Hephaestus (Intermediate God)
Hephaestus is the god of blacksmithing and the patron of artisans, craftsmen, and mechanics. Unlike most gods, he is slightly deformed, resembling a tall, bearded hill giant with a dub foot and a hunchback. His mother, Hera, was embarrassed by her son’s deformities and kept him out of sight. In order to win the respect of the other gods, he fashioned a golden throne for her. When she sat in it, she was trapped, and he would not release her until she and the other gods accepted him as their equal. Since then, he has proven one of Olympus’ most valuable residents, fashioning golden palaces, intricate machines. and beautiful armor for his fellows.
Roleplaying Tips
Hephaeslus is generally a benevolent god, though he is extremely touchy about his deformity. Although he is married to Aphrodite, he is in love with Athena, who will have nothing to do with him. Because he has so few worshipers, he treats them well, often making gifts of adamant weapons, shields, and armor to those that serve him especially well. Such objects have a magical +5 bonus. Omens from Hephaestus often appear in the flames of forges.
STATISTICS
- Alignment. Neutral Good.
- Worshippers Alignment. Any.
- Spheres of Influence. Crafts, Smithing.
- Holy Symbol. Hammer and anvil.
Clerics of Hephaestus
Before accepting any person as a priest, Hephaestus sends his avatar to see how the person reacts to a deformed person. If they are kind, they are accepted. Priests of Hephaestus must must be proficient in blacksmithing and must have a Strength score of 15 or more.
Alignment Restriction. Any non-evil.
Weapons Allowed. Hammer.
Armors Allowed. Any armor made by a priest of the god.
Divine Domains. Forge, Knowledge, Life, Light, Peace, Tempest, War.
GRANTED POWERS
- Level 1. Advantage on skill check to blacksmith weapons and armor.
- Level 5. Repair magical weapons and armors.
- Level 10. Create magical weapons and armors with a bonus of +1/three levels (max +5).