Religion in Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

The "Year of the Dragon" Campaign

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Carski
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Re: The Water Queen's House – Church of Umberlee Role-Play

Unread post by Carski »

DM Dialectic wrote:Please post IC RP in this thread directly related to metaplot related religious RP in Baldur's Gate that does not involve relief or recovery of the city.
Rumor may be heard that the faithful of the Water Queen's House are heard to be preaching to the established School—as well as to those undedicated—that the reason the Harbor district and docks remained intact and without the suffering of other districts in the Gate, is because the Queen heard the prayers of the membership, grown larger in the earlier part of 1351, during and after The Rotting from Within, as the plague was to be known.

This conscious steering of the storyline could be interpreted by some as a means to empower the already faithful, as well, entice more of the Harbor District population—the sailors, dockworkers and their families; the crude and low-dwelling peoples; even the merchants that rely upon the Sea of Swords in which to increase their wealth.

Some who pass on this rumor, seem to know even more, in that: the faithful to the Water Queen's House say it is to be a year "...of the Sea Serpent...," said as maybe metaphor, or, as maybe, simply an interpretation of a title-in-the-making.

The apparent growing voice from the faithful who lead the Water Queen's House is timely, in that with a rebuilding Baldur's Gate, the trade that is made upon the Sea is best protected and secured...by paying tribute...or, witness the terrible fate that would befall any who did not bring a sacrifice.
Where the sea does not swell...
When the storm is not brewing...
If fury does not crash upon the shore...

...then I will bring it.
DM Dialectic
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Re: The Water Queen's House – Church of Umberlee Role-Play

Unread post by DM Dialectic »

*With the events of the past year, there seems to have been moderately increased attendance at Umberlee rituals and ceremonies at the temple in the docks. Some gossip that the somewhat increased popularity was due to Umberleean aid and explanation offered during the plague, others say it is only to stave off new cataclysmic disasters for the city. Whatever it is, the faith of the Sea Queen seems to be more popular in Baldur's Gate than it has been in years. Will the trend continue? Average folk about the city seem to have a hard time guessing the answer.*
Carski
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Re: Religion in Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

Unread post by Carski »

Tis Winter...cold, hard, dark months where sometimes, even the far edges of the seas freeze up, as elemental power beyond the Mortal's grasp shapes the perceived World. For the sea-born and the sea-employed, it is heavier than for most—great care must be taken to be wise to the wealth in the waters, or, not. For some...it is only with great faith and tribute, do they reason with the tide, and know a good sign and time, from the bad, from which to set out upon the water.

Furthermore, with the Gate possibly half or more in ruins of the aftermath of the Battle of the Undead Horde, there is a lingering view on the destruction, the burning undead bodies, the homeless, the bewildered...those of poverty, those with idle hands, those weak of will in depressing times...they may linger closer to the centers of divine guidance.

One door always remains open. Peering beyond the portal, to deep within the black-green shadow recesses of that Temple, of the Water Queen's House, comes a calling, sometimes of prayer, sometimes bolstered by the luring tempo of a deep drum...the depths within call out to the lost, the orphans, those that question their sense of existence....

This call is simple, it is direct—words of truth are described by the Faithful to any that are within ear shot, that to give Tribute, in object and in soul, returns safe travel, fair trade upon the seas and near waterways, work, sustenance...a life. A...Great Calling.

The words used by the Faithful of the Water Queen's House express time and time again how the Temple and the Harbor District remained untouched by the death, by Evil that was brought to the Gate by the Adventurer Class, by folly and ill-made decisions of the Ruling Classes.

The Faithful express...how the Water Queen offers immunity through faith, offers the children a safety through dedication, offers a conversion to reality: Baldur's Gate is a sea trade-based city...and if any citizen wishes to see its security, its economy, rise...then pray deeply into the black-green embrace, and lay Tribute upon the altar.

Every lost child brought into the House is given bountiful amounts of fish soup, sea weed crackers and later, a strewn hammock upon which to lay their tired bodies.

As night falls, the temple closes its door shut, and tight...all the innocents closed snuggly within the embrace of the Bitch Queen.
Where the sea does not swell...
When the storm is not brewing...
If fury does not crash upon the shore...

...then I will bring it.
Unka_Oogie
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Re: Religion in Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

Unread post by Unka_Oogie »

One voice on the docks. Baritone, wandering off the tune, sings.


