Demergat
Demergat, the deity of storm-ridden islands, is intrinsically tied to the region where his divine fragment landed: the tempestuous maelstrom. He has garnered worship from the inhabitants of the local islands, who frequently face the ocean's hazards. Although his blessings do not directly aid ships navigating these treacherous waters, they are nonetheless sought after by seafarers.
Temples
Temples dedicated to Demergat are robust, typically constructed from stone to withstand the frequent and fierce storms that batter these islands. The integrity of the temple's roof is of paramount importance. If a roof fails during a storm, the temple's clergy lose their powers until the roof is repaired and successfully withstands the next storm. Such a loss of power is considered deeply shameful, and tales of such incidents are passed down through generations. Each altar within these temples features a chalice filled with storm water, which is refreshed after every storm.
Proselytization
The clergy of Demergat are tasked with securing the worship of all individuals within their domain, aiming to supplant the worship of other deities. They initially focus on converting the rulers of the land, followed by the general population. To ensure their dominance, they may resort to underhanded tactics, such as using their divine powers to sink unprotected ships navigating stormy waters. This practice continues until all temples dedicated to other deities are dismantled.
Taboos
Worship of Other Deities
For Demergat, loyalty is paramount. Worshiping other deities, especially those related to the sea or weather, is considered a grave offense and may result in the individual being ostracized.
Neglecting Temple Maintenance
The integrity of Demergat's temples is crucial. Neglecting repairs, particularly of the roof, is considered a severe violation of the deity's tenets.
Sailing on Holy Days
Setting sail on Storm Day, the holy day dedicated to Demergat, is strictly forbidden. Those who defy this taboo risk invoking the deity's wrath in the form of treacherous storms.
Disrespecting Storm Water
The chalice of storm water on the altar is sacred. Tampering with or disrespecting it in any way is considered a sacrilege.
Obligations
Attendance on Storm Day
All followers are obligated to attend the weekly services on Storm Day. Failure to do so without a valid reason is frowned upon, and clergy will ensure the individual's attendance at the next gathering.
Temple Upkeep
Maintaining the structural integrity of Demergat's temples is a communal responsibility. Followers are expected to contribute either through labor or offerings to ensure the temple remains robust.
Conversion Efforts
Clergy and devoted followers are obligated to work towards converting the local population, focusing first on rulers and then the general populace. This often involves showcasing the power of Demergat through various means, including divine interventions.
Storm Water Collection
After every storm, a designated member of the clergy is responsible for refreshing the chalice on the altar with new storm water. This act is considered a sacred duty and is performed with great reverence.
Ceremonial Attire for Demergat
The Stormcloak
A heavy, water-resistant cloak dyed in shades of deep blue and gray to symbolize the stormy seas and skies. The cloak would be adorned with embroidered motifs of crashing waves, lightning bolts, and swirling winds.
The Helm of Tempests
A headpiece made of intricately carved seashells and coral, designed to resemble a crown. It serves as a symbol of Demergat's dominion over the storm-ridden islands.
The Belt of Resilience
A sturdy leather belt adorned with small pouches for carrying ritualistic items such as vials of storm water, sacred stones, and talismans. The belt buckle would be shaped like a ship's wheel or anchor.
The Staff of Storms
For high-ranking clergy, a ceremonial staff topped with a crystal that resembles a storm cloud. The staff would be used in rituals to invoke Demergat's blessings and would be engraved with runes of protection and dominion.
The Chalice of Stormwater
A ceremonial chalice made of silver or another precious metal, used to hold the storm water that is central to Demergat's worship. The chalice would be engraved with oceanic and storm-related motifs.
This ceremonial attire would be worn by the clergy during special ceremonies, rituals, and other significant religious events. It serves both as a tribute to Demergat and as a practical uniform for those who work closely with the elements that this deity governs. The attire would be designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the storm-ridden islands, embodying the resilience and strength that Demergat represents.
Historical Figures
The Drowned Sailor
The name of this sailor has been lost to time. As his ship navigated the turbulent waters, he was cast overboard and began to drown. Underwater, he had a vision: Demergat promised to save him in exchange for his lifelong dedication to converting others to Demergat's worship. The sailor agreed, only to drown shortly after. The next day, his lifeless body washed ashore. Local villagers discovered him and mourned his death, but to their astonishment, he awoke, expelled seawater from his lungs, and began preaching the worship of Demergat.
Holy Relics
Watered Chalice
Each temple houses a chalice filled with storm water from the last storm to pass over the temple. If the chalice ever empties, the temple's clergy lose their spells until the next storm replenishes the chalice.
Holy Days
Storm Day
Every Saturday, the faithful gather for weekly services. Attendance is strongly encouraged, and clergy members will seek out those who failed to attend, ensuring their presence at the next gathering.