Ulu'Uluwa - Goddess of the Sea

"The waves will drag you down, unless you fight to shore." -4th Wave Tablet of Mauhalu Isle

Hailed as the Mistress of the Seas, Mother of Merfolk, and the Siren of Storms, Ulu'Uluwa (Often referred to as 'Uluwa' or just 'Ulu') is considered a fickle deity. Sailors will recall days when the winds were favorable but not unmanageable, and then the day after when a storm would brew and threaten to dash their vessels to the rocks. In truth, she is a stern goddess, valuing awareness and, potentially harsh, lessons. She considers the ocean, and any body of water for that matter, to be a gift to man, and a gift to be treasured and feared. As such, many lessons by her most devout priests can sound abusive or damning, but they are meant to be a call to strength and action.

An example being 'When you are swimming, a shark will teach you your purpose', which is less about the inevitability of being eaten as chum, but rather that one should find the strength to either rise and fight or to swim and live another day. It's this subversive dichotomy that allows many believers to weed out the non-believers, as these dangerous trials are often seen as challenges to rise to rather than to fear. Many believers consider the waters to be a stern but loving teacher, after all, when attempting to run while submerged the resistance may slow down the march, but it strengthens the legs. It also teaches where people can go, that is to say within reasonable depth, and where they can't, such as the crushing deeps, much like how a mother might restrict a child from playing in a lion's den.

Common phrases by devotees

• "When your lungs are filled with water, then you will know how to appreciate the air."
• "There is no greater appreciation for your life and family, than when the ocean drags you below."
• "The waters will break you, if that's what it takes to shape you."

It is Ulu who will test people with these random trials, from monsoons near coastal towns to swimming away from sharks. However, it's not just an endless string of mishaps. Often coming out on the other side of a boat rocking storm will be rewarded with smooth sailing and warm weather. A hurricane that is weathered will result in a more bountiful, well watered crop harvest. Despite the challenges, none are meant to be torturous or unfairly devastating.
She is often seen with a giant octopus known as 'Oka'Ikaika' or Oka. A famous work of art is Oka dragging Ulu down into the depths. Many will view this as a threat to the deity, but true devotees know she is training with her companion and, in essence, roughhousing for fun and regiment.

by Jan Selling

Commonly worshiped by: Sailors, Pirates, Merfolk

Divine Domains

Water, Weather, Air, Chaos, Strength
Subdomains: Storms, Oceans, Wind, Resolve, Monsoon
Favored Weapon: A trident

Physical Description

Apparel & Accessories

She wears armor that is, effectively, re-purposed and overgrown sea shells and coral. It is considered to be as strong, if not stronger, than actual iron armor.

Personality Characteristics

Likes & Dislikes

Likes:

• Watching those overcome challenges (Especially if they come out stronger)
• Water
• Marine life

Dislikes:

• Laziness
• Not learning from mistakes
• Hopelessness/Submission
• Water pollution

Divine Classification

God

Alignment

Chaotic Neutral

Eyes

A dark, ocean green.

Hair

Raised, fish like fins that mimic hair

Skin Tone/Pigmentation

A royal blue with a slight, wet shimmer.

Quotes & Catchphrases

The ocean can both a blessing or a curse...Only you can decide.