Azern is one of the old gods, known as an elemental force since before humans came to Rhean. Unlike most other elemental gods, his worship has survived among the civilized peoples, possibly because the Rheens took him as a martial god, as well as the god of elemental fire. As the people of Rhe came to this continent, their missionaries spread the faith of Azern to many of the less civilized tribes, who held strongly to his elemental nature in his worship. Today, worship of Azern is primarily found in Rhe, where he is one of the Lesser Gods, and in those areas near Rhe or touched by its culture. Azern was never really adopted by the Yarrins; he is too destructive for their society.

Priests of Azern are expected to be strong, and must pass a test of flame. Although Azern's favor confers a protection from heat, this does not begin until the priest has proved himself. At all times, priests are expected to demonstrate courage and Arete, the warrior passions. As part of their training, priests learn a great deal about fire, and all begin with the Firebuilding proficiency.

All priests are expected to take part in morning devotions, welcoming the sun--the flame Azern set to light the world-- back after the night. This consists of prayers and genuflection to the east as the sun rises. If there are clouds, the priest makes a fire. All temples and shrines keep fires burning at all times, and priests keep up prayers here through the night, praying for the return of the sun. Priests on their own are encouraged to keep a fire burning through the night, as their situation allows.

Each of the festivals is very important to the religion. Dawnfest celebrates Azern returning light and warmth to the world after the winter, Highfest is a passionate celebration of the glory of Azern, Duskfest is a time of mourning and preparation, and Darkfest is a time of reflection and guarding against the dark and cold. Otherwise, each day has a small celebration at dawn, and a reflective service at dusk. Each week, a larger service takes place at noon on Sunday; this is when most lay worshippers pay homage. Services are always performed around the sacred flame. Martial music is common; brass cymbals are always used for dramatic moments. Each participant is expected to make a small sacrifice to the flame.

Granted Powers

• Turn Undead as cleric -2 (as cleric -1 if the priest has fire)
• Produce Flame 1/ day per 3 levels
• Ritual of the Flame: by building a fire with their own hands while praying to Azern, the priest can test their faith and gain the favor of Azern. The priest must stand within the fire, taking 1 point of damage per round regardless of protections. For as long as the priest stands in the fire, they are treated as 2 levels higher for the effects of their spells. This ritual can be performed once per day.
• permanent Fire Resistance beginning at 3rd level

Stories and Legends

In the first days, when humans first learned of the Power of the flames, they beseeched him for help using fire. Azern sent the fire spirits that served him, the Azer, to these people, but the Azer were living flame; they could not help the people, or even communicate with them. Then both Azer and humans called out again to the flames, asking that the Azer be given a solid form. Azern heard their prayers and gave the Azer form: human-like, but shorter, for they were meant to serve; stocky, so they could bear heavy burdens; with brass-colored skin, for they often aided in metal work; and with eyes and hair of fire, so all would know they served Azern. For many years the Azer worked with the followers of Azern, until the world changed and most had to return to their home. But they have not forgotten their ancient service, and even now mighty priests of Azern can still call them forth.