"In the dread midwinter, shiver as you may,
Come, my hungry children, warmth lies on my way.
Both my hands are empty, but my larder's filled.
Unlike other temples, nobody gets killed.

Come and be fed freely, come be warmed as well.
We'll demand no payment, no debt shall we knell.
Our scarlet's only thread, no blood shall we demand.
Our joy is in healing, comforting the land.

Come, you little children, come you strong and hale.
We turn none away and relieve all travail.
There will be no reck-o-ning, no later bill comes due,
What Ilmater gives, he freely gives to you."

The singer is plainly dressed, almost as threadbare as the refugees still in the city. He wears no armor and bears no weapons. If he is worried by singing such a hymn so close to the Water Queen's house, he shows it strangely, beginning and ending with a serene smile.
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Re: Religion in Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

Unread post by DM Ditto »

Unka_Oogie wrote:One voice on the docks. Baritone, wandering off the tune, sings.


"In the dread midwinter, shiver as you may,
Come, my hungry children, warmth lies on my way.
Both my hands are empty, but my larder's filled.
Unlike other temples, nobody gets killed.

Come and be fed freely, come be warmed as well.
We'll demand no payment, no debt shall we knell.
Our scarlet's only thread, no blood shall we demand.
Our joy is in healing, comforting the land.

Come, you little children, come you strong and hale.
We turn none away and relieve all travail.
There will be no reck-o-ning, no later bill comes due,
What Ilmater gives, he freely gives to you."

The singer is plainly dressed, almost as threadbare as the refugees still in the city. He wears no armor and bears no weapons. If he is worried by singing such a hymn so close to the Water Queen's house, he shows it strangely, beginning and ending with a serene smile.
The singer's brazen display near the Umberleean temple sends a ripple of indignation and dissatisfaction through the Water Queen's clergy. Not even the Ilmatari preacher's proximity to the nearby Flaming Fist headquarters could stem their ire.

One of the more offended priestesses would then confront the man. With the icy voice of a lady scorned, she would tell him that this once, they would be merciful towards his ignorance. But should he deliver another such slight near the church of the Water Queen, they would not be so forgiving.

"Any who insult the Queen of the Seas close to Her holy places will face Her divine wrath," the priestess states coldly. "I wonder if it occured to you to realize that this very city depends on trade over the ocean to live. Do not think that you, or anyone else, can ignore the fury of the raging tides when you offend Her so close to Her bosom."

Whether the threat carries substance or not remains to be seen, but the nearby Flaming Fist who have overheard are understandably on edge following the confrontation.
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Carski
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Re: Religion in Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

Unread post by Carski »

Tis yet winter...late in the night, beyond the hour of midnight...

The wind, full of salt spray and bitter cold, moves as it is typical to the Gate in this season, through all the districts, as the lanterns sway and cast their feeble warm light upon the cold cobblestones. Some snow lingers—even the salt in the air cannot melt off the banks—and, even after the passion for music and dance shown at the midwinter's festival, just recently passed, tried to stamp out chill with the rapid movement of feet.

Winter may or may not linger....

In the Harbor District, in the loneliness of night...a lone man walks into view, himself, lit by nothing other than the slight light of lantern flame—if it would be that late night eyes perceive his form, it would be shadowy for certain—but one easy recognizable aspect of form would stand out clear: a drum, held in hand, poised. The man, walks against the cold spray, that which carries still the power of his devotion, that which is born from the sea. He walks until he reaches an open expanse, near the docks, looking out upon the bay of the Gate, standing at best, facing West.

This drummer of the night, takes a performers position, drum raised into hand. The wind continues to whip, and with it a rush of noise, so that individual sounds are mostly drowned out under its particular fury. But that seems to not concern the drummer, for as he settles on a position from which he stands alone in a wide opening to the air, the sky...he begins to drum, slow at first, then with a greater performance, a greater concentration.

He drums a
winter's ballad, in rhythm, in note, in performance...in power. With his own voice...he calls upon the winter to linger, to hold its grip upon the air. He sings out to the sea winds to blow strong, and hard...and such that the winter lasts long...and that would one care to calm them, to usher in the next season, tribute to the Bitch Queen, must be given....

And he sings, that while She awaits her tribute by those that continue to utilize her domain without delivering direct offer to the House dedicated to server Her, those that have humbled themselves, taken refuge in her House, elevated Her name in public display, will continue to earn her protection.



Where the sea does not swell...
When the storm is not brewing...
If fury does not crash upon the shore...

