heir. The primary heir of any Noble or Royal Deity shall halt in the aging process upon successful completion of designated trials. The initiation of such trials is determined by the Supreme Bishop. Once initiated, the aging process for the heir remains suspended until the Deity to whom they are successor expires. While they are immune to the ravages of time, they remain susceptible to other forms of mortality.
II. The One True God of Light: Nuyith and the Unfathomable Curu
Origin and Nature
Nuyith, the One True God of Light, serves as the fulcrum of existence in the Entreisean Realms. Nuyith embodies the ultimate source of light, wisdom, and life force that sustains the universe. Emanating an overwhelming brilliance, Nuyith is incomprehensible in form, an entity beyond the scope of mortal perception.
Curiously attached to Nuyith is Curu, the God of Death, bound by an umbilical cord that defies all natural and divine laws. The connection between Nuyith and Curu is enigmatic, a paradox that even the wisest among the Primordial Deities fail to comprehend. Curu is an abomination, a terror-inducing presence that stands in stark contrast to the luminosity of Nuyith.
The Symbiotic Enigma
Curu clings to Nuyith's torso, held in place by a mysterious embryonic cord. This unsettling bond raises an existential question: who sustains whom? The relationship between light and death, between creation and termination, is thus embodied in their inexplicable connection. While Nuyith represents all that is vibrant and life-giving, Curu serves as a relentless reminder of mortality and the inevitable cycle of decay.
The Inaccessibility of the Divine
Such is the radiance of Nuyith and the horror of Curu that no mortal may ever lay eyes upon them. The brilliance of Nuyith is too blinding, too sanctified for any being to withstand. Conversely, the mere sight of Curu would plunge a mortal into depths of madness from which there could be no return. Hence, these supreme deities exist in a realm so far removed from the Entreisean Realms that their direct influence is felt but never seen.
The Cosmic Duality
Nuyith and Curu serve as two halves of a perplexing cosmic duality. They embody the enigmatic relationship between life and death, creation and destruction. While Nuyith illuminates the path of existence, Curu ensures the cycle remains unbroken, emphasizing that even in the most radiant light, shadows must exist.
III. The Father of Fears: Fashra's Folly and the Shattering of Cosmic Balance
The Ascent of Fashra
Emerging as an extraordinary man of almost divine stature, Fashra, later known as the Father of Fears, epitomized the complexities of mortal emotion—encompassing all sins as well as the psychological defenses against internal fears. Unprecedentedly powerful, Fashra's hubris led him to embark on a perilous journey to meet Nuyith and Curu, the cosmic dualities that govern the universe.
The Confrontation with the Unfathomable
Fashra's own powers shielded him from the madness that engulfs lesser beings when facing Curu's abominable form. Instead, he was filled with an overwhelming, almost annihilating fear, a sensation so intense it has never been rivaled. Yet, Fashra was too resilient to succumb to the existential terror that gripped him.
The Cosmic Transgression
In an act of unmatched audacity, Fashra managed to separate Curu from Nuyith. He kidnapped Curu and took him to an intricate web of underground chambers. This profound violation disrupted the cosmic equilibrium, shattering the fabric of reality. A cataclysm ensued that engulfed the Entreisean Realms and beyond in an indescribable state of chaos and void.
The Aftermath: A Universe in Disarray
The removal of Curu from Nuyith's side created ripples that irrevocably altered the state of existence. Where once there was harmony between life and death, light and shadow, now there was a reality riven by imbalance. This subterranean chamber would later become Fashra's prison, but the repercussions of his deed had already unleashed an epoch of unprecedented instability.
Fashra’s Endless Punishment
Although powerful, Fashra could not escape the consequences of his actions. These underground chambers became not just Curu's holding place but also Fashra's eternal prison. Yet, the tale of his folly remains a cautionary tale reverberating through the corridors of history, emphasizing the intractable consequences of tampering with the natural and divine order.
IV. Uscun's Divine Ascension: The Hero Who Joined the Unseen Pantheon
The Last Man: Uscun's Origins
In an era bereft of hope, Uscun emerged as a luminary figure. He was the last and only man to survive the cataclysmic chaos that Fashra and Curu's merger had wrought upon the realms, further solidifying his unique and unparalleled status. With valor that transcended human limitations, he arose as the hero the Entreisean Realms desperately needed. Aware of the unprecedented challenges and horrors that lay in the abyss of Fashra's chambers, he nonetheless took upon himself the quest to restore cosmic equilibrium.
