| Gatekeeper | |
|---|---|
| God of access, passage and travel. | |
| Member of the Pantheon | |
 |
|
| Artistic interpretation of Gatekeeper. | |
| Status | Dead |
| Abode | The Tower |
| Animal | Hermit Crab |
| Flower | Rose (white) |
| Level | The Crossroads |
| Personal Information | |
| Parents | None, 1st Generation |
| Relations | The rest of the pantheon (brother to) |
| Champions | Unknown |
Description
Gatekeeper (ˈɡātˌkēpər) is one of the gods of the Pantheon, known for his ability to access and restrict anything. He perhaps had one of the most devoted followings, as indicated by the many shrines, prayers, and other forms of worship in his honor
Appearance in Texts
Gatekeeper has appeared in a wide range of ancient scriptures, in which many fantastical feats were ascribed to him. Among them are his clashes with other gods, smiting of beasts, guiding of travelers, and opening of other realms.
Physical Description
Although Gatekeeper has been depicted in a variety of forms — both literal and metaphorical — he was most commonly depicted as a tall, well-dressed humanoid male with long hair obscuring his eyes, and a crown of keys upon his head.
Worship
Records indicate that our ancient brothers deeply venerated Gatekeeper. The Tower within The Crossroads was known to not only be his personal abode, but also a temple. An imposing marble statue erected in Gatekeeper's likeness stood in the main hall, in which our ancient brothers congregated to conduct worship him. Prayers were recited and offerings were provided — most often to receive blessings and protection in long travels, or to be provided a key to a certain realm. However, Gatekeeper was most revered for his apparent ability to "unlock" beings — bringing forth one's true power and potential. There were those who worshipped him in hopes of having their own capabilities unlocked by him. They were willing to go so far as to relinquish their most prized mortal possessions or even aspects of themselves.
Following the massacre and the uprising, however, Gatekeeper was said to have turned cold and cruel, his heart hardening. Sometime after the collapse of the pantheon, he isolated himself within his abode, surrounded only by his most devout followers. Eventually, all records of reverence towards Gatekeeper abruptly stopped with his passing. While there is no firsthand account of his death, the leading theory is that Gatekeeper was assassinated by one of his followers, who was in fact an agent of the Iron Fist. This is supported by one myth stating that he was “struck down by a fist of iron”. Unfortunately, this is where all our knowledge ends, for this subject was considered taboo by our ancient brothers.
Symbols
There are numerous symbols associated with Gatekeeper. Below are the most prominent ones:
- The Key: New beginnings, mystery, initiation, hidden talent.
- The Lock: Protection, secrecy, ownership, romantic union.
- The Door: Transition, metamorphosis.
- The White Rose: Purity, respect, youth.
- The Hermit Crab: Self-sufficiency, solitude.
Relationships with Others
Humans
Gatekeeper was known to have been a compassionate and reasonable god, who treated his worshippers fairly and equally. This reputation faltered towards the end of his life however, when he became embittered and jaded.
Gods
Gudang
Gatekeeper was known to have often confided in Gudang with his troubles, and she would help put his worries at ease. Legends speak of them having created several levels together.
The Allseer
Gatekeeper would often go to the Allseer for her wisdom and insight. He was said to have questioned her on the loyalty of his worshipers, though the answer he received is unknown.
Philia
Gatekeeper was perhaps one of the Gods that Philia cherished the most, having had a special and playful friendship with him. She was often described to enjoy his knowledgeable and wise nature. Our ancestors claim that they were often together, and that Gatekeeper would accompany Philia all over this reality and support her grand plans and hobbies. Gatekeeper's assassination crushed the Goddess' heart, and she never truly moved on from it.
Tlamelahuacachinaliztli
By all accounts, Gatekeeper initially had a strong if strictly professional relationship with the god of Justice. However, a series of letters exchanged between the two towards the end of Gatekeeper's life indicate that a rift eventually opened between them, driving them apart.
The Lady in White
Gatekeeper was said to have often visited her library to read books and have long, deep discussions with her. However, ancient records indicate that they had a falling out prior to his self-isolation.
Modern Day
There is evidence to suggest that Gatekeeper may live on in the modern day as The Keymaster, possibly as a form of reincarnation. However, if this is indeed the case, he seems to be unaware of it, lacking memories of his previous life and appearing to be unfamiliar with other surviving members of the pantheon.