The Brass Coast religious beliefs - Revision history

Dre at 22:11, 13 April 2026

2026-04-13T22:11:12Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:11, 13 April 2026
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	As a result, the Coast has often struggled with outbreaks of the spiritual force known variously as [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Anarchy\|Anarchy or Freedom]]. During the [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Empire\|founding of the Empire]], sutannir who embraced Freedom were among the vocal opponents of the [[First Empress]] and her grand vision. They saw the Empire as a machination of the [[Highguard\|Highborn]] priesthood, seeking to enforce their limited view of virtue on all humanity. Even the Freeborn who followed other virtues were concerned that the way of life they had established might be swept away. To address those fears, the [[hakima]] of the Brass Coast created the [[egregores]] and convinced the nascent Empire to adopt them. Support for Anarchy was largely suppressed in the Coast after the first Synod forbade it - but not without bloodshed.		As a result, the Coast has often struggled with outbreaks of the spiritual force known variously as [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Anarchy\|Anarchy or Freedom]]. During the [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Empire\|founding of the Empire]], sutannir who embraced Freedom were among the vocal opponents of the [[First Empress]] and her grand vision. They saw the Empire as a machination of the [[Highguard\|Highborn]] priesthood, seeking to enforce their limited view of virtue on all humanity. Even the Freeborn who followed other virtues were concerned that the way of life they had established might be swept away. To address those fears, the [[hakima]] of the Brass Coast created the [[egregores]] and convinced the nascent Empire to adopt them. Support for Anarchy was largely suppressed in the Coast after the first Synod forbade it - but not without bloodshed.

	It has resurfaced many times since then. For example, those priests who had never completely given up on the virtue of Freedom were buoyed by what they saw as the success of [[the Orc Rebellion]]. In 324YE this inspired Crescencia i Marusa i Riqueza, a sutannir of [[briar]] lineage, to begin openly urging her followers to live their free of the restraints of law and authority, without the need to be inhibited by the disapproval of others. She attracted large numbers of followers which ultimately ~~lead~~ to the events of the [[Freedom Heresy]]. Her eventual capture and execution on charges of [[Religious_crime#Blasphemy\|blasphemy]] was broadly supported by the Freeborn Assembly, though it was noted that they picked their words with great care, criticizing Crescencia for the failures of [[Freedom_Heresy#The_fall_of_Montane\|Montane]] and the death of her followers, rather than dwelling on her heretical views.		It has resurfaced many times since then. For example, those priests who had never completely given up on the virtue of Freedom were buoyed by what they saw as the success of [[the Orc Rebellion]]. In 324YE this inspired Crescencia i Marusa i Riqueza, a sutannir of [[briar]] lineage, to begin openly urging her followers to live their free of the restraints of law and authority, without the need to be inhibited by the disapproval of others. She attracted large numbers of followers which ultimately led to the events of the [[Freedom Heresy]]. Her eventual capture and execution on charges of [[Religious_crime#Blasphemy\|blasphemy]] was broadly supported by the Freeborn Assembly, though it was noted that they picked their words with great care, criticizing Crescencia for the failures of [[Freedom_Heresy#The_fall_of_Montane\|Montane]] and the death of her followers, rather than dwelling on her heretical views.

	To this day, a belief in the enduring ideal of liberty remains common throughout the Coast and many Freeborn have been passionate opponents of slavery. Janeia i Zaydan i Guerra was a regular foil to [[Emperor Frederick]], a friendly rival who switched between heated debates on the need to free orc slaves and denouncing the Emperor in the Synod. Scholars point out that some of the arguments in the early chapters of ''Anarchy and Liberty'' are either founded on, or clear refutations of, Freeborn arguments about the need for a person to be "free to choose virtue" and that slavery as a consequence is an unforgivable crime against the soul. Unsurprisingly, [[Emperor Ahraz]] enjoyed the support of the abolitionists in the Brass Coast, especially among the priesthood, although he sometimes had to distance himself from their more zealous outbursts during the orc rebellion.		To this day, a belief in the enduring ideal of liberty remains common throughout the Coast and many Freeborn have been passionate opponents of slavery. Janeia i Zaydan i Guerra was a regular foil to [[Emperor Frederick]], a friendly rival who switched between heated debates on the need to free orc slaves and denouncing the Emperor in the Synod. Scholars point out that some of the arguments in the early chapters of ''Anarchy and Liberty'' are either founded on, or clear refutations of, Freeborn arguments about the need for a person to be "free to choose virtue" and that slavery as a consequence is an unforgivable crime against the soul. Unsurprisingly, [[Emperor Ahraz]] enjoyed the support of the abolitionists in the Brass Coast, especially among the priesthood, although he sometimes had to distance himself from their more zealous outbursts during the orc rebellion.

