Ioun, Goddess of Knowledge - The Enlightened (N)
“Search, study, create and share knowledge. Turn every page and every stone, show the world the wonders of the universe until every story is told and every secret unveiled. And then we shall learn about learning itself.” - Message from Ioun carved into the walls of sacred libraries
Culture Names
| Culture | Name | Title | Pronouns | Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alonian (Tallman) Generic | Ioun | The Enlightened | She/Her | The Harmonious Gods |
| Asteni (Tallman) Italian | Minerva | The Oracle of Wisdom | She/Her | Gli Dei Armoniosi (The harmonious gods) |
| Dal (Tallman) Hispanic | Savio | The Wise One | He/Him | Los Armoniosos (The harmonious ones) |
| Duir (Dwarven) German | Wissen-shuter | The Keeper of Wisdom | He/Him | Die Eintrachtigen (The harmonious ones) |
| Dwelmer (Dwarven) Nordic | Mimir | The Rememberer | He/Him | Ástin Gudar (Loving gods) |
| Eldar (Elven) Elven | Elrond | The Loremaster | He/Him | Maiar (Brotherhood) |
| Eldarin (Elven) Japanese | Chie | The Wisdom Oracle | He/Him | Waigami(Harmonious deities) |
| Mularir (Tallman) Greek | Athena | The Great Mentor | She/Her | Armonía theoí (Harmony gods) |
| Yotunn (Dwarven) Giant | Yrgorim | The All-Knowing | She/Her | Samraddar Guir (United gods) |
Extra Titles
The Divine Librarian: Ioun, Goddess of Learning The Keeper of Truth: Ioun, Goddess of Knowledge The Eternal Oracle: Ioun, Goddess of Prophecy The Scholar Muse: Ioun, Goddess of Wisdom
Commandments
- Unmask those who would destroy The Enlightened. Learn their secrets and unveil them to the world.
- Uphold and teach the importance of reason, perception, and truth in guiding one’s emotions and path.
- Condemn those who lie without moral cause, for The Whispered one gains power when their followers obscure the truth. Never stoop to the level of selfish liars.
Portfolio
- Knowledge: Ioun embodies the pursuit and accumulation of knowledge, encouraging mortals to seek truth and understanding in all forms of learning.
- Learning: She promotes the value of education and continuous learning, fostering intellectual growth and curiosity among scholars, sages, and seekers of wisdom.
- Prophecy: Ioun is the mistress of prophecy, offering glimpses of future events to those who are worthy, guiding them with foresight and insight.
- Wisdom: She embodies divine wisdom, guiding mortals to make sound judgments and decisions based on knowledge and experience.
- Stories: Ioun cherishes stories and narratives, preserving histories and myths to ensure that the lessons and experiences of the past are not forgotten.
- Libraries: As the patron of schools and libraries, she inspires the establishment of institutions of learning and intellectual discourse, nurturing the minds of scholars and students.
- History: Ioun is the keeper of history, chronicling the events and deeds of mortals and deities alike, preserving the tapestry of existence for future generations.
- Kenku: She is revered by the kenku, guiding these avian folk in their pursuit of knowledge and creativity, encouraging them to express themselves through stories and art.
- Exploration: Ioun encourages mortals to explore the world around them, to seek out new knowledge and experiences, and to expand their understanding of the universe.
- Curiosity: She encourages curiosity and exploration, inspiring mortals to question, investigate, and discover the mysteries of the world around them.
Alignment
Neutral
Symbols
Pair of open eyes crowned with a third open eye
Crook shaped like a stylized eye
Avatars
Alonian (Tallman) Generic
Ioun appears as a young woman with long, light-colored hair and sleek green eyes with slit pupils. Above her head floats a third eye, featuring a yellow sclera and a green iris, encircled by a red ring. She wears a white cloak and robes that tumble out from her form in tendrils of parchment
Cleric Domains
| Domains |
|---|
| Arcana |
| Knowledge |
| Twilight |
Religious Practices
Many followers of Ioun are scholars, sages, and seekers of knowledge who dedicate their lives to the pursuit of wisdom and enlightenment. They engage in a variety of practices and rituals to deepen their understanding of the world and to honor the goddess of knowledge. Some of the key religious practices associated with the worship of Ioun include:
- Daily Devotionals: Followers of Ioun typically begin their day with a period of quiet reflection and meditation, focusing on seeking knowledge and wisdom for the day ahead. This may involve reading from sacred texts, contemplating on philosophical questions, or simply quiet introspection.