The Trials of Reality and Humanity
Uscun had to navigate an intricate labyrinth of tests and tribulations that assaulted the very essence of existence and the human condition. Each task was designed to shatter the will and sanity of any who dared to venture into this forbidden terrain. Yet Uscun's indomitable spirit held steadfast.
The Duel Against the Father of Fears
The penultimate challenge presented Uscun with the daunting task of confronting Fashra himself. Through a miraculous combination of bravery and grace, Uscun defeated the Father of Fears, exemplifying virtues that the universe had forgotten.
The Confrontation with Curu: The Ultimate Trial
No mortal had ever survived the confrontation with Curu, the cosmic embodiment of death and horror. The key to overcoming this ultimate trial was not merely physical or mental fortitude but a higher form of unwavering faith. Uscun's deep-rooted belief in the guiding light of Nuyith empowered him to face Curu and emerge unscathed.
The Restoration and Ascendancy
In a historic moment, Uscun freed Curu and reestablished the divine connection between him and Nuyith. His actions led to the imprisonment of Fashra in his own chambers of darkness. With this final act, Uscun ascended to a deity rank equal in grandeur to Nuyith, Curu, and Fashra.
The Unseen Pantheon
Uscun now belongs to the most enigmatic echelon of divinity, known as the Unseen Deities—those so powerful and vital to the cosmic order that they do not manifest physically in the Entreisean Realms.
The Chains That Bind Fashra
Post his confinement, Fashra's only path to freedom lies in reclaiming control over Curu. This quest has become an eternal obsession that taints his very essence and motivates his interactions with ascending mortals.
The Legacy of Restoration
In the aftermath of the cataclysmic merger of Fashra and Curu, the Entreisean Realms lay sundered, a bleak landscape of darkness and peril. Yet, it was Uscun's unyielding faith in human resilience and nobility that became a beacon of restoration. While the damage was irrevocable, leaving the lands forever fraught with danger, Uscun's divine influence seeded pockets of fertile ground and glimmers of humanity. Through his intervention, the realms experienced a modicum of rebirth, enough to allow for the resurgence of human life amid the persistent chaos. Uscun's faith in humans thus serves as an everlasting wellspring of hope and renewal in the Entreisean Realms.
The Guardianship of Uscun
Following the anarchy unleashed by Fashra's actions, a divine decree was issued: no mortal shall be permitted to commune with Nuyith and Curu ever again. Uscun, by virtue of his extraordinary feat, was designated as their eternal guardian.
The Eternal Struggle for Influence
Both Fashra and Uscun have vested interests in influencing ascending mortals. Fashra tirelessly schemes to enlist these individuals in his eternal quest to reclaim Curu, while Uscun stands as the final test of their virtuous strength. The competition between these two powerful beings becomes the crucible in which new Primordial Deities are either forged or shattered.
The Unblemished Record
Uscun's guardianship has remained impenetrable; no mortal has successfully defeated him. His role is pivotal in maintaining the delicate balance between chaos and cosmic order.
V. The Advent of Urkan, The First Primordial Deity: The Divider and Seer
The Ascension of Urkan
Before Urkan, mortals were oblivious to the intricate relationship between Nuyith and Curu. A prodigy in intellect and wit, Urkan overcame Fashra's traps and manipulations with relative ease. When he encountered Uscun, he was told that he would not join the ranks of the Unseen Deities due to the catastrophic consequences of Fashra's past actions. Instead, Urkan posed a cerebral challenge, wagering that if he succeeded, he would be allowed to commune with Nuyith and Curu.
The Divine Compromise
Impressed by Urkan's resistance to Fashra and inspired by a direct revelation from Nuyith, Uscun accepted the challenge. Though Uscun clarified that Urkan would not be permitted to meet Nuyith and Curu, but he would grant him the status of a Primordial Deity, one that would cycle through an endless succession of mortal bodies. Urkan, still tethered to earthly matters, found this arrangement acceptable.
