Quote:
Originally Posted by Kindo  The problem with quests is that more often than not, they include killing, or at least some kind of objective that is questionable for a Cleric of Aeridin to perform. Not counting the rather unprofitable delivery quests, we only have quests that include killing something else. Even if it is killing Kobolds or Rats for the 'safety' of the city, it's still not so obvious an Aeridinite would perform such a task. The only quests we definitely can take, are the ones involving crypts or undead. In any case, my point is that Aeridinites are very limited to what they can do in order to progress in skill, if they are to follow the Dogma like fanatics. Role-play elements and sacrifices made when choosing character to play aside, this does give a rather unfair advantage to other classes, seeing how we cannot gain any skill by helping the sick or healing the wounded, while a Warrior or the like can easily do what he or she does best, and excel significantly in their skills. This is why I do not think we should be so anal and strict about certain things that dictate the Dogma of an Aeridin Cleric. |
I meant GM-run quests, not "bring me the head of that bad buy" quests from NPCs.
I don't think anyone's saying that a cleric of any deity has to be a fanatic, but he/she should keep that deity's teachings and dogma in mind at all times when playing, and it should guide their actions.
The thing is that game mechanics (i.e. the gaining of XP) should not be used as an excuse for an Aeridinite to go out and bash. Rather, an Aeridinite might accompany a group that is going out to bash and he/she could provide healing, protection, etc, assuming the purpose is not simply one of "Let's go bash". The options available to play one's dogma are even greater on GM-led quests, some of which involve little to no killing at all.
If we were to say, "OK, you clerics and believers don't really have to play your dogmas," then there would be no point in having the deities we have.
Imagine how silly it would be to see, "Hi! *waves happily* I'm Grandar, Dread High Priest of Corath! Would you like a flower? You look tired...can I get you something to eat perhaps? Maybe a nice place to sit and rest or a soft bed to sleep in? Your comfort is my greatest goal."
Yes, that's an extreme, unrealistic and silly example, but it does illustrate the point that yes, we should dictate how clerics (and paladins...and champions as appropriate) should act.