Cosantoir, the Protector

Cosantoir

Cosantoir is the god of protection, justice, and truth. He takes the shape of a mystical elk, residing deep in the forests of the material plane. While humanity was young he stood as a shield, helping to protect the budding people from the dangers around them. He also helped settle their quarrels and keep peace among them. Yet as humanity grew, so did it’s power and greed. His protection was no longer needed, his truth now shunned by those with ambitions of their own. Consantoir withdrew deeper and deeper into the forests, never to be seen again.

Adventurers in peril have claimed to have been rescued by Cosantoir, the elk appearing to save them in their time of greatest need. Yet no one knows if the great elk even exists on this plane any longer. Many have tried to find where Cosantoir resides, seeking his guidance and protection. It is said if he is found by one with a pure heart, any question they ask will be truthfully answered.

Fable

“On the eve of what is now known as the Spirit Moon, a child saw a light glowing deep in the trees. They were often warned about the dangers of the forest, but the light beckoned to him, filling him with peace and comfort. He followed it's alluring pull. As he delved deeper into the forest, the trees flickered with light as small faeries played and flew between them. Their laughter filled the air as they raced in the direction of the pull. The child started running among them, giggling and frolicking as a joyous feeling rose inside of him. However just as soon as it started, the laughter stopped, lights vanished, leaving only the glow deep within the forest. He slowed to a stop and looked around, and a deep dread suddenly overcame him.

His eyes fell on a large tree, just moments ago alit with the lights of faeries, as an owlbear emerged from behind it. It eyed the boy as it rose on its hind legs and let out a chilling screech. He tried to run for his life but tripped on an unearthed root and tumbled to the ground. The owlbear lumbered closer. The creature's panting was deafening, it's breath illuminated by the moon high in the cold night sky. He called out for the help of the faeries he had just seen. His voice echoed, yet no lights shone. The child closed his eyes as the owlbear approached, waiting for death. He heard the panting grow closer and closer, yet the searing pain of the owlbear's bite never game. He opened his eyes. Between him and the owlbear stood an elk composed of pure light. It showed no malice or anger as it dipped it's head towards the owlbear. The owlbear's breathing slowed, it's panting breath calmed. It stared at the elk for a moment longer before heading back into the forest. He slowly stood up, unsure of what to do. The sense of dread had vanished, once again replaced by the warm and becoming comfort. The elk turned and approached the boy. It lowered it's head and looked upon him. Its gaze pierced him, examining his very being. Upon seeing no malice in his soul, the elk approached one of the trees and touched it with its snout. Slowly the trees began to light up, winding their way through the forest and back towards the village. Seeing that peace had been restored, the elk vanished into the forest, leaving the boy to return home.”