The most disquieting aspect of a religious zealot lies in their uncanny capacity to deflect any criticism. This near-mystical shield arises from their unwavering conviction in serving a "higher" power. As they navigate the treacherous ndscape of dogma, they remain steadfast in their beliefs, immune to external influences that may challenge or question their devotion.
Their unwavering faith and resolute determination make them formidable opponents in any debate or discussion. No rational argument or logical counterpoint can penetrate the impenetrable fortress of their beliefs. Instead, any attempt to criticize or question their views is often perceived as a test of their faith, further bolstering their devotion and sense of righteousness.
This imperviousness to critique presents a unique challenge to those who seek to engage with religious zealots in meaningful discourse. The unwavering nature of their faith and their steadfastness in the face of opposition can create an atmosphere where dialogue is stifled and understanding becomes elusive. As a result, bridging the chasm between the unyielding convictions of the zealot and the perspectives of those who hold differing beliefs can become a seemingly insurmountable task.
- The Question of Religion and Its Purpose by Gideon de Savia 374 AC.
It was only half-a-day’s ride when we encountered the Sandgorgers. At first, I would range ahead with a lit torch in hand to try and provoke the hidden amphibians into an attack. Once a group, or individual, of the monsters was found, Pakum would hang back with our mounts. There he would stake our animals, set up a temporary camp, and light a fire made from dried vegetation, unearthed a few inches under the sand. It was a rather careless strategy and would need some refinement.
Kidu would then look for any signs of monsters that I missed, find their exact location, and flush them out. At first he was hesitant, as his finely-honed instincts and skills were still adapting to an unfamiliar environment. As time progressed, however, he grew more sure of himself, and led us to where our victim was hidden.
“There, look, on the dry snow,” the wildman observed, pointing to a small rock formation twenty or so paces away from the far bank of the shallow river.
“Sand,” Elwin corrected tartly, which drew a dark look from Kidu.
Squinting my eyes, I could not see it at first, but as my eyes truly focused upon it, I began to see the details that betrayed the Sandgorgers. A small area of the sand was a little different, a little darker, and the nearby vegetation had been subtly disturbed.
You have learned Tracking lvl.1
Having learned a new skill, I grinned inanely. Kidu must have taken my expression for one of eagerness, as he smiled wolfishly in return.
“I can flush it out, if I approach from the other direction with fire. Make it run to you!” he offered gleefully.
“It is a good and simple pn. But the Northman will need to reach the other side undetected before lighting his torch. If there are others, his is the most dangerous of tasks,” commented Cordelia, her beautiful lips pursed in thought.
Larynda raised a hand timidly and I gave her a small nod.
“I’ve been learning a lot about the feel for this Water stuff. The old woman told me something about it being in all things. Dunno about that, but to me it just kinda flows different when it’s in living stuff. Anyways, don’t think there’s any of ‘em nearby, at least not in the river. Don’t know about all this sand, though,” piped the small girl.
“I don't think there are any of them,” corrected Cordelia with a saintly smile, which caused the half-elf to roll her eyes.
This small act of disrespect, in turn, prompted the Temple Knight to cuff her lightly about the head, drawing a small ‘ouch’ from the child. I was taken a little aback by how no one commented on the casual use of violence in disciplining children. Different cultures, I supposed.
“That aside for a moment, I believe there might be someone more suitable for the task…” I ventured.
“Fine. I’ll do it. How bad can a bunch of overgrown frogs be anyways?” huffed Elwin, with his usual rascally smile.
“This is for me,” rumbled Kidu countered ominously.
Listening to their exchange, I decided it would be best to refrain from any addition to their discussion. I had a feeling that anything I said would be simply adding oil to the fire.
“Alright, alright, big man. Knock yourself out. Was just thinking you’d be more useful shooting at them with that big bow of yours, right?” the Rogue expined quickly.
“No, you shoot,” Kidu insisted stubbornly.
“I can barely draw that thing…”
Elwin made to go on, but he quickly cmmed up on the subject when he saw Kidu’s expression grow dangerous. “Alright, as I said before. I’ll have some fun with it. I needed a bit of practice anyways. Don’t bme me if one of my arrows nicks you, if I can even shoot that thing,” he grumbled, as he accepted the quiver and bow from the Hunter.
“Hah, I doubt that, little man. If you should be of such poor aim, then I will simply just catch the needle!” he excimed, spping the smaller man’s back good-naturedly.
