Ídhi (ˈi.dʰi)
Ídhi is the daemon of the largest mountain on Nisi, known as Óros Ídhi. The clouds around the peak of the mountain are a manifestation of the god's thoughts, allowing those who commune with them to connect with Ídhi. His thoughts are those of a mountain, difficult for mortals to comprehend, but those who revere him claim to feel their love of the Aethry in this communion.
The Aethry hold Ídhi in high esteem and regularly hold ceremonies and rituals in his honor. It is not uncommon for Aethry youths to attempt the perilous flight to the mountain's peak, hoping to gain a vision or blessing from the deity. They plunge into the clouds that surround the peak while still in flight, joining into communion with the god. Those who are overwhelmed by this contact risk losing control of their flight and crashing into the mountainside. Others choose to climb the mountain on foot, to honor their ancestors who first communed with the god before it blessed the Aethry with their wings. The journey is treacherous, as the mountain is steep and the weather unpredictable. Still, those who make the journey and commune with the god's thoughts in the clouds often report feelings of clarity, purpose, and renewed strength.
As the spirit of the mountain, Ídhi is associated with strength, endurance, and protection. The Aethry believe that Ídhi watches over them and protects them from harm. The god's manifestation in the clouds also symbolizes the ever-changing nature of the mountain, a reminder of the impermanence of all things.
The Aethry honor Ídhi through various rituals and ceremonies throughout the year. One of the most significant is known as I Anávasi, or 'The Ascent'. Held midway between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice, this festival commemerates the anniversary of the Aethry's transformation.
Ídhi is a crucial figure in the religious and cultural life of the Aethry people. As the spirit of the mountain, he embodies the strength and endurance of Nisi itself. Those who seek his favor must be prepared to face physical and mental challenges, but the rewards of a connection with the god of the mountain are said to be worth it.
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