![[Caoimhin.png|400]] **Demigod | Patron of the Killmoulis, Food and Shy Friendship** **Alignment**: Neutral (Chaotic Good tendencies) **Also Known As**: The Kindly One **Pantheon**: Seelie Court **Divine Realm**: The Wandering Seelie Court --- ### **Overview** Caoimhin is a minor deity of the Seelie Court and the patron of the killmoulis, a diminutive race of fey creatures renowned for their shyness, mischievous behaviour, and fondness for food. His name is traditionally understood to mean _kindly_, reflecting his generally benevolent nature and his concern for the welfare of his people. Although his divine power is modest compared with that of the greater sylvan deities, Caoimhin enjoys the affection and protection of Titania, the Faerie Queen. Unlike many powerful members of the Seelie Court, Caoimhin possesses little interest in authority, political intrigue, or grand displays of supernatural power. He prefers warmth, comfort, good food, and the companionship of familiar creatures. His timid disposition frequently keeps him away from the gatherings and activities of the more imposing sylvan gods, although he remains a recognised member of their divine fellowship. Caoimhin appears as a typical killmoulis, standing approximately one foot tall, with an unusually large nose and a face entirely lacking a mouth. His small body is protected by delicate gossamer armour, which he conceals beneath thick, ragged woollen clothing intended to keep him warm. His appearance is humble, particularly when compared with the magnificent forms commonly adopted by the other deities of the Seelie Court. He is easily distracted by pleasant music, especially performances involving stringed instruments, and takes considerable enjoyment in the recitations of skilled bards. Honey, sweetmeats, and comfortable surroundings are among his greatest pleasures. Despite his quiet nature, he is prone to nervous grumbling, particularly when circumstances force him beyond the safety of familiar surroundings. Caoimhin is exceptionally shy, and his reluctance to confront danger can sometimes resemble cowardice. Nevertheless, he possesses a strong moral character and an enduring affection for the killmoulis. When his people are threatened, he will defend them rather than abandon them to their enemies. His courage is most apparent when circumstances leave him no alternative but to stand beside those who depend upon him. --- ### **Domain and Influence** Caoimhin's divine influence concerns food, shy friendship, and the welfare of the killmoulis. His interests are closely connected to the simple comforts of daily life, particularly the companionship and security enjoyed by those who dwell quietly alongside larger peoples. The killmoulis are tiny fey creatures related to brownies. They are frequently found in places where mortals prepare, store, or process food, especially mills, granaries, farm buildings, and workshops. Their homes are concealed beneath floors, within walls, or among the rafters, allowing them to remain close to human and demihuman settlements without exposing themselves to unwanted attention. These creatures are naturally timid and generally avoid direct contact with larger beings. Although they enjoy observing the activities of mortals, they are easily frightened when discovered and may flee in terror if approached. Their shyness is so profound that attempts to capture one can have fatal consequences. Killmoulis are also industrious. They may perform useful tasks around the buildings they inhabit, assisting with simple work while their hosts are absent. Their activities are not entirely benevolent, however, for they possess a mischievous disposition and occasionally amuse themselves with harmless tricks. The behaviour of their hosts greatly influences their conduct. Where they are treated kindly, killmoulis may repay that kindness through assistance and friendship. Where they are persecuted or threatened, their mischief can become destructive, although they rarely intend to inflict fatal harm upon larger creatures. Caoimhin shares many of these characteristics. His concern for food, companionship, and the security of his people reflects the ordinary lives of the killmoulis rather than the grand concerns of more powerful deities. His influence is therefore most closely associated with the small communities of fey that live unnoticed within mortal settlements. While his followers may dwell near humans, elves, and other peoples, they generally avoid establishing openly recognised religious communities. Caoimhin belongs to the Outer Circle of the Seelie Court, a fellowship of sylvan deities associated with Titania. Unlike the members of the Inner Circle, who maintain particularly close relationships with the Faerie Queen and the affairs of her court, members of the Outer Circle possess greater independence in their interests and activities. The Seelie Court itself occupies a wandering divine realm that has been known to travel between Arborea, the Beastlands, and Ysgard. Caoimhin resides with the other sylvan deities rather than maintaining a separate, permanently established divine kingdom. He seldom ventures beyond the protection of the Court. When curiosity draws him into other realms, he generally remains near a more powerful member of the sylvan pantheon, preferring the company of Titania, Oberon, or Skerrit. --- ### **Symbols and Icons** Caoimhin's recognised holy symbol is a **tiny bowl accompanied by a pin**. The bowl reflects his association with food