Hearthkeeper - The Household God
The Hearthkeeper wasn't always divine. As 'gods' go, they are quite new and fragile. They've been borne out of Sanctuary itself. When people came to the cave that would become the city they were lost and seeking a home. Desperate for survival in a world that did not welcome them. Their hearts were turned to fear and self preservation. But as time went, those struggles were overcome. Some flourished in Sanctuary. They were able to open their doors, accepting and welcoming more refugees from the surface.
When Sanctuary opened its doors with generosity to a lost clan of half elves, they came to believe in a spirit of generosity. They saw that divinity in the people of Sanctuary and represented that as a personal household god. A small altar set alongside the hearth in many homes (particularly in the neighborhood of Naturenook , where the half elves settled).
While most gods are singular divine beings, the household god of the Hearthkeeper is a truly personal god. Believed to be a small divine figure that is welcomed into your home, each one is individual to a specific home. A tiny personal god with domain over only a single home. They speak through the squeaks and creaks of the home, provide gifts in the comforts and warmths of home. When that last nugget of fungalite turns up, that was the Hearthkeeper's work.
One thing in common with all of these household gods, is they call for hospitality from the families they protect. Those who honor the Hearthkeeper do so by opening their homes to those who need it. Accepting strangers as friends and making sure that anyone who sets foot in their home is protected, fed, and respected.
Divine Domains
Forge, Life, Twilight
Divine Symbols & Sigils
Often represented by open hands bearing a meal. Stone carvings with the symbol decorate many taverns, inns, and homes throughout Sanctuary. Each one is said to be the home of the household god.
Tenets of Faith
Above all, hospitality is the gift of divinity. To be great is to be able to give and protect without judgement or fear.
Those who follow a Hearthkeeper are called to open their doors to strangers. To feed them, give them shelter. These are the household gods of Quartermasters and Innkeepers of great renown. They are marked by generosity. To some extremes, they may ascribe to a more Radical Hospitality. They open their doors without judgement, and even consider enemies if they remain peaceful, to be guests. They will not turn down someone in need of a place to stay, even when their resources are limited.
Divine Classification
Household God
Religions
Current Status
Mythological. Allegorical at best.
Realm
Year of Birth
280
220 Years old
Circumstances of Death
Prophesized to occur when hearts are closed. When the last door shuts and no one is welcomed. On that day the Hearthkeeper's warmth will be extinguished.
Birthplace
In the Hearth
Children
Current Residence
Within the Hearths of many homes in Naturenook
Eyes
Blind and Blank
Other Affiliations