Matt: Text replacement - "Synod" to "Synod"

2026-01-16T09:38:09Z

Text replacement - "Synod" to "Synod"

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:38, 16 January 2026
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	==Orthodoxy==		==Orthodoxy==
	The Freeborn have great respect for the [[Paragons and exemplars\|paragons]] and [[The Way\|the Way of Virtue]], but they have little time for the priests and [[~~Synod\|~~Synod]] that exist to mediate – or dilute - their message. The Synod, with its [[The Doctrines of the Faith\|doctrines]] and [[Schisms and Heresies\|heresies]], is often seen as being full of pomposity and self-importance, whereas a truly faithful person understands what is true and what is false in their soul. Rather than look to the [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies\|Freeborn Assembly]] for edicts and guidance, people expect them to embody the ideals of virtue, to lead by example, and to inspire others to follow in their footsteps.		The Freeborn have great respect for the [[Paragons and exemplars\|paragons]] and [[The Way\|the Way of Virtue]], but they have little time for the priests and [[Synod]] that exist to mediate – or dilute - their message. The Synod, with its [[The Doctrines of the Faith\|doctrines]] and [[Schisms and Heresies\|heresies]], is often seen as being full of pomposity and self-importance, whereas a truly faithful person understands what is true and what is false in their soul. Rather than look to the [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies\|Freeborn Assembly]] for edicts and guidance, people expect them to embody the ideals of virtue, to lead by example, and to inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

	The view of most Freeborn is that following the Way is simple but challenging. Simple in the sense of being uncomplicated - few Freeborn believe the virtues need much in the way of explanation or commentary. The tenets can help identify what is truly virtuous, but attempts to seek deeper meaning or complexity are viewed with suspicion, especially if they appear to be self-serving. Such sophistry is seen as an attempt to obfuscate simple truths so as to justify a failure of virtue.		The view of most Freeborn is that following the Way is simple but challenging. Simple in the sense of being uncomplicated - few Freeborn believe the virtues need much in the way of explanation or commentary. The tenets can help identify what is truly virtuous, but attempts to seek deeper meaning or complexity are viewed with suspicion, especially if they appear to be self-serving. Such sophistry is seen as an attempt to obfuscate simple truths so as to justify a failure of virtue.

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial Synod" to "[[Synod"

2026-01-15T21:31:17Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Synod" to "[[Synod"

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:31, 15 January 2026
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	==Orthodoxy==		==Orthodoxy==
	The Freeborn have great respect for the [[Paragons and exemplars\|paragons]] and [[The Way\|the Way of Virtue]], but they have little time for the priests and [[~~Imperial~~ Synod\|Synod]] that exist to mediate – or dilute - their message. The Synod, with its [[The Doctrines of the Faith\|doctrines]] and [[Schisms and Heresies\|heresies]], is often seen as being full of pomposity and self-importance, whereas a truly faithful person understands what is true and what is false in their soul. Rather than look to the [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies\|Freeborn Assembly]] for edicts and guidance, people expect them to embody the ideals of virtue, to lead by example, and to inspire others to follow in their footsteps.		The Freeborn have great respect for the [[Paragons and exemplars\|paragons]] and [[The Way\|the Way of Virtue]], but they have little time for the priests and [[Synod\|Synod]] that exist to mediate – or dilute - their message. The Synod, with its [[The Doctrines of the Faith\|doctrines]] and [[Schisms and Heresies\|heresies]], is often seen as being full of pomposity and self-importance, whereas a truly faithful person understands what is true and what is false in their soul. Rather than look to the [[Assembly#The_National_Assemblies\|Freeborn Assembly]] for edicts and guidance, people expect them to embody the ideals of virtue, to lead by example, and to inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

	The view of most Freeborn is that following the Way is simple but challenging. Simple in the sense of being uncomplicated - few Freeborn believe the virtues need much in the way of explanation or commentary. The tenets can help identify what is truly virtuous, but attempts to seek deeper meaning or complexity are viewed with suspicion, especially if they appear to be self-serving. Such sophistry is seen as an attempt to obfuscate simple truths so as to justify a failure of virtue.		The view of most Freeborn is that following the Way is simple but challenging. Simple in the sense of being uncomplicated - few Freeborn believe the virtues need much in the way of explanation or commentary. The tenets can help identify what is truly virtuous, but attempts to seek deeper meaning or complexity are viewed with suspicion, especially if they appear to be self-serving. Such sophistry is seen as an attempt to obfuscate simple truths so as to justify a failure of virtue.

Beeswax: /* Reincarnation */

2025-08-18T12:29:01Z

Reincarnation

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:29, 18 August 2025
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	Many Freeborn take a relaxed view of the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Reincarnation\|Doctrine of Reincarnation]]. A popular old tradition says that those lost at sea take new form as dolphins who will guide and guard lost ships. While few claim to really believe it these days, it is a stock element in many stories involving sea travel. When questioned on it, the Freeborn tend to shrug - does it really matter if it's true?		Many Freeborn take a relaxed view of the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Reincarnation\|Doctrine of Reincarnation]]. A popular old tradition says that those lost at sea take new form as dolphins who will guide and guard lost ships. While few claim to really believe it these days, it is a stock element in many stories involving sea travel. When questioned on it, the Freeborn tend to shrug - does it really matter if it's true?