and the simple comforts enjoyed by the killmoulis. The pin is connected to the diminutive weapons carried by these creatures and to the enchanted pin wielded by Caoimhin's own avatar. The combination reflects the small scale of his divine interests. Unlike the elaborate emblems of greater deities, Caoimhin's symbol consists of ordinary objects suited to creatures whose possessions and homes are often scarcely noticeable to larger peoples. The bowl and pin remain the established representation of his faith among the killmoulis. --- ### **Worship and Tributes** Caoimhin is worshipped principally by the killmoulis, who recognise him as their patron deity and share his affection for food, friendship, and comfortable living. His worship is closely connected to the customs of these diminutive fey. Killmoulis prefer to maintain friendly relationships with larger peoples without directly revealing themselves. Those who wish to encourage their presence may leave gifts of warm food, small garments, or other useful objects where the creatures can find them. Such offerings can establish a bond of trust between the killmoulis and their hosts. Although the creatures rarely reveal themselves, they may repay kindness by performing useful tasks, preventing minor problems, or communicating feelings of gratitude through their limited telepathic abilities. Food holds particular importance within their lives. Despite lacking mouths, killmoulis possess an unusual method of eating, drawing food into their bodies through their extraordinarily large noses. Their appetites are considerable in proportion to their size, and they are capable of consuming surprising quantities of grain, flour, and other provisions. Caoimhin shares this fondness for food, particularly honey and sweetmeats. He also delights in bardic performances and harmonious music, especially that produced by stringed instruments. The worship of Caoimhin is not widespread among the larger peoples of the Material Plane. In Faerûn, some elves have been known to acknowledge him alongside the Seldarine and other sylvan deities, although direct worship is principally maintained by the killmoulis themselves. No elaborate sacrificial rites or universal religious festivals have been established for his faith. The customs associated with his followers place considerably greater importance upon food, companionship, and the maintenance of peaceful relationships than upon formal displays of religious authority. --- ### **Clergy and Temples** Caoimhin possesses a small and largely secluded religious following, consisting primarily of killmoulis communities. His worship is not associated with a widespread network of grand temples or powerful religious institutions. The natural secrecy of his followers makes the establishment of conspicuous places of worship inconsistent with their ordinary behaviour. Killmoulis communities frequently inhabit concealed spaces within buildings occupied by larger creatures, especially locations where food is plentiful. Their homes may be found beneath wooden floors, inside walls, or among the rafters of mills and granaries. The religious practices of these communities are not extensively documented. Caoimhin is nevertheless recognised as their divine patron, and his association with food and friendship reflects the values around which their lives are organised. His followers maintain a close relationship with ordinary work and domestic life. Killmoulis are capable of performing useful labour, and their presence can benefit households and businesses whose inhabitants are willing to tolerate their considerable appetites and occasional mischief. They are also capable of providing information. Killmoulis frequently observe the activities of larger creatures without being noticed, sharing their discoveries with one another through telepathic communication. The resulting exchange of gossip can provide considerable knowledge about the affairs of the communities in which they dwell, although their observations are generally concerned with ordinary daily activities rather than matters of great political importance. Their relationship with Caoimhin is therefore principally one of shared disposition and mutual concern. He possesses the same preference for secrecy and comfort, while his willingness to defend his people distinguishes him as their divine guardian. --- ### **Powers and Abilities** Although Caoimhin is a demigod of comparatively modest power, he possesses a variety of supernatural abilities associated with concealment, protection, persuasion, and the avoidance of danger. His magical abilities are particularly suited to his timid nature, allowing him to escape threatening circumstances or protect himself and his companions without relying upon direct confrontation. **Invisibility and Concealment** Caoimhin can render his avatar invisible at will. This supernatural concealment remains effective even when he performs actions that would ordinarily reveal an invisible creature, allowing him to move, employ magic, or defend himself while remaining hidden. His ability to conceal himself reflects the extraordinary stealth of the killmoulis, who are naturally adept at avoiding detection by larger creatures. **Restoration and Creation** Caoimhin possesses the ability to mend damaged or broken objects through magic. This power can be employed freely by his avatar, allowing him to repair ordinary items without elaborate preparation. He can also create minor objects through supernatural