Matunas
"I believe your question summed up is, 'How can we know that our magic is doing the right thing when 'right' seems to change depending on where you are or who you ask?'
Magic is a tool, much like a pen or a sword. It can be used to weave stories of unimaginable beauty or to etch lies that wound deeper than any blade. Magic, in a similar way, can be used to heal or harm. It's not the tool itself that determines its morality, but rather, the intention and actions of the one who wields it. 'Good' and 'right' vary significantly across cultures, times, and individuals. It is in finding the common ground within these terms that we can begin to understand.
As practitioners, we must consider the needs of those around us. You may hear followers of Forn or Bako speak of their 'Callings.' In a way, our path is not dissimilar, but it involves less of a divine mandate and more an observation and understanding of what is needed around us. This extends beyond the immediate community, reaching out to nature, and all aspects of life affected by both peril and grace. The responsibility of the magic user is not just to prevent harm but to proactively seek to better the world."
~ Matunas Tormontear
Song Stone titled "Lecture 16, Arcane Rights," Library of Asundeai
Recorded 4,053 DA
Song Stone titled "Lecture 16, Arcane Rights," Library of Asundeai
Recorded 4,053 DA
Description
Followers of Matunas find themselves at a crossroads of magic, dragons, and morality. Particularly attracted are those seeking to wield arcane talents, who under the aegis of Matunas's teachings, will find the potential for growth. Choosing to follow Matunas signifies a commitment to appreciating the diverse cultures and historical wisdom that encompasses Dromaria. It indicates a dedication to learning the intricate art of magic, upholding the moral codes of society, and protecting the sanctity of dragons. Followers become a beacon of knowledge and justice in a world guided by magic. Temples dedicated to Matunas are hubs of knowledge, where arcane teachings are disseminated. These teachings are rooted in theories and principles laid out by Matunas himself and his counterpart, Dromadaes. While Dromadaes's Song Stones contain lessons on complex aspects of arcane knowledge, Matunas's stones guide individuals on how to responsibly harness magic without causing disruption. Such institutions tirelessly uphold the Covenant, using magic to safeguard its existence. Followers become privy to extensive arcane knowledge, and rise as protectors of dragons, with the potential to influence the course of history.
Modern Depiction
Matunas is typically represented as a middle-aged human male with brown and grey hair cascading down to his shoulders. Always depicted as well-groomed and dressed in noble attire, he embodies dignity. More contemporary interpretations picture Matunas as a grand silver dragon, midflight, clutching a staff in his talons.
Tenets of Matunas
Every new experience carries a lesson. | |
Uphold the Covenant with the dragons, enabling them to safeguard Dromaria. | |
Adhere to the lawful teachings of the goddess Sorona, the Illumination. | |
Safeguard cultures and traditions. | |
Respect the wonders of the arcane and its potential. | |
Understand the significance of morality and the necessity to hold others accountable. |
Matunas Worshiping Adventurers
Matunas worshipers, with his reputation as a benefactor, are generally well respected in most places. As a cornerstone of the Covenant and the Summertide faiths, Matunas's presence remains strong, albeit with a slight decline in recent times due to conflicts and the rise of Lothoren. Devotees committed to safeguarding dragons and using magic for humanity's betterment embrace the roles of clerics and paladins in his name. Followers of Ishkul and Rodgort are wary of morality's agents, typically choosing confrontation over dialogue. Dromadaes and Matunas followers share a troubled history, with conflicting views on handling magic and dragons leading to numerous battles throughout time. However, when it comes to preserving the Covenant, the two churches always put aside their differences to stand together.
God of Dragons, Magic, & Morality
Why would you choose this faith?
Adherents to the faith of Matunas are enchanted by magic, captivated by the majesty of dragons, and guided by the beacon of morals. This path commonly attracts bards, sorcerers, and wizards due to Matunas's strong associations with the arcane arts. Their abilities are not just recognized but also nurtured under Matunas's teachings.
Committing to Matunas embodies a reverence for diversity, historical wisdom, and ethical complexity. Followers pledge themselves to explore the depths of magic, safeguard the revered dragons, and uphold society.
Backgrounds
Characters from many backgrounds may find themselves following the path of Matunas, but those who follow the Covenant and Summertide faiths are the most likely.
Holy Symbol
Known as the Dragon in Flight, Matunas's symbol adorns pendants and patches, representing a silver dragon with its wings spread wide, seen from below and clutching a staff in its talons. The emblem signals a safe haven for dragons and dragonborn in need and is found on the battle standards of those fighting to protect the Covenant.
Associated Religions
Matunas is most commonly followed in the Covenant and Summertide faiths, but is also present in the Path of the Ancestors.