...then I will bring it.
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Steve
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Re: Religion in Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

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Subject: Rumors & Events of Baldur's Gate
Steve wrote:A man dressed in thick-weaved clothing, blue-green of color like fresh morning seas, could be seen walking through Baldur's Gate over the last tenday...at least, since the Mid-Winters Festival. Some may have even recognized him from that event, where he openly sat and ate an entire cheese sandwich (and it stayed down).

Through his near daily walks, from district to district, it may appear to some he is simply educating himself on the layout of the city: its markets, the Inns, the taverns, the regulars that occupy space, day in, day out.

To others, it may appear that he is actively searching, for something in particular, that is or would be assumed, should his observed observations of facades, public areas...and especially those nearest sources of water, besides the harbor bay, in general.

His rounds, the paths, over the days, they are traced by foot twice, and some thrice. And as he walks through the city without hood or perceived mask, some may even start to recognize his face.

Few stop him in his wanderings, though his wanderings themselves, have not stopped.

Subject: Rumors & Events of Baldur's Gate
Steve wrote:A man dressed in thick-weaved clothing, blue-green of color like fresh morning seas, could be seen posting to the public notice board. Days later, as he busied himself within the Gate, again, he posts to the board.

Those that take interest and read what is posted there, would see two post bills, in similar handwriting. They are not signed.

  • Peoples of Baldur's Gate~
    Have you placed no object honoring the Water Lord, they that are called Istishia in this common tongue? A water wanderer has traveled to this city and sought such an example, any example...but seen none.

    Shall it be that there is truly none? And more so, nothing upon the Sword Coast?


  • Istishia, the Water Lord...he that offers purification through cleansing...does none know his strength, or are guided by faith, the atmosphere in which life is born?

    Such hidden treasure need not be guarded.
These bill posts seem to last upon the board for some time.[/color]

Subject: The Way Of A True Believer Can Be Read In Many Ways
Steve wrote:Image

A man offering for sale rare water opals.

He comments on the lack of an honoring of the Water Lord—such an oddity, really...considering the reliance upon the element by the city of Baldur's Gate—and that if the citizenry, the Duchal Lords nor any other have yet to make it known their acknowledgement of the essential truths embodied by water...then he, Dhavel the Water Wanderer, will do it.

And thus he begins to build some wealth, selling gems that are born from the God-King of Water, itself.

Subject: Rumors & Events of Baldur's Gate
Steve wrote:Rumor has it that a blue clothed man, seen in the East District peddling gems of a particular type, has collected some interest, but more importantly, some coin through a small number of sales. It is noticed that within the telling of the rumor, those seen purchasing a gem, were dressed in red hues....

Some may wonder if this blue clothed man, possibly the same individual recently known to be searching for, then questioning over, a shrine to Istishia, the elemental Water Lord, within, or not, the city of Baldur's Gate, is one and the same...and whether or not he is close to reaching his goal.

The, some others...may wonder what this man's goal actually is.

ARTHAYER ZORASTRYL — A Magistrati & Magefriend [Bio] * [The Wanderings of...]
PANLOS PAWFOOT — The Essential Nature of...
ERMMAR STONESORROW — Cavestalker of the Darkshard Deviants. Herb Trader.
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Steve
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Re: Religion in Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

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Subject: Rumors & Events of Baldur's Gate

A man in blue cloth leaves a shop of the calligrapher, a somewhat largish parchment held in his hands, up high, as he admires what is written upon it, standing outside the doorway to the shop, in the afternoon light of a near Mid-Summers Day.

Any observing this man in blue cloth would easily determine he just now collected an order of a parchment drafted with a statement, for some...purpose. And the man in blue cloth is standing there, making sure, once again, his words given in person, verbally, have been written in the same manner, but by the hand of another, not his own.

Satisfied, the man in blue, walks with intention to the Eastern District plaza and market, near the Elfsong Tavern, particularly, where the public billboard of notices and lists, have been drafted and posted. In this area of the Gate, many citizens and merchants would easily recognize the man in blue cloth as Dhavel the Wayfarer, who, for the last weeks, has been peddling blessed water opals in his spoken-for faith.

At the public billboard, Dhavel the Wayfarer post the parchment, and takes a step back, keenly studying the placement, until again, satisfied, it will hang well and receive...notice.

