Ehlonna
Title(s)
The Forest Lady, Ehlenestra (to the elves), The Guardian of the Groves, The Protector of the Woodlands
Alignment
Neutral Good
Symbol
A rampant unicorn or a unicorn's horn, representing purity, protection, and the magic of the natural world. Her followers often wear this symbol as a pendant or engrave it on their bows and armor.
Domains
Nature, Life, Peace
Followers and Clergy
Ehlonna's followers include rangers, druids, elves, hunters who respect nature, and anyone dedicated to preserving the forests and protecting wildlife. Her clergy often consists of nature priests, wardens, and druids who strive to safeguard the woodlands and the creatures within them. Followers of Ehlonna usually wear green and brown garments to blend in with the forest and may adorn themselves with symbols of the unicorn. The clergy hierarchy is informal, with respect given to those who demonstrate a deep bond with nature or possess the wisdom to heal and protect the wilderness. Ehlonna’s clergy often partner with unicorns and other sylvan creatures, believing them to be sacred allies.
Worship Practices
Worship of Ehlonna involves spending time in nature, particularly in forests and groves, where followers meditate, perform rituals, and celebrate the beauty of the natural world. Holy days are typically aligned with the changing of the seasons, with special significance given to the spring and autumn equinoxes, symbolizing renewal and harvest. Rituals may involve planting new trees, performing blessings on animals, or creating protective wards around sacred groves. Ehlonna’s followers also engage in rituals of atonement for those who seek forgiveness for harming the natural world.
Character and Doctrine
Ehlonna embodies the gentle, nurturing aspects of nature, as well as its fierce protectiveness. She teaches her followers that the plants and animals of the forests are sacred gifts that must be respected and cared for. Her doctrine emphasizes that nature is not something to be exploited, but cherished and defended. She opposes those who hunt for sport, destroy forests, or pollute the land for personal gain. Ehlonna encourages her followers to maintain a balance with nature, taking only what they need and giving back whenever possible.
Manifestations and Interventions
Ehlonna often appears as either an elven or human woman, dressed in clothing made from leaves, bark, and other natural materials. She may be seen riding a unicorn, which is her sacred animal and companion. In some manifestations, she appears surrounded by a host of sylvan creatures such as unicorns, dryads, and treants. Her interventions are usually subtle, involving the sudden flourishing of plant life, a protective unicorn appearing to aid travelers, or animals guiding lost wanderers to safety. Her presence is often felt in the form of a gentle breeze carrying the scent of wildflowers or a protective barrier that keeps danger at bay.
Divine Relationships and Stories
Ehlonna is friendly with other deities of nature and the wilds, such as Obad-Hai and Beory. To the elves, she is known as Ehlenestra, and she shares a close connection with the fey, unicorns, and other sylvan beings. Her stories often involve her defense of the forests against threats, such as rampaging monsters, evil druids, or greedy hunters. Myths tell of her saving unicorns from extinction by hiding them away in the magical realm known as the Grove of the Unicorns, where they are forever safe from harm. She is often depicted aiding heroes who strive to protect the natural world or seek the favor of the fey.
Sacred Items and Symbols
Ehlonna's sacred items include unicorn horns (ethically obtained), enchanted bows, and holy water from forest springs. Her followers often create charms made from leaves, acorns, or unicorn hair, which are used in healing rituals or as protective amulets. Her symbol, whether as a rampant unicorn or unicorn's horn, is often engraved on armor, weapons, or used as a focal point in ceremonies. Ancient trees, especially those with silver or golden leaves, are considered holy to Ehlonna.
Temples and Shrines
Temples dedicated to Ehlonna are often built in secluded groves, hidden deep within forests to blend with the natural surroundings. These places of worship are usually open-air, featuring stone altars surrounded by sacred trees, flowers, and water features like springs or small waterfalls. Shrines to Ehlonna are frequently found in forest glades, marked by standing stones or wooden carvings of unicorns. Rangers and druids may also carry portable shrines with them, consisting of small figurines or symbols of Ehlonna for use during their travels.
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