	This response reflects their view of the ~~Labryinthe~~ more generally. The Freeborn accept that human souls reincarnate; but they often argue it is a mistake to obsess over it. The teachings of [[Riqueza]] - generally held to be the first [[sutannir]] - said that ''"nobody is born virtuous"''. The inference is that what you did in your past lives is unimportant - all that counts is what you do in this life. One should focus on living an honest and laudable life, guided by the virtues, and let reincarnation look after itself. Freeborn might leap at a chance to experience a past life vision - who knows what such an experience will bring or what knowledge it will reveal? But few put much importance in who they were in a previous life - what matters most to the Freeborn is who you are now.		This response reflects their view of the Labyrinth more generally. The Freeborn accept that human souls reincarnate; but they often argue it is a mistake to obsess over it. The teachings of [[Riqueza]] - generally held to be the first [[sutannir]] - said that ''"nobody is born virtuous"''. The inference is that what you did in your past lives is unimportant - all that counts is what you do in this life. One should focus on living an honest and laudable life, guided by the virtues, and let reincarnation look after itself. Freeborn might leap at a chance to experience a past life vision - who knows what such an experience will bring or what knowledge it will reveal? But few put much importance in who they were in a previous life - what matters most to the Freeborn is who you are now.

	Perhaps as a result, most don't see death as a reason for sorrow. Death is usually [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Funerals\|mocked as a figure of fun]] and funerals are treated as the final opportunity to celebrate the life of the deceased.		Perhaps as a result, most don't see death as a reason for sorrow. Death is usually [[The_Brass_Coast_culture_and_customs#Funerals\|mocked as a figure of fun]] and funerals are treated as the final opportunity to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Matt: /* Feast of the Broken Wheel */

2023-07-25T10:20:03Z

Feast of the Broken Wheel

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:20, 25 July 2023
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	==Feast of the Broken Wheel==		==Feast of the Broken Wheel==
	<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Luca i Taziel i Riqueza, Brass Coast Assembly, Summer 384YE, Upheld (184 - 0 Greater Majority).">Pride conveyed by words alone is vain boasting; proclaim it by how you conduct every part of your life. Those who embrace the Festival of the Broken Wheel should demonstrate their Pride in this traditional festival by donning a white head scarf, robe or similar. We send Luca i Taziel i Riqueza with 25 doses of liao to urge Freeborn citizens to dress in such a way that everyone knows who is celebrating the Festival.</quote></div>		<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Luca i Taziel i Riqueza, Brass Coast Assembly, Summer 384YE, Upheld (184 - 0 Greater Majority).">Pride conveyed by words alone is vain boasting; proclaim it by how you conduct every part of your life. Those who embrace the Festival of the Broken Wheel should demonstrate their Pride in this traditional festival by donning a white head scarf, robe or similar. We send Luca i Taziel i Riqueza with 25 doses of liao to urge Freeborn citizens to dress in such a way that everyone knows who is celebrating the Festival.</quote></div>
	Sutannir try to support as many celebrations in the Brass Coast as possible. However, there is one festival they do not endorse: the Feast of the Broken Wheel. Known by many as Fool's Day, during this festival the Freeborn turn virtue on its head and celebrate the contrary. The festival takes place on the second day of the Autumn Equinox, and starts at sunset and lasts until midnight. The proud become humble, ties of loyalty may be ignored, the prosperous become ascetic and the wise act as fools. It is a time of foolishness, pranks and trickery that begins with a symbolic chase, where effigies of the paragons are chased from the camp in a gleeful and chaotic parade. Everyone is encouraged to try harmless skills like juggling and music – the more terrible the performance the more it is applauded. On Fool's Day, even the most moral Freeborn try their hand at telling untruths and lies - often with comical degrees of success. The Freeborn National Assembly passed a [[mandate]] during the [[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_165\|Summer Solstice 384YE]] in response to a [[To_see_what_you_sell#Breaking_Wheels\|call from the Zemress Islanders]] to encourage Freeborn to show clearly that they are taking part in the Broken Wheel by wearing a white piece of clothing for the duration, often a white headscarf, hood, or tagelmust.		Sutannir try to support as many celebrations in the Brass Coast as possible. However, there is one festival they do not endorse: the Feast of the Broken Wheel. Known by many as Fool's Day, during this festival the Freeborn turn virtue on its head and celebrate the contrary. The festival takes place on the second day of the Autumn Equinox, and starts at sunset and lasts until midnight. The proud become humble, ties of loyalty may be ignored, the prosperous become ascetic and the wise act as fools. It is a time of foolishness, pranks and trickery that begins with a symbolic chase, where effigies of the paragons are chased from the camp in a gleeful and chaotic parade. Everyone is encouraged to try harmless skills like juggling and music – the more terrible the performance the more it is applauded. On Fool's Day, even the most moral Freeborn try their hand at telling untruths and lies - often with comical degrees of success.

