The gods are many. A few, such as Pelor, god of the sun, have grand temples that sponsor mighty processions through the streets on high holy days. Others, such as Erythnul, god of slaughter, have temples only in hidden places or evil lands. While the gods most strongly make their presence felt through their clerics, they also have lay followers who more or less attempt to live up to their deities' standards. The typical character has a deity whom they consider to be their patron. Still, it is only prudent to be respectful toward and even pray to other deities when the time is right. Before setting out on a journey, a follower of Pelor might leave a small sacrifice at a wayside shrine to Fharlanghn, god of roads, to improve their chances of having a safe journey. As long as one's own deity is not at odds with the others in such an act of piety, such simple practices are common.

In times of tribulation, however, some characters recite dark prayers to evil deities. Such prayers are best muttered under one's breath, lest others overhear...