Define Morality (sage ability)

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Define morality is an amateur-status sage ability in the study of Gods that equips the character with an intrinsic sense of righteousness, enabling them to discern the moral implications of actions or circumstances, especially when in a quandary.

The insight provided aims to prioritize the character's well-being while maintaining goodwill towards others. The knowledge encapsulates virtues like restraint, benevolence, resilience and patience. It doesn't guarantee effortless solutions or immediate rewards.

Moral Guidelines

When a character contemplates following the advised path (and it's crucial for the DM to present this wisdom as a suggestive framework, not as definitive directives), the DM should weave the narrative thoughtfully. For instance, occasionally tilting the scales in the character's favor — perhaps sparing them from certain saving throws or an unprovoked monster, when a diplomatic resolution is plausible. However, should the character display arrogance or recklessness, the narrative should echo potential repercussions, expressing the character's moral divergence from the "correct moral path."

It's essential to note that this introspective quest for moral clarity is an active choice by the character. Post-reflection, the player retains full autonomy over their actions. The DM's role is to furnish a genuine, altruistic response, independent of the campaign's objectives or player benefits. It's NOT to play the character for the player.

Game Demands

If the DM feels inadequate in delivering such unbiased judgments, it's recommended to engage in a collaborative approach. The DM can entrust this moral-making to the collective wisdom of the player group, allowing for a more democratic and encompassing perspective. By doing so, not only can it enrich the narrative with diverse viewpoints, but might also foster a sense of camaraderie and shared responsibility among players.

The DM can then tailor the campaign around this consensus, ensuring that the game remains fluid and adaptive to the moral compasses of its participants. Alternatively, if integrating this ability becomes too intricate or disrupts the flow of the game, the DM might consider temporarily sidelining or entirely omitting it, focusing on other aspects of the campaign that resonate more harmoniously with the group's dynamics.


See Theology & Customs (sage field)