The Lost Pantheon

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Prehistoric Article This article contains information said to be from Prehistoric Times. The validity of prehistoric content is dubious at best due to poor recordkeeping in the era, and should be considered unreliable, or at best: Legend.

The Lost Pantheon was a collective of Orcish deities supposedly followed in the Pre-History Era. Whilst many associate Orcs with only Gruumsh; god of savagery, in truth he was only one of several powerful beings worshiped by the original Orcs of the realm. The fate of the missing five was a hotly debated topic amongst the few who even knew of their existence, ranging from Gruumsh descending into a mad frenzy and slaying his kin, to them merely lying in deep slumber, awaiting the day they will rise once more to lead their people.

The Pantheon

Gruumsh

The earliest depictions of Gruumsh differ greatly from the savagery he would come to represent. Originally he would be shown as the protector of both the Orcish people and his fellow kin. It was said he could command the power of storms, and his strength was often revered by warriors and guardians. The cause of his change could only be speculated on.

Toosk

Warden of the natural world. Considered to be one of the most powerful of the group, Toosk's importance was preached by the herders and foragers as she protected livestock and brought fruit to bear. As tribes made their way across the realm, she was believed to keep their routes clear and safe.

Yashee

The Orcish tribes long had a strong oral tradition, and it is said Yashee gave up her voice to give the Orcs their language - the Orcish word for "song" still translates directly as "Yashee's Gift". She was revered by storytellers and artisans.

Degnan

Degnan's domain lay beyond the land, watching over the waters of the realm and the Orcs who sailed them. Fishers and seafarers would often seek his blessing for calm seas and steady winds, and pirates would fear his name. A portion of any bountiful haul would be saved as Degnan's Share.

Graat

Healers looked to Graat as a source of strength and wisdom. It is said that following the elven god Corellon’s attack on the orcs where Gruumsh lost his left eye, it was Graat who tended to their protector’s wounds after their escape, supplied only with his tears. It became a traditional practice to include a tear in the creation of Orcish healing salves.

Vaas

Vaas was the personification of the night. She was looked to to watch over and protect the tribes as they slept, and was said to raise the sun come morning. She was also depicted guiding the souls of the departed onward towards the stars.

Actions and Interventions

There were people out in the realm who believed the gods would continue to interact with the realm through avatars, though the claims of the rumours were hard to validate. Some suggested the spirits of the long dead gods would inhabit a mortal body, some saying the sleeping gods spoke to these individuals. Trusk, Warrior of Thrifts was supposedly the champion of Degnan.