Soon, he crosses the open area near the performer, the fountain, and returns to a well worn keg stationed near the market stalls, where he has for some time, utilized in gaining support-in-form-of-donation-exchange-for-goods, for his...overture.

The parchment itself, hangs well fastened to the board. Upon its face, is written this:
  • To the Observer of Faith and Those with Homage in the Moment~

    Those that follow the path, that pay homage to the Water Lord Istishia and seek to share the wisdom in the interconnection and cyclical nature of existence of all beings—as must be told, the path to purification found in the mystery and wisdom of the God-King of Water. What is learned and what is given, in this faith, is the greatest of all knowledge...that the cycles of life are mirrored by the cycles of fate, and that we all shall pay the price or reap the reward, by the actions of our past...and our future.

    Essential truths are embodied in water itself...and thus, it is the desire of faithful to see a Shrine erected in homage to Istishia, here, within the walls of the city Baldur's Gate. With symbol such as a shrine for which to give and attend, many blessing in return will be delivered to all that reside in this city.

    To manifest, the rulers of this city-state require patronage, both in coin and in name, to bolster the claim that what is for want, may be constructed, and used.

    So it is I, Dhavel, known by my faith as the Wayfarer, present this overture to all minds, asking for either donation or name, in support. Whether homage to the Water Lord be casual or held in the highest regard, let your support take the easiest course.

    Collected, the natural force of response will determine the next path, the flow to resolution.
The parchment is unsigned, but below the writing, seem to be not-so-faint horizontal lines, well spaced, as if providing placement of the signature of others....

\\Subject: Overture for Honoring the Water Lord, Istishia

ARTHAYER ZORASTRYL — A Magistrati & Magefriend [Bio] * [The Wanderings of...]
PANLOS PAWFOOT — The Essential Nature of...
ERMMAR STONESORROW — Cavestalker of the Darkshard Deviants. Herb Trader.
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kleomenes
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Re: Religion in Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

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kleomenes wrote:Ameris holds a sermon in the chapel in the Temple of Ilmater, taking over one of the preaching slots form one of the other adorned.

Ameris would be smartly attired as Ilmatari go, changing into his more flowing holy vestments, those that echo the Ilmatari of Calimsham. His skullcap is on his head and his holy symbol is on display. He would have a rock lily pinned to his right breast. He would indeed have prayed for the blessing of Ilmater so that his voice may be heard clearly and persuasively, even at the back.

The priest would speak before those present, whoever and whomever they might be. One notable attendee would be Telia Santraeger, who would sit near the front in a fine looking red and grey dress, the colours of Ilmater.

Ameris would offer the congregation a welcoming smile and begin in warm and gentle tones.

"Brothers, Sisters, friends, welcome."


Once attention was upon him, and the hubub of general conversation had passed, he would begin to speak. He begins to speak the sermon proper.

"All too recently our thoughts were filled with worry of what horrors might face us each day. When the plague struck last year, suffering gripped the hearts of the strong and weak, and each day was a battle against despair."

The priest would gain a look of resolution as he speaks of the battle against the plague. It stays as he continues on, to speak of the siege.

"When the undead marched, we lived in fear for the future. When they were at our walls, we thought merely of survival, and the struggle to see another day."


Ameris pauses, allowing the words to sink in, perhaps aware that he recalls tragic memories. Then, when he speaks, his tone lightens, and there is hope and relief in his voice.

"But now, winter has passed, and the spring of our renewal passes into a tentative summer. The city’s streets have been swept, houses are being rebuilt; the walls are rising again. The taint of the Blight's merciless touch has been lifted from the fields.

Charitable hearts gather to provide alms to the city's poorest, to counteract the damage to the city's farming industry, and others stimulate Baldurian trade so that the Duke's coffers and the people's coin-purses' will bulge full once more."


He smiles, now. "Baldur’s Gate rebuilds, marching ever on to safety and happiness."

Again the priest pauses, letting the words linger.

When he speaks again there is emphasis. Fervour, even, as he compares the city to one of Ilmater's holy virtues. "This city has endured. We have endured."

The fervour fades, and Ameris takes a soft breath, a sigh of remorse.

"Yet let us not forget the graves we have had to dig. There are few who have not had to say a farewell to someone who fell; a first farewell, at least. Because we still mourn, we still grieve, even months after the siege.

Every time we remember one who has passed we will say farewell again, mourn them again, grieve them again."


He lets the silence settle with a sad expression.