- Library Visitation: One of the central practices for devotees of Ioun is regular visits to libraries, archives, or places of learning. These visits are seen as acts of reverence towards the pursuit of knowledge and understanding. During these visits, followers may engage in study, research, or discussions with fellow seekers of knowledge.
- Quill Channeling: During this practice, followers rest their feathers dipped in ink over open tomes or parchment, allowing their hand to move freely as if guided by an unseen force. This meditative act is believed to facilitate a direct connection with the goddess, allowing her knowledge and wisdom to flow through the practitioner and onto the parchment. Through this process, followers seek not only to gain insight and understanding but also to commune with Ioun on a deeper spiritual level, forging a profound bond between themselves and the Goddess of Knowledge.
- Rituals of Insight: Followers of Ioun may participate in rituals designed to enhance their understanding and perception. These rituals often involve practices such as scrying, divination, or meditation on sacred symbols associated with the goddess, such as the pair of open eyes crowned with a third open eye.
- Scripture Study and Recitation: Devotees of Ioun regularly study and recite passages from the sacred texts associated with the goddess, such as epic stories, books written by high priests and writings attributed to her. This practice helps followers deepen their understanding of Ioun’s teachings and principles.
- Quests for Lost Knowledge: Some followers of Ioun undertake quests or expeditions in search of lost or hidden knowledge. These quests may take them to ancient ruins, forgotten libraries, or other mysterious locations rumored to contain valuable insights and wisdom.
- Scholarly Discourse and Debate: Followers of Ioun value intellectual discourse and debate as a means of uncovering deeper truths and expanding their understanding. Temples and academies dedicated to the goddess often host gatherings where scholars, sages, and seekers can engage in lively discussions on philosophical, metaphysical, and magical topics.
- Service to the Community: Devotees of Ioun are encouraged to share their knowledge and wisdom with others, both within their own community and beyond. This may take the form of teaching, mentoring, or providing guidance to those who seek enlightenment and understanding.
Cultural Norms
Cultures that revere Ioun as a deity of knowledge and wisdom often exhibit certain cultural norms and values that reflect the teachings of the goddess. These norms shape the behavior, beliefs, and practices of individuals within these societies, fostering a deep appreciation for learning, truth, and intellectual pursuits. Some of the key cultural norms associated with the worship of Ioun include:
- Emphasis on Education: Societies that revere Ioun place a high value on education and intellectual pursuits. Learning is considered a lifelong journey, and both formal and informal education are encouraged from a young age. Libraries, schools, and centers of learning are often well-funded and revered as sacred spaces.
- Respect for Scholars and Sages: Scholars, sages, and those who dedicate themselves to the pursuit of knowledge are highly respected and honored in societies influenced by Ioun’s teachings. Their wisdom and expertise are sought after in matters of governance, decision-making, and problem-solving.
- Commitment to Truth and Integrity: Honesty, integrity, and a commitment to seeking truth are fundamental values in cultures that worship Ioun. Deception, manipulation, and falsehoods are frowned upon, as they go against the principles of knowledge and wisdom espoused by the goddess.
- Innovation and Creativity: While reverence for tradition and ancient wisdom is important, followers of Ioun also embrace innovation and creativity. Experimentation, exploration, and the pursuit of new ideas are encouraged as means of expanding knowledge and understanding.
- Cultural Preservation: Cultures influenced by Ioun’s worship often place importance on the preservation of historical records, artifacts, and cultural heritage. Museums, archives, and historical societies are established to safeguard and celebrate the achievements of past civilizations.
- Open-mindedness and Curiosity: Open-mindedness and curiosity are celebrated virtues in societies that venerate Ioun. Individuals are encouraged to question, explore, and seek understanding beyond conventional boundaries. Diversity of thought and perspective is valued as a means of enriching collective knowledge.
