Perceval

Originally a splinter sect from the Universal Church, the teachings of Perceval stress the importance of secular achievement and worldly responsibilities. The use of the military is frowned upon as Percevalians view force as a symptom of a society's inability to deal with its problems in a more constructive manner.

Perceval is popular with Dwarves and merchants throughout the land, which has made them the target of much discrimination and persecution in recent Gemidiahist times. The Church has also attracted some rather extreme protectionist cults whose actions on behalf of the general populace are not in strict accordance with the hopes of the elders. Nevertheless, the cry for personal revenge is a common ingredient in Perceval.

The faith is led by a First Cardinal chosen from the general priesthood by the vote of the high priests.

## Religious Overview

### Generally Accepted Origins of the Faith

Perceval was one of the first Dwarven High Priests (Pope) of the Universal faith and his elevation to Sainthood was very much seen as automatic. However, he developed a reputation for caring less about the growth of the church and more about the stability of the North Island political structures. Percevals active involvement in political negotiations and push to establish trade across the island, even with enemies of the Universal church, led to him being thrown out of office and excommunicated.

However, by then – Percevals reputation as an independent arbiter and bringer of stability had grown to the point that many in the Church followed him into exile and when Perceval died – his followers continued on his beliefs and teachings.

Since then relations between Universal and Perceval churches has improved dramatically, more cynical observers believe that the Universal believes it can reabsorb Perceval back into the fold.

### Lay Worshipper Notes

Perceval worshippers are often portrayed as being tight fisted, money grabbing, manipulative power mongers. To a certain extent that is true, but what is not appreciated is the less well publicized philanthropy and social conscience that forms the underlying foundation of the religion. “In order to make things better for all, you must be in a position of power, influence and wealth”.

Perceval worshippers are expected to actively support their local churches or priests, and donations to the church are expected. In return, the church supports the goals of believers through provision of political contacts, information or other (generally non-material) means.

## Perceval Factsheet

Whilst obviously seen as a shallow religion that focusses on personal gain and achievement the Church of Perceval is far more complex in outlook. Secular achievement is a demonstration of success but as the priests understand, it is all about how that achievement can be used to support society and create a stable environment for more growth to be realised. An act that results in significant gain for all parties involved, whether faithful or not, is regarded much more highly than a one-sided bargain. Those cities or regions with a strong Perceval church will tend to have a far more developed infrastructure and often will be more prosperous.

Perceval priests are nearly always found in advisory posts, the powers behind the throne so to speak, very rarely will they wield political power directly.

There are rumours of a sub-sect of the religion, which has more of a focus on destabilisation of society, tending more towards the belief that “War is good for business” so to speak.

## Perceval Factsheet No. 2

Whilst obviously seen as a shallow religion that focusses on personal gain and achievement the Church of Perceval is far more complex in outlook. Secular achievement is a demonstration of success but as the priests understand, it is all about how that achievement can be used to support society and create a stable environment for more growth to be realised. An act that results in significant gain for all parties involved, whether faithful or not, is regarded much more highly than a one-sided bargain. Those cities or regions with a strong Perceval church will tend to have a far more developed infrastructure and often will be more prosperous.

Perceval priests are nearly always found in advisory posts, the powers behind the throne so to speak, very rarely will they wield political power directly.

There are rumours of a sub-sect of the religion, which has more of a focus on destabilisation of society, tending more towards the belief that “War is good for business” so to speak.

The priesthood is split into three separate sects, there is little rivalry between the sects and the post of High Priest is consistently rotates between the sects. Generally the major temples of Perceval will have a representative of each sect in a senior position.

### Trader Sect

The more traditional public facing sect, skilled negotiators and influencers. They operate at all levels of society from street trading up to governmental posts. In general, will always operate to support to society in which they are based unless in so doing they will be in direct conflict with the overall standing and survival of the faith.

Marany: *“To progress in the sects dear, you have to really be a priest, for my part I follow the trader sect of course, could hardly run a profitable inn and not do so.”*

### Information Sect

Specialise in the gathering of information, and then realising the value of said information. Member of this sect can be Sages or Spies, but as with Traders will always look to support the society within which they operate.

### Dark Sect

Operating in the belief that life is another commodity that has value, the Dark Sect are the enforcers of the Perceval religion. Often Dark Sect members are assassins, but can also operate as bodyguards or security advisors.

No matter the Sect, the key thing to recognise about the Perceval faith is its dedication to the preservation and growth of society.

## PC Characteristics

Marany: “To progress in the sects dear, you have to really be a priest"

Alignment: Non Chaotic

Races: Any

Specials: Wisdom used for experience bonus and required to be a cleric

Intelligence used for spell bonuses

## Misc

"It is commonly understood that stealing from a Perceval shrine is not a clever thing to do."

1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 Day 66 – Far Haven – Planning A Beach Holiday
2. ↑ Day 21-27 – The second week in Northlake