Demands of the Three Arc

Demands of the Three 2024 Event Timeline Galactic Events N/A Major Events Silicon Nightmares Arc Minor Events Stoking The Flames Arc · Demands of the Three Arc · War in Heaven Arc This is the overview and timeline page for the Demands of the Three Arc which began on January 21st, 2024 and pertains largely to Unathi lore. It is centered around the resurgence of the Sk'akh Church, and the election of a new High Priest. Below is a summary of the arc's applicable news articles, and additions. BREAKING: Religious Riots in Imas'hi! News Article Publisher: Sinta Articles Writer: RustingWithYou Editors: Lent23, CaptainGecko 21/01/2466 Religious tensions reach a breaking point in the Heartland city of Imas'hi. The Sk'akh archpriests call for unity. Breaking news from the city of Imas’hi, as religious violence has broken out in the streets! Reports indicate that a group of Si’akh cultists were performing one of their profane rites near a Sk’akh church, doubtless in an attempt to agitate the locals. A group of angered Sk’akh faithful fought back, sparking a vicious brawl which has spread to the Hitas Kae Memorial District and appears to still be going on now. A group of Th’akh Sinta, largely refugees from the northern Wasteland, has also joined in on the violence, with the Imas’hi City Watch working to contain the rioters within the Memorial District. Lady-Regent Amz’izi Kae has commented on the violence, stating that “it wounds my heart to see my people fighting in such a way. I pray only that my stalwart watchmen will be able to restore order, and that my beautiful city is not left in such disarray. I am glad that my husband, Sk’akh keep him, did not live to see such behavior in his land.” Several dozen arrests have already been made by the City Watch, and Archpriest Koszkahe Oklaal of the Sk’akh Church has issued a public statement on the rioting, calling for the Sk’akh faithful involved to stand down and let order be restored. Video footage is available courtesy of Dharr Amza, Sinta Articles Church correspondent. The camera fades in on the steps of an enormous and ancient building, adorned with carvings and imagery of Sk’akh - the Third Scept of Skalamar, headquarters of the Church. A black-scaled Unathi in elegant white and golden robes stands at a podium, an ornamental gilded staff in his hand. Subtitles identify him as Koszkahe Oklaal, Archpriest of the Heartlands. After a moment, he begins to speak, Tau Ceti Basic subtitles rolling across the bottom of the screen. “Brothers and sisters, my fellow children of Sk’akh - what have we become, to engage in such lawlessness? I urge you, lay down your arms, and let order be restored to Imas’hi. I understand that you are angry, taunted by the ramblings of these lunatic cultists - and the passion that the Warrior stirs in our hearts can be a force for great good, but it must be tempered with the Healer’s grace, the Fisher’s wisdom. Balance in all things, my friends - that is the foundation of Sk’akh’s grace. But the blame does not solely lie with you, or with these heretic madmen and their so-called prophet. It shames me to say this, but the Church has failed you, the faithful children of the Great Spirit. We have been leaderless, divided, bickering - where we should be resolute, unified, a point of guidance for all the faithful. A man cannot survive without his head, a nation cannot survive without its lord - and the Church cannot survive in such a state. I call upon my fellow archpriests - no more shall we be divided! The time has come to raise a new High Priest, and to let the Church be whole once more!” Immediately, the assembled reporters erupt with shouting and questions - but the Archpriest does not reply, turning his back on the podium and ascending the steps back into the Scept. He steps below an enormous statue of the three-faced god, and vanishes from view. After a moment, the camera fades to black. Archpriest Oklaal has reinforced his statement several times over, calling for his fellows to join him in the Great Scept and appoint a new leader for the Church. While the Archpriests have found it difficult to agree in the past, the addition of Akale Roeruz, Archpriest of Tza, has meant they can no longer be stuck in a deadlock. At this time, none of the other Archpriests have responded to Oklaal’s request. We will keep our readers updated on the situation within the Sk’akh Church as it develops. As always, for Sinta news Spur-wide, stick to the outlet that you can trust - stick to Sinta Articles. Archpriests Gather In Skalamar News Article Publisher: Sinta Articles Writer: RustingWithYou Editors: Lent23, CaptainGecko 24/01/2466 Amid calls for the Church to be whole again, the five Sk'akh Archpriests assemble. Earlier this morning, the five Archpriests of the Sk’akh Church gathered in Skalamar, seemingly supporting Archpriest Oklaal’s call for a new High Priest. The position of High Priest has been vacant for four years now, since the treason and exile of Yizra Unzi, with the Archpriests ruling by committee. Since Archpriest Oklaal’s call for a united front, the other Archpriests have been traveling to the Heartland, where they have announced a press conference where they will address the Hegemony’s faithful. Church correspondent Dharr Amza will be on the scene and providing live coverage of this exciting development among the faith. Archpriest Korza Azandar of the Southlands and Archpriest Akale Roeruz of Tza both arrived in Skalamar early this week, and were joined soon after by Archpriest Kharan Malza of Zazalai. The Archpriest of Ouerea, Iloso Azente, is scheduled to arrive by shuttle this evening, having been seen off earlier today by crowds of faithful in New Skalamar. To many of the faithful, this is a sign of hope - that the Church will once more be able to fulfill its duties as Sk’akh’s earthly representative. To those outside the faith, however, it is viewed with a great deal more apprehension. Our reporters were able to collect some statements gauging the popular mood on the streets of Skalamar. “It’s about time. All those crazy cultists out in the Wasteland, and those half-machine lunatics on Ouerea? The Church needs to be strong to sort all that out, not sit around debating if the sky is blue all day long.” -Vasegh Kssighriss, Hephaestus shuttle pilot “Last time we had a High Priest, he built a private army and tried to overthrow the Hegemon. What good’s a new one going to do? We Th’akh have been fine for thousands