Ah'yelan (/Ah-yel-ahn/)

"He Who Guides By Day"

Summary

Ah'yelan is known often simply as the “Silver Peacock,” a name which is an appropriately brief and explanatory description for this member of the Ones Above. He does not like to have his time wasted, for time is precious, and there are places to be. In the desert, Ah'yelan is a common name. He is a god of travel, but also of survival. It is said that under his gaze, his followers will always find an oasis in their time of need; but, should they turn away, his sandstorms are unforgiving. Towards the other deities, he is merely an acquaintance, always remaining quite reserved.

The Canon and the Way

There are few serious disagreements between the various doctrines when it comes to Ah'yelan. He does not have a notable holy text to interpret, nor does he have any strong moral leanings: he is merely a protector of the desert, and of travelers guided by way of the Light of Ea above.

Symbology

As his title suggests, Ah'yelan is represented as a peacock, whose feathers are outlined in a blinding silver trim. The rest of them bear the standard patterns of a peacock’s wings, colored in bright hues. A peacock, whether seen physically or in a vision or mirage, is considered a sign of his favor so long as it’s wings are outstretched; if its wings remain passive, it is a sign to repent, for the Pea-God does not favor you. Oases and stars are among his other symbols, especially the Great Spark, which is often the only guide when lost among the shifting sands.

Rites and Worship

Instead of prominent centers of worship, Ah'yelan's followers establish wayshrines along roads and desert paths. These wayshrines feature gifts to the peacock, as well as food and supplies for other travelers who may pass by in the future. Those who take are expected to give, but especially devout followers tend to leave more than they could ever take. Some have even constructed permanent waytemples within cities, where adventurers may go for shelter and lodgings for free.
When coincidence strikes and a group of people happens to coincide at a wayshrine, broader celebrations typically occur. The desert is a lonely place, and a lucky run-in is always a reason for festivities! Dance, song, and exchange of resources typically occurs between the disparate groups, and the wayshrine is turned into a bonfire and burned to the ground. Both groups agree to erect a wayshrine at their next location in exchange, and part the following day. These celebrations typically occur at least once a week at waytemples, though the temple itself is not burned down - rather, an effigy is built to serve as wayshrine for the night.
Especially devout clerics of Ah'yelan spend their lives constructing wayshrines, guiding celebrations, and caring for waytemples. These clerics do not have any official dress, but often don vibrant colors, an outfit of feathers, or a peacock headdress when guiding ceremonies dedicated to the Pea-God.

Holy Text: The Spoken Silence

Tenets

Penances	Strictures
⊕ Establish a wayshrine in the Pea-God's name.	⊝ Never keep more than you need if others need it.
⊕ Be a guide for the lost, without pay in return.	⊝ Do not pester peacocks; although you may feed them.

Mandates

⊜ Give when you have taken from a wayshrine.