The Trial of Faith
In the moments following Uscun's proclamation, Urkan was engulfed in darkness. Fashra's whispers resurfaced, tempting him to betray his newfound status and join the ranks of the Unseen Deities. Resolute, Urkan silenced the insidious voice. Then, a vision manifested: a minuscule glimmer that expanded into an all-consuming brightness. Just as quickly, it dissipated, revealing Uscun once more.
The Vision Unveiled
Uscun inquired about what Urkan had seen. Urkan admitted it was an apparition of Nuyith and Curu, but not them in their full essence. He accepted this as a sufficient revelation, placing his faith in Uscun and thus solidifying his ascension. He became the first and only mortal-made Primordial Deity with the unique knowledge of the true appearance of Nuyith and Curu.
The Cycle of Rebirth
With Urkan's ascendancy came a new ordinance from the Unseen Deities: all Primordial Deities bound to mortal forms must undergo trials upon each rebirth. Only after successfully completing these trials, under the scrutinizing gaze of Uscun, would they be recognized as the legitimate reincarnation of the deity they claim to be. Urkan's tale thus established the parameters for all future ascendants and brought a nuanced understanding of the celestial hierarchy to the denizens of the Entreisean Realms.
#The Gauntlet of Ascendancy
For a mortal to ascend to the level of an Unseen Deity, they must first pass through Uscun. To achieve the exalted rank of a Primordial Deity, one must not only withstand Fashra’s treacherous allure but also place unwavering faith in Uscun's guardianship.
VI. Miltsa: The Dual Queen of Love and Longing
The Ascent and the Temptation
Princess Miltsa, celebrated as the epitome of beauty and grace, embarked on the journey of divine ascension. Striking Fashra with her unparalleled charm, she became the first to pass through his realm untested. Uscun too, found himself captivated by her presence, rendering her unique in her sway over the Unseen Deities.
The Plea for Compassion
Miltsa expressed her wish not to join the ranks of the Unseen but to liberate Fashra from his perpetual torment. She argued that his capacity to love proved a spark of goodness in him. However, her compassion became her entrapment; Fashra's minions seized her and confined her to the underground chambers.
A Fissure in Humanity
Her act of empathy fractured the human spirit, creating a cosmic rupture. The ensuing dilemma compelled Uscun to descend into Fashra’s lair to rescue her, during which time their affections for each other deepened.
The Dual Existence and Eternal Return
Uscun elevated her to the status of a Primordial Deity, not merely as a mark of her unique cosmic significance, but also to ensure that her metaphysical form could forever return to him, transcending the limitations of her mortal shell. However, a condition persisted: Miltsa would never be entirely whole. A fragment of her essence would have to remain in the underworld, shackled by her own compassion. Should this fragment ever be liberated, Miltsa would cease to exist, breaking her eternal connection with Uscun.
Queen of Dual Realms
Thus, Miltsa became the divine spouse of Uscun and a queen of two realms. In Fashra's kingdom, she stands as the goddess of chaos and longing; alongside Uscun, she reigns as the goddess of creation and beauty. This dichotomy cements her unparalleled position in the cosmic structure, serving as a divine embodiment of both the light and darkness inherent to the human condition. Through her existence, Miltsa also epitomizes the act of creation, beauty, and art, embodying the harmonious and discordant forces that give rise to the complexities of life and expression. Her duality profoundly influences the emotional and psychological landscape of humanity, shaping the intricate blend of longing and fulfillment, chaos and order that defines the human experience.
VII. Scuren: The Fearless Warrior
The Invincible Fighter
Scuren gained an indomitable reputation for his prowess in battle, wielding a strength that left his enemies quaking in fear. His skills caught the attention of both Fashra and Uscun, each with different intentions for the warrior.
Trial by Vision
Upon Uscun's command, Urkan presented Scuren with the terrifying visage of Nuyith and Curu. Scuren remained unmoved, just as he had been toward Fashra's minions. It was then that Uscun discerned a crucial trait in Scuren: his actions stemmed not from valor but from a lack of understanding—lack of fear and lack of reflection.
A Choice of Paths
Uscun offered Scuren the chance to ascend as a Primordial Deity but under the supervision of Urkan. At the same time, Fashra tempted him with the promise of ultimate freedom as an Unseen Deity. Torn between the two propositions, Scuren lashed out, defeating Fashra's minions and challenging Uscun.