- Community of Learners: Worshipers of Ioun often form tight-knit communities centered around the shared pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. These communities provide support, collaboration, and intellectual stimulation for individuals on their quest for enlightenment.
- Dissemination of Knowledge: Cultures that worship Ioun are dedicated to the dissemination of knowledge in all possible ways. Festivals celebrating the sharing of knowledge, forums for debates and discussions, and public classes are common occurrences in such societies. These events provide opportunities for individuals to exchange ideas, learn from one another, and contribute to the collective pool of knowledge. Whether through storytelling, lectures, or interactive workshops, the sharing of knowledge is seen as a sacred duty and a means of fostering enlightenment and understanding among all members of society.
Political Structures
Societies that revere Ioun as a deity of knowledge and wisdom often incorporate her teachings and principles into their political structures and governance systems. These societies prioritize reason, intellect, and the pursuit of truth in their decision-making processes, seeking to create a society that values knowledge, wisdom, and enlightenment. Some of the key political structures associated with the worship of Ioun include:
- Conclave of Minds: The Conclave of Minds is a unique form of governance where decisions are made through collaborative voting sessions facilitated by magic. Through the use of arcane rituals, the thoughts and desires of the populace are temporarily united into a single hivemind as way to honor the immense knowledge of Ioun, allowing for collective decision-making on matters of governance. During these sessions, citizens are connected telepathically, enabling them to think as one being that carries all their memories and thoughts. The hivemind deliberates on proposals, weighing the input of every individual before reaching a consensus decision. This decentralized approach to governance ensures that the wisdom and knowledge of the entire community are taken into account, fostering unity and cooperation among its members.
- Council of Scholars: A Council of Scholars serves as the governing body in societies influenced by Ioun’s teachings. Comprised of esteemed scholars, sages, and experts in various fields of knowledge, this council deliberates on matters of governance, policy-making, and societal advancement. Decisions are made based on careful analysis, reasoned debate, and consideration of the long-term implications for the welfare of the populace.
- Academic Oligarchy: An Academic Oligarchy is characterized by the dominance of intellectual bodies in the political sphere. Universities, academies, and centers of learning wield significant influence over government policies and decision-making processes. Political power is concentrated among a select group of scholars, who use their expertise to shape the direction of society and promote the pursuit of knowledge as a guiding principle of governance.
- Technocracy: Technocratic governments prioritize the application of scientific and technological knowledge in the administration of society. Sages, alchemists, inventors, and scholars colaborate to create policies and solutions that are based on empirical evidence, rational analysis, and the principles of logic. Governance is guided by the belief that progress and prosperity can be achieved through the continuous advancement of knowledge and innovation.
- Republic of Wisdom: In a Republic of Wisdom, political authority is vested in a body of elected representatives who are chosen based on their intellectual capabilities and commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. Citizens participate in governance through democratic processes, with an emphasis on informed decision-making and civic engagement. Education and critical thinking are prioritized to ensure an informed electorate capable of shaping the future of the republic.
- Philosopher-Kingdom: A Philosopher-Kingdom is ruled by enlightened monarchs who embody the ideals of wisdom, reason, and intellectual enlightenment. These liders are often guided by councils of scholars composed of representatives from various fields of knowledge. Governance is based on the principles of rationality, justice, and the pursuit of truth, with the monarchs serving as benevolent stewards of knowledge and wisdom for the benefit of their subjects.
- Ecclesiocracy: An Ecclesiocracy is a political system in which religious authorities hold significant sway over government affairs. In societies that worship Ioun, the clergy, comprised of scholars, seers, sages, and devotees of the goddess, play a central role in shaping political institutions and policies. Governance is guided by religious principles, with a focus on promoting knowledge, wisdom, and the pursuit of truth as the highest ideals of society.
