Devout of Athena
Devout of Athena
The Devout of Athena are a new and rare presence in Faerûn—champions of a goddess not native to this world. Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, warfare, and heroic justice, reached across time and realms to intervene in the fate of one mortal: Alexios of Sparta. In doing so, she opened a path for her doctrine to take root in the Realms.
Beliefs
- Vengeance must be just.
- Strategy, wisdom, and strength together forge victory.
- Protect the innocent, even against impossible odds.
Methods
- Symbolic warfare, calculated retribution, selfless defense.
Desired Outcome
Thwart the Cult of the Dragon through acts of courage, cunning, and protective vengeance in Athena's name.
History
The Devout of Athena are a new and rare presence in Faerûn—champions of a goddess not native to this world. Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, warfare, and heroic justice, reached across time and realms to intervene in the fate of one mortal: Alexios of Sparta. In doing so, she opened a path for her doctrine to take root in the Realms.
Unlike traditional Faerûnian deities, Athena demands symbolic action over blind worship. Her followers are expected to think, plan, and fight with purpose. They do not proselytize but embody her virtues through action: protecting the weak, vanquishing monstrous tyrants, and turning the tides of war with strategy and sacrifice.
The Devout often appear as lone warriors, sages, or tacticians. They may walk among the Order of the Gauntlet or the Emerald Enclave but serve a different ideal: one of balance through just vengeance and calculated force. Their temples are few, but Athena's favor manifests in dreams, visions, and moments of clarity in battle.
Renown System
Gaining Renown:
- Deliver justice to a tyrant or oppressor who believes themselves untouchable.
- Protect a settlement, outpost, or family from overwhelming odds.
- Show mercy to a defeated enemy who surrenders honorably.
- Win a battle through superior planning or tactics, not brute strength.
- Speak truth to power, especially when it carries personal risk.
- Offer protection to the voiceless or disadvantaged.
- Fulfill an oath or vow, especially when doing so requires sacrifice.
Losing Renown:
- Seek vengeance for personal gain rather than justice.
- Use brute force when wisdom or planning would suffice.
- Abandon a mission or duty out of fear or selfishness.
- Strike down a defenseless or surrendered foe.
- Betray a companion or ally to save yourself.
- Disrespect or desecrate symbols of peace or learning.
Ranks
Rank 1 – Acolyte of the Owl
You are newly chosen. Athena watches you in silence. You may receive dreams or visions when resting near temples or places of wisdom. You are guided by intuition and instinct, but must prove yourself through action.
Rank 2 – Oathbound Strategos
You are recognized as a true voice of Athena's cause. You may gain audiences with other devout across Faerûn and begin forming a network of tactical allies. Warriors and sages may seek your guidance or challenge you in debate.
Rank 3 – Shield of Sparta
You are a battlefield leader. Your reputation precedes you. Local leaders may defer to your judgment in times of war or strife. You may begin forging relics of your own legend or retracing Alexios's path to understand your role in a greater plan.
Rank 4 – War's Wisdom
You are seen as Athena's earthly strategist. Your advice may prevent wars, win battles, or uncover truths long buried. Even gods of Faerûn may take notice. You may be called upon to test others in Athena's name.
Rank 5 – Champion of Athena
You are her chosen. Her spirit walks beside you in moments of silence and steel. You may invoke her name to rally armies or shatter lies. Your presence is a beacon of justice in an unjust world, and your death would shake the heavens.
Notable Members
- Alexios – Acolyte of the Owl, paladin of Athena