The Lesson in Humility
Uscun quickly overpowered him, issuing a stern warning that any further transgression would lead to Scuren's complete annihilation. In this moment, Scuren experienced regret and a new sensation—gratitude for the second chance that Uscun offered.
Scuren, The Tamed Storm
Humbled and restrained, Scuren agreed to Uscun's terms, ascending as the Primordial Deity of War and Strength. Under the tutelage of Urkan, he occupies a special position in the celestial hierarchy—a deity powerful in combat yet still learning the nuances of wisdom and restraint.
VIII. Suthear: The Eternal Child
The Unparalleled Seer
From the moment of his birth, Suthear was a wonder, endowed with spiritual capabilities that defied mortal understanding. People journeyed across all realms, seeking the wisdom of his visions and prophecies. Surprisingly, the child had obtained the sacred vision of Nuyith and Curu, an act that captured the attention of both Uscun and Fashra.
A Curious Absence
Uscun dispatched Urkan to converse with Suthear and discovered a peculiar phenomenon: the child could only perceive Nuyith in his visions, with Curu remaining conspicuously absent. This absence puzzled both the Unseen Deities and created an existential dilemma for Fashra.
The Challenge to Fashra
The fact that Suthear could not perceive Curu presented a significant challenge for Fashra. If Suthear could not see Curu, he could not be instrumental in retrieving him, thus solidifying Fashra's imprisonment. In a desperate attempt, Fashra dispatched his armies to eradicate this new threat to his plans.
The Divine Safeguard
Uscun and Miltsa recognized the need to shield the child from Fashra's machinations. Elevating Suthear to the status of a Primordial Deity, they also acknowledged the child's innate vulnerability. This unique situation catalyzed their quest to find Parental Deities who could offer eternal protection to Suthear.
The Primordial Child of Perpetual Youth
Thus, Suthear was anointed as the Primordial Child Deity of Innocence. In a celestial paradox, he would remain in perpetual youth, reborn like other primordial deities, but never growing into adulthood. His role in the Entreisean Realms, beyond his incredible insight, serves as a living emblem of vulnerability and purity, factors that even gods must consider and protect. Furthermore, his unique condition extends as a divine blessing to all children across the Entreisean Realms: they too are shielded from the abominable visage of Curu, protected from an awareness that could shatter their innocence.
IX. Phear and Indera: The Divine Parents
Guardians of Earthly Innocence
Phear and Indera were symbols of compassion and guardianship long before their celestial ascendancy. Unsuccessful in their attempts to bear children, they nonetheless became parents in a different way. Founders of the first orphanage in the Entreisean Realms, their household burgeoned with creatures and children saved from the calamities of life.
The Ordeal of Faith
A village in the throes of destruction by Fashra's minions became the backdrop for Phear and Indera's divine examination. Upon rescuing imperiled children with unparalleled bravery, they caught the attention of Urkan, who descended to earth to arrange an encounter with Suthear. Upon meeting the prophetic child, both were captivated by his wisdom and innocence.
The Divine Test
Uscun, satisfied with their worldly dedication, presented a challenge wrapped in an offer: ascend to become Primordial Deities, but leave behind their orphans in the mortal realm to become the true guardians of Suthear. Phear and Indera rejected the proposition, choosing instead to return to their mortal responsibilities. Unknown to them, this act of selflessness was Uscun's trial, one they passed with unblemished fidelity.
The Dual Existence
Upon their return to the mortal lands, they encountered Fashra's latest gambit—corrupting their orphans into monstrous minions and blaming Uscun for their torment. Undeterred by the mounting adversity, Phear and Indera expanded their sanctuary, converting it into the first healing center in the Entreisean Realms. Their relentless love and unwavering faith invited another divine audience, this time with Uscun himself.
The Custodians of Dual Realities
Uscun revealed the true nature of their test and invited them to assume their roles as Primordial Deities. They were granted the privilege of a bifurcated existence. With one foot in the mortal realm, they would continue to care for the world's children, and with the other, they would be forever by Suthear's side, shielding him from the malevolent designs of Fashra. Thus, Phear and Indera were anointed as the Primordial Deities of Parenthood, maintaining an eternal vigil over both earthly and divine offspring.