- Oracle Council: The Oracle Council is a governing body comprised of revered religious scholars and powerful magic users who specialize in divination magic. These individuals are chosen not only for their deep understanding of religious teachings and magical practices but also for their ability to commune with Ioun, the Goddess of Knowledge, through visions of the future. During regular council meetings, members conduct elaborate divination rituals to seek guidance and insight from the goddess. Through their visions, they interpret omens, signs, and prophecies to inform their decisions on matters of governance. The decisions of the Oracle Council are seen as divinely inspired, guided by the wisdom and foresight bestowed upon them by Ioun herself. This system ensures that decisions are made with a deep understanding of the cosmic forces at play and a commitment to upholding the principles of knowledge, wisdom, and enlightenment.
Elemental Affinities
| Elements |
|---|
| Mind |
| Divination |
Home Plane
Champions
Holidays
| Holidays |
|---|
Blessings
A follower of Ioun can gain favor with their deity by seeking knowledge, advancing their understanding, and sharing wisdom with others. As they embody the principles of reason, perception, and truth, Ioun may bestow the following blessings upon them:
Any spell-like abilities granted by these blessings use the character’s spellcasting ability, if the character does not have a spellcasting ability, they can use their highest ability score.
- Divine Insight:
- Once per day, the follower can invoke Ioun’s guidance to gain advantage on an ability check, saving throw, or attack roll, reflecting the goddess’s gift of foresight and wisdom.
- Augury:
- Once per long rest, the follower can perform a ritual to receive guidance from Ioun regarding a specific course of action, gaining insight into the potential outcomes of their choices.
- Arcane Revelation:
- Once per long rest, the follower can tap into Ioun’s vast reservoir of knowledge to gain access to a spell from any class’s spell list for 1 hour, casting it as if it were a known spell of their own. The spell’s level cannot exceed the follower’s available spell slots. If the user is not a spellcaster, they can cast the spell once at the lowest level without expending a spell slot and can only cast spells of a level equal to or lower than their proficiency bonus.
- Eyes of the Oracle:
- Once per short rest, the follower can use their action to see through Ioun’s eyes, gaining the effects of the True Seeing spell for 1 minute, additionally they gain advantage on all Wisdom (Perception) and Intelligence (Investigation) checks during this time.
- Mind’s Shield:
- The follower gains resistance to psychic damage, reflecting Ioun’s protection against mental intrusion and manipulation. Additionally, the follower is immune to the charmed condition and has resistance on checks to resist being frightened.
- Fount of Knowledge:
- The follower gains proficiency in two additional skill or tool of their choice, reflecting Ioun’s blessing of expanded knowledge and expertise.
- Wisdom’s Grace:
- The follower’s recieves 3 additional points to distribute among their Wisdom or Intelligence scores, reflecting Ioun’s gift of enhanced mental acuity and insight.
- Eternal Scholar:
- When the follower researches a topic or studies a subject they immediately know where to find the information they seek, and if they spend at least 8 hours studying they gain hit points equal to their level and can add their proficiency bonus to any check related to the topic they studied for the next 24 hours.
Curses
Ioun’s followers can invoke their deity’s wrath upon their enemies by cursing them with afflictions that reflect the deity’s domains. As the followers gain favor with Ioun, they may gain access to the following curses to unleash upon their foes:
The follower must cast Bestow Curse to invoke their available curses:
- Cursed Ignorance:
- The target’s mind becomes clouded, causing disadvantage on Wisdom and Intelligence-based ability checks and saving throws.
- Fog of Confusion:
- The target’s thoughts become muddled, causing them to loose all proficiency in skills and tools for the duration of the spell, and making them vulnerable to confusion and disorientation.
- Veil of Deception:
- The target is plagued the death of their perception, their eyes become jet black and they are blinded and deafened for the duration of the spell, if the target has another type of vision, like blindsight or tremorsense, they loose that as well.
- Mind Blank:
- The target’s memories begin to fade, causing them to forget important information and lose their sense of self. The target recieves a -2 to their AC and saving throws, whenever they are hit by an attack or fail a saving throw, they must make a Wisdom saving throw or fall unconscious for 1d4 rounds.
- Shadow of Doubt:
- The target becomes consumed by doubt and uncertainty, causing disadvantage on Charisma-based ability checks and saving throws. At the start of their turn the target must make a Wisdom saving throw or be unable to take any actions for that turn.
