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 Posted: Fri Feb 01, 2008 4:48 pm
Here is the list of possible parents for your Scion. -The Pesedjet-
-The Dodekatheon-
-The Aesir-
-The Atzlanti-
-The Amatsukami-
-The Loa-
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Posted: Fri Feb 01, 2008 8:04 pm
-The Pesedjet-
The Egyptian Pantheon Originating in Egypt, the Psedjet is the oldest of the pantheons. This family of Gods claims that their origins go back 7,000 years, and it has endured through cultural, mythic and physical changes in the World's very structure. As a pantheon, the Psedjet concerns itself with ma'at- justice expressed through social order. They promote tradition and conservative attitudes as sheilds against chaos. They trust in old patterns, minimally disruptable solutions to problems. Other Gods find this attitude frustrating, as old patterns allowed the Titans to break free.
This pantheon's special power, Heku, derives from the ancient Egyptian understanding of the metaphysical composition of the soul. According to that belief, the soul consists of the ren (name), sekem (energy), ba (soul/personality), ka (corpreal life-force), akh (postmortem union of ba and ka), khaibit (shadow), and sekhu (the body's physical remains). Using this power, Psedjet Scions can use the energy of their soul, their sekem, to intimidate animals, humans and ghosts, as well as lesser titanspawn and other, weaker, Scions. AnubisAKA: Yinepu, Anupu
Anubis is the Egyptian judge of the Underworld, patron of embalmers, and judge of the souls of the dead. He has the body of a man and the head of a Jackal, and his enemies insist that he has the soul of a Jackal as well. Actually, he's quite polite and sophisticated, but with a dark sense of humor.
Anubis's Scions are similar to their father in that they are dedicated, judgmental, and even fickle.Atum-ReAKA: Ra, Atum, Aten, Tem-Ra
In Egyptian legend, he was the creator of the universe and the god of the sun and magic. He rode across the sky dispensing blessings. Until Isis conned Atum-Re out of his true name he was all-powerful. He remains bitter from this, pretending to be above the other Egyptian gods, and is mocked because of his aloof nature.
His Scions are deliberate, perceptive, and thoughtful observers of the natural world. BastAKA: Bastet
Bast is the Queen of the Cats and Goddess of prophecy. Cat-headed, with feline grace and chocolate colored skin, which is covered in a light fur, and green eyes. What cats see, she also sees. She is the keeper of secrets, about powerful forces such as life-death-rebirth and time-space, and keeps these secrets from mortal, divinity, and Titans alike. Out of the Pesedjet, she is most open to new experiences.
Her Scions are motivated explorers. They are cautious at first, but dive deeply into the subject once they decide it is not dangerous. But, they have to remember that special proverb: Curiosity killed the cat.GebAKA: Keb, Qeb, Seb
Geb is the Egyptian god of the Earth. He has dark eyes, skin the color of rich soil, and brown eyes that hold gentleness and ancient knowledge. Forever separated from his wife, Nut, Titan of the night, he gazes up at the night sky with a perceptible longing.
His Scions also have a green thumb. They live in an oasis of beauty and prosperity, and both flora and fauna thrive under their care.HorusAKA: Heru, Nekheny
Son of Osiris and Isis, Horus is the prince of the Gods, and the most conservative of the Psedjet. Falcon-headed with light brown skin, coming in many forms, and always missing his left eye, lost in a battle with Set. He is very proud, still tussling with Set, and is fond of treasures. He likes to reminisce about his time among mortals as a pharaoh, and can preach the glories of his country endlessly.
Much like their father, Horus' Scions are dedicated and driven. They usually pursue careers in law enforcement and, to the dismay of their superiors, often cross the line between justice and vengeance.IsisAKA: Aset
An Egyptian Goddess of magic and guardian of families, Isis is a manipulator of feelings and thoughts. She turns everything to her advantage first, her pantheon second, other Gods thrid, the created order fourth, and everything else last. Unlike other healing Gods, she uses her powers only after she has won favorable concessions to her projects.
She prefers Scions that are thoughtful and biddable, Scions that can be used to support her plans above all else.OsirisAKA: Wesir, Sepa, Serapis
The Egyptian king of the dead, Osiris is a tall man with green skin and eyes. When dealing with others, he is quite straightforward and blunt about his plans to manipulate emotions and plans. Still, people wish to help him because he appears so good and wise, and it's not until after he leaves do people realize how much of a debt they owe and how much stupidity they agreed to.