of years without some fat-tail in fancy robes telling us how to deal with our own spirits, let the rest of Moghes try it.” -Kseok Tarzi, Junzi Electric guildsman “My brother died fighting those damned Maraziites, when they rebelled against the Hegemon. I pay my tithes, I go to the sermons, but why should we give someone else the kind of power that honorless filth Unzi had?” -Ahkna Zorek, Skalamar University of Medicine apprentice Clearly, the possibility of a new High Priest is a divisive subject for many. By Sk’akh tradition, the Archpriests will spend some time in discussion and addressing the concerns of the faithful, before entering a week-long period of seclusion to elect a new High Priest from among their number. Press Conference Interrupted By Deranged Criminal! News Article Publisher: Sinta Articles Writer: RustingWithYou Editors: Lent23, CaptainGecko 28/01/2466 The remnants of the Church's past come back to haunt it. The camera fades in on the interior of an enormous cathedral, packed corner to corner with an enormous crowd of Unathi. Carvings, status, and iconography of Sk’akh cover every inch of it, with five robed Unathi standing at the front of the room, in front of an enormous stained glass window depicting Sk’akh forcing Moghes and the spirit world apart. Helpful subtitles identify them as the five Archpriests of Sk’akh. In the center, a black-scaled Unathi looks up, leaning on an ornamental gilded staff - Archpriest Koszkahe Oklaal of the Heartlands. He lifts one hand, and waits for the crowd’s murmurs to die down. When silence reigns in the hall, he speaks. “Brothers and sisters, children of the Great Spirit. I welcome you here, to this most sacred of sites - the heart of our Church. You have come from each corner of the world, as have my fellow Archpriests and I, to hear our word and the word of Sk’akh. There will be a new High Priest, my friends - chosen from among our number. Sk’akh will have an earthly voice once more - and we shall never again be divided!” There is some cheering from the crowd, as another Archpriest steps forward - red-scaled with large frills. Subtitles identify him as Archpriest Korza Azandar of the Southlands. He lifts his hands to the crowd, and is met with rigorous applause. “Archpriest Oklaal, my brother in Sk’akh, was not wrong, when he said we have failed our people! We have been divided, unwilling and unable to act, but no more! We will be whole again, a Church capable of defending its faithful! We-” Archpriest Azandar is cut off abruptly by a shout from the crowd. “Liars! Cowards! Preachers of falsehood!” The camera abruptly pans to where a burly dark green Unathi has pushed his way through the crowd. He is dressed in ragged clothing, and seems to be furious as he jabs a long-taloned finger towards the five Archpriests. The guards start moving through the crowd towards him, as he shoves his way towards the front of the room. “We defended our faithful, and were cast out! For your own pride and power, you betrayed Sk’akh’s earthly will! None of you are worthy! Liars, traitors, honorless scum!” The enraged Unathi sprint forward, one hand reaching into his satchel. In a flash he moves, throwing something towards the front of the room. Almost immediately, he is tackled by three watchmen, throwing him to the floor. There is a loud clang, as something metallic strikes the marble tiles, landing at the feet of a statue of the Warrior. “Unzi was High Priest, and none of you deserve to stand in his shadow! Heretics! Filth! Servants of nothing but-” A gag is shoved in his mouth, as the watchmen begin dragging the mad Sinta away. The crowd is shoving, trying to get a closer look, as the Archpriests call for order from behind their podiums. The camera slowly pans over, zooming in on the item the assailant threw. It is a full-face mask, made to fit an Unathi and forged from solid iron. After a moment, the camera cuts abruptly, with the symbol of the Keepers of Heirlooms displayed above the words “We’ll Be Right Back” in Sinta’Unathi. This footage was recorded during a public address by the Sk’akh Archpriests earlier this morning. The deranged man who disrupted the proceedings was taken into custody by the Skalamar Watch, who have refused to issue a statement at this time. Our sources indicate that he has been identified as Vhariz Gukuzan, a former Maraziite who was recorded as missing following the Order’s dissolution. Gukuzan was an officer within the Maraziite Order, and was believed to have perished in the Siege of the Scept four years ago. He will likely be tried both for past crimes and his present breaches of public order shortly. The press conference was abruptly halted following this outburst. None of the Archpriests have agreed to provide us with comments on this man, or on the accusations levied at them, at this time. As always, we will keep our readers updated as the situation develops. Special Feature - Interview With Archpriest Malza News Article Publisher: Sinta Articles Writer: RustingWithYou Editors: Lent23, CaptainGecko 31/01/2466 The first Archpriest to formally announce his candidacy for High Priest speaks with Sinta Articles. The recent press silence from the Sk’akh Church has been broken, as Archpriest Kharan Malza of Zazalai has agreed to an interview with Sinta Articles. The interview was conducted yesterday afternoon by Dharr Amza, Sinta Articles’ church correspondent. The Archpriest spoke on the pending vote, last week’s disruption, and the controversial subject of the Maraziite Order. The camera fades in on a dark brown Unathi with long, curling horns and a crocodilian facial structure. He is seated at a small wooden table, in what appears to be a side room of the Great Scept. A stained glass window behind him depicts the Warrior Mukari, striking down a formless mass of darkness with his sword. Seated opposite him is a pale cream Unathi with small, backwards-pointing horns. Subtitles identify them as Archpriest Kharan Malza and Dharr Amza respectively. Clearing their throat softly, Amza speaks. “Good afternoon, Archpriest - thank you for agreeing to this interview. With the topic of a new High Priest being raised, people are eager to get to know who’s in the running better - so let’s start with the obvious question. Do you intend to put your name forward as the next High Priest?” Malza takes a sip of his water, flicking his tongue into the air softly. His voice is low and gravelly, with the unmistakable accent of the Zazalai Mountains