Ceremonial Faith

[En Forcer]

This is a fascinating conversation. However, I'd like to propose an idea in regards to the Pretenders and what they actually are in a way that fits in with the milleau.

The pretenders are demi-gods. Corporeal, not quite ready (or aware of) becoming the non-corporeal Primary deity. That being said, when their body is slain, all pretenders are in a sense immortal. Waiting just on the other side of the "veil" to be called back and reconstituted. One could almost call their physical body an Avatar. But they still are a single consciousness and "used to" inhabiting a physical body hence the desire to actually be present in a capitol province, lead troops, etc.

I would propose higher levels of Pretender status as they get closer to total ascension but that is a subject for Dom3.

Anyways back to the point. Because the pretender is not actually dead, merely discorporated, the priestly function of call god, and all other priestly abilities remain at full power. The consciousness and link with all his worshippers and priests remains as long as the pretender does not suffer "final death" ie- all dominion is extinguished. This can be so traumatic that the loss can cause a corporeal pretender to disintigrate immediately. The effect would be permanent. Restoring worship some years down the line would do no good because the pretender is not waiting on the other side to be called back. He is permanently dissolved.

So we need an unbroken span of dominion from the start of attaining demigod status and on through the pretenders total existence. Even once ascended, the deity will continue to require worship.

I see how easy it is to digress!

I believe the "Call God" ceremony is a priestly function, and that priests continue to receive power from their god until all dominion is extinguished. Being corporial or "dead" has no bearing on it.