Quei

Quei is the central figure of worship in the Cult of Quei. Regarded simultaneously with reverence and fear, Quei is considered neither benevolent nor malevolent. Its motives are considered ineffable to mortals, as a result, Cicigean society and culture revolves around appeasing Quei and avoiding actions that may incur its displeasure. Personification or depiction of Quei is expressly forbidden.

Names

The term Quei has uncertain origins, but several theories exist:

• May be related to the word qi 'to cast out, to banish';
• May be onomatopoeic in origin.

Alternatively, Quei may be referred to as cè 'divine'.

Mythology

According to Cicigean tradition, humanity arrived in Jotunnheim after having been banished from paradise—a realm free from pain and death. The cause of banishment is unknown, but it is usually attributed to an unknown collective grave sin committed by humanity in paradise, or a fundamently transgression in cosmic order. The unknown nature of the sin is interpreted as part of the punishment as well. Mortality is therefore interpreted as collective repentance.