Purphoros holds dominion over everything that springs from mortal ingenuity. Most artisans say a small prayer to him upon beginning or completing the construction of nearly anything, from swords to fortresses to ships. Naturally, Purphoros is strongly associated with the forge, and nearly every smithy on Theros is a sort of ad hoc temple to him. Charms and idols of Purphoros hang from the walls in such places, intended both to inspire the artisans and protect them against accidents. Regardless of their professions, worshipers of Purphoros often light small fires in the god's honor, burning wooden crafts or drawings of their inventions to gain his favor.
Purphoros's Champions
Alignment. usually chaotic, often neutral
Suggested Classes. Artificer, Barbarian, Bard, Cleric, Fighter, Sorcerer
Suggested Cleric Domains. Forge, Knowledge
Suggested Backgrounds. acolyte, entertainer, guild artisan
Most champions of Purphoros are unswerving advocates of passion and creativity who change the world by doing what they believe is right in the moment.
Purphoros's Favor
Purphoros is notoriously impulsive, often selecting champions based on momentary whims. Despite this seemingly blasé attitude, he is dedicated to all his champions, no matter how they came into his service.
What made the forge god turn his attention to you? What set you apart from the masses of people who offer him prayers and sacrifice? What whim came over him that made you the perfect choice in the moment he tapped you? The Purphoros's Favor table offers a handful of suggestions.
Purphoros's mood is highly changeable, and having his favor doesn't always mean having his attention. But if you follow your passions and do what you believe is right, he will stay true to you as well.
Purphoros's Favor
d6 | Circumstance |
1 | Mount Velus erupted at the moment of your birth, signifying Purphoros's blessing of the event. |
2 | As a young artist, you breathed the intoxicating fumes of a volcano and found mystical inspiration. |
3 | You are an artisan who crafted a work of such high quality that Purphoros took notice. |
4 | After you were orphaned by a fire at your parents' forge, Purphoros took you under his protection. |
5 | Your parent or mentor was a master artisan, and you also yearn to create something worthy of a god's attention. |
6 | As a reckless youth, you joined a group of young artists and rabble-rousers who sought to tear down the established order in Purphoros's name. |
Devotion to Purphoros
Purphoros encourages freedom and self-expression, so it is only natural that his champions follow him for many different reasons. As a follower of Purphoros, consider the ideals on the Purphoros's Ideals table as alternatives to those suggested for your background.
Purphoros's Ideals
d6 | Ideal |
1 | Devotion. My devotion to my god is more important to me than what he stands for. (Any) |
2 | Passion. I will follow my heart and help others do the same. (Chaotic) |
3 | Aspiration. With Purphoros's blessing, I will create something magnificent. (Any) |
4 | Change. The old must be swept away to make room for the new. (Chaotic) |
5 | Generosity. I want to create things that will enrich the world. (Good) |
6 | Rage. I follow my passions, no matter how dark they might seem to others. (Evil) |