Garl Glittergold

Garl Glittergold , Greater God of Gnomes, Protection, Humor, Wit, Gemcutting, Jewelrymaking, Illusion
The Joker, the Watchful Protector, the Priceless Gem, the Sparkling Wit

Garl Glittergold stands as the beacon of ingenuity and jest within the gnomish pantheon, embodying the virtues of humor, craft, and communal cooperation. This extensive exploration delves into the lore, essence, and celestial relationships of this golden-skinned deity, illuminating his role as both creator and protector of the gnome race.

Radiance Embodied: Description

• Manifests as a radiant gnome adorned in silk and gold.
• Eyes of glittering gems, showcasing his divine domain over wealth and beauty.

Divine Kinship and Rivalries

Relationships Garl Glittergold's Pantheon Politics
Garl Glittergold's relationships span a complex spectrum, from cherished alliances within the gnomish pantheon to fierce rivalries that underscore the eternal struggle between the forces of mischief and malice. His position as the leader of the gnomish deities places him at the heart of gnomish mythology and influences the interactions between various divine entities across the multiverse.

Divine Friendships and Feuds

Unpacking Garl's Relationships

• Arch Nemesis and Rivalry: Garl's most notorious adversary is Kurtulmak, the god of kobolds, stemming from a legendary prank that led to Kurtulmak's entrapment and the eternal enmity between gnomes and kobolds. This rivalry highlights Garl's trickster nature and his role in protecting his followers from those who would do them harm.
• Sibling Rivalry: A unique aspect of Garl's lore is his twin brother, Gelf Darkhearth, a figure of contention and competition, particularly over the affections of Sheyanna Flaxenstrand. This relationship underscores the duality within the gnomish pantheon, between light-hearted mischief and the darker aspects of trickery.
• Alliances Within the Gnomish Pantheon: Garl stands as the beacon around which the other gnomish gods rally. His leadership ensures harmony among deities like Baervan Wildwanderer, Baravar Cloakshadow, and others, fostering a pantheon that supports the multifaceted nature of gnomish life. However, Urdlen, the god of greed and blood, stands as a notable exception, representing the darker impulses Garl and his allies oppose.
• Cross-Pantheon Alliances: Beyond his pantheon, Garl has forged alliances with deities from other races' pantheons, such as the Oeridian god Pelor and Yondalla from the halfling gods, Corellon Larethian from the elves, and Moradin from the dwarves. These relationships are built on mutual respect and shared goals, such as the protection of their followers and the promotion of good within the world.
• Opposition from Dark Deities: Garl's enemies extend beyond Kurtulmak to include other malevolent deities such as Gruumsh, the orc god, and the various gods of the goblinoids. These enmities stem from Garl's efforts to thwart the plans of these gods and protect the gnomish people from their depredations.

Golden Hills

Realm

• Resides in Bytopia’s Glitterhome, amidst the luminescent Golden Hills.
• Prefers the guise of a wanderer, roaming his realm and beyond in various disguises.

The Creed of Laughter

Dogma Advocates for humor and communal well-being as foundations of gnome society. Encourages adaptability and the preservation of gnomish lore, emphasizing the sanctity of pranks and wit.

Devotion and Mirth

Venerators of the Golden Lord
Garl Glittergold's worship is a cornerstone of gnome culture, making him the most venerated among the gnomish deities. His followers embody a spectrum of gnome society, from the deepest mines to the highest mountain homes, all united under his joyful and protective banner.

• Widespread Worship: Garl's following encompasses nearly the entire gnome population, reflecting his pervasive influence on gnomish life and values.
• Diverse Followers: From crafters and goldsmiths to entertainers and protectors, Garl's worshippers find inspiration in his teachings, enriching their lives and communities.
• Honoring Through Craft: Many gnomes express their devotion to Garl by excelling in their trades, be it mining, smithery, or gem crafting, seeing their work as a form of worship.

Subterranean Sanctuaries and Gilded Celebrations

The Sacred Practices of Garl's Faithful
The temples dedicated to Garl Glittergold, also affectionately termed the Priceless Gem, blend seamlessly with the gnome ethos of community, creativity, and subtlety. These sacred spaces serve not just as places of worship but as centers of joy, learning, and communal support within the gnomish enclaves.

• Design and Structure: Gnome temples to Garl are marvels of natural beauty and gnomish ingenuity, embodying the spirit of their god through architecture that favors circular designs and domed ceilings.
• Decoration with Precious Metals: The extensive use of gold leaf and gold nuggets in temple decor honors Garl's domain over wealth, reflecting the celestial glow of the Golden Hills.
• Centers of Community Life: Beyond their spiritual role, these temples are lively gathering places for gnomes, hosting entertainers and artists who elevate the communal spirit with performances that captivate and delight.

Rituals of Mirth and Magic

In homage to the God of Trickery and Mischief, the rituals practiced by Garl's followers are imbued with the essence of illusion, laughter, and the celebration of gnomish resilience and inventiveness.

• The Communion of Laughter: This central rite encapsulates the heart of Garl's teachings, combining offerings, communal feasts, and the shared joy of storytelling and humor.
• Sacrificial Offerings: Faithful gnomes contribute gold or gold dust during rituals, a symbol of their devotion and a practical aid to the welfare of their communities.
• Interactive Prayers: Reflecting Garl's love for wit, prayers often involve riddles and jokes, reinforcing communal bonds and celebrating the intellect and cleverness prized by gnomes.

Cycles of Joy

Holy Days in the Gnomish Calendar
Garl's holy days punctuate the gnomish year with moments of reflection, celebration, and communal joy, reinforcing the bonds within the community and with the divine.

