Orlanth

(OR-lanth)

Storm God


Orlanth has many titles, among them King of the Gods, Master of Storms, Death Wielder, and Bringer of Light. He is heir to great portions of his father's, Umath's, realms, and sometimes the distinction between the two is unclear in the legends about early times.

Orlanth is one of the Seven Lightbringers, and is considered the chief of those deities. His worship is widespread. He is a dire foe of the Red Goddess of the Lunar Empire.

Orlanth is worshipped as one of three aspects.

Orlanth Rex is recognized by many as King of the Gods, claiming, by right of his deeds, overlordship of the universe. As such, he knows justice and leadership, fine rhetoric, and other skills needed to rule. In this aspect he is worshipped by chieftains, nobles, and poets.

Orlanth Thunderous is the weather and storm god. As such he represents the power the god possesses over the natural elements of storm. In this aspect he is worshipped by some warriors and by those who live in places often visited by violent weather.

Orlanth Adventurous is the god of the wind. As such his skills as a poet, fighter, and lover are renowned. This aspect appeals to those who wander and adventure. This aspect is the subject of this write-up.

Orlanth is usually portrayed as a vigorous man of varying age, armed with the thuderbolt and other warrior's weapons, and wearing a tribal chieftain's arm rings.

Lay Membership

It is said that Orlanth Adventurous welcomes almost all beings who breathe air, provided they join of their own free will.

Initiates

To become an initiate, the candidate must have been a lay member for a year. He must formally reject all former cult ties and pledge to devote himself "to the winds". He must have a sponsor who is already an initiate.

Wind Lords

Rune Lords of Orlanth Adventurous, called Wind Lords, are the supposed embodiment of the Adventurer. His life task is to perform deeds to honor his god. He roams the world seeking danger and strife, impetuously taking up quarrels and fearlessly defending his friends.

Candidates for Wind Lord must have been an initiate for at least a year. Among other skills, a candiate must have at least 90% profiency with any sword weapon.

Wind Lords have the immense benefit of being called upon for many dangerous tasks and chances to try to outshine his contemporaries in feats of glory and prowess. (Many other cults believe this behavior to be less than intelligent.)

Wind Voices

Rune Priests of Orlanth Adventurous, Wind Voices, are the vessels for the magic of their god to enter the world. They are responsible for the spiritual health of their entire ministry. They spend much of their time performing the proper rites to keep the wind blowing.

Candidates for Wind Voice must speak both their own tongue and Storm Speech at at least 80% and must have been an initiate for at least two years.

Priests of Orlanth are reverred for their powers of Rune Magic. They must never fail to succor a member of their congregation, and must eat eggs once per week (as a sign of contempt for Yelm).


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