Osiris chooses his Scions on a much wider scale than other Gods. They walk many different paths, which gives them much more leeway in how they act. He can pick and choose freely, but, to his dismay, his Scions may be less like him than he likes.PtahAKA: Petah
The Egyptian God of artisans, artistry, and wonderful toys is Ptah. He invariably appears as a bald-headed man with overly long arms and legs and laugh lines around his eyes. Even though he is the God of toys, his tools and weapons are equally masterful.
His Scions are just as creative. They seem enamored with creation, motivated by the sheer joy of it. They tend to be imaginative and playful, perhaps a bit immature, while giving off an aura of competence and skill. SetAKA: Seth, Sutekh
The malignant and treacherous brother of Osiris, Set is the lord of the salwa(a relative of the dog) and keeper of the house of disease. He is pure evil, the opposite of his brother, and never trusted by the other Gods. Still, he is the guardian of the desert boundaries of the world and keeps the Titans out, even though he likes to stir up trouble.
His Scions are equally emotional, and equally disliked. Few Gods like Set's offspring, but his Scions still help the pantheon. For a price.
SobekAKA: Suchos
Sobek, lord of crocodiles, is the God of lessening evil. Crocodile-headed with green scales for skin, Sobek acts as the Psedjet's messenger. He travels among the Gods and between the worlds, bringing about positive and necessary changes through others.
His Scions rarely make things themselves and prefer to bring the plans of others to fruition. ThothAKA: A, A'an, Asten, Djehuty, Hab, Khenti, Mehi, Sheps
Ibis-headed Thoth is a keeper of secrets and creator of languages and magic. This secret keeper is subtle and disguises his simple plans and intentions within layers of intricate facades. His words are strong and precise, professionally so, but he speaks with such a rapidity that he is hard to understand. Though he is serious in his speech, Thoth enjoys riddles, jokes, and puns. He records events in history, and can re-create them with the help of his notes.
Much like their father, Thoth's Scions are great storytellers, analysts, record keepers, and are unequaled in intelligence.
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Posted: Fri Feb 01, 2008 8:06 pm
-The Dodekatheon-
The Greek Pantheon Second oldest pantheon, the Dodekatheon comprises the Olympian Gods of Greco-Roman legend. Their exact origins are unclear, as the ancient Greeks already knew their Gods when they migrated to the Mediterranean Sea around 4,000 years ago. Opposed to the Psedjet, who value order above individuality, the Dodekatheon strives to impose a pattern of individuality within humanity. This pantheon's greatest weakness is hubris, beliefe that an individual can win out against Fate. They put great trust in their offspring, but acknowledge the number of other Scions that have fallen to ruin and darkness.
Arete, the unique power of the Dodekatheon, is the Greek word for "excellence" and the concept is held in high regard by the Gods. It allows the Scions of the Dodekatheon to excel at some ability, whether it be driving, melee fighting, marksmanship, or even one's ability to use their charm and appearance to sway the opinions of others. AphroditeAKA: Venus, Turan
The ever-beautiful Aphrodite is the Greek Goddess of Love. Fickle and Demanding, Aphrodite always makes sure her every whim is fulfilled. Men and women alike fall in love with Aphrodite in an epic way. She falls in love quickly, and out of love just as easily, usually leaving her partners penniless. She's so beautiful that she can get away with nearly anything. Her indiscretions are always overlooked, laughed off, or excused.
Her Scions tend to be either genuinely loving, or leave a string of broken hearts and ruined people in their wake. ApolloAKA: Aplu
Apollo is the lord of music, the sun, art, and beauty, and is the sender and healer of sickness. He can cure with a touch or smite with his golden bow. Blond, blue-eyed, with muscled olive-tan skin, this handsome God can send quivers through the spines of men and women alike with a single smile. Apollo is willing to speak truths that others are unwilling to face, and that is guaranteed to win respect from some while enticing others to start swinging.
His Scions tend to take after their father, in looks and disposition. They tend to follow careers in the arts, music, or health.AresAKA: Mars, Maris
Ares is the Greek God of war, and he has the profound ability to incite murderous rage in those around him. His screams are terrifying enough to send even the most-hardened soldiers running; and if that doesn't work, seeing him in battle will.
His children are rarely as fierce, and Ares understand that they need skills of reason, not rage, for the modern World. ArtemisAKA: Artume, Cynthia, Diana, Locheia
Sister of Apollo and Goddess of the moon, Artemis prefers women to men, in all aspects. Unlike her brother, she has dark hair and pale skin, and a fierce gleam in her eyes. Like her brother, she can heal with a touch or bring comatose sleep with a shot of her silver bow. Vain and proud, fierce and sensual, she rarely lets anyone gaze upon her without resolving to change their lives. More than any other Goddess, Artemis has the ability to change her form at will, while still remaining true to herself.