• The Communion of Laughter: Occurring on the 13th of each month, this day-long festival is a testament to the enduring gnomish spirit, combining contemplation with unabashed celebration.
• Festivities of Craft and Wit: The day's events include crafts, dancing, eating, and competitions that showcase the gnomish affinity for storytelling and humor, drawing the community closer in shared merriment.

The Timeless Echoes of Garl Glittergold

A Tapestry of Myths

Gemstones of Divinity

Origins Unearthed
Delve into the ancient legends that speak of the gnomish gods' mystical births, where the forces of the earth itself conspired to sculpt the divine from precious ores and waters.

• Subterranean Genesis: The mythic belief that gnomish deities originated as gemstones, gradually liberated by the natural processes of the world.
• Earth's Embrace: This origin story underscores the deep connection between gnomes and the earth, hinting at their intrinsic value and the natural magic that courses through their veins.

The Gnomes' Dawn

A Spark of Life
Explore the enchanting narrative of Garl Glittergold's discovery of the first gnomes, a tale of curiosity, magic, and the birth of a race imbued with the spirit of laughter and ingenuity.

• The Cave of Creation: Garl's magical journey into a hidden cavern reveals a treasure trove of gems that, with a breath of divine whimsy, become the first gnomes.
• The Birth of Faerie Folk: A whimsical twist to the tale suggests that not all gems took gnome form; some ascended as faerie beings, adding a layer of magic to the world's tapestry.

From Dwarven Deity to Gnomish Guardian

The Legend of Garal
Uncover the dwarven lore that speaks of Garal, a magical entity who transformed a segment of the dwarven race into the gnomes, marking a pivotal moment in the pantheon's history.

• A Transformation of Races: The controversial legend of Garl's dwarven origins and his role in creating the gnome race from dwarven stock.
• Identity and Purpose: This tale highlights themes of identity, evolution, and the divine desire to foster uniqueness and diversity among the races.

The Eternal Rivalry

Garl vs. Gelf Dive into the cosmic duel between Garl and his shadowy twin, Gelf Darkhearth, a narrative that mirrors the internal and universal struggle between creation and chaos.

• Mirror and Shadow: The story of two beings, identical yet opposite, whose eternal conflict embodies the balance of forces within every gnome and across the cosmos.
• The Battle Continues: This myth emphasizes the ongoing nature of their struggle, reflecting the continuous cycle of change and stability in the world.

Clash with Gruumsh

A Legend of Valor Discover the unique Gaborren's Rift myth wherein Garl stands boldly against Gruumsh, showcasing a rare moment of direct confrontation over cunning and guile.

• Beyond Illusion: The tale portrays Garl not just as a trickster but as a warrior willing to face the orc god in combat, symbolizing bravery and the willingness to protect his kin.

The Collapse of Kurtulmak's Kingdom

A Tale of Trickery Revisit the legendary prank that led to the collapse of Kurtulmak's cavernous realm, a story that varies in detail but consistently highlights Garl's penchant for mischievous heroics.

• A Ceiling's Flaw: Whether through an ingenious trap or a direct assault, Garl's actions against Kurtulmak illustrate the gnome god's cleverness and his protective stance towards his followers.
• Divine Humor and Retribution: These legends not only entertain but also teach lessons on ingenuity, resilience, and the complex dynamics between deities and their followers.

Gnome Deities (property of Wizards of the Coast LLC)

Gnome Pantheon

Holy symbol: gold nugget
Realm: Twin Paradises of Bytopia
Domains: Community, Craft, Creation, Gnome, Good, Protection, Trickery
Speciality Clerics

• TurnUndead: Turn at ?2 levels.
• Cleric of the 1st: hide in shadows 15%, move silently 15%
• Cleric of the 2nd: use d6 for hit dice
• Cleric of the 7th: save at +2 vs. illusion/phantasm spells
• Cleric of the 9th: displacement, 1 turn

Divine Classification

Greater god

Religions

• House Tulvar

Alignment

Neutral good

Species

Gnomes

Quotes & Catchphrases

"In laughter, we find the gold of truth."
"Craft joy as you would the finest jewel."
"In every jest, a kernel of wisdom."
"Let mirth shield you, as gold shields the gem."
"To prank is to preach the gnomish way."

Related Myths

• The Lords of the Golden Hills

Ruled Locations

• G9 The Glittering Grotto of the Golden Hills

Garl Glittergold holy symbol by 3orcs

Guardians of Gnomekind's Heart

The clergy of Garl Glittergold are the spiritual leaders of the gnome race, guiding their people with wisdom, humor, and a protective hand. Their roles are as multifaceted as the gemstones they emulate, from educators to protectors, ensuring the safety and prosperity of gnome communities.

• Clerical Hierarchy: Novices begin as the Uncut, evolving into Jewels as they advance, with high-ranking priests bearing gemstone titles that signify their standing and contributions.
• Ceremonial Grandeur: Clerics don resplendent gold-plated helms and armor during sacred rites, embodying the divine luster of their patron.
• Educators and Entertainers: Beyond their duties as defenders, Garl's clerics are beloved teachers and storytellers, weaving lessons with laughter to inspire both young and old.
• Protectors of the Gnomish Way: Vigilant against threats, especially from kobolds, the clergy wields axes in defense of their people, a direct nod to Garl's preferred weapon.
• Keepers of Gnomish Lore: Tasked with preserving the rich tapestry of gnome history, humor, and craftsmanship, the priests maintain extensive archives of jokes, tales, and artifacts.
• Community Pillars: Through their varied roles, Garl's clergy strengthen the bonds within gnome communities, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.