means, providing useful materials or possessions when circumstances require them. **Emotional Influence** Caoimhin can affect the emotions and perceptions of other creatures. His powers include the ability to calm agitated individuals, induce confusion among enemies, and establish supernatural effects intended to persuade those who encounter them. He particularly favours confusion as a means of escaping danger, using the resulting disorder to withdraw rather than remain engaged in unnecessary conflict. **Fog and Disguise** Caoimhin can create magical fog to obscure his surroundings, concealing himself and others from approaching enemies. He is also capable of altering the apparent forms of groups of killmoulis, allowing them to resemble other creatures. This ability is particularly useful when his people require protection from pursuers or other threats. **Protection Against Predators** Cats and dogs present considerable danger to killmoulis, whose small size makes them vulnerable to attacks by ordinary domestic animals. Caoimhin possesses the supernatural ability to inspire fear in natural felines and canines, driving them away from his presence. This protection reflects one of the principal dangers faced by his followers in the settlements they inhabit. **Telepathic Communication** Like the killmoulis, Caoimhin possesses supernatural methods of communication. His avatar can communicate telepathically and empathically with intelligent creatures within approximately 120 feet. This ability allows him to convey thoughts and feelings without ordinary speech, an important advantage for a deity whose appearance lacks a conventional mouth. **Divine Protection and Equipment** Caoimhin's avatar wears enchanted gossamer armour concealed beneath thick woollen garments. He carries a small magical pin that serves as his principal weapon. Although diminutive, the pin possesses considerable enchantment and allows him to defend himself when threatened. He also carries protective magical objects supplied by Titania or other sylvan deities. These have included a brooch of shielding, a cloak of displacement, and potions capable of restoring injuries. Such possessions reflect the affection of the Seelie Court toward Caoimhin and provide additional protection during his infrequent journeys beyond its boundaries. Despite these abilities, Caoimhin generally avoids combat. His powers favour evasion, concealment, and the protection of companions, although he is capable of fighting bravely when circumstances demand it. --- ### **Treatment of the Chosen and Faithful** Caoimhin maintains a close concern for the welfare of the killmoulis and is unwilling to abandon them when they face immediate danger. His timid disposition frequently prevents him from confronting threats that might be readily opposed by greater sylvan deities. Nevertheless, his strong sense of morality can overcome his fear when the survival of his people is at stake. If Caoimhin's avatar is present when killmoulis are attacked, he will remain to defend them rather than flee and leave them unprotected. He is similarly unwilling to abandon another divine avatar during a conflict, demonstrating loyalty to his companions despite his reluctance to fight. His magical abilities are particularly suited to protecting vulnerable groups of killmoulis. Through invisibility, magical disguises, fog, and emotional influence, he can obstruct hostile creatures or provide opportunities for his people to escape. Caoimhin's followers share his preference for peaceful coexistence. Killmoulis frequently repay kindness through practical assistance, while avoiding direct contact with those they help. The relationship between the killmoulis and their mortal neighbours is not without difficulties. Their considerable appetites can cause inconvenience, and their mischievous habits may occasionally provoke resentment. Nevertheless, their willingness to assist those who treat them well reflects the principles of friendship and reciprocity associated with their patron. Although Caoimhin possesses no established system of divine honours or ranks bestowed upon his followers, his concern for their safety remains one of the defining characteristics of his divine nature. --- ### **Myths and Legends** **The Kindly One of the Seelie Court** Among the sylvan deities, Caoimhin is recognised as one of the smallest and most timid members of the Seelie Court. His reputation rests not upon great victories or the exercise of extraordinary authority, but upon his affection for the killmoulis and his preference for simple comforts. Despite his nervous disposition, he is regarded with affection by the other sylvan gods, particularly Titania, who takes a personal interest in his welfare. His small stature and reluctance to confront danger have never diminished his place among the divine fellowship of the Court. **The Protection of Titania** Titania, the Faerie Queen, has long displayed considerable affection toward Caoimhin. She is known to treat him with an almost maternal concern, frequently attempting to protect him from danger and ensuring that he possesses suitable magical equipment. Caoimhin sometimes responds to her attention with nervous complaints and apparent irritation. Nevertheless, he appreciates her protection and recognises the affection motivating her behaviour. Titania has also assisted Caoimhin in travelling between the planes, allowing his avatar to journey beyond the Seelie Court when circumstances require it. Although he is capable