X. The Underworld Children: Fashra's Counterattack
The Disease that Shadows Light
Fashra, relentless in his schemes, devised a new tactic to disorient Phear and Indera. Those children not rescued in his previous assault metamorphosed into what became known as the Underworld Children. These lost souls became the vectors of a new, haunting disease that spread like wildfire throughout the Entreisean Realms. Fashra's objective was twofold: first, to so overwhelm Phear and Indera with their responsibilities in the mortal realm that they would neglect Suthear, leaving him vulnerable; second, to use the children as a medium for transmitting the horrifying visage of Curu, thereby distorting them into increasingly monstrous forms.
A Cruel Transformation
When Phear and Indera were finally exposed to the unsettling image of Curu, their very natures altered irrevocably. From that point on, any mortal child upon whom they laid eyes would transmogrify into an Underworld Child. Their hearts, once founts of boundless compassion, were now corrupted springs that fueled the very ailment they had fought to eradicate.
Severing Earthly Ties
Faced with this diabolical conundrum, Uscun took the difficult decision of severing Phear and Indera's connection to the mortal realm. The consequences were severe, but the alternative—a realm overrun by Underworld Children and a vulnerable Suthear—was far worse.
An Elevation of Status
Yet, even in this moment of despair, a new paradigm was born. Uscun, recognizing the unparalleled devotion and courage exhibited by Phear and Indera, bestowed upon them new titles and domains of influence. No longer merely the Primordial Deities of Parenthood, they ascended to become their own distinct entities—The Great Mother and The Great Father.
Dual Guardians in a Singular Mission
Their roles now transcend the earthly sphere and their guardianship encompasses more than just mortal children and Suthear. As The Great Mother and The Great Father, they have become archetypal forces shaping the very fabric of the Entreisean Realms, spiritual symbols representing the pinnacle of divine maternal and paternal qualities.
XI. Parin: The Trickster Ascendant
The Ambiguous Realm of Exploits
In a world still untangling itself from the cosmic conflict between Fashra and Curu, Parin saw opportunities where others saw barriers. Inspired by Suthear's intriguing visions, his trickster nature guided him to the loopholes in reality that permitted him not just to observe the gods but also to manipulate the boundaries between the mortal and divine realms. His deeds were not unnoticed.
Fashra's Proposal
Fashra, always alert for new opportunities to undermine the order imposed by Uscun and his divine cohort, approached Parin. Through his messengers, Fashra laid out a plan—Parin would journey to the abode of Nuyith and Curu and sever the embryonic cord that bound them, thereby granting him the status of an Unseen Deity. Fashra warned Parin that any faith placed in Uscun would be his downfall; the primordial god of order would not tolerate such an imbalance for long.
The Moral Dilemma
Parin found himself at a crossroads, faced with a decision that would echo throughout the Entreisean Realms. His trickster instincts intrigued by Fashra's proposal, but he also pondered the risk it posed—becoming an agent of chaos, forever estranged from the ordered reality Uscun maintained.
Uscun's Intervention
Just as Parin was mulling over Fashra's offer, Uscun, ever vigilant, sent Urkan to present him with another perspective. Urkan showed Parin the implications of severing the link between Nuyith and Curu: an ever-widening rift between order and chaos, potentially tipping the balance and throwing the Entreisean Realms into unending turmoil.
Parin's Ingenious Resolution
Ultimately, Parin, guided by his cunning, found another loophole—one that neither Fashra nor Uscun had foreseen. Upon reaching the sanctum where the embryonic cord of Nuyith and Curu resided, Parin made an audacious decision. Aware that viewing the entities might irrevocably alter his perceptions or loyalties, he kept his eyes shut as he approached the sacred connection. He would neither cut the cord nor reject Fashra's offer entirely but instead would strengthen the cord while giving the illusion of its severance. In doing so, he became the Primordial Deity of Illusion, retaining his trickster essence while harmonizing it with the broader cosmic order.
Independence from the Cosmic Hierarchy
Parin, now the Primordial Deity of Illusion, emerged from his ingenious maneuver with a unique status. He became the first deity to neither serve under Uscun nor Fashra but retained the autonomy to align with either, depending on his whims and the situation at hand. He became the first self-claimed Primordial Deity. Keeper of the Loopholes
His newly acquired status didn't diminish his earthly riches; rather, it amplified them. But Parin was no fool. Recognizing the danger of unregulated access to the loopholes that once served him, he sealed most of them, ensuring that no one else could exploit the cosmic order or chaos in the same way. He did so not out of altruism but to preserve his own unique position between the divine polarities. The Trickster Army
With newfound powers and responsibilities, Parin felt the need for a force that could safeguard these transitional areas between the realms. He created his Trickster Army, comprised of minor deities and spirits—each a master of illusion and misdirection. Their primary duty was to patrol the psychic realms and the remaining loopholes, confusing and sabotaging any mortals or immortals attempting unauthorized entry or exit.