Her adopted Scions are no less changeable than their mother. Artemis herself likes her children to pass through various stages and life patterns, and she finds ways to encourage change among her more settled offspring.AthenaAKA:Aphaea, Minerva, Menrva
Honey-haired and well-rounded, voluptuous some say, Athena is the best at everything, perpetually wise except when her ambitions reduce her to foolish actions. As Goddess of wisdom, she has the power to mediate disputes and resolve them by force or by rendering the argument irrelevant. Tending to be proud, Athena has no patience for those who rely on aggression to solve conflicts, and she can be misled into risky contests. She does not lose gracefully.
Her Scions are similarly well-endowed with graces of art and negotiation.DionysusAKA: Bacchus, Fufluns, Lyaeus
As God of wine and celebration, Dionysus is the wildest and craziest of the Dodekatheon. A former Scion of Zeus, he was elevated to godhood about 3000 years ago. Dionysus is the perfect party boy in all situations, and he is capable of convincing even the most straight-laced prude to loosen up and live a little.
Parties seem to establish themselves around Scions of Dionysus, ever the partier themselves. This happens partly because the Scion is fun to be around, but it seems fated to happen.
HadesAKA: Aita, Dispater, Orcus, Pluto
Heavy set and gray all over, dour Hades is the God of death and the Underworld. Normally a tormented and angry soul, he is happy every six months when his wife, fair Persephone, is allowed by her mother to visit his realm.
Scions of Hades commonly act as their father's agents in the world, reclaiming his property, be it wealth or souls.HephaestusAKA: Vulcan, Sethlans
Lord of the forge and all things manufactured, Hephaestus is a mountain of a man. He is capable of creating automatons sophisticated enough to imitate human beings, weapons capable of bringing down Titans and Gods, palaces that put those of the World to shame, and tools that can reshape the universe. Simply put, he is a genius, though can be absent minded. His two greatest disadvantages are his crippled legs. He's also reliant on his workroom, tools, and equipment. Without them, Hephaestus is practically powerless.
His Scions tend to inherit either his theoretical brilliance or his mechanical aptitude, but not both. HeraAKA: Juno, Uni
Hera is the wife of Zeus and Goddess of Marriage. Though famed as perpetually loyal and faithful to her husband despite his infidelities, she just puts up that front for the sake of the Gods' continued survival. She is regal in a way few Greek Gods are; no one dares interrupt her, and they wait hand-and-foot on her.
Her Scions have a complex position in divine society. They have the potential to be great assets in the coming war with the Titans, but few Gods know how many gifts to grant them. Is Zeus planning on destroying them, despite their usefulness?HermesAKA: Mercury, Turms
Lithe, tanned, dark-haired Hermes is the messenger of the Gods. He has gone everywhere and done everything, as well as a master trickster and illusionist. He stole his magic from Hera, wealth from Hades, and his traveler's wits from Artemis. Needless to say, the other Gods are not always fond of him. But, they do concede his usefulness. He plays tricks on Titans and titanspawn more often than on his fellow Gods, and that makes him useful.
Hermes' Scions are often impressed into roles similar to that of their father. They may risk life and limb to become couriers or spies for the Gods. PoseidonAKA: Neptune, Nethuns, Rodon
Legends say that Poseidon, God of the sea, was the happiest of Zeus's siblings. He ruled a vast domain, recieved offerings from dozens of cities, had many temples and shrines, married a young woman in every port, and had a horde of children, Triton being his favorite Scion. Nowadays, Poseidon leaves his work to Triton.
His Scions are drawn inexplicably to the sea, and tend to be environmentalists, like their father. ZeusAKA: Jove, Jupiter, Tinia
Zeus has many titles, all expressing his strength and power. Sky Father, King of Heavens, Titan-Slayer, Many-Splendored, Crowned in Lightnings are such titles. Legends say that he is stronger than the entire Dodekatheon combined; some Gods believe he is stronger than any two pantheons combined. His strength may be his downfall, though, as fate has decreed that a son of his own siring will overthrow him in time. Gods caution him to be careful, but Zeus cannot help himself. He fathers more Scions because of their nature, and the heroic deeds they accomplish in the world.
His Scions are a Diverse and unruly bunch, including such heroes as Dionysus, Ares, Hephaestus, Apollo, Artemis, Hermes, Hercules, King Minos of Troy, and even Helen of Troy. His Scions are more than capable of spreading justice and order, as well as great destruction and ruin.