There is a firmness in his tone as he breaks the silence. "We must do this. We must honour what we lost."

Again the priest pauses, letting there be a breath or two of silence for reflection. His tone when he speaks once more is didactic, speaking of Ilmatari doctrine.

"The Crying God preaches that we must shoulder our burdens, not discard them. We must make our burdens something easy to carry, and then face the world with hearts of hope, not despair. We must endure. "

Ameris smiles out across the congregation, it is a knowing smile, a sympathetic one. "Easy words to say, harder to do."
He nods as he speaks, again, showing understanding. "The sadness grief brings is a burden."

As the sermon continues, hope increasingly begins to fill the priest's voice. "Let us endure, but in knowledge of the truth that we will rebuild this city to what it once was, and restore a safe, vibrant community.

Let us honour those who have fallen, but with our lives. Let us remember them, but not just in sadness.

Each day, when we live, breathe, laugh and love, we defy the undead menace that once threatened us, and took away our loved ones."


By now Ameris speaks with a certainty, the hope of before joined by almost a joyful resolution.

"We endure, and we show that their passing will not be umarked or forgotten.

As stone rises upon stone, and wood is cut to build new homes; as the poverty stricken are aided so as to cope with the distress the war brought; as our fields are sown and the seas yield up their bounty to feed hungry mouths; as we rebuild, we build a future for our community.

A future in which the war against the undead will be remembered. A future in which we honour those who fell in the struggle.

But a future in which we will live, and smile, and remember not just the horrors of the past year, but also the happy memories that those who we lost fought for."


Ameris smiles, speaking with emphasis. "This city, Baldur’s Gate, will rise again as it once was; it will be a monument to the fallen, but also a treasure to the living."

More gently, he brings the sermon to an end.

"In the name of Ilmater, the wise, the merciful, the enduring."

The priest bows his head then, silence lingering to allow reflection, before he gets on with the administrative announcements and the like that are part and parcel of a religious community.

Ameris continues to give this sermon in the same timeslot over the course of the following five days; and he also at at least one point, during the noon hour, gives the same sermon in the open air, speaking from the rostra in the square outside of Sorcerous Sundries.

/// Diplomacy roll for the preaching:
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Ameris will be IG giving this sermon in the Temple of Ilmater on Wednesday 6th July at 21:00 GMT

You may catch him giving it IG near Sorcerous Sundries as well!
Vadim Morozov, Dreadmaster.
Former Characters: Mel Darenda, Daug'aonar, Dural Narkisi, Cynric Greyfox, Ameris Santraeger, Cosimo Delucca, Talas Marsak.
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kleomenes
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Re: Religion in Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

Unread post by kleomenes »

Nomster wrote:A few days ago, Brother Ameris could be seen giving a sermon on the streets of Baldur's Gate with his wife stood next to him, clad in Ilmateri colours despite it being known that she herself is a Priestess of Mystra. A banner of Ilmater was waved around, to attract attention, if the priest's voice was not enough.

Telia aided with collecting donations from many faithful and temple regulars but a few nobles and other upper class people were touched as well by the words and their purses were lighter as they returned to what they were doing prior to the sermon.

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Vadim Morozov, Dreadmaster.
Former Characters: Mel Darenda, Daug'aonar, Dural Narkisi, Cynric Greyfox, Ameris Santraeger, Cosimo Delucca, Talas Marsak.
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Re: Religion in Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

Unread post by kleomenes »

kleomenes wrote:Ameris holds another sermon in the chapel in the Temple of Ilmater, taking up the same preaching slot as he did the last tenday.

Ameris would be smartly attired as Ilmatari go, changing into his more flowing holy vestments, those that echo the Ilmatari of Calimsham. An exotic look in Baldur's Gate, perhaps. His skullcap is on his head and his holy symbol is on display. He would have a rock lily pinned to his right breast. He would indeed have prayed for the blessing of Ilmater so that his voice may be heard clearly and persuasively, even at the back. He might even have a little magic of the arcane variety to assist him, as well.

The priest would speak before those present, whoever and whomever they might be. One notable attendee would be Telia Santraeger, who would sit near the front in a fine looking red and grey dress, the colours of Ilmater. On this first day, the foster children Timmy and Amanda from Pathfinders Hall would also be present. Amanda would sit quietly, with a serious and thoughtful expression on her face as she listened. After a few minutes, Timmy would fidget a bit, move closer to Telia and whisper to her a few times. His hand, magically, would find his way around sorceress' sleeve.

