Kharthak (CAR-thack) is an ancient and mysterious being of elemental earth, one of the four prime elements that shape the universe.

Kharthak is primarily associated with earth, stability, protection.

History

Kharthak, like the other elemental lords, lies outside the mortal pantheons of deities formed on Zaldara. As such, his motives (and that of his church) often seem alien and mysterious to humans and non-humans alike. Nevertheless, his church has existed since time immemorial, though often waning in popularity due to its disconnect from the mythologies shaped by the humanoid races.

Relationships

Kharthak is one of four elemental lords, the others being: Noorath (Lady of Air), Oshalas (Lady of the Waters), and Sharash (Lord of the Flames).

Though all of the elemental lords are aligned with true neutrality due to their disregard for human concepts of law, chaos, good, and evil, Kharthak is often seen as the most steady and stable of the elemental lords and, as such, finds himself in conflict more often with the others—especially Lady Noorath, as their natures tend to conflict the most often.

Kharthak is extremely protective of his followers and zealously guards them against the supposed depredations of the other elemental lords.

Appearances and Emissaries

In rare appearances upon this plane, Kharthak often takes the form of a humanoid made of stone and earth. He has also been said to appear as a priest in burnished armor with gemstone eyes.

Worship of Kharthak

Earth has existed since creation. It has changed little since that time, and then only when meddled with by the other elements or by creatures. Earth is stable. Earth is solid. Earth is. Slow to anger, but powerful when stirred, Earth is a force to be reckoned with.

Followers and clergy often choose to pray before a natural stone altar or, at least, outdoors. Time of day matters little.

Worshipers and Clergy

Kharthak will accept the veneration of anyone who seek his protection and to feel the solidness of earth in their heart. Some dwarves feel particularly drawn to Kharthak.

Clergy wear brown robes and a pendant of fused obsidian and granite in shape of their symbol.

Temples and Shrines

Temples and shrines to Kharthak are often underground or in natural caverns. Otherwise, they are made of stone and sport many sculptures in stone and in metal.

Obediences

Certain devout followers of the Earth Lord partake in daily rituals that bestow special blessings upon them. Take a stone that you have selected for its beauty or strength or whatever made it stand out to you. Place upon a prayer rug. Contemplate its features. Consider its being. Gain a +4 sacred or profane (your choice) bonus vs. earth effects and a +2 sacred or profane (your choice) bonus to AC.