Title: The Wild Keeper
Domains: Nature’s Balance
Creators: Almariel and Feron
Pantheon: Alorama
Description
Threndil, the God of the Hunt, embodies the balance of nature, the harmony between predator and prey, and the respect for the cycle of life in the wild. Created by Almariel, Lady of Light’s wisdom and Feron, Aevari of the Earth’s affinity with the earth, Threndil is revered as the Wild Keeper, ensuring that all creatures live in balance, that no part of nature takes too much or too little. He teaches respect for the wilderness and the need to maintain harmony between civilization and the natural world.
Threndil is depicted as a lithe and agile figure clothed in robes of deep forest green and earthy brown, adorned with leaves and feathers. His eyes are sharp like those of a hawk, and his presence exudes a calm yet vigilant energy. He carries a bow made from ancient wood and a quiver of arrows, symbolizing his role as both protector and enforcer of nature’s balance. Often, Threndil is accompanied by a great stag or a hawk, creatures that symbolize the guardianship of the wild.
Followers
Threndil’s followers, including hunters, Rangers, Elf (Wood), and those who live closely with the natural world. They are devoted to maintaining nature’s balance, ensuring that hunting is done sustainably and that the land is respected. They often live in small communities near forests or in secluded areas where they can serve as stewards of the wilderness.
Temples dedicated to Threndil are often open-air groves or small, unobtrusive shrines deep within forests. His followers believe in minimal interference with the natural world, viewing themselves as part of a greater cycle rather than masters of it.
Rituals and Offerings
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The Rite of the First Hunt: Before any hunt, Threndil’s followers perform the Rite of the First Hunt, in which they offer a prayer to the Wild Keeper, asking for his blessing and guidance. They promise to take only what is needed and to use every part of the animal in honor of its sacrifice.
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The Vigil of Balance: Held during the autumn equinox, the Vigil of Balance is a time of reflection on the relationship between civilization and the wild. Followers of Threndil gather to meditate, share stories of the hunt, and renew their commitment to maintaining nature’s harmony.
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Offerings: Offerings to Threndil include feathers, animal pelts, or carved wooden tokens left at his shrines as symbols of gratitude. The most common offering is a small portion of the first catch of the season, left in the wilderness to honor the cycle of life.
Sigils and Symbols
Threndil’s symbol is a bow crossed with an antler, representing both the hunt and the guardianship of nature. His followers wear this sigil as a pendant or carve it onto their bows, arrows, or other tools of the hunt. It is also etched into the stones that mark the sacred groves dedicated to Threndil.
Additional Details
The Wildchosen, those particularly favored by Threndil, are said to possess a unique connection to the creatures of the forest. They can often communicate with animals, sensing their needs and emotions. The Wildchosen are respected guides, helping to maintain the balance of nature and protect the harmony of the wild. They are often called upon in times of crisis, such as when the natural balance is threatened by overhunting or deforestation.
Threndil’s influence can be felt in every rustle of leaves, in the silent stalk of a predator, and in the beauty of an untouched forest. He teaches that humanity must coexist with the natural world, respecting its rhythms and understanding that every life plays a role in maintaining the balance of existence.