Ameris would offer the congregation a welcoming smile and begin in warm and gentle tones.

"Brothers, Sisters, friends, welcome."


Once attention was upon him, and the hubub of general conversation had passed, he would begin to speak. He begins to speak the sermon proper. At first his tone is clear, and high, as if lifting up to the heavens.

"The Lord on the Rack teaches us to persevere through adversity. He offers his strength to us, so that we can continue on when lashed by life’s storms. He hears all prayers. Anyone can open their lips and utter words to him, and he will be there, no matter how much his own suffering. Even the worst of sinners, if their heart changes, will have their prayers heard."

Ameris leaves a few breaths before speaking again. He looks out over the congregation, a sad smile, filled understanding.

"It is hard, though, for us mortals to be the same."

He continues, his tone suggesting regretful possibilities. "Now, as we people of Baldur’s Gate struggle and strive to restore the city, we are afflicted by the evils of poverty and uncertainty. We have all known loss and adversity. It would be easy for these feelings to wound us and close us off to each other. It would be easy for us to think only of ourselves, and not of our community as a whole. "

The priest pauses. His gaze cants up and back, to the symbol of Ilmater he stands before, the new symbol of bound hands. Then to the banners of Torm and Tyr, at the far side of the room, behind the congregation. Then he smiles, warm.

"Yet that would not be the Baldurian way."

Ameris lets the silence draw on for a second or two, a habitual pacing to let those listening absorb what is said.


"As I spoke, it is hard for mortals to be like the gods; it is hard for us to be as open and loving as Ilmater." He says in a subdued tone. Yet this tone disappears as he continues, clearly set as a contrast to the uplifting warmth, the affection and the gratitude in the words that follow.

"Yet I have seen before how this city has risen from blows and struggles to be tolerant and accepting, and despite any rough edges, not bitter and cursed. I have seen it, because I experienced it, in the welcome given to me when I was but a wandering priest. Before I ever lifted a scalpel here, or called upon the Broken God to set a broken leg, or diagnosed a disease or alleviated a malaise. Even then, Baldur’s Gate welcomed me into its community. "

The formality drops from his voice now, although the volume stays the same there is a familiarity in his words, as if the congregation were dear friends. He speaks with the memory of wonder, at first.

"When I first came to this rainy city, I saw a city of wonders. Nestled here on the Chionthar, I found grand temples, clean and safe streets, a palace not of Kings, but Dukes chosen by the people. I saw the flower of the White Mask Theatre, the mysteries of the Elfsong Tavern and its invisible singer. I saw the curiosities of Gond’s Hall of Wonders. I was struck by the openness and tolerance of the people here. The kindness, in fact, to a stranger like myself. A place that any were welcome to call home, if they worked for the city and its ideals, not against it. Whatever their creed, whatever their origin. "

There is a brief silence, as the priest lets the words sink on. Then Ameris takes a breath, and his voice becomes almost an apology, a defence of the wondrous words before.

"I do not speak of a perfect, fairy tale land. I know the city has always had its divisions and its angers. I know that life can be hard here, for some; that is a thing I have spent three years fighting. Yet I saw then what I see now, that Baldur’s Gate is a large, diverse community; where laws protect, but do not smother, and where people are free to disagree."

The priest pauses again. Looking out over the congregation. There is pride and respect for the congregation in his eyes, and in his words.

"When I arrived I had no idea of the calamities that had befallen the city before, the destruction wrought by Tiamat, the war against Amn, or the sieges, droughts and plagues of the past. The city had borne such blows and endured. The people within had persevered through all of this, and yet still, their smiles when they came were warm and their arms wide. Still they cherished beauty and endeavour, and hoped for better for themselves and their city. They strove for prosperity without malice. They were not made bitter by their troubles. "

Ameris continues, a fervour in his voice, a sense of belief.

"I have faith that the people of this city will persevere through adversity and keep the idea of a Baldurian community close to their heart. I have faith that the people will work for the city’s rejuvenation without turning on each other and without losing sight of the spirit of freedom that fills their hearts. I have faith; and I say this."

He speaks with certainty, and merciful power, as if conveying Ilmater's holy judgment. His eyes burn with compassionate zeal.

"The drive of the Baldurian people in face of adversity honours the Lord on the Rack. And it is something they can be proud of. "

The following words are suprisingly gentle.

