Garlen

Passion Garlen

Typical Appearance

Garlen usually manifests as a voluptuous woman, her arms spread wide in acceptance and invitation. On occasion, Garlen appears as a kindly, comfortable-looking man.

Powers

Garlen can heal the wounded, comfort the frightened, and travel instantly to any home.

Questors

Some call Garlen’s questors the weaklings of the world, claiming that they seek the refuge of the hearth and embrace healing because they fear conflict. Nothing could be further from the truth. Watching over someone you love, daring to love them as they lie dying—these require a quiet strength that runs deeper than the strength required to slay any beast. Most, though not all, of the questors of Garlen are women. Some believe that Garlen attracts women because she so often appears as one. Others speculate that the act of carrying unborn children within their bodies gives women a greater understanding and appreciation for life, and greater compassion for other living beings. Though Garlen’s questors can be stern, they are unfailingly generous and understanding. Those who mistake their compassion for weakness, however, discover that Garlen’s questors will not hesitate to act against those who would harm them or any they shelter. A famous story tells of five questors of Garlen who were visiting a village near Skypoint when Theran slave drivers raided the village. Garlen’s questors cut down the Therans to the last man, staining their white robes with the blood of the attackers.

Commentary

During the Scourge, all the kaers and citadels called on Garlen for protection, and she remains one of the most widely revered Passions in Barsaive. People of all races call her the mother who cares for all, and Garlen considers all of Barsiave’s Name-givers her children. Garlen and her questors offer healing to the sick and injured, and comfort to the dying. In a world filled with violence and danger, Garlen watches over those who shun adventuring for the comfort and safety of home, particularly families and children.

Divine Domains

I am Garlen the Passion of Hearth and Healing
I am found in words of comfort and moments of quiet bravery
Selflessly caring for and defending others is my domain
I empower my Children to protect those in distress
And encourage them to take up sword and shield to keep the darkness at bay

Ideals

Hearth and Healing

Domains

Healing, Good, Protection, Family

Favoured Weapon

Longbow

Common Elements

Homes, children, kaers, enclosed spaces, water