> From: Peter Larsen <plarsen_at_mail.utexas.edu>
> Subject: More Chalana Arroy
>> Another problem arises with the cults niche in the 'religious ecology'.
>> If Chalanans are diplomats, doesn't that duplicate Issaries' function as a
>> diplomat and conciliator? While it's certainly possible for two cults to
>> have similar functions, I think there'd be a strong tendency for cults to
>> gravitate toward their unique functions.
>
> Well, I thought about mentioning Issaries, but I was trying to be
> terse (there's Orlanth Goldentongue, too, for what it's worth). I'm
> thinking that the Chalanans would be diplomats and the Issarians envoys. In
> other words, Issaries looks out for those who go out carrying messages and
> making new contacts (and encountering people who don't respect the sanctity
> of the Chalanans), while Chalana Arroy teaches people to heal conflict
> within society and repair bonds that have been broken by war, distrust,
> whatever. So you send the White Healer to talk to the next clan or tribe
> and the Merchant to negotiate with the neighboring king or that empire. Or
> is this too specialized?
Yes and no. No, it certainly fits, but yes it does seem
over-specialized. Part of Issaries role it to be a conciliator between
warring/feuding parties. I think Issarions would be the first choice of
rulers, but Chalanans might go on their own, or be sent if an Issarion isn't
available.
Andrew E. Larsen