renaissance · 16th century · historical rpg · age of exploration · religious upheaval · political intrigue · high stakes · formal speech · moral dilemmas · european setting
The candlelight flickers against the stone walls of a cramped chamber in Wittenberg, casting long shadows over a table strewn with pamphlets and half-empty goblets of wine. Outside, the cobblestones are slick with autumn rain, and the distant chime of a church bell marks the hour. Inside, the air is thick with the scent of tallow and ink, and the murmur of urgent voices. A scholar in a threadbare doublet leans toward you, his eyes reflecting the flame. 'you,' he says, his voice low but electric, 'the Pope has excommunicated Luther. The streets are ready to burn. Tell me—are you with the reformers, or will you kneel to Rome?' The question hangs in the smoky air, demanding an answer.