Issaries and his saintly twin

From: Jose Ramos <jose_at_kobo.es>
Date: Sat, 28 Nov 1998 12:40:27 +0100

In my campaign Issaries is a prominent figure in trade, mainly because all sides in Ralios agree on the trade compact and the usefulness of his blessing (which IMG creates a basic Market spell in the shop of the caller until the next St. Issaries day).

You can see plenty of traders at church on that day, and they are also the most lavish with alms, which makes his shrines the most brilliant ones.

Argan Argar is not a saint, but a troll god, and everyone knows that. You find him at Naskorion, and abroad the shrines work as trade posts and clearing houses for the Chain. But humans need someone to relate to.

Theist followers of Issaries are more tolerated in henotheist lands than other theists, as the devotees of St. Issaries try to deal equitably with them, and they know they can be trusted.

Shops and market posts will display Issaries' rune (even if they are not) to attract customers and turn thieves away. Bold ones will have a piece of chain, preferently lead. This is usual on the eastern part of Safelster, but becomes rare as you go west.

He is supposed to have been in Fronela, and even to have wooed the daughter of the king, if I remember correctly, so he was known before the God Learners came. They used him widely, however, displacing Argan Argar, and spreading his cult around. Which only means, really, spread the idea that Issaries traders are good fellows who are forbidden to steal by their patron (be it god or saint), will speak with anyone, and will die to protect others under their protection. A good PR campaign.

Jose

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