	The festival is considered blasphemous by some in the ~~Imperial Synod but, to date~~, the Freeborn Assembly ~~has done little~~ to ~~discourage it~~, or ~~penalise those involved~~. ~~Some have argued that~~, ~~by permitting it, it helps~~ the ~~Freeborn embrace~~ the ~~Way more readily for~~ the ~~rest~~ of the ~~year~~.		The festival is considered blasphemous by some, but it has never been condemned. However during the [[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_165\|Summer Solstice 384YE]], the Freeborn National Assembly passed a [[mandate]] in response to [[To_see_what_you_sell#Breaking_Wheels\|the concerns of the Zemress Islanders]] and others. Since then everyone taking part in the Broken Wheel is strongly encouraged to wear a white piece of clothing for the duration, often a white headscarf, hood, or tagelmust, but in many ways the more white the better. White cloth is always avoided in the Brass Coast, wearing undyed cloth suggests the wearer cannot afford exotic dyes. It fits with the Festival of the Broken Wheel, since the point of the festival is to turn traditions on their head, and it also serves as a good way to distinguish those who enjoy the festival from other Freeborn who find it distasteful.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=BrokenWheel.jpg\|width=900\|title=This whimsical effigy of Aldones de Sarvos simultaneously pokes fun at that paragon of Ambition, and at Varushkan traditions, but is all meant in good humour.\|caption=The Feast of the Broken Wheel is as exuberant as it is irreverent.\|align=center}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=BrokenWheel.jpg\|width=900\|title=This whimsical effigy of Aldones de Sarvos simultaneously pokes fun at that paragon of Ambition, and at Varushkan traditions, but is all meant in good humour.\|caption=The Feast of the Broken Wheel is as exuberant as it is irreverent.\|align=center}}

	{{Brass Coast Links}}		{{Brass Coast Links}}

Hailmur: /* Feast of the Broken Wheel */

2023-05-12T19:31:52Z

Feast of the Broken Wheel

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:31, 12 May 2023
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	==Feast of the Broken Wheel==		==Feast of the Broken Wheel==
	Sutannir try to support as many celebrations in the Brass Coast as possible. However, there is one festival they do not endorse: the Feast of the Broken Wheel. Known by many as Fool's Day, during this festival the Freeborn turn virtue on its head and celebrate the contrary. The festival takes place on the second day of the Autumn Equinox, and starts at sunset and lasts until midnight. The proud become humble, ties of loyalty may be ignored, the prosperous become ascetic and the wise act as fools. It is a time of foolishness, pranks and trickery that begins with a symbolic chase, where ~~seven~~ effigies of the paragons are chased from the camp in a gleeful and chaotic parade. Everyone is encouraged to try harmless skills like juggling and music – the more terrible the performance the more it is applauded~~. The festival usually ends in a drunken stupor~~. On Fool's Day, even the most moral Freeborn try their hand at telling untruths and lies - often with comical degrees of success.		<div style="width: 500px; float: right; clear: right; margin-left:10px;"><quote by="Luca i Taziel i Riqueza, Brass Coast Assembly, Summer 384YE, Upheld (184 - 0 Greater Majority).">Pride conveyed by words alone is vain boasting; proclaim it by how you conduct every part of your life. Those who embrace the Festival of the Broken Wheel should demonstrate their Pride in this traditional festival by donning a white head scarf, robe or similar. We send Luca i Taziel i Riqueza with 25 doses of liao to urge Freeborn citizens to dress in such a way that everyone knows who is celebrating the Festival.</quote></div>
			Sutannir try to support as many celebrations in the Brass Coast as possible. However, there is one festival they do not endorse: the Feast of the Broken Wheel. Known by many as Fool's Day, during this festival the Freeborn turn virtue on its head and celebrate the contrary. The festival takes place on the second day of the Autumn Equinox, and starts at sunset and lasts until midnight. The proud become humble, ties of loyalty may be ignored, the prosperous become ascetic and the wise act as fools. It is a time of foolishness, pranks and trickery that begins with a symbolic chase, where effigies of the paragons are chased from the camp in a gleeful and chaotic parade. Everyone is encouraged to try harmless skills like juggling and music – the more terrible the performance the more it is applauded. On Fool's Day, even the most moral Freeborn try their hand at telling untruths and lies - often with comical degrees of success. The Freeborn National Assembly passed a [[mandate]] during the [[384YE_Summer_Solstice_Synod_judgements#Judgement_165\|Summer Solstice 384YE]] in response to a [[To_see_what_you_sell#Breaking_Wheels\|call from the Zemress Islanders]] to encourage Freeborn to show clearly that they are taking part in the Broken Wheel by wearing a white piece of clothing for the duration, often a white headscarf, hood, or tagelmust.