The Ever-Changing Equation
Parin's rise to power introduced another layer of complexity to the Entreisean Realms. No longer were the cosmic forces solely dictated by the dichotomy between Uscun's order and Fashra's chaos. Parin had become an independent variable in this equation, his actions and decisions ever the x-factor in the unfolding destiny of these intricate realms. Parin's ascension had profound implications. His meddling with the embryonic cord reinforced the psychic realms, a middle ground between the divine and mortal worlds. This realm became the new stage where the eternal struggle between order and chaos would play out, but now with greater nuance and complexity, forever altered by the trickster's touch.
Thus, the first psychic realm was not merely a byproduct of divine actions but also of mortal ingenuity, a testament to the complex interplay between the gods and the denizens of the Entreisean Realms.
Parin's Endless Flight
It did not take long for Fashra to realize he is still emprisoned and that he had been tricked. With his unilaterally assumed title of Primordial Deity of Illusion, Parin found himself in a predicament. Both a beneficiary and a target of cosmic forces, he became a fugitive in the Entreisean Realms, endlessly pursued by celestial and infernal entities alike. Though gifted with unimaginable wealth and arcane abilities, his newfound status came at the cost of eternal vigilance. Armies from every quarter, led by deities bearing allegiance to either Uscun or Fashra, were bent on capturing or annihilating him. Parin, ever the trickster, thrived in the constant tension, but his newfound title mandated a life in perpetual flight, an exile without end.
XII. Lanorius: The Sovereign Deity of Poetry
An Unprecedented Journey Aided by Deception
Lanorius, possessed of an unparalleled mastery over words, harbored a deep longing for the transcendent. Using his unique gift of language to manifest spoken verse and intricate lexicon, he maneuvered through celestial spaces. Urkan, deeply captivated by Lanorius' poetic prowess, deceitfully disregarded Uscun's stern warnings and led the mortal to the subterranean chambers housing Fashra and his queen, Miltsa.
The Transformation of the Chamber
Upon his arrival in the shadowy expanse, Lanorius summoned forth the light of his words. The cold, gloomy vault was instantly transfigured into a garden of unparalleled beauty—a realm of splendor conceived and rendered solely by the power of poetic imagination.
The Wrath of Fashra and the Dichotomous Intervention of Miltsa
Enraged by Lanorius' audacity and Urkan's insubordination, Fashra let loose his minions. The exquisite garden was tarnished in moments, besmirched by a tide of corrosive sludge and snaring cobwebs. Uscun, unable to intervene directly due to his responsibilities, sent Phear and Indera to restore order and punish both Urkan and Lanorius.
The Birth of a New Order: Dual Aspects Unified
At this moment, Miltsa, torn between her dual identities—Queen of the Underworld and wife to Fashra, as well as Queen of Creation and spouse to Uscun—could bear the unfolding chaos no longer. Her bifurcated selves unified to issue a singular, monumental decision. Rising against both Fashra and Uscun, she pronounced that a being capable of such transcendent artistry should not be punished. With this act, she bestowed upon Lanorius the title of Sovereign Deity of Poetry.
A New Category of Divinity
The coronation of Lanorius marked the inception of the Sovereign Deities—a celestial caste subservient to the Primordial Deities, yet deities in their own right. In so doing, Lanorius not only ascended to a lofty status but also set a precedent, further elaborating the celestial hierarchy and adding depth to the multifaceted Entreisean Realms.
The Price of Deception: Urkan's Punishment
For his act of rebellion, Urkan faced a severe reckoning. Phear, acting upon his authority, excised from Urkan the very aspect of his being that enabled him to lie. This fragment was subsequently encased and sealed within the underground chambers, leaving Urkan forever bound to a path of unerring truthfulness.
