The Forgefather
Xeryok the Forgefather is the mighty deity of creativity, craftsmanship, fire, and passion
worshipped throughout the realms by artisans and creators. Known as the divine patron of
smiths, protector of craftsmen, and master of the eternal forge, Xeryok embodies the
transformative power of fire and the creative spirit that shapes raw materials into
wonders. His blessing is sought by blacksmiths and artists alike.
Craftsmanship & Creation - Xeryok embodies the principles of masterful creation,
transforming raw materials into objects of beauty, utility, and power through skill and vision.
Fire & Forge - As the master of the eternal flames, Xeryok commands the sacred
fires that fuel creation and destruction alike, teaching that through heat comes transformation.
Passion & Inspiration - The god ensures that creative souls burn with inner fire while
those who lack passion for their craft find their works cold and lifeless.
Innovation & Progress - Xeryok teaches that through bold experimentation comes advancement,
and that the greatest works are born from daring to surpass what came before.
Xeryok is depicted as a powerful, muscular figure with arms like iron and hands that
glow with inner fire, often shown at a massive anvil wreathed in divine flames.
He wears a leather apron marked with scorch marks and carries his legendary blazing hammer.
Xeryok is often depicted with intense concentration and creative fervor, embodying the
passionate dedication and tireless effort he offers to all who seek mastery of their craft.
Holy Symbols:
- The Blazing Hammer (hammer wreathed in eternal flames)
- The Phoenix Anvil (anvil crowned with rising phoenix wings)
- The Forge Star (eight-pointed star radiating heat)
- The Sacred Bellows (symbol of breathing life into creation)
Xeryok's temples are built of fire-resistant stone and adorned with masterwork metalcraft,
designed to promote creativity and house working forges. The largest temple, the
Great Forge of Valenhall in the capital, features a sacred forge
said to be lit directly from Emberforge itself. Worship involves offerings of
fine crafted goods, raw materials, and acts of creative passion toward one's work.
Major Holy Days:
- The Great Kindling (Summer Solstice) - Most important festival celebrating peak creative fire
- The First Strike (Spring Equinox) - Celebrating new projects and apprenticeships
- The Master's Blessing - Annual ceremony blessing craftsmen and their tools
Location: Great Forge Cathedral, Valenhall
Legendary dwarven smith who has served Xeryok for over 150 years
Flame Wardens - Elite priest-smiths who protect temples and maintain the sacred forges
Ember Speakers - Traveling priests who bless workshops and teach crafting techniques
The Forgemaster - The High Priest who speaks for Xeryok in mortal affairs
Spark Keepers - Apprentice priests learning the sacred arts of creation
It is said that when the multiverse was nothing but void and potential, Xeryok lit the
first forge and began hammering out the framework of reality itself. Each strike of his
divine hammer sent sparks flying that became stars, and the heat of his forge warmed
the cold emptiness into the first planes of existence.
During the Age of Making, Xeryok himself is said to have walked among mortals,
teaching the secrets of metalwork and inspiring the creation of the first great cities.
The legendary weapons and artifacts from this era still bear his divine mark.
Ancient texts speak of a time when Xeryok will forge one final, perfect creation that
will reshape the cosmos. Some believe this refers to a weapon to defeat ultimate evil,
while others think it speaks of a new age of unprecedented artistic achievement.
With the recent expansion of the kingdoms and increased demand for quality weapons and
tools - construction in growing cities, preparation for potential conflicts, and the
discovery of new metal deposits in the northern mountains - many faithful believe Xeryok
is preparing for a golden age of craftsmanship. Prayers for his inspiration have increased,
and several smiths claim to have received visions of revolutionary new techniques.