The Lesser Gods

Though their world now had form, creatures, and plants, the gods knew their world lacked the touch of life. The Grand Four met in council again, deciding upon a new plan: the creation of lesser gods, avatars and tenders of the life below them. With The Stone, they breathed their essences into it, combining the spirits of the four. Out of The Stone would come new gods, lesser in powers but with particular areas over which they would oversee. Of two elements came each, embodying the natural forces and their effects on the earth.

First came Jokuen, the Two-Faced, from water and earth. Concerned with the general life of the planet and their continual growth, he brought competition and danger to the world; as opposition breeds strength, so he bred the creatures of the earth to fear and fight and grow. As a neutral god, all was done in equal measure, from the top of the line of predators, the mighty dragons, to the lowest bunny. To each creature he gave a place and a home.

Second from The Stone came Vesc, goddess of fertility, growth, and love. With a tender smile she nurtured the life, watching with pleasure as her children grew and the world around them.

Next came the twin goddesses, Ranane and Aeno. Ranane's blessing was the morning, the healing breeze and the gift of renewing spirit. The sign of her favor is the rainbow, endless and pure in the morning sky. Aeno gave of herself the thirst for adventure, learning, as well as risk and reward. All great adventures are watched by Aeno, and adventurers are her children.

Of The Stone next came Norhame, swiftly followed by his sister Haioto. As opposite as as night and day, Norhame ordered the intelligent people of Creos, building cities and sancturaries, encouraging the forces of good to preserve peace and law. His sister Haioto, fickle and selfish, led the people towards pleasure and companionship, with little plans and spontaneous living. Those of her favor enjoy generous gifts, but the stodgy people of her brother she shuns.

With the world's new attendants, the Grand were happy, leaving the growth of the world and her people to their lesser children.