Goddess, Hlin (The Protector) – Divine Guardian
Hlin is a goddess of protection in Norse mythology. She is the daughter of the god of light and beauty, Forseti, and the goddess of spring and renewal, Idunn. Hlin is often called upon by those in need of her aid, as she is known to protect those in danger and watch over the weak and vulnerable. She is often associated with the goddess Frigg, as she is said to have served as Frigg’s handmaiden.
- Pantheon: Norse
- Deity Title: Hlin, the Protector
- Deity Symbol: A shield
- Home Plane: Asgard
- Deity Level: Intermediate
- Alignment: Lawful Good
- Aliases: None
- Superior: Frigg
- Traditional Allies: Frigg, Odin, Thor, Baldr, Heimdall, Tyr
- Traditional Foes: Loki, Hel, Fenrir, Jormungandr
- Divine Artifact: The Shield of Protection, which grants its user protection from physical and magical attacks.
- Servants: Valkyries
- Servitor Creatures: None
- Sacred Animal: None
- Manifestations: A woman in armor wielding a shield
- Signs of Favor: A shield emblem appearing on the person’s shield or armor, a feeling of safety and protection
- Worshipers: Warriors, defenders, those seeking protection
- Cleric Alignments: Lawful Good, Lawful Neutral, Neutral Good
- Specialty Priests: Defenders, protectors, battle chaplains
- Holy Days: The winter solstice
- Portfolio: Protection, defending, guardianship
- Domains: Protection, War, Good, Law
- Favored Weapon: Shield
- Favored Class: Paladin
- Favored Race: Humans, Dwarves
- Duties of the Priesthood: Defend and protect those in need, serve as advisors and battle chaplains to leaders and warriors, train others in defensive techniques
- Major Cult/Temple Sites: None
- Benefits: Improved defensive abilities, resistance to harmful spells and effects, increased strength and durability in battle.
Hlin is a gentle and nurturing goddess, often depicted with a warm smile and a kind disposition. She takes her role as protector very seriously and is fiercely dedicated to those she watches over. She is often seen holding a shield, a symbol of the protection she offers. Hlin is also known for her ability to ease the pain of those who have suffered loss or trauma.
Hlin’s desire to protect and care for others stems from her own experiences of loss and tragedy. As a young goddess, her brother Balder was killed, causing her immense grief. She vowed to protect others from the pain and suffering she had experienced and dedicated herself to the role of protector. Hlin’s ultimate goal is to create a world where no one has to suffer needlessly.
Hlin is respected and revered by those who seek protection and security, and her followers often call upon her in times of trouble or danger. Her clerics are known for their bravery and their willingness to put themselves in harm’s way to protect others. They often wear armor emblazoned with Hlin’s symbol and carry shields as a sign of their dedication to the goddess.
Hlin is often depicted as a gentle and motherly figure, with a warm and comforting presence. She is often depicted with a kind, caring expression on her face, and is known for her long, flowing hair, which is typically worn in loose waves or braids. Hlin is often shown wearing a simple, yet elegant dress, made of soft and flowing fabrics, which enhances her gentle appearance. Her skin is pale and flawless, and she emits a gentle radiance, which seems to glow from within. Despite her nurturing demeanor, Hlin has a quiet strength and determination that commands respect and inspires devotion in her followers.
Hlin’s influence is felt across many domains, including healing, protection, and love. Her followers seek to create a world where all are safe and free from harm, and they work tirelessly to make this a reality. Hlin is a goddess of comfort and hope, and her presence is a soothing balm to those in need.