	The festival is considered blasphemous by some in the Imperial Synod but, to date, the Freeborn Assembly has done little to discourage it, or penalise those involved. Some have argued that, by permitting it, it helps the Freeborn embrace ~~The~~ Way more readily for the rest of the year.		The festival is considered blasphemous by some in the Imperial Synod but, to date, the Freeborn Assembly has done little to discourage it, or penalise those involved. Some have argued that, by permitting it, it helps the Freeborn embrace the Way more readily for the rest of the year.
	{{CaptionedImage\|file=BrokenWheel.jpg\|width=900\|title=This whimsical effigy of Aldones de Sarvos simultaneously pokes fun at that paragon of Ambition, and at Varushkan traditions, but is all meant in good humour.\|caption=The Feast of the Broken Wheel is as exuberant as it is irreverent.\|align=center}}		{{CaptionedImage\|file=BrokenWheel.jpg\|width=900\|title=This whimsical effigy of Aldones de Sarvos simultaneously pokes fun at that paragon of Ambition, and at Varushkan traditions, but is all meant in good humour.\|caption=The Feast of the Broken Wheel is as exuberant as it is irreverent.\|align=center}}

	{{Brass Coast Links}}		{{Brass Coast Links}}

Hailmur: /* Heterodoxy */

2023-04-28T16:44:15Z

Heterodoxy

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:44, 28 April 2023
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	As a result, the Coast has often struggled with outbreaks of the spiritual force known variously as [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Anarchy\|Anarchy or Freedom]]. During the [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Empire\|founding of the Empire]], sutannir who embraced Freedom were among the vocal opponents of the [[First Empress]] and her grand vision. They saw the Empire as a machination of the [[Highguard\|Highborn]] priesthood, seeking to enforce their limited view of virtue on all humanity. Even the Freeborn who followed other virtues were concerned that the way of life they had established might be swept away. To address those fears, the [[hakima]] of the Brass Coast created the [[egregores]] and convinced the nascent Empire to adopt them. Support for Anarchy was largely suppressed in the Coast after the first Synod forbade it - but not without bloodshed.		As a result, the Coast has often struggled with outbreaks of the spiritual force known variously as [[Malign_spiritual_presences#Anarchy\|Anarchy or Freedom]]. During the [[The_Brass_Coast_history#The_Empire\|founding of the Empire]], sutannir who embraced Freedom were among the vocal opponents of the [[First Empress]] and her grand vision. They saw the Empire as a machination of the [[Highguard\|Highborn]] priesthood, seeking to enforce their limited view of virtue on all humanity. Even the Freeborn who followed other virtues were concerned that the way of life they had established might be swept away. To address those fears, the [[hakima]] of the Brass Coast created the [[egregores]] and convinced the nascent Empire to adopt them. Support for Anarchy was largely suppressed in the Coast after the first Synod forbade it - but not without bloodshed.

	It has resurfaced many times since then. For example, those priests who had never completely given up on the virtue of Freedom were buoyed by what they saw as the success of [[the Orc Rebellion]]. In 324YE this inspired Crescencia i Marusa i Riqueza, a sutannir of [[briar]] lineage, to begin openly urging her followers to live their free of the restraints of law and authority, without the need to be inhibited by the disapproval of others. She attracted large numbers of followers which ultimately lead to the events of the [[Freedom Heresy]]. Her eventual capture and execution on charges of [[Religious_crime#Blasphemy\|blasphemy]] was broadly supported by the Freeborn Assembly, though it was noted that they picked their words with great care, criticizing Crescencia for the failures of ~~Montagne~~ and the death of her followers, rather than dwelling on her heretical views.		It has resurfaced many times since then. For example, those priests who had never completely given up on the virtue of Freedom were buoyed by what they saw as the success of [[the Orc Rebellion]]. In 324YE this inspired Crescencia i Marusa i Riqueza, a sutannir of [[briar]] lineage, to begin openly urging her followers to live their free of the restraints of law and authority, without the need to be inhibited by the disapproval of others. She attracted large numbers of followers which ultimately lead to the events of the [[Freedom Heresy]]. Her eventual capture and execution on charges of [[Religious_crime#Blasphemy\|blasphemy]] was broadly supported by the Freeborn Assembly, though it was noted that they picked their words with great care, criticizing Crescencia for the failures of [[Freedom_Heresy#The_fall_of_Montane\|Montane]] and the death of her followers, rather than dwelling on her heretical views.