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Posted: Fri Feb 01, 2008 8:08 pm
-The Aesir-
The Norse Pantheon Born in the wastes and ruin of Northern Europe, among Germanic warriors and Nordic pirates, the Aesir compose the fourth-oldest divine family. Their pantheon is the product of a shotgun wedding around 1,000 years ago, when the Aesir and the Vanir, an earlier pantheon, were both devastated by the Titans during a war in the North. Relying on safety in numbers, the Aesir were able to preserve themselves in difficult times by absorbing their rivals. The Aesir promotes community stability while also epitomizing personal rights and individual honor. Fated to be destroyed at Ragnarok, the prophesized ending of the nine worlds, nearly every Norse God and Goddess has attempted to find a way around that fate, and they now motivate their Scions to find a way to avoid that ugly doom. Their great weaknesses include, along with their fate, a fondness for aggressive solutions and the enemies that it creates.
Jotunblut which literally means "giant's blood", describes a peculiar quality of the Norse pantheon and Scions. They can use their own blood to bestow a hint of the giants' legendary toughness and strength on a mortal beast or human. Any being so endowed becomes loyal to the Scion, and short tempered and surly with everyone else, for a time. BaldurAKA: Phol
Bladur, the God of the sun, is the most handsome of the Aesir, with white teeth, an incredible physique, graceful dexterity, and sincere eyes. He is a pleaser, and an all around good guy. As such, it is hard to dislike Baldur, and all women seem to lust after him. Baldur, and his Scions, always seem to outshine everyone else in the room, and that leads to envy and jealousy.
Baldur's Scions, like their father, are genuinely good people. That same goodness leads the Scions to tragic, unspeakable ends. FreyaAKA: Frau, Freyja
Redheaded Freya, one of the Vanir, Norse fertility Gods, was a great sorceress and warrior queen. Though older and matronly, Freya possesses a great beauty. She has been described as beautiful enough to bring titanspawn to their knees- in marriage proposals.
Her cheif concern is for women, though she won't refuse to help men.
Freya's Scions are beautiful, regardless of gender, and that beauty is their most potent weapon.FreyrAKA: Ing
Freyr, very handsome and very popular, is the most powerfully fertile of the Vanir. He has power over the sun, the rain, prosperity, wealth, and is patron of bountiful harvests and fertile marriages. He has brown hair and a powerful build. Wealth and prosperity seem to hand about him, and few can resist the powerful charisma that radiates from him.
His Scions are usually very prosperous, and few can muster their energy to go past their wealth and achieve their destiny. FriggAKA: Freja, Frige
Wise wife of Odin, Frigg's origins are unknown. Regardless, she is a powerful sorceress and fortuneteller. She can turn anyone into a Falcon with no chance of getting lost while in that form. For all her power and knowledge, Frigg is not always right.
Her Scions are predominately female, and the few males usually have little in common with their mother, usually feeling more akin to Baldur(Frigg's son.). Before bestowing any power onto her children, they have to promise not to harm Baldur. Breaking that promise can result in death.HeimdallAKA: Hama, Rig
Guardian of Bifrost, the rainbow bridge that joins Asgard and the Mortal World. As the Gods' first line of defense, Heimdall is capable of seeing and understanding much, almost as much as Odin or Loki. Dark-haired, buff, and with a warrior's disposition, he has eagle eyes, a wolf's nose, and a sixth sense about danger.He tends to make a point of getting into everyone's business while keeping everyone out of his own.
Heimdall has many Scions, and pulls strings to put them in interesting places. It's not that he likes his children, it's that he uses his children as part of his divine security network. What his children see and hear, so does Heimdall. He doesn't tell them of this, and other Gods usually inform them of this.HelAKA: Hell
Hel, the queen of the cold Norse Underworld, is profoundly disgusting. Her face and body are fair on the right-hand side, while her left profile is a mass of putrescence and corruption. She hardly ever leaves her hall, walking among mortals with great difficulty, and is a fierce guardian of the dead, cold and unforgiving.
She has few Scions, as few men can stand to be around her long enough to father a child. Those who do stick around are never comfortable with the Scions. Hel's domain is full of powerful and ghostly servants, some of whom she lends to her children.LokiAKA: Loftur, Loge
The ultimate trickster and practical joker, Loki the Sky Traveler is a God of mischief and fire who is capable of being on anyone -or no one's- side. He is a blood-brother to Odin, and has fathered such monsters as the Midgard Serpent and the Fenris Wolf. He is clever and capable of making things happen, but cowardly and quick to betray. The double-cross is an art form to Loki, one he has perfected.