- Tunnel Vision:
- The target loses their skill to see the bigger picture, they can only see what is directly in front of them, ignoring all other things that are not within the 30ft in front of them.
- Overwhelming Thoughts:
- The target is overwhelmed by a flood of information, causing them to be stunned and unable to take any actions for the duration of the spell, they recieve 1d6 psychic damage at the start of each of their turns while stunned and mus spend their action speaking random facts and information. At the end of each of their turns they can make a Wisdom saving throw to either end the effect if they succeed or add an additional round if they fail.
- Terrible Revelation:
- The target is cursed with a terrible revelation, causing them to be frightened and unable to take any actions for the duration of the spell, they must make a Wisdom saving throw at the start of each of their turns or be frightened for an additional round. If the target is immune to the frightened condition they instead take 1d6 psychic damage.
Myths
The Creation of the Kenku
The Creation of Kenku
The kenku were created by Ioun, The Enlightened to help her manage the vast amount of knowledge she had gathered in tomes, books and scrolls. The kenku were created to be loyal and hardworking, their job was simple but important, managing so much content was a task that required a lot of attention to detail, and the kenku were perfect for the job. Too much knowlege mixed with creativity and free will could be dangerous for the world and themselves, so to not stripe the kenku of their free will and make them unnable to truly appreciate the world around them, Ioun made them unable to create new things, they could only replicate what they had seen or heard. After the creation of Ioun’s Archive, all the kenku that took the arduous job to mantaining the vast library of The Goddess of Knowledge were given access to a scroll called The Wings’ Epistle that contained texts in a language that could only be written by the goddess herself, such scroll had the power to give beautiful wings to any creature who read it.
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The creation of Gnomes with Erathis
The Creation of Gnomes
The Goddess of Knowledge, Ioun was constantly writing her knowlegde of the world, and she wrote the laws that rule over reality and the many secrets of reality, but the goddess wished to write stories, she thirsted for tales, myths and adventures to be written in her vast collection of books, but the beings that already existed in Aeloria were not enough to satisfy her thirst for stories, they weren’t curious enough, or not enough of them existed to create the stories she wished to write. While that, Goddess of Invention, Erathis, was exploring the world, and watching over the creatures that lived in it. But these creatures were content with their lot in life, they didn’t seek to explore or create, she desired to see them use the materials around them to create new wonders, to explore and enjoy every second of the world, she dreamed of beings filled with curiosity and creativity. So the two goddesses joined forces, they used their knowledge and creativity to invent a infinitely complex and intricate machine, that could create beings curious and inventive, the gnomes. As the goddesses activated the machine, it’s cogs spun quickly and it took the materials from the depths of the world, the forests and the rocks around it, and from the machine, the gnomes emerged, ever curious and inventive, they explored the world, creating stories, tales and machines.
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Creation of Ioun’s Tear
Myth
The origins of Ioun’s Tear are steeped in the poignant echoes of a tragic chapter in the celestial history of Aeloria. As the myths tell, during the ascension of the god of evil secrets, Vecna, the Whispered One, called a dark and treacherous surprise attack upon the followers of Ioun, the Enlightened. Many of her devoted disciples were ruthlessly hunted and perished in the malevolent onslaught. Mortified and grief-stricken, Ioun, the goddess of knowledge and wisdom, wept a tear that crystallized in the cosmic expanse, becoming the radiant comet known as Ioun’s Tear. This celestial artifact, a manifestation of divine sorrow and resilience, carries within it the indomitable will of Ioun to protect and guide those who steadfastly follow her teachings. The comet’s luminous presence serves as a beacon of hope, a celestial reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment.
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Ioun’s Archive is Destroyed
The Myth:
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Ioun’s battle against Tharizdun along with Melora
Transclude of The-Great-War-(GW)#tharizdun-god-of-entropy-and-madness---the-chained-oblivion-ce-tharizdun-fights-ioun-goddess-of-knowledge---the-enlightened-n-ioun-and-melora-goddess-of-the-wild-and-sea---the-wildmother-n-melora