	To this day, a belief in the enduring ideal of liberty remains common throughout the Coast and many Freeborn have been passionate opponents of slavery. Janeia i Zaydan i Guerra was a regular foil to [[Emperor Frederick]], a friendly rival who switched between heated debates on the need to free orc slaves and denouncing the Emperor in the Synod. Scholars point out that some of the arguments in the early chapters of ''Anarchy and Liberty'' are either founded on, or clear refutations of, Freeborn arguments about the need for a person to be "free to choose virtue" and that slavery as a consequence is an unforgivable crime against the soul. Unsurprisingly, [[Emperor Ahraz]] enjoyed the support of the abolitionists in the Brass Coast, especially among the priesthood, although he sometimes had to distance himself from their more zealous outbursts during the orc rebellion.		To this day, a belief in the enduring ideal of liberty remains common throughout the Coast and many Freeborn have been passionate opponents of slavery. Janeia i Zaydan i Guerra was a regular foil to [[Emperor Frederick]], a friendly rival who switched between heated debates on the need to free orc slaves and denouncing the Emperor in the Synod. Scholars point out that some of the arguments in the early chapters of ''Anarchy and Liberty'' are either founded on, or clear refutations of, Freeborn arguments about the need for a person to be "free to choose virtue" and that slavery as a consequence is an unforgivable crime against the soul. Unsurprisingly, [[Emperor Ahraz]] enjoyed the support of the abolitionists in the Brass Coast, especially among the priesthood, although he sometimes had to distance himself from their more zealous outbursts during the orc rebellion.

	The last prominent Freeborn to be executed for blasphemy relating to Anarchy was Liliana i Hora i Riqueza who had been the [[Conscience of the Senate]] for a year in the time of [[Emperor Hugh]]. She admitted to her devotion to Freedom when confronted on it by the [[Gatekeeper]] of [[Vigilance]] on the steps of the Senate. When challenged at her [[inquisition]] as to why she had kept her beliefs hidden for so long she only laughed at the court and said ''"If we were looking to hide our devotion, we wouldn't call ourselves the Freeborn"''. If any Freeborn priests are devoted to the malign presence of Anarchy today, then they are careful to keep it hidden well away from the prying eyes of the Synod's inquisitors.		The last prominent Freeborn to be executed for blasphemy relating to Anarchy was Liliana i Hora i Riqueza who had been the [[Conscience of the Senate]] for a year in the time of [[Emperor Hugh]]. She admitted to her devotion to Freedom when confronted on it by the [[Gatekeeper]] of [[Vigilance]] on the steps of the Senate. When challenged at her [[inquisition]] as to why she had kept her beliefs hidden for so long she only laughed at the court and said ''"If we were looking to hide our devotion, we wouldn't call ourselves the Freeborn"''. If any Freeborn priests are devoted to the malign presence of Anarchy today, then they are careful to keep it hidden well away from the prying eyes of the Synod's inquisitors.

	==Reincarnation==		==Reincarnation==
	Many Freeborn take a relaxed view of the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Reincarnation\|Doctrine of Reincarnation]]. A popular old tradition says that those lost at sea take new form as dolphins who will guide and guard lost ships. While few claim to really believe it these days, it is a stock element in many stories involving sea travel. When questioned on it, the Freeborn tend to shrug - does it really matter if it's true?		Many Freeborn take a relaxed view of the [[The_Doctrines_of_the_Faith#The_Doctrine_of_Reincarnation\|Doctrine of Reincarnation]]. A popular old tradition says that those lost at sea take new form as dolphins who will guide and guard lost ships. While few claim to really believe it these days, it is a stock element in many stories involving sea travel. When questioned on it, the Freeborn tend to shrug - does it really matter if it's true?

Matt: /* Dust, Flame, and Glass */

2022-09-02T09:31:26Z

Dust, Flame, and Glass

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:31, 2 September 2022
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	This belief underpins a very personal relationship with matters of faith and the spirit, one that is rarely articulated directly outside of poetry or song. Much of the Freeborn understanding of spirituality and religion was shaped by the philosophy of the founder [[Riqueza]], further honed by those who [[Tribe#Embracing_Riqueza\|followed in her footsteps]]. As a result, Freeborn religious ceremonies place their emphasis on celebration rather than sermons. They celebrate sacred festivals with entertainment, feasting, parties and dancing. Coal-walking, fire breathing, fire dancing and other symbolic performances that represent the Freeborn passion for life are always popular. Priests keep their words short and evocative, knowing their audience wants to be inspired to act virtuously rather than lectured.		This belief underpins a very personal relationship with matters of faith and the spirit, one that is rarely articulated directly outside of poetry or song. Much of the Freeborn understanding of spirituality and religion was shaped by the philosophy of the founder [[Riqueza]], further honed by those who [[Tribe#Embracing_Riqueza\|followed in her footsteps]]. As a result, Freeborn religious ceremonies place their emphasis on celebration rather than sermons. They celebrate sacred festivals with entertainment, feasting, parties and dancing. Coal-walking, fire breathing, fire dancing and other symbolic performances that represent the Freeborn passion for life are always popular. Priests keep their words short and evocative, knowing their audience wants to be inspired to act virtuously rather than lectured.

