Ixbalam

Description

Ixbalam is the wicked and cruel Orcish god of death, darkness, and conflict who granted their race his Eze or blood. It is said that when an Orc dies, their soul falls into the gaping maw of Ixbalam who digests them and reclaims whatever magical or spiritual power they had in life. An especially strong or clever soul may be able to conquer the challenges set to destroy them in Ixbalam's digestion, and emerge from the god's anus with their memories and power intact, free to return to Orentia if they wish. Only when Ixbalam empties out his chamber pot does the remnants of the digested souls return to Tartarus. Ixbalam is also a ruthless warrior, and his evil ways protect his allies and Orckind when directed towards their enemies. He carries Chimalli, the black mirror shield which he uses to deflect attacks and scry dark magics. With it he can see through, and make his power felt through any reflective surface.

Appearance

Quetztlaloc, like his fellow Orcish gods can transform into an Orc at will. His divine form is that of an enormous gaunt and skeletal humanoid bat. His eyes are blood red and pupil-less, his mouth is always open wide with pointed fangs, and his body emaciated as though it had been drained of all moisture. He wears clothes of tattered paper and carries many obsidian knives and spears around his belt. His pale white body is painted with black and red stripes and he has many piercings of bone in his nose, torso, and ears.

Personality

Ixbalam is a cruel and sadistic god that holds no particular value for life and sees pain as inconsequential. He is incredibly logical and un-empathetic, but fantastically efficient at getting what he wants. He often gets into arguments with his fellow gods when they prevent him from causing wonton death and suffering. He enjoys playing wicked games with his victims, promising great rewards to those who can survive his deadly challenges. Despite all of this, he is a fair and loyal god who obeys his promises and duties. It is through this adherence to his word that he ultimately serves the greater good. He respects those who can exploit loose rules and opportunities for their own gain, and is disgusted by those who are unambitious.

Worship

Ixbalam is worshipped by those who are near death, who live dangerous lives, or who regularly deal death themselves. It is common to accompany prayers and ceremonies with blood sacrifices, returning the god's Eze to him. Prayers to him are often offered bargains, offering oaths, sacrifices, or acts of service in exchange for the god's favor. Other prayers implore Ixbalam to swallow a subject whole, sparing them the pain of death. Shrines to Ixbalam are common in hospitals, battlefields, and mines, and such shrines always include a mirror through which Ixbalam may view the supplicant. Clerics of Ixbalam often paint their bodies in accordance with their god's appearance, and practice flaggelation during worship.

Symbol Two red eyes and a red fanged mouth set into a black mirror, pool, or blade. Often depicted in mist or fog.
Titles Devourer of Life, Lord of Mictlan, Blood Lender
Portfolio Orcs, Death, Night, Mirrors
Domains Death
Favored Weapon Battleaxe