Kord
Title(s)
The Stormlord, The Brawler, Lord of Battle, Champion of Strength
Alignment
Chaotic Good
Symbol
A set of four thunderbolts radiating from a central point, representing Kord's mastery over storms and battle. This symbol is often worn as a pendant by his followers or displayed on shields and banners.
Domains
Tempest, War, Strength
Followers and Clergy
Kord's followers include warriors, barbarians, sailors, athletes, and anyone who values strength, courage, and the thrill of battle. His clergy are known for their love of physical contests and revelry, often leading by example in feats of strength or martial prowess. They dress in simple clothing or battle gear adorned with Kord’s symbol, and many keep their hair long and unkempt, in imitation of their wild and unrestrained god. The hierarchy within the church is informal; respect is earned through demonstrations of strength, bravery, and athleticism rather than by rank. His followers believe that Kord favors those who take bold risks, especially in the pursuit of glory on the battlefield or in sporting contests.
Worship Practices
Worship of Kord is a loud and spirited affair, involving physical competitions, raucous toasts, and prayers shouted to the skies. Followers often gather in open spaces where they can wrestle, lift weights, or compete in combat sports. Kord's holy days are usually marked by tournaments or challenges of strength, such as wrestling matches, brawls, or races. Storms are considered sacred times to honor Kord, as his followers believe that he is present in the roar of thunder and the crash of waves. Offerings to Kord may include weapons, trophies from battle, or ale poured out on the ground. When storms arise, sailors and others caught in their path often appease Kord with prayers and toasts to secure his favor.
Character and Doctrine
Kord embodies the spirit of strength, battle, and freedom. He encourages his followers to revel in their strength, but to avoid using it for senseless destruction. Valor and bravery are the highest virtues, and cowardice is the worst sin. Kord teaches that the best way to prove oneself is through contests of strength and martial skill, and that true glory comes from fighting for a worthy cause. He is a mercurial deity who values passion and spontaneity, believing that life is meant to be lived boldly. His doctrine emphasizes that one should take joy in the struggle, embrace challenges head-on, and use their strength to inspire others.
Manifestations and Interventions
Kord often manifests during storms, appearing as a tall, muscular man with long hair and a beard, his body crackling with lightning. He may wield a greatsword or warhammer, his voice booming like thunder. His interventions are dramatic and forceful, such as causing a sudden storm to turn the tide of battle or granting temporary bursts of strength to his followers. Sometimes, he appears as a whirlwind or a flash of lightning that strikes down enemies, aiding those who fight with courage and strength. His presence can be felt in the roar of a crowd during a great contest or the adrenaline surge before a battle.
Divine Relationships and Stories
Kord maintains a competitive but friendly rivalry with other gods of war and strength, such as Heironeous and Pelor. He is often at odds with deities of tyranny, such as Hextor, who represents the misuse of strength for oppression. Kord's followers tell stories of his many contests with other gods, including drinking bouts with Olidammara and wrestling matches with Obad-Hai. In some myths, Kord is said to have wrestled storms into submission, harnessing their power for his own use. His wild nature and love of battle occasionally put him at odds with more disciplined deities, but Kord's followers see these disputes as part of his unrestrained spirit.
Sacred Items and Symbols
Kord’s sacred items include weapons used in famous battles, trophies from physical competitions, and artifacts associated with storms. His symbol of four thunderbolts is often engraved on shields, weapons, or worn as an amulet. Sacred relics associated with Kord are typically items that embody strength or power, such as magical warhammers, enchanted belts of strength, or bracers worn by legendary warriors. His followers may carry tokens such as storm-forged weapons or charms made from lightning-struck wood as symbols of his favor.
Temples and Shrines
Temples dedicated to Kord are often constructed as open-air arenas or training grounds where followers can engage in physical contests or martial training. These places feature arenas for wrestling, weightlifting, or sparring, and are adorned with trophies and banners displaying Kord's symbol. Shrines to Kord may be found at natural locations associated with storms, such as coastal cliffs, mountaintops, or riverbanks. In many towns, his shrines are simple affairs set up near the local arena or battlefield, where warriors can pray for strength or give thanks after a contest. Sailors also erect temporary shrines on their ships to seek Kord's favor during sea voyages.
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