	Many families include a devout priest or spiritual family member who can be relied on to oversee these indulgences, but for large or important festivities the Freeborn often seek out the services of a [[sutannir]]. These priests embody the Freeborn ideal that the way to follow the path of Virtue is not to preach it but to live it. Rather than deliver sermons on the virtues, they encourage others to ''experience'' them first hand and where some priests will affect a sombre or serious demeanour, sutannir are renowned for encouraging people to celebrate Virtue~~. These celebrations can be extravagant banquets and lavish parties with feasting, dancing, and all manner of entertainments~~. In addition to leading important ceremonies such as a coming of age or a wedding, some sutannir make a living organizing ~~these~~ spectacular celebrations that are designed to bring the whole community together to recognise some great accomplishment or other act of virtue.		Many families include a devout priest or spiritual family member who can be relied on to oversee these indulgences, but for large or important festivities the Freeborn often seek out the services of a [[sutannir]]. These priests embody the Freeborn ideal that the way to follow the path of Virtue is not to preach it but to live it. Rather than deliver sermons on the virtues, they encourage others to ''experience'' them first hand and where some priests will affect a sombre or serious demeanour, sutannir are renowned for encouraging people to celebrate Virtue. In addition to leading important ceremonies such as a coming of age or a wedding, some sutannir make a living organizing spectacular celebrations and festivities that are designed to bring the whole community together to recognise some great accomplishment or other act of virtue.

	<quote by="Elina the Wayfarer taken from Epistles to the Winds of Virtue, 24BE">Last night, Ramak invited me to what he said was a religious ceremony. This morning, my head is pounding and I will never eat again. We did not talk about Courage, but we danced on fire. We did not contemplate Prosperity, but we enjoyed the finest things from many lands. We did not read about Pride, but sang the songs of our homelands till our throats were hoarse. I can attest the Freeborn care deeply about the fate of their souls – but they just do not speak of it as we do. </quote>		<quote by="Elina the Wayfarer taken from Epistles to the Winds of Virtue, 24BE">Last night, Ramak invited me to what he said was a religious ceremony. This morning, my head is pounding and I will never eat again. We did not talk about Courage, but we danced on fire. We did not contemplate Prosperity, but we enjoyed the finest things from many lands. We did not read about Pride, but sang the songs of our homelands till our throats were hoarse. I can attest the Freeborn care deeply about the fate of their souls – but they just do not speak of it as we do. </quote>

Matt: /* Dust, Flame, and Glass */

2022-09-02T09:25:45Z

Dust, Flame, and Glass

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:25, 2 September 2022
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	This belief underpins a very personal relationship with matters of faith and the spirit, one that is rarely articulated directly outside of poetry or song. Much of the Freeborn understanding of spirituality and religion was shaped by the philosophy of the founder [[Riqueza]], further honed by those who [[Tribe#Embracing_Riqueza\|followed in her footsteps]]. As a result, Freeborn religious ceremonies place their emphasis on celebration rather than sermons. They celebrate sacred festivals with entertainment, feasting, parties and dancing. Coal-walking, fire breathing, fire dancing and other symbolic performances that represent the Freeborn passion for life are always popular. Priests keep their words short and evocative, knowing their audience wants to be inspired to act virtuously rather than lectured.		This belief underpins a very personal relationship with matters of faith and the spirit, one that is rarely articulated directly outside of poetry or song. Much of the Freeborn understanding of spirituality and religion was shaped by the philosophy of the founder [[Riqueza]], further honed by those who [[Tribe#Embracing_Riqueza\|followed in her footsteps]]. As a result, Freeborn religious ceremonies place their emphasis on celebration rather than sermons. They celebrate sacred festivals with entertainment, feasting, parties and dancing. Coal-walking, fire breathing, fire dancing and other symbolic performances that represent the Freeborn passion for life are always popular. Priests keep their words short and evocative, knowing their audience wants to be inspired to act virtuously rather than lectured.

	Many families include a devout priest or spiritual family member who can be relied on to oversee these indulgences, but for large or important festivities the Freeborn often seek out the services of a [[sutannir]]. These ~~Freeborn~~ priests embody the Freeborn ideal that the way to follow the path of Virtue is not to preach it but to live it. Rather than deliver sermons on the virtues, they encourage others to experience ~~the virtues~~ first hand and where some priests will affect a sombre or serious demeanour, sutannir are renowned for encouraging people to celebrate Virtue. These celebrations can be extravagant banquets and lavish parties with feasting, dancing, and all manner of entertainments. In addition to leading important ceremonies such as a coming of age or a wedding, some sutannir make a living organizing these spectacular celebrations that are designed to bring the whole community together to recognise some great accomplishment or other act of virtue.		Many families include a devout priest or spiritual family member who can be relied on to oversee these indulgences, but for large or important festivities the Freeborn often seek out the services of a [[sutannir]]. These priests embody the Freeborn ideal that the way to follow the path of Virtue is not to preach it but to live it. Rather than deliver sermons on the virtues, they encourage others to ''experience'' them first hand and where some priests will affect a sombre or serious demeanour, sutannir are renowned for encouraging people to celebrate Virtue. These celebrations can be extravagant banquets and lavish parties with feasting, dancing, and all manner of entertainments. In addition to leading important ceremonies such as a coming of age or a wedding, some sutannir make a living organizing these spectacular celebrations that are designed to bring the whole community together to recognise some great accomplishment or other act of virtue.

