King Riku Normandy (5e Deity)
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King Riku Normandy[edit]
Alignment. ?
Domains. War, Trickery and Death.
Divine Rank. Greater Deity
Riku Normandy is the ruler of the Underworld, as well as many other domains. Since most of the domains controlled by Riku, that lie outside the Underdark, were conquered through violent and bloody battles, he is also known by some - usually those conquered by him - as the God of War.
- History
Very little is known about the origins of Riku, since most of what is recorded about him was lost to history, and most of the story was controlled or erased by Riku itself, but most sages agree that he was a mortal, a powerful drow warrior, that clawed his way through his family hierarchy, reaching the title of Lord of his elven house.
It is said that his deep hatred for Lolth and desire for vengeance was due for some very personal reason; some speculate that Lolth have unjustly punished some Riku's loved one, cursing them into becoming a Drider, while others point to Riku's actions being motivated by no ill will towards Lolth, but just a desire for control and a hunger for power.
At some point, while still a mortal, Riku forged a pact with Mephistopheles, and although the terms and reasons for this contract are unknown; some say riku have given his soul to that demon in exchange for power, although others suspect of this being a play in the larger game of the Blood War. Regardless, was this pact that gave Riku the power to best many Demon Lords in combat, what makes him be seen as an ally, or at least as an useful asset by demons.
His greatest victory was achieved by defeating the Spider Queen, his most powerful opponent, what have granted him the divine status. Now, he rule all domains that once belonged to the Spider Queen, amongst others in the abyss, taken by the power of his blades and tactical brilliance.
- Goals and Motivations
Riku doesn't seem to have clear motives, and is often seen engaging into war with seemingly randomness. His main driving force seem to be, however, either the hunger for power or a deep hatred for demons of all nature, although currently Riku's wrath seems no longer be directed solely towards the creatures of the abyss.
- Other Gods
Mephistopheles is mostly friendly towards Riku, since, due to their agreement, they are generally in good terms. Riku sons and daughters are minor divinities and demigods and their own right, and they seem to be split about agreeing with his father, disagreeing with him or actively opposing and conspiring against him.
Most Demons hate riku and seen him as a Devil, for the purposes of their racial hatred. Other gods tend to ignore him, but either distrust or despise his erratic and violent behavior, except for, of course, gods of war, chaos and destruction - and even some Demons- that revel in the instability brought by him. His favorite weapon is the Hell Fire Rapier gifted to him by the
- Appearance
Riku appears as a beautiful and young male drow, with a skin that mixes a light shade of blue with light purple, and a slightly long (chin length) hair with the same hue from his hair. His eyes bear a shiny and deep light green, that shed a sickly faint light when he is angry - or happy due to bloodlust.
His vain nature is reflected on his clothing, often doning extravagant garments made out of the most expensive materials, the rarest of silks and the softest of velvets, and usually in bright and hot colors that contrast with the color of his skin. He is also always adorned with all sorts of shiny jewelry, often taken by from the defeated kings he have slain both on the material plane and on the abyss.
He also always carry his favorite weapon, the Hellfire Rapier, a powerful artifact gifted to him by Mephistopheles, as a symbol of their eternal pact. The blade now is rarely removed from its sheath, but Riku is never seen, within or outside his domains, without it.
- Temples and Worshipers
There are no widespread organized religions that worship Riku, but there have been many cults started in his name. Many drow turned their worship towards Riku in the absence of the Spider Queen, and even some normal elves say prayers in his name, due to hatred towards her.
Most cultists of Riku will be warriors, since they believe worshiping Riku will grants them victory in face of certain defeat, or the power to conquer insurmountable odds. A few demon slayers will also adore Riku thanks to the crusade he launched against the abyss.
Riku cults headquarters will be often a place for strategizing and combat training too, and they will often be filled with tokens and trophies, taken from defeated enemies.
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