Deity

A deity, also called a god, is a being of great power that controls some aspect of mortal affairs, referred to as the god's portfolio. Deities are usually part of a pantheon.

Characteristics
Deities form a widely varied group that is, to some extent, difficult to define. Very much variable in forms and shapes, they can be of any race or species of their liking, and some of them even were mortals who were ascended to godhood at some point. In addition, their power level differs widely, possibly due to their portfolios.

However, there are several characteristics central to the system:
 * A deity of any sort is far beyond the power of any monster encounterable in AdventureQuest.
 * They are able to perform divine magic.
 * Deities are the object of worshipping for many mortals.

They are also greatly defined by their membership to a pantheon, which will affect a deity's authority, recognition and over-all their relationship with other of their kind.

It is important to note that defining a deity, or recognizing anyone as such, varies even between pantheons, and this definition is based directly on Falerin Ardendor's observations of Caelestian deities. According to him, Caelestia, for example, recognizes foreign deities as such by their power and their membership to a valid pantheon (i.e. one with which Caelestia has diplomatic relations with it). If the criteria are not met, the god-like being is considered a usurper, not a deity. However, an usurper can be become a deity very quickly if accepted and victorious, as 'recognition' is the key in the matter.

In terms of powers of abilities, deities depend much on their personal experience, knowledge, their nature, portfolio and many other circumstances. Some powers are common though, such as their ability to gain power from their worship (a non-universal trait that, nevertheless, is part of the definition that is central to a the system). In addition, many or most deities possess limited omniscience, as well as the capacity to exist outside of time, using avatars and communicants to exert influence in, or even outside, their realm of authority (e.g. Elemental Lords). Some, however, sacrifice this temporal immunity to interact directly while in direct manifestation (e.g. Falerin Ardendor). (An Undiscovered Universe)