Atherin, the God of Magic and Creation, is a figure of immense power and mystery, whose influence permeates every aspect of existence in the realms. Among the celestial pantheon, Atherin is revered as the architect of order, the one who, alongside Elix and Nocturne, vanquished the primordial chaos god Algonoth, bringing stability to the universe. This act of creation is not merely an act of divine will but a reflection of Atherin’s deep connection to the fundamental forces that shape reality. Atherin’s mastery over magic is unparalleled, as they are not only the source of all magical energy but also the being who gave structure to the cosmos itself. Yet, despite this overwhelming power, Atherin is a god who has chosen to step away from the throne of the heavens, preferring to walk among mortals rather than rule over them.
The decision to live among mortals is one of the most intriguing aspects of Atherin’s divine character. Followers of the Celestial religion believe that Atherin, once the highest-ranking god in the heavens, voluntarily relinquished this position of supremacy to better understand the mortal condition. This choice is seen as an act of profound humility and wisdom, embodying Atherin’s belief that true power lies not in dominion but in the freedom of all beings to shape their own destinies. Atherin’s presence among mortals is rare and subtle, often manifesting in moments of great inspiration or in the quiet, unnoticed miracles that occur in the lives of those who seek to better understand the mysteries of the universe. Yet, this distance has also fostered a sense of detachment, leading many to view Atherin as an uncaring god, more concerned with the grand design of existence than with the individual lives of those who inhabit it.
Atherin’s role in the cosmic order extends beyond mere creation; they are the very embodiment of magic, the force that binds reality together. All magic in the realms flows from Atherin, and every spell cast is a testament to their enduring influence. However, Atherin’s refusal to directly intervene in mortal affairs, particularly during times of great crisis, has sown seeds of doubt and mistrust among their followers. During The Great War, when the forces of humanity called upon the gods for aid, Atherin remained distant, allowing even their enemies to wield the powers of magic. This neutrality has led to a complex relationship between Atherin and the other Celestial Gods, who often view Atherin’s detachment as a dereliction of divine duty. For the holy orders that serve the Celestial Faith, this perceived indifference has left a lasting mark, particularly in their attitudes toward magic and those who practice it.
The distrust of mages among the holy order can be traced back to Atherin’s ambiguous stance during The Great War. While other gods took up arms in defense of humanity, Atherin’s silence was deafening. This silence has been interpreted in various ways—some see it as a test of humanity’s resolve, while others view it as evidence of Atherin’s belief in mortal autonomy. However, the fact remains that Atherin’s neutrality allowed the enemies of humanity to harness the power of magic, a power that originated from Atherin themselves. This has led to a widespread belief among the faithful that magic is a double-edged sword, a gift from a god who does not concern themselves with the consequences of its use. As a result, mages are often regarded with suspicion, their powers seen as both a blessing and a curse.
Despite the complexities surrounding Atherin’s relationship with mortals, there remains a deep reverence for the god among those who seek to understand the true nature of existence. Atherin’s followers, often scholars and mages, are devoted to unraveling the mysteries of the universe, believing that in doing so, they come closer to understanding the mind of the god who created it all. For these followers, Atherin is not an uncaring deity but a guiding force, encouraging them to explore, to question, and to push the boundaries of what is known. Atherin’s teachings emphasize the importance of knowledge, not just as a means to power, but as a path to enlightenment. In this way, Atherin remains a god of profound significance, whose influence, though subtle, continues to shape the destiny of the realms.