Fridon
Fridon, the god of frozen lakes, is the offspring of Oshala and a mortal woman. He holds the distinction of being Oshala's first child and the first demi-god born of a mortal. Oshala harbors resentment towards Fridon, as he was unaware that his union with a mortal would result in a divine offspring. This event is said to have shaped Oshala's views on women. Consequently, Fridon's primary clergy is predominantly female, not due to any perceived inferiority of men, but as a means to antagonize his father. Upon responding to At'Eed, Fridon became bound to lakes that freeze over during winter.
Temples
Temples dedicated to Fridon are ice huts situated over frozen lakes. These structures are removed and reinstalled as the lake freezes and thaws.
Proselytization
The clergy of Fridon reach out to those who rely on the lake for their livelihood or sustenance. During winter, they teach people how to safely drill holes in the ice for fishing. In summer, their focus shifts to preserving the health of the lake. Most locals attend at least one service out of respect, with women being particularly encouraged to participate.
Taboos
Disrespecting the Lake
Any form of pollution or harm done to the lake is considered a grave offense against Fridon and his teachings.
Gender Discrimination
While the clergy is predominantly female to antagonize Oshala, any form of gender discrimination within the faith is strictly forbidden.
Ignoring Seasonal Rituals
Failure to participate in the seasonal rituals of Frozen Day and Last Day is frowned upon, as these rituals are crucial to the faith.
Obligations
Lake Preservation
Followers are obligated to participate in efforts to preserve the health of the lake, including clean-up activities and sustainable fishing practices.
Seasonal Participation
Devotees must partake in the seasonal rituals of relocating the ice huts, both when the lake freezes and when it thaws.
Female Empowerment
Given the unique gender dynamics of the faith, female followers are encouraged to take on leadership roles within the community and the clergy.
Fridon's unique origin as a demi-god born of a mortal and a divine parent has shaped not only his own destiny but also the practices and beliefs of his followers. His temples, transient as the seasons, and his clergy, defiant in their femininity, reflect the complex relationship between the divine and the mortal, the eternal and the ephemeral. Through their devotion to Fridon, his followers seek to harmonize these contrasting aspects of existence, finding stability in the ever-changing cycles of nature.
Historical Figures
The Frozen Fisherman - At'Eed
At'Eed was a fisherwoman who was working on her frozen lake. She was drilling fishing holes for her tribe following a harsh summer that had yielded insufficient food. Unbeknownst to her, she drilled two holes along a crack in the ice, causing the ice to break and her to fall in. As she plunged into the frigid waters, she cried out to the gods for salvation, and Fridon answered her call. He lifted her to the surface, provided her with a fishing hut and warmth to revive her. Upon awakening, At'Eed dedicated her life to Fridon, becoming his first worshipper and priestess.
Holy Relics
Ice Pick
Each worship hut houses a sacred ice pick, used to create the first ice hole in the lake each season.
Holy Days
Frozen Day
Once a lake is fully frozen and safe to traverse, the huts are relocated onto the lake and a celebration of the frozen lake ensues. Smoked fish and hot cider are served to all attendees.
Last Day
As the warmer months approach and the lake becomes unsafe to walk on, the huts are removed from the lake and a somber celebration is held. The last of the smoked fish, now dried out from winter storage, is served alongside warm water.