Beodhen

Beodhen is the manifestation of ambition, passion, and victory. As the reigning leader of the Pantheon, Beodhen epitomizes both divine power and the true potential of the Devout. He embodies the path of the Warrior and Leader and, for many, is the pinnacle of skill in matters both martial and social. Beodhen revels in the Mortal Realm and sees the pursuit of perfection as something best accomplished through active counsel and collaboration with the Devout.

Beodhen is known to be a passionate God, and his actions are the stuff of legend. In addition to the Blood War, Beodhen is (at least partially) responsible for the creation of landscapes, celestial bodies, and even some of the most fearsome beasts that roam Circadia. He is known to dabble in Mortal matters–somewhat famously–and ancient family lines can claim a (distant) direct descent from Beodhen’s romps through the Mortal world. 

Beodhen, of course, is not without controversy. While he has always been a powerful God, his rise to leadership was the product of the Blood War. To this day, while many respect his might, he is regarded as a dangerous God of unquenchable ambition. Indeed, as Beodhen unseated Hyrnedhna, he is widely condemned by many of her followers–many of whom have refused to abandon her and, in doing so, are Non-Believers of the current Pantheon.

Devout of Beodhen

Beodhen favors those of unusual talent and ambition and followers of Beodhen often feel specifically Chosen. Unlike Kasamei and Nepheris, who welcome and bless almost any follower, Beodhen is particular: devotees must fulfill his rigorous standards. Beodhen primarily favors leaders and warriors, but gifted artists and even socialites are still among his number. Beodhen does not favor “common thieves,” and mundane criminals are unlikely to ever receive his blessing.

Beodhen’s Devout, bedecked in crimson and gold, hold fast to his motto: Pursuit is Perfection. Beodhen has some of the most pious of followers, and their commitment to victory makes them formidable in all pursuits. Many Worship Leaders and Crusaders have committed the entirety of their lives to conquest of the Abyssal and service to Beodhen. Indeed, there is an entire sect of gifted Devout who consider themselves the Brides (gender neutral) of Beodhen and have sanctified themselves to his service.

Beodhen and the Layfolk

While universally respected among the pious Layfolk, Beodhen is an intimidating God to many who are not Devout. Foremostly, many Layfolk believe that, given his preference for genius, they would be considered unworthy of his attention. Moreover, and more insidiously, older Layfolk who survived the Blood War remember the ferocity and brutality of the battles–it has not slipped their memory that Beodhen, along with Hyrnedhna, were at the forefront of such bloodshed. However, to be a denizen of Circadia is to be, at least in part, under the rule of the King of Gods.

Costuming and Appearance

Followers of Beodhen are universally known for splendor: whatever their purview may be, they dress themselves in finery of highest quality. This may be shining armor, sumptuous fabrics, or subtly placed jewels, but even the humblest of Beodhen worshippers includes some level of luxury in their daily life. Worshippers heavily favor red and gold accented with ornate jewelry and weapons. Many followers of Beodhen wear some sort of circlet, indicating their allegiance to the King of Gods.

It must not be forgotten that Beodhen, while a God steeped in his own pursuit of beauty and perfection, is nevertheless a God of Beasts. While Beodhen usurped the formal title, he did so easily. Since his boyhood, Beodhen has had a natural affinity for Beasts, particularly those associated with the Hunt. Followers of Beodhen often choose an animal that best represents their worship: the Lionhardt family, for instance, not only changed their name to signify their worship but are also known to display lions on their regalia. Some of the most devoted of Beodhen’s followers–much like followers of Hyrnednha–will even develop beastly characteristics, particularly horns and antlers.

Beodhen prefers magnificent terrestrial species and is heavily associated with bears, lions, stags, and boars. However, like followers of T’Zyri, he is also associated with serpents.

The Blessed

Those blessed by Beodhen will most frequently develop streaks and veins of shining gold and ruby across their bodies. However, some of the most devoted of Beodhen’s followers–much like followers of Hyrnednha–will develop beastly characteristics, particularly horns and antlers.