Church of the Four Patrons

The Church of the Four Patrons is the dominant religion of the people of Dinant. It follows the pattern of many major "civilization" cults throughout Aquatain; though, since Dinant was settled far earlier than other Aquatanian cities. The four patrons are represented in these other religions in various forms, and iterations, though almost all Aquatanians would say that the church originated in Dinant, though this does not change the variations and adaptation of the faith.

In principle the tenents of the faith are enshrined in the "First Rules" which serves as the founding legal document for Dinant. However, after the first rules, lies the root of the modern religious practices, wherein adherents devote themselves to the four patrons out of appreciation, virtue modeling, and fear. The four patrons are thought to represent the bridging of four fundamental forces of nature with that of the city, and while man has not conquered nature. Man has a relationship to it because of the Patrons. They are as follows.

Father River: The source of the Meine and Lorraine rivers; he can be angry and flood, but he always provides for his family.

Mother Stone: She who lies within the stone, begat the mountains, which; together with Father River formed the basis of Dishant's society. It is from her stone, that the walls, castles, and early buildings of Dishant were built. She is feared for her mysterious depths, and mighty heights. But she is always praised for her strength, and steadfast loyalty to shelter her family.

Brother Wood: He who lies within the Trees, a clear son of River and Earth, born too of the wild forces of the wind, but infinitely malleable and wily to the needs of his people. Often times her is perceived to be a trickster, and sneak; capable of manipulating those he wishes to satisfy his appetites. But always those who look to his means, understand his ways, do they create new technologies, new disciplines to build on that which has come before. In that way, Brother Wood represents rick in attempt, but also growth and advancement.

Sister Steel: She who lies within the blade. Often times thought of as a war goddess, or aggressor. She's equally thought of as a strategist, and tempered mind. She is as invoked by warriors and scholars, and by all those who would seek to make their lives better through hard work and disciplined. It is here that the difference between Wood and Steel are seen. Wood is tricky, and cunning. Steel works. She is feared for her capacity for savage violence, but beloved for her ability to inspire resolve and discipline into those that her hold her closest.