The Harlequins are devout followers of Cegorach, known also as the Eldar Laughing God. He is a central figure in their unique culture and spiritual practices.
Cegorach: The Laughing God
Cegorach is one of the ancient Eldar Gods, revered by the Harlequins as their sole deity. Unlike most Eldar who lost their gods during the Fall, Cegorach is believed to have survived, thanks to his cunning and trickery. He embodies the paradox of creation and destruction, wisdom and madness, and holds a special place in the Eldar pantheon.
The aspects associated with Cegorach include:
- Stealth and Trickery: As the master of deception and illusion, Cegorach champions misdirection and cunning over brute force. This is reflected in the Harlequins' combat style and their theatrical performances.
- Knowledge and Lore: He is also the keeper of forbidden lore and ancient secrets of the Eldar, particularly concerning the Webway, a labyrinthine dimension used for interstellar travel.
- Laughter and Performance: Central to Cegorach's nature is the concept of laughter, not just as mirth, but as a form of defiance against despair and the horrors of the galaxy. The Harlequins enact intricate, symbolic dances and plays, known as Masques, which tell tales of Eldar history, myths, and prophecies, often with a dark comedic twist.
The Harlequins' Devotion
The Harlequins are entirely dedicated to Cegorach. They serve as his spiritual agents, performing ritualistic dances and enacting complex mimes known as Masques across the galaxy. These performances are not merely entertainment; they are a form of worship, historical preservation, and even prophecy. They believe that through these Masques, they honor their deity and perhaps even fight against the galaxy's pervasive darkness.
Their dedication is absolute, guiding their every action, from their martial prowess to their enigmatic communication style. They are a living embodiment of Cegorach's principles, using theatricality and cunning to achieve their mysterious goals.
Key Attributes of Cegorach
The table below summarizes the core attributes and roles of Cegorach, the deity worshipped by the Harlequins.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Patron God | Cegorach, the Laughing God |
| Domains | Stealth, Trickery, Knowledge, Illusion, Laughter, Performance |
| Followers | The Harlequins (Eldar Aspect Warriors) |
| Significance | Believed to be one of the few Eldar Gods to have survived the Fall |
| Influence | Inspires the Harlequins' unique combat style, theatricality, and lore-keeping |