Loki's Scions are rare, as he is hardly ever out and about without a chaperon keeping him on a tight leash. His children, as opportunistic and conniving as their father, tend to side with the Titans, which leads the Aesir to sometimes hunt them to extinction just to avoid the possibility of them fighting against the Gods. OdinAKA: Wotan, Woden, Vak, Valtam, Ygg
Odin, The All-Father, the supreme deity of the Norse pantheon, has risen to power by virtue of his great power and even greater wisdom. He plucked out his eye to obtain his supreme wisdom, and his throne allows him to see all occurrences in all worlds. Accompanied by two wolves and two ravens and riding an eight-legged steed, Odin is a cunning and terrifying enemy to the Titans and their ilk.
A great warrior he is, but a great father he is not. He runs out on his mortal bedmates shortly before his child is born, only to introduce himself to his Scion some time later. He rarely gives birthrights without some strings attached. He could be more sensitive to his Scions' needs, but with his foreknowledge, Odin only cares that the Aesir survive the final battle with the Titans at Ragnarok. The sacrifice of his Scions to that end is expected. Regardless, Odin's survival is always paramount in his mind.SifThe wife of Thor, Sif is a Goddess of Fertility and Harvest. She is beautiful and youthful, with blue eyes and hair of spun gold, compliments of the dwarves after Loki sheered off her blond tresses, many have lusted over this Goddess. She compliments Thor's meatheaded ways with a keen intellect.
Her Scions are very diverse. They range from lumberjacks to metrosexuals, feminist activists to stay-at-home moms. Home and family are important to them, as is having it all, in terms of active social calenders, children, and careers, and they strive to fill every moment with some kind of activity.ThorAKA: Donar, Thunor
Redheaded Thor, the Norse God of thunder, is the right hand of Odin and chief enforcer amongst the Gods. Heis quite simply a one man army; massively built with fists like sledgehammers. It is said that his hammer could destroy mountains, and it unerringly killed every giant, without magical protections, Thor faced. Fierce, angry and prideful, Thor could be a danger to his allies as well as his enemies.
Thor has fathered large numbers of Scions, but his gifts tend to be less frequent than those of the other members of the Aesir. His own talents revolve around battle and war rather than creation, so he attempts to persuade others to create legendary and powerful relics for his children. His persuasive ability is limited, though.TyrAKA:Tiw, Ziu
Tyr is the one-handed God of justice and the son of Odin. Sturdy, well-built, and somber, Tyr is devoted to justice above all else. He willingly gave his right hand to the Fenris Wolf, in order for the beast to be bound. No mechanical hand will fit on the stump as it is always inflamed.
His Scions are similarly devoted to justice, but they seem to lack vision. By no means rebellious, they tend to work within established systems rather than tear down established orders. They seek to constrain chaos and promote harmony.VidarAKA: Vidarr
Other Gods look to Vidar, Norse God of vengeance, with much suspicion. Not a nice fellow, Vidar is stronger than all but Thor, more steadfast than Odin, and more patient in laying his plans than Loki. He can be described as obsessive, paranoid, methodical, and unpredictable.
His Scions are similarly driven, focused, and methodical, but not paranoid at first. They hold grudges, even against allies, and can sense a thirst for revenge in people just by shaking hands.
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Posted: Fri Feb 01, 2008 8:10 pm
-The Atzlanti-
The Aztec Pantheon Coming into being sometime between 3,000 and 4,000 years ago, the Aztec Gods have no name for their pantheon. Other divine tribes usually call them the Atzlanti. Capricious and cruel in a way the other pantheons are not, the Aztec Gods are a bloodthirsty, agressive, and violent bunch. Continuity is more important to the Atzlanti than community or individuality. The most important things to them is that the sun continues on it's course, followed by the moon and the stars, and that they get their blood sacrifices. Their need for blood is their greatest weakness. Blood fuels and expedites all Aztec magic and divine powers, for Atzlanti Gods and Scions, and while Quetzalcoatl requires only a drop for most of his workings, Huitzilopachtli seems to need bucketsful.
The Aztecs practiced many sacrificial rituals to both empower and placate the Gods so they could continue to do their jobs. With Itztli, the Scions of the Atzlanti shed their own blood to empower themselves for a time. The power boost increases with the severity of the wound(s) inflicted. HuitzilopochtliBlack-faced, covered with blue tattoos and with a red-and-yellow-feathered left leg, Huitzilopochtli is the Aztec God of war and the sun. Fond of earrings and gold jewelry, he loves blood that comes from dishonored warriors. In the Aztecs, he roused a maddening love and sacrifice.