of such journeys, Caoimhin remains reluctant to undertake them alone. He generally prefers the company of Titania, Oberon, or Skerrit, whose greater strength provides reassurance when he encounters unfamiliar dangers. **The Courage of the Timid God** Caoimhin's reluctance to fight has become one of his most recognisable characteristics. He is easily frightened by powerful opponents and generally attempts to avoid confrontation through concealment, persuasion, or retreat. Nevertheless, his fear is not sufficient to overcome his loyalty to the killmoulis or his companions within the Seelie Court. When faced with a threat that cannot be avoided, Caoimhin is capable of displaying unexpected bravery. He will defend his followers even when the danger is considerable, refusing to abandon those who depend upon his protection. His courage is therefore most apparent when his own safety conflicts with his responsibilities toward his people. **The Wandering Court** The Seelie Court occupies a divine realm that moves between several of the Upper Planes, including Arborea, the Beastlands, and Ysgard. Caoimhin dwells within this wandering realm, enjoying the comforts and protection afforded by the company of the other sylvan gods. His natural curiosity occasionally encourages him to venture beyond the familiar surroundings of the Court. Such excursions are generally brief, and he rarely travels far without another deity close enough to assist him should danger arise. His preference for familiar surroundings has made his appearances beyond the Court comparatively uncommon. **The Friendship of the Killmoulis** Killmoulis are renowned for their unusual relationships with the larger peoples among whom they live. Although they fear discovery, they are frequently willing to assist those who offer them food, clothing, and freedom from persecution. Their friendship is ordinarily expressed through practical assistance and subtle telepathic communication rather than direct conversation. Those who mistreat them may discover that their harmless tricks become increasingly troublesome, while those who treat them kindly may benefit from their industry and willingness to help. These customs are closely associated with Caoimhin's divine interests in food and shy friendship, reflecting the values shared by the patron and his people. --- ### **Encounters with Caoimhin's Influence** Caoimhin is rarely encountered directly, for he seldom ventures beyond the Seelie Court and generally avoids unfamiliar creatures. His influence is more likely to be recognised through the activities of killmoulis living within mortal settlements. Mills, granaries, workshops, and other buildings where food is stored or processed provide particularly suitable homes for these diminutive fey. Travellers may become aware of their presence through small tasks completed during the night, provisions mysteriously diminished, or harmless tricks performed when no visible creature could have been responsible. Such occurrences do not necessarily indicate hostility. Killmoulis frequently establish relationships with their hosts through indirect acts of friendship, particularly when warm food or other useful gifts have been left for them. Those who attempt to capture or harm killmoulis risk provoking defensive mischief or driving the creatures from their homes. A direct encounter with Caoimhin's avatar is considerably less likely. His ability to remain invisible makes him exceptionally difficult to detect, while his tendency to avoid danger discourages unnecessary contact. If discovered, he may attempt to escape through magical fog, concealment, or the confusion of those approaching him. He is especially reluctant to confront unfamiliar creatures when travelling alone. However, if his people or divine companions are threatened, he may remain to assist them even when flight would be the safer choice. Those who encounter Caoimhin in peaceful circumstances may find him distracted by beautiful music, bardic recitations, or the prospect of good food. His preference for warmth and comfortable surroundings remains a defining feature of his personality, as does his tendency to grumble when disturbed. Despite his limited interest in mortal affairs, Caoimhin remains an important divine protector of the killmoulis, and his existence reflects the place occupied by the smallest fey within the greater fellowship of the Seelie Court. --- ### **Conclusion** Caoimhin is the demigod of the killmoulis, food, and shy friendship, a minor but recognised member of the Seelie Court whose quiet disposition distinguishes him from the more powerful and imposing sylvan deities. His affection for warmth, comfortable surroundings, sweet foods, and beautiful music reflects the simple interests of the creatures who worship him. Although timid and frequently reluctant to venture beyond familiar places, he possesses a strong moral character and will defend his people when they face danger. His relationship with Titania provides him with protection and a place among the divine fellowship of the Seelie Court, while his supernatural abilities allow him to conceal, assist, and defend the killmoulis without relying upon overwhelming force. Caoimhin's importance lies principally in his guardianship of a small and vulnerable fey people whose lives are closely connected to those of ordinary mortals. Through their traditions of hidden assistance, food, and cautious friendship, the killmoulis preserve the customs associated with their divine patron.