"In the name of Ilmater, the wise, the merciful, the enduring. "

The priest bows his head then, silence lingering to allow reflection, before he gets on with the administrative announcements and the like that are part and parcel of a religious community.

Ameris continues to give this sermon in the same timeslot over the course of the following five days; and he also at one point gives the same sermon in the open air, speaking from the rostra in the square outside of Sorcerous Sundries.

/// Diplomacy roll for the preaching, only very slightly better than the last effort!:
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Ameris will be IG giving this sermon in the East Gate district on Tuesday 12th July at 21:00 GMT
Vadim Morozov, Dreadmaster.
Former Characters: Mel Darenda, Daug'aonar, Dural Narkisi, Cynric Greyfox, Ameris Santraeger, Cosimo Delucca, Talas Marsak.
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Rhifox
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Re: Religion in Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

Unread post by Rhifox »

The following message is put up on the Baldur's Gate message board. It is written with a common person's handwriting and left unsigned.
People of Baldur's Gate!

The gods demand respect and yet our rulers forbid worship to many. Are not death and disease and war and destruction signs of the gods' anger? Still the walls lie broken from the unholy armies that carried the wrath of Myrkul and Talona and Talos. Bane leaves threats at our doorsteps and not a tenday ago even Sêlune's face was obscured and shadows became violent with Shar's rage! When will they strike again?

We spurn the gods and they meet our disrespect with their fury! End these rulings and let worship be given to all the gods. Stop inviting their wrath!
Tarina — Witch, Apothecary, Dealer in Spirits and Black Magic
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Steve
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Re: Religion in Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

Unread post by Steve »

Rhifox wrote:The following message is put up on the Baldur's Gate message board. It is
A man in sea-blue hued clothing of sturdy cloth is seen holding the edge of the parchment recently posted to the free boards of Baldur's Gate. His attention is fully held by what he reads.

Any keen ears in the vicinity of the posting, and the man, may perhaps hear him respond out loud, to what his eyes have so recently consumed.

"Do the Gods truly hear their flock, or is the silence from their domains the reason why Coin and idolatry hold more sway among so many...and why power slips through their grasp, time and time again."

ARTHAYER ZORASTRYL — A Magistrati & Magefriend [Bio] * [The Wanderings of...]
PANLOS PAWFOOT — The Essential Nature of...
ERMMAR STONESORROW — Cavestalker of the Darkshard Deviants. Herb Trader.
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Re: Religion in Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

Unread post by kleomenes »

kleomenes wrote:On 12 Flamerule, Brother Ameris could once again be seen giving a sermon on the streets of Baldur's Gate. Again his wife stood next to him, clad in Ilmateri colours despite it being known that she herself is a Priestess of Mystra. A banner of Ilmater was waved around, to attract attention, if the priest's voice was not enough.
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///Apologies for the delay in posting this!
Vadim Morozov, Dreadmaster.
Former Characters: Mel Darenda, Daug'aonar, Dural Narkisi, Cynric Greyfox, Ameris Santraeger, Cosimo Delucca, Talas Marsak.
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Re: Religion in Baldur's Gate (Player/DM IC RP)

Unread post by kleomenes »

kleomenes wrote:Ameris holds another sermon in the chapel in the Temple of Ilmater, taking up his now usual preaching slot.

Ameris would be smartly attired as Ilmatari go, changing into his more flowing holy vestments, those that echo the Ilmatari of Calimsham. An exotic look in Baldur's Gate, perhaps. His skullcap is on his head and his holy symbol is on display. He would have a rock lily pinned to his right breast. He would indeed have prayed for the blessing of Ilmater so that his voice may be heard clearly and persuasively, even at the back. He might even have a little magic of the arcane variety to assist him, as well.

The priest would speak before those present, whoever and whomever they might be. One notable attendee would be Telia Santraeger, who would sit near the front in a fine looking red and grey dress, the colours of Ilmater. On the first day of this round of preaching, the foster children Timmy and Amanda from Pathfinders Hall would also be present. Amanda would sit quietly, with a serious and thoughtful expression on her face as she listened. After a few minutes, Timmy would fidget a bit, move closer to Telia and whisper to her a few times. His hand, magically, would find his way around sorceress' sleeve.

Ameris looks out over the congregation, and begins to speak in warm tones.

“Brothers, Sisters, friends, welcome.”

He continues on, his tone almost conversational.