His Scions can be frightening, as they usually inherit their father's rage and lack of subtlety.
MiclantecuhtliAKA: Santa Muerte
Miclantecuhtli is the lord of Micltlan, the Aztec land of spirits and the dead. Skeletally thin, with black hair peppered with white stars, his claw-like hands are powerful enough to rip souls to shreds. He wears suits made from bark paper, and his liver hangs out of a gaping hole in his abdomen.
This God takes pleasure in causing some degree of suffering in other people, including his Scions. In fact, his Scions tend to enjoy that particular hobby as well, but they are oblivious to the fact that their father is the one who makes them so miserable. QuetzalcoatlQuetzalcoatl is the cleverest, most peaceful and least blood thirsty of the Aztec pantheon, only requiring a blood sacrifice once a year. He prefers that mortals create beauty and art, to live joyfully in the present and achieve their highest ambitions. The God of the feathered serpent is tall and athletic, covered in the green and red feathers of the coatl.
His Scions are energetic, usually having a hundred different projects going at once. TezcatlipocaAKA: Tahil, Yaotl
Tezcatlipoca, the Lord of the Smoking Mirror, is the God of fate and the bringer of discord and vice. He possesses Quetzalcoatl's great creative powers, but uses them for negative purposes. His obsidian mirror shows the future, yet it's images are distorted.
His Scions make use of controversy to achieve particular goals, while their father makes controversy for the sake of controversy. They make good attack dogs for the causes they choose to represent. TlalocAKA: Chac, Cocijo
Tlaloc is the God of the rains and clouds, and he has been around forever. By standing on earth, Tlaloc represents the relationship between earth and rain for the production of crops and food. Unlike the other Aztec Gods, he receives sacrifices in order to maintain his equilibrium.
His Scions tend to share their father's love of modern life, making use of the most up-to-date technologies, and tradition. Though genuinely good people, they are subject to dark desires and disturbing nightmares.TlazolteotlAKA: Ixcuina, Toci
Tlazolteotl is a Goddess of filth, whether it involves physical human waste, psychological baggage, or water-treatment systems. She has the power to clean it all up with her magic broom, and she can get anyone to convince anyone to tell their life story to her. She is eager to learn of the details of their darker emotions, as it only makes her stronger.
Her Scions are similarly able to wring secrets out of the dark places in people's consciousness. Xipe TotecGod of maize and seeds growing in the earth, Xipe Totec represents death transforming into new life. Unlike his colleagues, Xipe Totec requires a human or animal skin as well as blood to do his work. His most powerful arts require him to wear the sacrificed skin. Once donned, the gruesome garment allows him to create gold out of nothing, to bring seeds to fruition, to command disease and health, to turn the seasons and to drive any Titan, or titanspawn, from his way. In addition, he takes on the mortal attributes of the specific being whose skin he wears, he is able to become that person fully and completely.
His Scions are very much a mystery. They seem almost obsessed with cycles of death and rebirth, in all forms.
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Posted: Fri Feb 01, 2008 8:11 pm
-The Amatsukami-
The Japanese Pantheon The Amatsukami are the heavenly divinities of ancient Japan. When asked how long they have been around, they are certain to reply "forever." Other tribes usually estimate their age as somewhere between the Dodekatheon and the Aesir, though it could be possible the Amatsukami are not lying about their age. Regardless, the Amatsukami certainly have a different way of working in the World. While the Atzlanti work to ensure the continuity of the Overworld in synchronicity with the World, the Dodekatheon, Psedjet, and Aesir work to ensure the continuity of human communities, the Amatsukami emphasize the continuity of Nature- the reality of the World and all of it's natural wonders, the interactions between the living and the non-living to create beauty formed by states of permanent change. This pantheon works for the right and proper balance of all being. Its Scions work to establish "Ecological solutions to complex problems, believing that only many-leveled, beautiful answers will keep the Titans at bay. That may just be their weakness, as such elegant and serene natural resolutions take time to implement.
It's a fundamental Shinto understanding that every physical object has a spirit, a kami. With Tsuko-Gami, the unique power of the Amatsukami, a Scion is aware of those spirits, and can even coax them out and bargain with them for information and favors. With the proper shows of respect and decorum, the spirits can be quite helpful by providing information and performing passive tasks, acting as a lookout or limited messenger. AmaterasuAKA: Omikami, Tensho Daijin
Amaterasu is the Queen of the Heavenly Plain, Goddess of the sun and mother of the imperial family of Japan. She was the most powerful of the Japanese deities, and when she went into hiding in a cave, the world was plunged into darkness. Only by positioning a mirror before the cave entrance and staging an elaborate and noisy entertainment outside were the other Gods able to lure her out. Once she looked into the mirror, she realized how beautiful and elegant, how glorious and delightful, she truly was. She resumed her duties more radiant and wonderfully confident than she had been before.
