Spheres of Influence: Magic, Healing, Sacrifice, Reaping, Grief, Suffering
Epithets: The Fallen Moon, Bringer of Magic, the Fleshbound, the Forgotten, the Sickle
Common Domains: Arcana, Grave, Knowledge, Life, Twilight
Semoz is the twin of Koros, and is known as the Fallen Moon and Bringer of Magic. Long ago, Semoz was cast down to the world by Skura, partly to save Semoz from the Demon-god Bahtot and partly to protect the world. For when she swept Semoz from the sky, she also sent the gift of arcane magic to the world. Skura knew that some magic would be dangerous to the denizens of our world and gave Semoz the job of protecting the people and teaching them how to use magic. This is his duty, and he can never again ascend to the sky, where his mother and brother still dwell, for after she cast him out, Skura sealed the rift in the sky behind him.
Worship of Semoz is closely tied to that of Koros. The newly constructed Moon Dome, where they are worshipped together, speaks to the importance of the Hero Twins. Anyone who has seen the moon rise between the spires of Kernu Apsu, recognizes the meaning this place has to Koros and thus to Semoz. The twins are special protectors of all who dwell beneath the sky. After eons on Aardia, Semoz has grown to understand the fleshbound more than any other deity. Semoz is most powerful during the new moon, when Koros is weakest. Conversely, Semoz is reduced in power at the full moon. It is common for followers of the Twin Heroes to work together, especially during new and full moons.
As Bringer of Magic, Semoz is the patron of magical beings and those who use or channel magic to aid, heal, or protect. The idea of protection is quite expansive and can include the use of offensive spells. Semoz is also the patron of martyrdom, suffering, and loss.
Among the dwarven folk of the Akkur Mons and Burkhdyn Gazar, Semoz is known as Samwah and also considered god of caves, mines, death, and the underworld.
Karpa: The festival of the Reaping equinox is a celebration of abundance and is a fortuitous time for planting root vegetables and conceiving children.
Offerings: Offerings are made before fighting against seemingly hopeless odds, before using complex magic (especially for protection and healing), when facing death, when making a personal sacrifice, when praying for a dead or dying loved one, when needing protection at night near the new moon.
Flora: Chamomile, Feverfew, Hero’s Trumpet, Moonflower, Sandalwood, Yarrow, Yew tree
Fauna: Abalone, Giant Moon Moth, Glowworm, Lemur, Moon Jellyfish, Moonfish, Mussels, Narwhal, Oyster, Silver Stag, Snail
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