“I have been giving thought upon what it is I mean by the Baldurian Community. When I ask Ilmater to bless the people of Baldur’s Gate, who is it I am asking him to bless?”

He speaks now, thoughtfully but with emphasis, the movement of his hand emphasising his words. "What is it to be Baldurian?"

Ameris pauses for a moment, perhaps giving those listening some time to think of an answer for themselves. His voice, when he continues, is clear, and evenly paced. A story is being told.

"I think back to my first impressions when I arrived into the city, having taken a long and muddy road north from a period of service in Athkatla. I was struck at once by the differences I saw from that sprawling and chaotic city. The streets were peaceful and quiet, cruelty and violence abhorred both by the high and the low, with those who practice it ostracised from mansion to alley.

Even in times of distress, even during our current period of slow and steady recovery, when suffering drives men to do that which they would otherwise not , Baldur's Gate stands in stark comparison to the chaotic lawlessness of elsewhere."


Ameris looks about now, at those listening, and the questions he asks are reflected in his eyes.

"What do the laws of the city say about its people? What do they say about the Baldurian spirit?"


He lets silence linger again for a few moments, again so those gathered can consider the answer themselves. The preist then continues on, offering some observations, approval in his voice.

"Compared to cities like Athkatla, or distant Westgate, it is safe to walk through the streets; miscreants who would harm others are punished; coin does not buy justice and those who do wrong towards others face the law, no matter their status and their friends."

Now he answers his questions, speaking with confidence in his opinion.

"It seems to me Baldurians believe that law should shield the weak, equally. They believe that it is right that everyone, high and low, should walk free of fear, and each be held as equal before the law, and yet that the law should be just, not merciless. I have seen much to make me think this.

I have seen trials offered to necromancers, even such being given fair hearing and the right to rely on legal precedent.

I have seen the trial of a knight, a liberators of slaves and defender of the weak, who was nevertheless judged for breaking the law by endangering the city to nefarious drow wizards.

I have seen nobles arraigned for treason and I have seen thieves and former Zhentarim spies repay their debt to society in robust community service, the law tempered by mercy, and good sense."


The priest looks about, a brief lull before he continues. Now he speaks in familiar tones, relating his own experiences.

"This just application of laws, mindful of proportionality and applied to both the rich and the poorest, is something that is new to me."

He taps his chest.

"I came as a stranger from the south, and I saw how justice in other lands depends on birth, titles, land and bribery.

I have read histories of the tyrant empires of old, and faced the modern tyrants in the form of the servants of the Black Hand in Darkhold.

I have seen what an iron hard application of law can do, and remember my homeland, distant Tethyr, which even now burns in the fires of civil war, no end in sight."


Ameris pauses, a sincere sadness taking him a moment, before he speaks with deeply held conviction. "Here, in Baldur's Gate, is something else. Something better. "

The priest speaks with confidence, preaching now, preaching truths as he sees them.

"Hardships and troubles can make ordinarily just laws too harsh and inflexible. Law loses its justice when it clasps too tight. It ceases keeping the weak safe to live as they wish, without fear. When law is applied without a heart, all that is left is the steel. "

He points, dramatically, to the east.

"And steeled hearts have a home in the east, in Darkhold, not in this free city of free men and women."

Ameris smiles now, proudly and warmly.

"A temple of Tyr flourishes in this city, as do those of his servants in the Triad, while those of the tyrant and his kind are rejected. Baldur's Gate is marked as a city of equal laws, and just laws, not just those of steel and iron.

The Even-Handed's duty is True to the people, and his heart is imbued with the mercy of the Broken God. It is those three together that are justice.

This brings the blessings of the goodly gods, in the face of the great and fell threats that the city has faced."


He looks out over those listening. "Long may this continue."

Ameris speaks slowly, but firmly, a fervent wish. "Long may Baldurians be <i>proud</i> of the safety, justice and peace in their city, born of Justice."

The last word heavy with the implication that justice is, indeed, more than merely laws.

The priest bows his head, and speaks in reverent tones.

"In the name of Ilmater, the wise, the merciful, the enduring."


/// Diplomacy roll for the preaching, improving!:

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Ameris will be IG giving this sermon in the East Gate district on Tuesday 19th July at 21:00 GMT
Vadim Morozov, Dreadmaster.
Former Characters: Mel Darenda, Daug'aonar, Dural Narkisi, Cynric Greyfox, Ameris Santraeger, Cosimo Delucca, Talas Marsak.
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