Since the imperial family's importance has declined, Amaterasu has taken to strengthening her people as a whole. She partners with great artists to create new generation of Scions who will make Japan great and beautiful.
HachimanAKA: Daibosatsu, Ojin, Yawata no Kami
Hachiman is a changeable and flexible God. Lord of fishing nets, fertile fields, and war, his symbol, the tomoe, is three teardrops circling in a vortex, signifying the forces of change and transformation that he brings to any occasion. He can shift his divine form as the moment takes him, but he can't shift forms on the fly. Whatever form he takes, he has to stay in that form for the given encounter. In addition, the dove and his eight traditional banners are present wherever he goes.
Hachiman chooses which Scions he reveals himself to in the way generals choose their commanders. In his eyes, Hachiman's Scions need to be officers, leaders of soldiers, not cannon fodder, especially since the battlefield is the World. His birthrights are often books; manuals of battle tactics or business management.
IzanagiAKA: Izanagi no Mikoto
The first man of the Amatsukami, Izanagi was the father of Amaterasu and creator of all Japan. He, with Izanami, was the parent of many deities and spirits. As lord of the sky, he controls both the motion of the celestial bodies and the weather. His wife died giving birth, and ever since he has been excessively sentimental. Some fear his maudlin behavior will make him fall to the rage and aggression of a Titan, or worse.
His Scions are often at loose ends with the world, given their father's detachment. Not yet tasked by their father, other divinities come to them first, trying to shake Izanagi from his depression in some way.
IzanamiAKA: Izanami No Mikoto
Izanami is Izanami's dead wife, queen of the Underworld, and the first woman of the Amatsukami. While she was alive, she helped given birth to all the Gods and islands of Japan. She died giving birth to a child, and her husband immediately killed the boy out of anger and frustration. Her horrific appearance in the Underworld, half-rotted and swarming with maggots, causes her to choose darkness and death over life and light. She and Izanagi are always separated and cannot bare to look upon each other. Izanami's handmaidens, the shikome, are almost as terrifying as she is.
Izanami's Scions tend to take after one of their mother's phases; either her light, creative phase or her dark and deathly phase. The creative ones are capable of beautiful works of great energy, and are showered with artistic Birthrights by other deities that keep them away from any real power of place where they could do genuine damage or good. Her darker Scions, though, tend to recieve powers directly from their mother. Holding no love for the Gods who could not save her, she picks out her aggressive offspring to be scourges to the other Gods.
RaidenAKA: Narukami, Raijin
Red-skinned with clawed feet and a demonic visage, orbited by a set of drums and armed with a mighty bow, Raiden is the God of thunder and lightning and a guardian against invaders and invasions. Many fear him because of his terrible face and his often-angry opinions about the state of the World and the nation. Though, if he can be calmed, he is quite likeable and can offer advice on nearly any subject.
His Scions aren't quite as appalling as their father, but the apple never falls far from the tree. They tend to be quite handy with modern technology and apt for indecent behavior.
Susano-oAKA: Susanoo No Mikoto
God of the sea and of storms, Susano-o is a fiery-tempered, bearded young man full of rage. He is always rushing off on some wild adventure, usually because he has been worn out his welcome where he currently resides. He was kicked out of Takamagahara, the Amatsukami Overworld, after throwing a tantrum over being beaten by Amaterasu. He was banished to the World, where he had to go through many trials in order to return to the Overworld. Susano-o thrives for excitement, and the World is a very exciting place compared to Takamagahara.
His Scions tend to be thrill seekers, much like their father.
Tsuki-yomiAKA: Tsukiyomi No Mikoto
Tsuki-yomi is the Japanese God of the moon and brother to Amaterasu. His sister, appalled by his conduct as her representative, sent him to the other side of the sky, and will not look at him directly ever again. As a result, he sits and sulks much of the time. Eager to leave his sister's presence, Tsuki-yomi spends the rest of his time as a messenger between worlds.
His Scions are motivated to be movers and shakers. They may not create art directly, but run art galleries or start publishing businesses. They tend to be better at helping others achieve their dreams than achieving their own.
