Breviary of the Twelvegods
“In the beginning, there was infinity. Los, the All-God, traveled at will, and, lo, he gazed upon SUMU, the primordial titan.”
Thus, or in a similar fashion, begins the Breviary of the Twelvegods, a tome that presents the creed of the Twelvegods in clear and understandable language for all readers.
The Breviary has gone through many editions, each differing in quality, use of illustrations, and content, but all start by describing the creation of the world. Subsequent chapters discuss each of the twelve gods and their demigod children. Also, most editions contain a section on the Nameless One, his capture, and the risk of aiding his escape when one does not follow the commandments of the gods of Alveran. Additional chapters vary by version. Many editions contain prayers and texts covering the most important saints, but extended texts on good and god-fearing behavior also are common.
Many such versions circulating within the Middenrealm include a special foreword written by the provincial ruler or the emperor, as well as treatises on the conduct and obligations of vassals.
The book is especially widespread wherever Blessed Ones mingle with the common folk, especially near churches of Ingerimm, Travia, and Peraine (and even Efferd, in some regions). It is also often consulted by Blessed Ones of Praios, Hesinde, and Boron, as well as village Blessed Ones, traveling preachers, and those who teach novices how to read. The Breviary is rarely consulted by Blessed Ones of Tsa, Firun, and Phex, who unsurprisingly have little interest in written rules. All other Churches vary in their degree of reliance upon this book, and regional differences can be quite pronounced.
It also is particularly popular with missionaries and traveling Blessed Ones who often meet nonbelievers. Many acolytes and pious burghers acquire their very own copy so they can seek prayers, worldly wisdom, and comfort in times of need.
Printed copies of The Breviary of the Twelvegods are available in every city in the Middenrealm and the Horasian Empire. Hand copied editions also are available, though at a greater price. Specific editions may be difficult to find in certain areas.
Sales have increased greatly after the destruction of Arivor and the onset of the Starfall, especially among nervous people wanting to obey the commandments of the Twelvegods and to escape the clutches of the Nameless One.
“When at last the divine Twelve vanquished the Corrupter and sat in judgement over him, they stripped him of his name and his power so he could never again spread chaos to the Spheres. They then chained him within the Wall of Stars, in the very breach that he, in his boundless greed, had created so demons could enter onto Dere. There he hangs by his chains to this day, tirelessly plotting to corrupt the souls of all humans. But those whose faith is strong may yet reject his lies and temptations.”
“Layariel, you don’t own a Breviary, do you?”
—Brother Hilbert of Auen, Blessed One of Peraine
“Gods are your domain, Hilbert. I prefer surrounding myself in Nature and meditating on the harmony of the forest.”
—Layariel Treetopglint, elven wyldrunner