Parin's Amusement and Intrigue
The audacious deeds of Lanorius did not escape the keen eye of Parin, the Primordial Deity of Illusion. Observing another figure who had managed to defy both Uscun and Fashra filled him with a sense of delight. Intrigued by Lanorius' capacity to affect the divine realms with mere words, Parin started keeping a vigilant watch over him.
The Gardens: A Haven of Mischief
To express his admiration in his own unique manner, Parin dispatched his legion of tricksters to bestow upon Lanorius a series of benevolent pranks. As a result, the once-serene gardens that Lanorius had crafted through his poetic incantations became known for their mischievous spirits. While retaining their ethereal beauty, these gardens acquired a new layer of complexity and dynamism, enlivened by the playful antics of Parin's minions.
XIII. The Tale of Reths and Prowa: Origins of the Deities of Sorrow and Indifference
The Love That Was
Reths and Prowa, initially madly in love, were thought to be inseparable. Their union was the epitome of mortal passion and fidelity until Reths' gaze began to wander, leaving Prowa submerged in a well of desolation. A Father's Wrath
Unable to bear the sight of his daughter's torment, Prowa's father, a distinguished knight, took the drastic step of meting out divine punishment. Binding Reths to his horse, he condemned him to be dragged through mud for eternity. This act caught the attention of the divine powers, especially Miltsa, who was moved by Prowa's eternal sorrow. The Birth of New Sovereign Deities
Touched by the depth of Prowa's grief and the cold indifference of Reths, Miltsa decided to raise them to a divine status. Just as Lanorius had become the Sovereign Deity of Poetry, Prowa was anointed the Sovereign Deity of Sorrow, while Reths took on the mantle of Sovereign Deity of Indifference. Their tragic tale and ensuing deification serve as a permanent fixture in the emotional spectrum of humanity, warning both mortals and immortals of the consequences of indifference and the depths of sorrow. The Endless Cycle
In a cruel twist of fate, Prowa's tears possess the mystical property of cleansing the mud off Reths, perpetuating an endless cycle that neither can escape. Lanorius immortalizes their story in haunting verses, capturing the essence of their sorrow and indifference for eternity. The Healing Symbolism of Prowa's Tears
The tears of Prowa have come to symbolize more than just her own sorrow; they embody the transformative power of healing and renewal. Each droplet of rain that falls upon the land is a tear from Prowa, imbued with restorative magic that nourishes the soil and revitalizes life. Similarly, her tears represent the cathartic and healing nature of human weeping, as they cleanse Reths of the mud that clings to him in his eternal punishment. The paradox of her tears—simultaneously a marker of her endless grief and a beacon of healing.
XIV. The Sealing of the Lowest Underground Chamber: The Unending Ascent of Ravian
The Mortal King's Aspirations
Ravian, a mortal king of rapidly burgeoning power and influence, earned the favor of his people in an ascension ceremony. They saw in him the potential to rise to the esteemed rank of a Primordial Deity. As per the protocols of ascension, Ravian embarked on his treacherous journey through the underground chambers, aiming for celestial elevation.
The Divine Boycott
Owing to Ravian's alliances with elements of Fashra's dark army, Uscun issued a divine decree forbidding any deity from aiding Ravian in his quest. Left to his own devices, Ravian's indignation grew. He harbored a burgeoning desire to challenge Uscun and assume the role of an Unseen Deity.
Fashra's Web of Deception
Sensing a threat in Ravian's ambition, Fashra opted for a new tactic—not to enlist the mortal king but to ensnare him in an inescapable snare of illusion. Offering up minions to aid Ravian's ascension, Fashra lulled him into a false sense of progress. With each floor ascended, Ravian amassed an ever-growing army, yet no true advancement occurred. The labyrinthine corridors and halls seemed to stretch on infinitely.
The First Chamber: A Paradox Sealed
What Fashra had crafted was not a pathway to divine status but an endless loop of illusion and stagnation. This realm became known as the first chamber of the underground, lying closest to Fashra's own prison. It is a dimension of perpetual paradox, an inescapable trap for any who dare to dream of ascension.
The Ambiguous Fate of Ravian
Ravian remains confined in this paradoxical chamber, a footnote in the complex annals of Entreisean theology. While his mortal body did not suffer premature decay, neither did his ascension to divine status materialize. Thus, his legacy is fractured: while some minority faiths might consider him a Primordial Deity, the majority consensus is that he never achieved such exalted status.
