Atu

God of Undeath

Atu is a god blinded by his own hubris and vainglory. He seeks power in whatever form he might find it and has committed unspeakable acts to do so. Atu's ambitions know no bounds and morality is not an obstacle for him. As the god of undeath he twists and perverts the cycle of life and death in order to further is own goals. Atu is often depicted as a mummified humanoid covered in linen wrappings the color of charcoal and inscribed with powerful runes. These depictions often have him wearing a broad golden usekh, or collar, and adorned with golden bracelets or other jewelry.
Atu was once a mortal, thousands of years ago, before he was given divinity. In life, he was a powerful mage and served as advisor to an ancient and forgotten pharaoh in what is now Odesir. Atu served the pharaoh loyally and reliably and so, in death, Benatur offered Atu the opportunity to serve him as he did the pharaoh. For hundreds of years, Atu served Benatur well until ambition and his lust for power became too great. Atu betrayed Benatur, stole and corrupted thousands of souls, and performed a forbidden ritual that transformed him into an undead being of incredible power. The ritual sapped a great deal of Benatur's strength, making him vulnerable enough for Atu to attempt to assassinate him. Jesvata, Benatur's ally and the god of time, intervened and gave his life to save Benatur. Atu's coup failed and he was forced to retreat, but took with him the knowledge that he had successfully slain a god and was now free.
Those who worship Atu share his ambition and desire for power. Powerful undead and mortals willing to delve into darker magic often follow Atu. Due to Atu's association with swarms and carrion insects, even worms-that-walk have been known to worship him. Open worship of Atu is frowned upon by most cultures, causing many who worship him to do so in secret.
Places dedicated to the worship of Atu are usually secret or far from the prying eyes of the law. Secret crypts and hidden temples where cultists and clergy can safely congregate are the norm. Libraries of forbidden knowledge and ritual chambers for performing profane rites are common features.

Mental characteristics

Gender Identity

He/Him

Atu's Symbol by Atreyu.Studio

Domains:
Death, Evil, Glory, Magic, Trickery, Vermin
Favored Weapon:
Cat-o'-Nine-Tails

Divine Classification

Intermediate Deity

Alignment

Neutral Evil

Atu Necklace by -FRA-