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Posted: Fri Feb 01, 2008 8:13 pm
-The Loa-
The Voodoo Pantheon The Loa are divinities of ancient West Africa, transplanted through slavery to the Caribbean and the Americas. They make up the most mixed of the pantheons in terms of age, Gods only a few hundred years old stand beside Gods who walked the earth millennia ago. Though other Gods may mock them as mere spirits elevated to above their rank and station, but their actual power and authority certainly matches that of their detractors. The Loa concentrate their energy on retaining the energy and holiness of local places, and the whole of nature is not as important to them as the wholeness of the here-and-now. Also, small is beautiful to the Loa. A house where the inhabitants live in peace, prosperity, and happiness is a good and beautiful goal for the Loa. One prosperous town or village ranks as a greater achievement than saving an island or even the World. Of all the pantheons, the Loa remember what it was like to be a Scion, and therefore treat their offspring with respect and honor.
Cheval allows Scions of the Loa to see through another person's eyes and control their actions, even fully possess that person, if they have a picture of that person, some generic token from that person, or something that person created. While the Scions are expected to use these powers only in service to their community, these powers do raise an awful temptation to do otherwise. Baron SamediAKA: The Baron, Baron La Croix, Uncle Skeleton
Baron Samedi is always up for a party, in this world or the next. Stylishly dressed, though in the manner of an undertaker, he enjoys entertaining children and scaring adults. His entourage, the ghede, is a collection of the dead. Ghosts, zombies, and revered ancestors follow him around like groupies would follow a rock star.
His Scions tend to take after their father, even if they don't realize it.
DamballaAKA: Bon Dieu, Moses
Damballa is the most important and powerful God of the Voodoo pantheon, as father of the other Loa. Appearing as a huge green-and-black snake, he is associated with parental duty as well as primal sexuality and creativity.
Damballa gives his Scions great leeway in what they do. They have been described as lively and energetic, though sensual and basically primal people, enjoying nature far more than a cubicle.ErzulieAKA: Erzulie Freda, Erzulie Danto, Erzulie Je Wouj, Mary
Erzulie, beautiful God of love in all its forms. She is a promiscuous woman who dresses in pinks and reds and loves sweet foods and perfumes. She has assumed three faces, which she can use when in need. As Freda she is a young woman, endeavoring to gain the attention and admiration of men. As Danto, she is the matronly protector of children and homosexuals. Lastly, as Je Wouj, she is an angry old lady whom no one loves anymore.
Her Scions choose their own paths, and Erzulie has no problem with it; as long as they obey their mother when she needs them. KalfuAKA: Mait Carrefour
Kalfu is Legba's dark twin. Some Voodoo practitioners see them as the same deity, but the Loa themselves know the truth. Kalfu is the master of the malevolent spirits of the night, just as Legba rules the beneficent spirits of the day. Standing on the opposite side of all crossroads and doorways from his twin, they can only be told apart by close inspection. Kalfu is more muted in color than Legba, as if he is lighted by moonlight.
His Scions usually end up having rap sheets, regardless of whether they have done anything or not, as is the curse of their parentage. Such negative attention can drive them to evil deeds.LegbaAKA: Eshu, St. Lazarus, St. Peter, St. Anthony
Legba, keeper of the spirit gate, he watches over crossroads and doorways. Appearing as an old black man with a dog, wearing a straw hat and a pipe wedged between his teeth, Legba can understand and speak any mortal language. He is associated with the color red, as well as the Catholic saints Peter, Lazarus, and Anthony.
His Scions are masters of transportation and opening pathways, as well as masters of practical jokers. They are capable of making introductions and connecting with people of all walks of life.OgounAKA: Gu, St. George, St. James, St. Sebastian
Ogoun is the lord of power, authority, triumph, and a spirit of iron; whether it be in battle or in a persons fortitude. He likes the contrast of sharp white and red, as well as smoking and rum. Though, he's never the pirate, always the pirate-hunter with an iron knife.
His Scions are inclined to military life, whether they be lovers or fighters. Forceful personalities, no one calls Ogoun's children "coward" and gets away with it.ShangoAKA: Xango, Chango
Shango, the priest-king of the Loa, is the lord of thunder and the God of initiation, justice, and royalty. Fighting the good fight everywhere, he resists oppression on behalf of his followers. He hunts liars and theives with his stone ax, made by his close friend and colleague Ogoun. Legend says that he had three wives, and produced sons by each of them. His sons became great leaders, priests, and bandits who preserved the moral order by robbing the rich and giving to the poor.
So it is with his Scions. He always makes sure there are three in the world; one destined to be a great leader, one to be an advisor, and one to be a bandit. Thus, by Shango's estimation, the World is balanced.
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