	<quote by="Elina the Wayfarer taken from Epistles to the Winds of Virtue, 24BE">Last night, Ramak invited me to what he said was a religious ceremony. This morning, my head is pounding and I will never eat again. We did not talk about Courage, but we danced on fire. We did not contemplate Prosperity, but we enjoyed the finest things from many lands. We did not read about Pride, but sang the songs of our homelands till our throats were hoarse. I can attest the Freeborn care deeply about the fate of their souls – but they just do not speak of it as we do. </quote>		<quote by="Elina the Wayfarer taken from Epistles to the Winds of Virtue, 24BE">Last night, Ramak invited me to what he said was a religious ceremony. This morning, my head is pounding and I will never eat again. We did not talk about Courage, but we danced on fire. We did not contemplate Prosperity, but we enjoyed the finest things from many lands. We did not read about Pride, but sang the songs of our homelands till our throats were hoarse. I can attest the Freeborn care deeply about the fate of their souls – but they just do not speak of it as we do. </quote>

Matt: /* Dust, Flame, and Glass */

2022-09-02T09:25:00Z

Dust, Flame, and Glass

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:25, 2 September 2022
Line 11:		Line 11:
	This belief underpins a very personal relationship with matters of faith and the spirit, one that is rarely articulated directly outside of poetry or song. Much of the Freeborn understanding of spirituality and religion was shaped by the philosophy of the founder [[Riqueza]], further honed by those who [[Tribe#Embracing_Riqueza\|followed in her footsteps]]. As a result, Freeborn religious ceremonies place their emphasis on celebration rather than sermons. They celebrate sacred festivals with entertainment, feasting, parties and dancing. Coal-walking, fire breathing, fire dancing and other symbolic performances that represent the Freeborn passion for life are always popular. Priests keep their words short and evocative, knowing their audience wants to be inspired to act virtuously rather than lectured.		This belief underpins a very personal relationship with matters of faith and the spirit, one that is rarely articulated directly outside of poetry or song. Much of the Freeborn understanding of spirituality and religion was shaped by the philosophy of the founder [[Riqueza]], further honed by those who [[Tribe#Embracing_Riqueza\|followed in her footsteps]]. As a result, Freeborn religious ceremonies place their emphasis on celebration rather than sermons. They celebrate sacred festivals with entertainment, feasting, parties and dancing. Coal-walking, fire breathing, fire dancing and other symbolic performances that represent the Freeborn passion for life are always popular. Priests keep their words short and evocative, knowing their audience wants to be inspired to act virtuously rather than lectured.

	Many families include a devout priest or spiritual family member who can be relied on to oversee these indulgences, but for large or important festivities the Freeborn seek out the services of a [[sutannir]]. ~~A cross between a priest~~ and a ~~professional party organiser~~, ~~the~~ sutannir ~~helps with all the arrangements needed~~ to celebrate ~~important moments with suitable festivities~~. These ~~might~~ be ~~personal~~, a coming of age or a wedding, ~~or they may be asked~~ to bring the whole community together to ~~celebratve~~ some great accomplishment or other act of virtue.		Many families include a devout priest or spiritual family member who can be relied on to oversee these indulgences, but for large or important festivities the Freeborn often seek out the services of a [[sutannir]]. These Freeborn priests embody the Freeborn ideal that the way to follow the path of Virtue is not to preach it but to live it. Rather than deliver sermons on the virtues, they encourage others to experience the virtues first hand and where some priests will affect a sombre or serious demeanour, sutannir are renowned for encouraging people to celebrate Virtue. These celebrations can be extravagant banquets and lavish parties with feasting, dancing, and all manner of entertainments. In addition to leading important ceremonies such as a coming of age or a wedding, some sutannir make a living organizing these spectacular celebrations that are designed to bring the whole community together to recognise some great accomplishment or other act of virtue.

	<quote by="Elina the Wayfarer taken from Epistles to the Winds of Virtue, 24BE">Last night, Ramak invited me to what he said was a religious ceremony. This morning, my head is pounding and I will never eat again. We did not talk about Courage, but we danced on fire. We did not contemplate Prosperity, but we enjoyed the finest things from many lands. We did not read about Pride, but sang the songs of our homelands till our throats were hoarse. I can attest the Freeborn care deeply about the fate of their souls – but they just do not speak of it as we do. </quote>		<quote by="Elina the Wayfarer taken from Epistles to the Winds of Virtue, 24BE">Last night, Ramak invited me to what he said was a religious ceremony. This morning, my head is pounding and I will never eat again. We did not talk about Courage, but we danced on fire. We did not contemplate Prosperity, but we enjoyed the finest things from many lands. We did not read about Pride, but sang the songs of our homelands till our throats were hoarse. I can attest the Freeborn care deeply about the fate of their souls – but they just do not speak of it as we do. </quote>