Day 19 of my Adventure Calendar. For 24 days, up until Christmas, I plan to release a lil bit of RPG content. Want to join as well? Join the jam!
Image: Shrine of the Death God by Veli Nyström
Death can wear many faces and play many roles in a society. It can be a looming threat, a known risk, a tricky adversary, or a welcome old friend. So instead of one God of Death in your setting, why not have many?
The Guide (Death of Old Age)
A serene, elderly figure with a kind face, draped in a cloak of deep blue or twilight hues. They hold a lantern in one hand and an open book in the other, symbolizing guidance and the wisdom of age. Their eyes are gentle, offering comfort and reassurance.
- Prayed to by the elderly or their families, seeking a peaceful and dignified passing.
- Invoked in blessings for a long, fulfilled life.
- Called upon during milestone birthdays or celebrations of longevity.
Well-wishes
- “May the Guide grant you a long and peaceful journey.”
- “In your twilight years, may the Guide’s lantern light your path.”
Curses
- “May the Guide turn away from your path, leaving you in darkness.”
- “May your days be short and the Guide’s embrace ever distant.”
The Unseen (Death of Accidents and Bad Luck)
A shadowy, elusive figure, their face partially obscured by a hood or a mask. On their shoulder a white mouse, symbols of unpredictability and chance.
- Prayed to by travelers, adventurers, or anyone embarking on potentially hazardous journeys.
- Invoked by those engaging in risky activities, like gambling or exploration, for protection against misfortune.
- Called upon when hoping to avoid unexpected calamities or bad luck.
Well-wishes
- “May the Unseen pass you by.”
- “Let the Unseen’s gaze skip over your home.”
Curses
- “May the Unseen’s shadow fall upon all your steps.”
- “I hope the Unseen keeps him in mind.”
The Keeper (Death of Illness, Disease, Famine)
A neutral, almost emotionless face, wearing a robe adorned with symbols of balance and equilibrium. In one hand, they hold scales, perfectly balanced, and in the other, a quill or a scroll, recording the lives that pass through their domain.
- Prayed to during times of illness or epidemic, asking for protection from disease.
- Invoked by farmers or communities during planting and harvest seasons for protection against famine.
- Called upon by doctors or healers seeking guidance in treating and preventing sickness.
- Called upon by those that deal in death; assassins like to perceive themselves as inevitable as a natural disaster.
Well-wishes
- “May the Keeper’s scales tip in your favor” or “Scales’ favor”
- “May you not be counted yet”
Curses
- “Let the Keeper mark you in his ledger” or “May you be marked” or “Mark upon you” (the last one considered especially rude).
- “May the Keeper count every breath you take, as I do.”
The Maiden (Death in Combat)
A young woman in battle armor, her expression solemn and respectful. She holds a bouquet of marigolds, a symbol of grief and remembrance in battle. Her other hand rests on the hilt of a sword, signifying her role in guiding fallen warriors.
- Prayed to by soldiers or warriors before battles, seeking valor and an honorable death if they fall.
- Invoked by families of soldiers for their loved ones’ safety and honor in combat.
- Called upon during military ceremonies or memorials to honor the fallen.
Well-wishes
- “Maiden watch over you.”
- “May the Maiden save you a seat.”
Curses
- “May the Maiden find your honor lacking.”
- “Maiden pass you by”
The Fisherman (Death at Sea)
A rugged, weather-beaten figure, cloaked in a fisherman’s garb, standing in a small boat. Their gaze is fixed on the horizon, symbolizing their eternal watch over the seas. They hold an oar or a net, ready to ferry souls to the afterlife.
- Prayed to by sailors, fishermen, and sea travelers for safe passage and protection from the dangers of the ocean.
- Invoked during ship launchings, voyages, or sea festivals.
- Called upon in coastal communities to safeguard loved ones who make their living on or near the sea.
Well-wishes
- “May the Fisherman pass you by”.
- “May the Fisherman look the other way.”
Curses:
- “May the Fisherman await you at every shore.”
- “May it be his nets for you”.