When a new race emerges on the face of Orben, and Ao determines that the race will play a pivotal role in maintaining the balance of the universe, he assigns a patron deity for that race. Most often these are already godlike beings, who voluntarily, or out of necessity, assume the role Ao assigns. Some however are far lesser beings, even mortals, whom Ao ascends to godhood. Even fewer assume this power for themselves, while for his own reasons Ao tolerates their presence—if he tolerates them at all.

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