Corellon Larethian

First among the Elven Gods, but does not serve any hierarchical function within the pantheon. He grants Elven deities complete autonomy; although he is most powerful among them, none are asked to serve.

Although traditionally referred to in the masculine, Corellon is sometimes represented as possessing traits from both genders, or as completely sexless. Many elves believe that their race was born from his blood, spilled during an epic battle with a chthonic deity whose name is lost to time.

Corellon is thought to have two somewhat conflicting natures. The first is as a distant, benevolent parent, watching over his offspring with bemused curiousity; the second is as an aggressive and unrelenting protector of life, in all its forms, who sleeplessly patrols the borders of the elven homelands, safeguarding his children within.

Though elves frequently hold festivals in praise of Corellon Larethian, there are no codified rituals to venerate him, or indeed any institutional religion as such. Instead it is thought that he is made happiest by activities that affirm life and vitality. Art, agriculture, animal husbandry, childbirth and food preparation are all considered sacred to Corellon.

Philologists note that Latherian is an archaic pronunciation of Larethian, and different dialects stress the name Corellan on different syllables.