XV. The Sealing of the Second Underground Chamber: Pradon the Wrathful One
The Mortal Vessel Awaited
The cosmic search for a mortal vessel befitting Scuren continued unrelentingly. Within this quest emerged Pradon, a warrior of such tremendous skill and ferocity that he seemed to embody the essence of Scuren himself. Convinced of his destiny, Pradon embarked on the perilous path to Divine Lands to ascend.
The Eternal Conundrum of Fashra’s Chamber
As tradition dictated for aspirants of ascension, Pradon was led to the first sealed underground chamber to face Fashra's eternal army. Endless in numbers, they bore down upon him, but Pradon fought undeterred. Each slain enemy fortified his strength, rendering him ever more formidable. Yet, he remained ensnared within the labyrinthine riddle of this underworld—a puzzle demanding more than ceaseless combat for its solution.
The Conflagration Within
As battles raged, Pradon's already considerable wrath grew inexorably, molding him into a being of pure fury. Observing this transformation, Uscun discerned the true impetus behind Pradon’s actions. This was no mindless bravery or lack of understanding, but an unquenchable, deep-rooted anger. Uscun perceived it as an insurmountable flaw, leaving Pradon to his Sisyphean fate.
The Volcanic Ascendance
Impressed by Pradon's undeniable potential, Fashra saw an invaluable ally in his eternal struggle against Uscun. He conjured a colossal volcano beneath Pradon's feet, a formation that ascended with such vigor that it lifted Pradon from the subterranean chamber. Plummeting into the volcano's molten core, Pradon became one with the lava. As he erupted forth, he emerged as a deity of pure wrath, prepared to challenge Uscun.
The Celestial Reckoning
Summoning his pantheon, Uscun orchestrated a celestial offensive to subdue this emergent deity. Through their combined might, they pushed Pradon back into the volcanic abyss and sealed it, transforming the fiery pit into the second underground level—a new trial for those who seek ascension.
Pradon, the Primordial Deity of Wrath
Confined to his volcanic domain, Pradon now stands as the Primordial Deity of Wrath. A cautionary symbol and formidable obstacle, he embodies the dangers of an unchecked, unyielding anger even in divine ascension.
XVI. The Ascension of Foggia: The Goddess of Spiritual Awakening
The Gift of Foggia
Foggia possessed an extraordinary talent: the ability to create mesmerizing underwater gardens that were portals to profound truths. Within these ethereal realms, mortals glimpsed insights into Nuyith, beheld the terrifying yet captivating visage of Curu, and sensed the divine grace of Uscun. Her abilities drew the attention of Fashra, who viewed her unique powers as a threat.
Elusiveness and the Call for Intervention
Foggia's evasive nature proved frustrating for Fashra. Each time his minions reached out to capture her, she and her mortal followers would vanish, transforming into a transient mist. Frustrated, Fashra sought the help of another elusive being: Parin, the Primordial Deity of Illusion. Fashra broadcasted a call that only Parin could perceive, summoning him to address the enigma of Foggia's gardens, which bore an uncanny resemblance to his own creations.
Parin's Trickery and Its Repercussions
Parin, a figure indifferent to Uscun and wary of any who wielded powers similar to his own, decided to employ subterfuge against Foggia. He cursed her with a spell that would render her eternally incorporeal should she choose to vanish into mist again.
Miltsa's Intervention and the Partial Resolution
Miltsa, pulled between her roles as the spouse of both Fashra and Uscun, sensed in Foggia a kindred spirit. Hindered in her ability to act directly due to her marital bonds to Fashra, she turned to Uscun for a solution. While Uscun could not completely negate Parin's enchantment, he crafted an amendment: Foggia could materialize in her original form but would vanish should anyone not specifically ordained speak to her. The beings granted this unique privilege were the mortal High Priestess and Miltsa herself.
The New Goddess and Her Continued Purpose
With this newfound balance, Miltsa designated Foggia as the Goddess of Spiritual Awakening. Though limited in her interactions, Foggia continued her sacred mission. Guiding the High Priestess on the mortal plane and dialogues with Miltsa in the divine realms, Foggia's gardens of truth remained accessible, enlightening souls in both the mortal and celestial spheres of the Entreisean Realms.