thick in his words. “I wish to see the Church be a force for good in this world. If one of my fellows can convince me they are suited to this, I will vote for them - otherwise, I will stand for Sk’akh and for what is right, as I have always done.” “Do you think any of your fellow Archpriests are up to the challenge? The Church has had a, ah… challenging few years.” Amza adjusts their microphone slightly. The Archpriest’s tail thumps against the floor. “You speak of Unzi, and his foolishness. Do not bandy words and speak in half-truths, bard. I have little patience for those who do not say what they mean. The Church must be seen as what we should be - peacekeepers, defenders. Champions of the just. That is what I wish to see us become once more.” “I- well, that is certainly an admirable goal. Now, there was an incident - that man who disturbed your address the other day. The other Archpriests have been unwilling to comment on him, but our sources indicate that he was once a member of the Maraziite Order. Do you have any words on him, or his words?” “I have little patience for the blathering of lunatics, and the Maraziites lost their way. But I cannot say he was entirely wrong. Unzi was a madman, but the Order was founded for a noble goal - to protect the innocent, and to punish the guilty. When they fell, we turned our backs on every man of them. How many were condemned as criminals, who joined to do the Great Spirit’s work? Do they each deserve the charges levied at them?” The Archpriest takes a long drink of water, as Amza writes a few notes. “Archpriest, are you calling for a reformation of the Iron Masks?” “I am saying that Unzi led us wrong, making the Church play politics. We have a duty to the souls of the Sinta people, and to defend our faithful against aggression. The Church should not be a force of war, but we must have the power to act against heresy, and to defend ourselves from the malign forces arrayed against us. The Si’akhists gather in the Wasteland, and chant profane rituals to their flames. The Aut’akh plot their vile rituals on Ouerea. Who will defend the righteous against the wicked, when they grow emboldened enough to strike?” The Archpriest pauses, letting out a soft hiss. “The Iron Masks rose against the Hegemon, and I know why he disbanded them. I do not call for their reform, but I will say that the ideals on which they were founded were admirable ones - not to be cast aside because of Unzi’s lust for power.” “You were an opponent of the former High Priest, yes?” “Words are cheap. You’d be hard-pressed to find a soul in the Church who wasn’t always Unzi’s enemy, and didn’t know him for exactly what he was - or so they all say. Makes one wonder how he ever took power, if they are as honest as they profess.” Amza nods, jotting down a few more notes. The Archpriest takes another drink of his water, shifting slightly into a spot of sunlight shining through the stained glass window. “So - as High Priest, would you call for a reformation of the Maraziites? A return to the Church as a military power?” Another thump of the tail, more agitated this time. “Have you ever read Devotions of the Three-Faced God, bard? There is a passage you may find enlightening. ‘The Warrior shall strengthen their arms, that they might each stand against hundreds and triumph. The Healer shall grant them compassion, that their hearts might be stirred to defend the innocent. The Fisher shall grant them wisdom, that they might be unburdened of doubt. Blessed shall they be, who stand before the corrupt and the wicked and shall not falter.’ The faith must have its defenders.” Amza nods, jotting down a few more notes. “We’re almost out of time here, Archpriest - if I might ask one final question. Do you have any words for the faithful, in this exciting time?” The Archpriest looks up towards the camera, nodding. “Keep the faith, each of you. Great trials may bring great rewards, in time. Sk’akh shall watch over you, and over each of us. Praise to the Three in One.” “Wise words, that I’m sure are a comfort to many. Thank you for your time, Archpriest, and to all our viewers at home for tuning in.” The camera fades out, displaying the Sinta Articles logo before the start of a commercial for offworld work opportunities with Hephaestus Industries. Long and short-term positions open on Mictlan, New Suez, Valkyrie and Burzsia - visit hephaestusindustries.iz/careers/offworld to learn more! Righteous or Radical? Archpriests Speak Against Militancy News Article Publisher: Sinta Articles Writer: RustingWithYou Editors: Lent23, CaptainGecko 4/02/2466 Not all of the Archpriests align with Malza, and his opponents make their voices heard. In response to Archpriest Malza’s recent interview, two more of the Church’s leaders have spoken with Sinta Articles correspondents, condemning Archpriest Malza’s calls for a more militant Church. Archpriest Oklaal of the Southlands and Archpriest Roeruz of Tza spoke with our Church correspondent earlier today, explaining their visions for the future of the faith. Footage attached below. The camera pans in on a large and elegant room, dominated by a long table. A large and ornate chair sits conspicuously absent at the table’s head. Two Unathi in the fine robes of Archpriests sit on one side, while correspondent Dharr Amza sits on the other. Two armored Priests of the Warrior stand at the room’s door, inactive energy halberds at their side. After a moment, Amza speaks, adjusting the guild mantle about their shoulders. “Thank you for joining me today, Archpriests - I’m told we’re live in front of nearly two million viewers. You two seem to be fairly unified on the issue of Church militancy, and the potential of a Maraziite reformation - would you like to share with the audience how you feel on the subject?” The two Archpriests exchange a glance, before Oklaal gestures to Roeruz. The younger Unathi speaks, tongue flicking out and tasting the air. He has the deep, gravelly accent of the Tza Prairie to his words. “I am from Tza, Amza. I am not Th’akh, but I have seen the rubble of the Akhandi temples. Twenty years, I have strived to bring the light of Sk’akh to my homeland, and do you know how they looked at me these past few? With fear, and with rage. The Iron Crusade made enemies across the Hegemony, and for what? Is there any less sin or misery in this world now, than there was before Unzi decided that he could save souls at swordpoint? We are sworn to guide the souls of our fellow Sinta to Sk’akh’s grace - who are those who died at the Maraziites’ hands, if not our fellow Sinta? Malza speaks of an army of the righteous, but any army that he raises will be made of men, too easily corrupted by power.” The Archpriest’s tail flicks, as he seems almost sorrowful in his words. Oklaal takes a long sip of his pale lilac wine. “It should not be this way. Who among us can look at the state of Moghes, and say that what we need to do is to kill each other more?” Amza nods, before turning to Archpriest Oklaal, who lowers his wine. “I entirely agree. Unzi led us to ruin, and Archpriest Malza, though I respect him greatly, cannot see that his ideas would only lead us down the same path. No one has ever been brought to the light of the Three in One by a gun pointed in their face. Are we not citizens of the Hegemony? Does Archpriest Malza not trust Hegemon Not’zar to act, in the face of assault from Wasteland heretics or murderous cultists? The formation of the Maraziites, and the militarization of the Church, only made us weaker, allowed us to fall into sin - carried out in the house of Sk’akh! It shames me, Amza. It should shame us all, and we should do our best to never again repeat such evils.” “So, you’re strongly opposed to pardons or reform for the Order, yes?” Both Archpriests nod. Oklaal speaks, swirling the wine in his glass. “We are of one mind on this. Let such things lie.” “Archpriest Oklaal, you served in the Heartland during Unzi’s reign, yes?” A pause, before a nod. “Yes, I did. I regret that I did not oppose him publicly, but at the time his thugs were more than eager to take such things as proof of heresy.” “Some have accused you of opportunism, claiming that you turned your tail when it became convenient.” The Archpriest hisses sharply. “Baseless slander. I serve the same principles, the same master, as I have always done - the Great Spirit. It is easy for others to judge, from the safety of far-off lands - but I sought to preserve what I could, when my beloved Church fell under the sway of a madman.” “Did you not vote for Unzi as High Priest, Archpriest Oklaal?” “I did not know what he was, then. None of us did, and there are better things to discuss than the lies of a dead man.” Amza pauses a moment, nodding. “Of course, Archpriest. So, let’s move on to the more relevant issues of today - do either of you seek to be named High Priest?” Roeruz shrugs, hissing softly. “What Sk’akh wills shall be, and it is not for us to know the pattern of things. The will of the Threefold will be revealed at the proper time. I myself do not seek the position - I am only recently an Archpriest, after all.” Oklaal finishes his wine, placing the goblet back on the table. A white-robed servant swiftly whisks it away. “I have managed the Heartlands Church for years. I have seen the folly of Unzi, and where it led us. I do not wish to sound boastful, but I know the Church and its realities better than any of my fellows - and I believe that I could best serve Sk’akh as High Priest. I hope that the others will come to feel as I do, with time.” “Speaking of time, that’s about all we have. Thank you both again for speaking with me, Archpriests. Do you have any final words for the faithful who may be watching us today?” Oklaal nods, looking towards the camera. “Do not be taken in by calls to violence and bloodshed. Let the Healer temper your souls with wisdom. The will of Sk’akh shall make itself known, and the Church shall stand resolute against all corruption.” The camera fades to black. After a moment, a commercial begins for The Waste Hunter 2: Xsain Fury, which appears to focus on the Vaurca Warrior from the first movie. In cinemas this Travakh. Unlikely Alliance? Azandar Defends Malza! News Article Publisher: Sinta Articles Writer: RustingWithYou Editors: Lent23, CaptainGecko 7/02/2466 The idea of Church militancy rapidly grows contentious, with Archpriest Azandar backing Malza's views. The situation among the Archpriests continues to develop, as Archpriest Azandar of the Southlands has reached out to Sinta Articles to speak in defense of his colleague Malza. Our church correspondent conducted an interview with him from Skalamar earlier today, where he spoke on his vision for the Church and its future. The camera fades in on a small study, walls lined with books and scrolls. A red-scaled Unathi in the elaborate robes of an Archpriest sits in front of a large wooden desk, with a laptop sitting open behind him. Seated across from him is the now-familiar sight of Dharr Amza, Sinta Articles church correspondent. After a moment, the journalist speaks. “And we’re live. Good morning, Archpriest Azandar, thank you for joining me - I’ll get right into it with the question on everyone’s mind, do you want to see yourself as High Priest?” Azandar nods, replying without hesitation. He has the accent of a Southlands noble, fast and precise. “I do. The Church needs leadership who understands that we are servants of Sk’akh, not bound up in earthly politics. I have seen the division and chaos of last year’s riots over Hephaestus - the people need to know that there is someone who cares for their spiritual wellbeing.” “I can certainly agree with that - there’s been some recent controversy around Archpriest Malza and his call for a more militant Church. Several of your fellows have denounced his ideas - what are your thoughts on the matter?” The Archpriest hisses softly. “The Church needs to be able to defend itself. Archpriest Malza and I may not always agree, but we are of one mind on this. Many of the Maraziites were good men, who pledged their lives to a greater purpose, and we turned our backs on them when it was politically convenient to do so. Truth and righteousness, that is what we should uphold - to spend our time playing politics instead is anathema in the Threefold’s eyes.” “You don’t fear corruption among the Church’s warriors, such as what happened with the Order? Many of the documents are still classified, but Unzi wielded them as a cudgel against his detractors for years. What’s to stop such a thing happening again?” “I am not Unzi. What is to stop any organization from falling to corruption, any vassal from betraying their lord? The Maraziites were their own structure, independent of the Church and answerable only to the High Priest. That is where we went wrong, creating a power that could be so easily misused. As for the rest, we must have faith in our successors to wield well the tools we hand to them. That is all any of us can do.” “So, would you stand behind Malza for High Priest?” “Perhaps. If I had faith his vision aligned with mine for what we should be - but I intend to stand for the position myself. I believe that the Church can be a guiding force, a force for good in a time of great uncertainty, and I believe I am the best suited to accomplish that. If another could convince me of their ability, then I would stand with them.” A brief pause, as a servant enters the room with a porcelain teapot. Two cups of pale amber tea are poured, and offered to each of the speakers. Amza takes a long sip from theirs, flipping a page in their notepad. “You’ve acquired something of a reputation as a man with the common touch, Archpriest - I’ve seen some footage of you speaking with rioters and watchmen during the Jaz’zirt upheaval last year. Do you think that your leadership would focus the Church more on being in-touch with the working Sinta?” “Sk’akh sees all souls, high or low, and They bear love for each of Their children. The rioting saddened me, seeing such anger and hatred left to fester for so long. For centuries, a common faith, a common system of values and beliefs, has united this nation. We are seeing the results of that faith failing its adherents in the streets today, during a time of uncertainty. I don’t hate Hephaestus, or think they are a sign of wickedness as others do, but people were afraid and uncertain about their actions, and they were brushed aside. They need reassurance, they need protection - they need a Church that they know will stand for them against injustice.” “A Church for the people, then?” Amza’s tongue flicks with a hint of amusement. “If you like. I am not one for such grand and empty statements. What matters is that we are whole, we are strong, and we are prepared to do the will of the Three in One. Let me ask, are you a follower of Sk’akh, Amza?” The correspondent nods, somewhat hesitantly. “I am, Archpriest. My clan has been faithful for many-” “How often do you attend sermons? Pay tithes? Attend gatherings of the faithful?” A pause. Amza takes a very long sip of their tea. “Not as often as I should, in truth. Recent events, well… you know how it is.” The Archpriest nods, his tail brushing in small circles on the floor. “I do. The Church should be a shelter and a guide for the faithful, and yet too many feel that we have turned from Sk’akh to serve ourselves - and there are those among our number for whom that is true. I intend to see us devoted to the service of no earthly powers, but to the will of Sk’akh almighty.” There is a brief pause, as silence fills the room. Amza adjusts their papers, before turning their gaze back to the Archpriest. “A noble sentiment, Archpriest Azandar - and one that I’m sure the faithful at home hope you can live up to. Thank you for joining me today, and do you have any final words for those watching?” The Archpriest shakes his head. “All I wish to say, I have already said. The Great Spirit frowns on empty words and those who speak them.” The camera fades to black, before cutting to a commercial for Sparring Sea colonization ventures. Looking for adventure and profit among the stars? Not afraid of an honest day’s work? The Hegemon needs YOU - inquire today! Word From Ouerea - Azente Speaks On High Priest Election! News Article Publisher: Sinta Articles Writer: RustingWithYou Editors: Lent23, CaptainGecko 11/02/2466 The final Archpriest makes his voice heard. Earlier this morning, our church correspondent Dharr Amza conducted an interview with Iloso Azente, Archpriest of Ouerea. Frequently under fire from the wider Church for his unorthodox beliefs, Azente has always been somewhat of an outsider in Church politics - a humble priest from New Skalamar, appointed by Overlord Zik’san after his predecessor’s dishonor and death. Archpriest Azente was known to have fought with the rebels during the Ouerean conflict five years ago, though specific details about his actions at that time have remained unknown to us. Regardless of his unorthodox stances, however, Azente is beloved by his congregation - earlier today, a vast group of Ouerean Sk’akh faithful took to the streets of New Skalamar, marching in support of Archpriest Azente for High Priest. Given recent events on Ouerea, the New Skalamar Watch is on high alert, but so far the demonstration appears to have remained peaceful - a welcome change from recent events. Attached is a photograph of a vast crowd of Unathi, marching through the Pioneers’ Field of New Skalamar. Banners and signs displaying iconography of Sk’akh are visible, as well as several Ouerean flags. Many of the banners are painted with slogans in Sinta’Unathi - the two most common reading “HIGH PRIEST AZENTE” and “SK’AKH WILLS LIBERATION”. Our Ouerean correspondents are monitoring this situation, and will keep us - and our readers - alerted to any new developments on the ground. In Skalamar, Archpriest Azente had several comments to make on this in an interview with Church correspondent Dharr Amza. Footage has been attached for our online audience. The camera fades in on a modest room - a bed, a bookshelf, a desk and a table seem to be all the furnishings present, though a large window provides a truly impressive view of the Skalamar cityscape. Seated at the table are Dharr Amza and a green-scaled Unathi with large curled horns in the elaborate robes of an Archpriest, identified by subtitles as Archpriest Iloso Azente of Ouerea. He pours a cup of tea for Amza, leaning back slightly in his chair. The correspondent gives a nod of thanks, before looking over their notepad. “Archpriest Azente, thank you for agreeing to meet with me - we’ve actually been getting a lot of messages from our Ouerean audience asking for this, so I’m glad to finally get it done. How are you finding Skalamar?” The Archpriest’s tongue flicks out slightly. “It is a grand city - though each time I visit, Church business always keeps me too busy for sightseeing. What I do see is mixed, however - a great and beautiful city, but with much suffering. The slums sprawl around the city, and very few have both the resources and desire to help those stranded there. I am pleased to see Priestesses of the Healer tending to illness and injury among the desperate of Skalamar, but I would like to see the Church doing more.” Amza nods. “A noble goal, to be certain. So, if you were High Priest, you would direct Church efforts to helping the poor? Somewhat of a departure from the topic your peers have been talking about - restoring the Church’s military power.” “Is it? The Church can do what it will to improve the lot of the people, but the core of that requires us to be strong - like Archpriest Azandar said, capable of defending the faithful. The Warrior and Healer are not opposed, and we have more than enough resources for both. The last Hegemon, in his madness, embraced the Si’akh cult - and while Hegemon Not’zar is wise, what guarantee have we that one of his successors will not fall prey to such things? Archpriest Oklaal calls for the Church to solely rely on outside power to defend itself, but I am Ouerean - forgive me if I do not trust calls to lay down arms so easily.” Amza’s tail twitches slightly, as they clear their throat. “Yes, well- the Ouerean faithful seem to be very fond of you. Have you seen the images of them marching in the streets? You’re a lucky man to inspire such loyalty.” Azente chuffs, taking a sip of his tea. “That is our way, Amza! Ouereans are loyal to those who are loyal to us, and I have been nothing if not loyal to my congregation. When the Revolution came - ah, can I speak of that, or will that prevent this interview from airing?” “Ah- yes, you can speak of it. I was meaning to ask about your role in the rebellion, actually - I’ve heard that you fought with Overlord Zik’san’s forces?” Azente nods, leaning back in his chair slightly. “I did - good that things wound up as they did, or I might well have been declared a heretic. There are a few who would do that anyway, but they are hardly worth listening to. I won’t pretend to have been a particularly instrumental figure, however - I helped where I could, that’s all. You’d find it difficult to find an Ouerean who didn’t do as much as I - but for the faithful, I suppose I became a symbol, a presence that meant the Great Spirit was on their side.” “And do you support Overlord Zik’san in his more extreme political positions? Calls for… a wider implementation of the Ouerean system, that sort of thing?” “Am I a Warrior of Liberty, you mean? I don’t tend to associate myself with any one party - I voted for the Heirs last time around, but I don’t know if I’ll do the same again. After that business during the protests last year… I’m not going to condone rioting, but I’m not going to pretend that response was justified. But now Hephaestus is everywhere, and only time will tell if those leaks were true or not. I’m assuming your official line is ‘not’, so we can move past that, yes?” “Yes, let’s - stay focused on the Church business, please. Do you intend to cast your name for High Priest?” Azente shrugs. “Why not? I doubt my fellows will vote for me, but perhaps the Three In One will bestow a miracle. That’s been known to happen, you know. In the more likely outcome, I can at least back someone who would be amenable to my goals - to making our Church a true force for good in this world. There are too few of those these days.” “Well, it seems we’re almost out of time - thank you for meeting with me, Archpriest. Do you have any words for the faithful, either here on Moghes or back on Ouerea?” The Archpriest nods, straightening up slightly. “Keep what happens in Skalamar in your prayers, my friends - and if you believe in what I call for, do what you can to make it a reality. Our Church is made from people, after all - and for it to be a force for change in this world, we all must do the same. If you would have a Church to be proud of, start by yourself doing deeds which honor Sk’akh.” “A noble sentiment indeed - this is Dharr Amza, here with Archpriest Iloso Azente as the election of a new High Priest gets closer and closer. Thank you all for tuning in, and remember - for ongoing coverage of Church matters, stick to the source you know you can trust - stick to Sinta Articles. The camera fades to black. After a moment, a commercial begins, showing an Unathi woman in a long coat walking down a rainy Mendell City street. Sinta’Unathi subtitles read “Venom Hearts: Season 6 - Coming Travakh 2466.” Tensions Worsen Among Archpriests - Fighting In Great Scept! News Article Publisher: Sinta Articles Writer: RustingWithYou Editors: Lent23, CaptainGecko 14/02/2466 Sk'akh's most faithful grow increasingly frustrated with debate and argument. As the Archpriests approach their traditional period of seclusion, it appears that tensions are high within the halls of the Great Scept. An anonymous source provided us with leaked audio of an argument between the Archpriests, as the prospect of a new High Priest seems to be straining their relationship. Whether this is a simple moment of frustrations taken too far, or indicative of greater rifts in the Church, remains to be seen. The provided recording has been verified by trusted guildsmen, and has been attached for our listeners. The audio begins playing. It crackles heavily, and is disrupted by heavy background noise - likely the sound of a recorder shifting around inside a pocket. The sound of a heavy thump can be heard, followed by a voice recognizable as Archpriest Oklaal. “-damned if I let you of all people take us back to that!” A second voice cuts in, that of Archpriest Malza. “So you would take us to nothing? Sitting in your thrice-cursed palace, simpering in the Hegemon’s court like some fat-tailed-” The audio is cut off by more rustling. When it resumes, the sound of Archpriest Azandar’s voice can be heard. “Brothers, please- this is not the time for such unseemliness, we have work to be done and-” A thick Tza accent cuts in - Archpriest Roeruz. “Oh, of course you back Malza, you bloody-toothed tailwag. How many Iron Crusades does it take for you to realize we tried your way, and it led us to ruin! Oklaal has-” Archpriest Azente interjects. “Oklaal has nothing but the virtue of having been the closest siro to Unzi’s corpse! The man has spent years lounging in this scept, content to-” There is a loud thud, followed by the sound of a chair scraping across stone. “Keep silent on this, you damned heretic!” “Heretic? Heretic? I would save that term for a man who would have our Church kneel in supplication to earthly-” The rustling renders the next few sentences inaudible. Several repeated thuds can be heard - the sound of someone striking a wooden surface, followed by a chorus of loud Unathi bellowing. Azandar’s voice cuts in, yelling over the rest. “Brothers, we must have order - for Sk’akh’s sake, get off him, Roeruz - Malza, sit back down - are you Archpriests, or squabbling hatchlings? Look at us! We could be a parable, the five fools who squabbled while the Church fell!” Several loud hisses can be heard, before Oklaal interjects. “I will not stand idly by and be insulted by this-” He is cut off by further loud rustling, followed by a loud bump much closer to the recorder. There is a sharp intake of breath, and the voices begin to rapidly grow distant. “-someone outside. Where are the guards?” “In our own Scept, of all things-” “-summon them, go see who that was, you-” The voices fade away to nothingness, as loud rustling and the sound of nervous breathing overwhelms them. There is a loud click, and the recording ends. Evidently, the Archpriests are feeling the strife of the situation - but will it hold them back from electing a new High Priest? The period of seclusion is scheduled to begin in three days’ time, and only then will we see for certain whether the priests can put aside their differences. As always, we will keep our readers updated on the situation as it develops. Hegemon Condemns Church Militancy, Archpriests Enter Seclusion News Article Publisher: Sinta Articles Writer: RustingWithYou Editors: Lent23, CaptainGecko 18/02/2466 The Hegemon gives his firm answer to the question of Sk'akh militancy. The Archpriests prepare to make their choice. This morning, the doors of the Great Scept closed - the Archpriests have entered the inner sanctum, and began the traditional period of seclusion to deliberate on the election of a High Priest. Crowds of the faithful have flocked to Skalamar from every corner of the nation, with every inn, hotel and boarding house in the city full to bursting. Crowds have gathered outside the Great Scept, with some even setting up tents to the irritation of the City Watch, who have several squads of men encircling the area to prevent an outbreak of religious violence similar to that in Imas’hi. Though the Archpriests are silent, the rest of the Hegemony is not, with the topic of Church militancy being a subject of debate among bards, nobles and commoners alike across the nation. At last, the office of the Hegemon has spoken, with High Speaker Seleta Sarnac having given the public and official position of the Izweski on the matter in a press conference yesterday evening. The High Speaker gave the following statement to Sinta Articles. “The Hegemon is happy to see the Church healing from Unzi’s disaster, and wishes to see it whole and secure once again, in these times of religious violence and growing cults. The subject of the Maraziite Order, however, is not one that he is willing to entertain. The Iron Masks rose as traitors against their nation and people, and for that crime their name is marred. The Order will never be permitted to re-establish itself, so long as an Izweski sits the throne.” With the Hegemon having spoken firmly against Church militarization, it remains to be seen how and if this will impact the Archpriests’ voting. Traditionally, Sk’akh periods of seclusion have been as short as twenty minutes to as long as four months during the Exalted Conclave of 1956 CE. While either of those extremes seem unlikely, most elections of this kind have lasted between one and two weeks, though it remains uncertain how long it will take the Archpriests to agree. When a decision is reached, however, Sinta Articles will be the first to inform our audience. For news on the developing situation within the Church, and for all Sinta news Spur-wide, remember to stick with the source you know you can trust - stick with Sinta Articles. Archpriest Vote Announced, Inconclusive Deadlock! News Article Publisher: Sinta Articles Writer: RustingWithYou Editors: Lent23, CaptainGecko 21/02/2466 Reaching a decision proves harder than anticipated. The faithful wait eagerly. A messenger has emerged from the Great Scept, to deliver disappointing news to the gathered thousands of faithful - the Archpriests’ first vote has been inconclusive, and the period of seclusion will continue. This is not uncommon in Church affairs, though it does seem a worrying sign for hope of a swift resolution. Our Church correspondent, Dharr Amza, was able to speak briefly with the messenger, learning the details of the votes - though not who cast them. We learned that the frontrunners seem to be Archpriests Oklaal and Azandar, with two votes cast for each of them. The final vote was cast for Archpriest Malza, and while uncertain it is likely that he voted for himself. Whichever of the two frontrunners wishes to triumph will have to make concessions to the noted militarist Malza, in a time where the Hegemon has taken a firm stance against much of what he desires. The mood in the streets is escalating, with many frustrated at the lack of a swift result. Crowds remain gathered outside the Great Scept, with many of them bearing signs or banners supporting or opposing one of the Archpriests - though so far, they seem united in their shared faith. At sunset yesterday, the entire crowd gathered in a stirring rendition of the Song of Sunstones, a traditional hymn to the glory of the Warrior - a truly remarkable sound, echoed by thousands of voices. Our correspondents were, naturally, on the ground at the Scept, asking visitors who they would favor as High Priest, and their thoughts on the inconclusive vote. Several quotes from them have been included here. “Oklaal seems fine - I’ve been going to church here in Skalamar for thirty years, and I’ve never had a problem with him. What’s important is we have a High Priest, so those Aut’akh witches don’t come steal our eggs in the night. I’ve heard they eat them.” -Essi Yulac, Skalamar resident and clan-mother “Malza. We need a warrior in charge, someone strong enough to deal with those Si’akh madmen. You hear there’s a whole army of them, camped out in the Wasteland? We can’t just sit around and wait for them to come burn our cities, we need action!” -Vharr Gukuzan, Res’karum resident and Hephaestus engineer “I stand for Azandar - I was for Azente, but I heard all that arguing. He was the only one trying to remind them of their duty, and not acting like a hatchling. We need a leader, not some fat-tailed politician who wants to get rich or some bloody-toothed fanatic who wants to start another Iron Crusade.” -Azkohi Kssighriss, Jaz’zirt resident and Fishing League guildsman The crowd is growing restless, as the Hegemony watches eagerly and the Scept remains silent. Will the Archpriests come to a decision, or will the tension in the streets erupt as it did in Imas’hi? For now, it is too soon to tell - though rest assured that Sinta Articles will be the first to inform you, however this situation resolves. Second Vote Goes Through, New High Priest Chosen! News Article Publisher: Sinta Articles Writer: RustingWithYou Editors: Lent23, CaptainGecko 25/02/2466 Korza Azandar is elected as new High Priest of Sk'akh. The doors of the Great Scept have opened, and the crowd sings and laughs in joy. A second vote has gone through, and the Church shall have a new High Priest. In a close vote, Korza Azandar has been chosen to lead the Sk’akh Church, by three votes for and two against. The Archpriests entered the Scept divided, but have emerged in unity, having chosen the new face of the Church in the age to come. The tension in the streets is gone, replaced by celebration. Across Skalamar and far beyond there is feasting, laughter, and song. The Church is whole once more - though what that means, or what concessions High Priest-elect Azandar may have to make to his former fellows is yet uncertain. The ceremony is scheduled for this coming week, with Sk’akh faithful from across Moghes and beyond making pilgrimages to the Great Scept, in the hopes of seeing Sk’akh’s earthly representative anointed. The Hegemon has made it known he will attend, and has issued a public statement of congratulations to Azandar - though it is possible that the matter of further militarization may strain the two. A new Archpriest of the Southlands will also need to be appointed, and the High Priest-elect has let us know that he has a successor in mind - though it will require Overlord Miazso’s approval, of course. As is traditional, a day of celebration for Ska’kh faithful has been declared, with churches from Iroue to Gekhi hosting grand feasts and festivals for their congregations. Though some may be uncertain as to what the future may hold, for the followers of Sk’akh this is without question, something to rejoice. Sinta Articles will be providing live coverage of the event as it unfolds, so be sure to tune in. For Sinta news Spur-wide, stick to the source you know you can trust - stick to Sinta Articles. You may be interested in: "The First Line of Defense" - Join correspondent Vhariz Khusan on an in-depth journey to the southern frontier world of Gekhi! "Three Peoples, Three Plates, One Planet" - An exclusive interview with Skrell master chef Volqix Xuqu-Qil, on the intricacies of Ouerean fusion cuisine. "Spirits of the Wasteland" - Join our top reporters on a journey Camp Integrity for an exclusive interview with a wandering Th'akh exorcist! Click here to see more articles for you! LIVE: High Priest Azandar Inaugurated! News Article Publisher: Sinta Articles Writer: RustingWithYou Editors: Lent23, CaptainGecko 02/03/2466 The faithful rejoice as the new High Priest takes up his position. The camera fades in on the interior of the Great Scept - an enormous hall lined with marble pillars, and illuminated by stained glass windows. The hall is packed with bards, cameras and the assembled faithful, with various nobles crowding the upper mezzanine. In a box above the grand doors, the camera zooms in on two figures - Not’zar and Hizoni Izweski, observing the ceremony. The Hegemon’s face betrays little emotion. Below, the four Archpriests of Sk’akh stand - with Azandar absent from their number. Behind them is a large gilded throne, with the Three Faces of Sk’akh engraved atop it, looming over whoever would sit there. The sound of excited whispers fills the hall as a figure enters - former Archpriest Korza Azandar, clad in a humble white robe, approaches the throne Standing before his fellows, he kneels, the light of Uueoa-Esa bathing the room in an ethereal orange. It is Archpriest Oklaal who speaks first, slamming the butt of his staff against the ground. “Who comes here, before the eyes of Sk’akh?” Azandar bows his head, replying. “One who would serve.” Archpriest Roeruz speaks next, mirroring Oklaal and striking his staff on the marble tiles. “Does he come free of pride? Does he come in supplication, before the Three-in-One’s rule?” “I come in humility, to stand before the Great Spirit and serve as Their instrument.” Archpriest Malza follows suit, rapping his staff. “Will he fight as a defender of the innocent? Will he heal the wounds of a bleeding world? Will he strive to aid those who hold Sk’akh in their hearts?” Head still bowed, Azandar replies. “I will.” Azente is the last to speak, the strike of his staff on stone echoing a moment. “How long will you hold this duty, child of Sk’akh?” “Until my life should end, and my spirit walks at Sk’akh’s side.” “When shall you seek to be released from this service?” “Never.” There is a long pause, the crowd hushed. The Archpriests look among one another, At last, Archpriest Oklaal steps forward, extending one hand towards the kneeling figure. “Then rise, Korza Azandar. Rise as High Priest of Sk’akh, earthly vessel of the Great Spirit’s will. Rise under the blessings of Warrior, Healer, and Fisher, and may you serve Sk’akh faithfully for all your days. So it is done.” The other Archpriests echo the words. “So it is done.” After a moment, Azandar takes the offered hand and rises. One by one, the four Archpriests kneel, as he ascends the steps towards the throne. He sits, and there is a ripple of movement through the crowd - figures in the robes of Sk’akh priests, the fine attire of nobility, the distinctive mantles of guildsmen - all kneeling, as the High Priest of Sk’akh takes his throne. A pause, and the four Archpriests rise, Malza striking his staff three times against the stone, loud enough to echo through the hall. “All hail the High Priest Azandar!” There is cheering as the crowd rises to their feet, the words “All hail! All hail!” echoing from every corner of the room, and even outside. On the throne, the Archpriest looks up over the crowd, before lifting a hand. The effect is immediate, a silence spreading outwards like the ripples of a stone dropped in a pond. “My friends. Children of Sk’akh. I thank you each for the trust you have placed in me, and it shall be repaid. Too long have our claws been idle, too long have we languished in failure - and let this be my first decree, never again shall we be divided! Never again shall we be broken! The Church is in balance once more, the faith whole - and together, we shall shape it into the force for good that it is meant to be! Go forth! Cry it from the rooftops! