As we approach The Anarchy, there’s a question about one of Requiem's most controversialsdecrees: should the faithful be allowed to preach their religion in Requiem and the Fold? Rather than answer that question, we’re presenting arguments for and against.
First, however, background: the High Lord Executioner outlawed the preaching of religion in Requiem and the Fold. Religion isn’t illegal, but it’s illegal to proselytize and publicly gather. Obviously, this is a problematic edict, and unpopular in-character. However, this debate is going to be out-of-character, with a focus on player experience. Let’s keep it out-of-character when we discuss the question: should preaching be allowed in Requiem?
No, it shouldn’t
Faith is still an important part of Requiem, what's more, being forced “underground” makes it uniquely Requiem. While certain faith motiffs repeat around the network, perhaps to the point of cliche, in Requiem, it allows players a unique opportunity to interact with their faith.
While a character may join the Sainthood at a meeting in another faith, in Requiem, it’s a one-on-one secret baptism. One’s a large scene, potentially with pomp and ceremony, the other is an intimate conversation. We want to steer the role-play in the direction of the latter. Further, the prohibition allows for a form of role-play not found elsewhere in the network. This is a place where priests and other faithful can be heroic, standing up to an unjust law and representing the struggle.
Yes, it should
Faith is a vital part of Dystopia Rising. The in-game religions bring additional character depth and have always been prominent in the setting. While the edict against preaching doesn’t remove faith from the game, or prevent characters from displaying symbols or using faith powers, it does prevent faith from playing a prominent place in the game.
This prohibition prevents storylines like Nemesis stalking the night at Ween, Kings Court concerts, or open Fallow Hope armies. It also pushes faith into the background, potentially preventing newer players from finding out about a faith to join. As can be seen from other chapters, these role-play elements add a great deal to the Dystopia Rising game.
What’s your take? We want your perspective as a player, not as your character: we know of several people who play priests who prefer Requiem to continue the edict and disallow preaching, so they can continue to role-play the struggle. What do you think?