Nethul
Experiment #419 - Tethering Soul to Previous Body
"Remarkably, I have managed to sustain the subject's body using vitalis symbiont despite the soul's untethering nearly a year ago.
Should my understanding of the temporal flow within Polurn's Garden prove correct, we can anticipate the soul's return within the month. The intriguing process of tethering a soul back to its erstwhile body will be our next endeavor. By employing my brother's methods, we will restore the brain-body connection, and subsequently investigate the preservation of memories.
We shall commence with re-establishing the basic senses..."
~ Nethul Xistrith
Unpublished notes from the "Encyclopedia of Maladies, Infestations, and Pandemics"
Unpublished notes from the "Encyclopedia of Maladies, Infestations, and Pandemics"
Description
Beneath the beauty and wonder of Dromaria, where magic is used for many modern solutions and dragons fill the skies, dwells a noxious force. Diseases and blights persistently gnaw at the heart of nature, accelerating the decay of the planet. These illnesses, both natural and alien, ravage humanity, reducing vibrant lives to mere husks, and breeding further disease. Nethul, the god of such threats, beckons those daring enough to comprehend the intricate web of the world's ailments, the impact of sickness on people, and their place in the scale of existence. Worshiping Nethul means acknowledging the harsh reality that decay is an inevitable endpoint of life, and a necessary precursor to the emergence of new life. Nethul's pioneering studies on disease, illness, and their specific effects on people have birthed numerous remedies and vaccines, demonstrating his undeniable contribution to medical sciences. However, Nethul's life work dances on the edge of taboo, and his methods often stir controversy. Nethul, twin of Nebull Xistrith, emerged from an environment steeped in mental and physical illness. Driven by a blend of personal tragedy and relentless pursuit of knowledge, he has committed acts that many would deem horrifying. His bond with Nebull, led to their joint infamy as The Shades of Soth. Despite the dread associated with his name, Nethul's work remains invaluable for those seeking to understand and combat what grows in the dark places of the world.
Modern Depiction
Nethul is primarily represented by his holy symbol or as a dark, indistinct humanoid figure donning a plague doctor's mask. His opus, the "Encyclopedia of Maladies, Infestations, and Pandemics," is the most comprehensive compilation of known diseases, symptoms, and cures. Various depictions of Nethul and his works have largely been considered taboo, and his presence is mostly shunned by civilized society.
Tenets of Nethul
 | Blight and disease are vital aspects of nature. |
| There is a cure for everything; it merely takes time and sacrifice for discovery. |
| A limb left to rot will spoil the body; separate the diseased to spare the whole. |
| Plague and pestilence do not care about morality; leave it behind when contending with the forces of nature. |
| Reckless intentions can be worse than no action at all; take the time to learn about your opposition and its weaknesses before you act. |
Nethul Worshiping Adventurers
Followers don't so much worship Nethul as they study and strive to advance his teachings. Nearly every major religion denounces Nethul, viewing him as a reckless scholar or as the progenitor of monsters and disease. Those who deal directly with nature and its blights, such as wandering healers, guides, or people looking to do something disturbed are likely to have some understanding of Nethul's teachings. They seek to understand the natural cycle of life and death, decay and growth, and are unafraid to confront the more frightening aspects of nature.
God of Blight, Disease, & Plague
Why would you choose this faith?
Choosing to follow Nethul is to embrace a belief system that sees the potential in decay, the transformative power of disease, and the promise of rebirth in rot. It's a faith for those who are not intimidated by the inevitable cycle of death. Clerics, wizards, and druids who are not afraid to navigate the shadows of existence to find the light of understanding and healing might find themselves drawn to Nethul's teachings. It is a path for the brave, the curious, and those who see beauty and purpose in every stage of life's journey, no matter how grim.
Holy Symbol
Nethul's symbol is a staff entwined with a dying vine, featured on the cover of his "Encyclopedia." Over time, it has become his holy symbol and the standard hazard symbol for diseases and blight. Its presence is often associated with illness and plagues.
Associated Religions
Nethul is not worshiped as part of any major religion, instead each one warns against him. Despite his evil reputation, his teachings on disease are still heavily in use, and it is understood he followed The Calling.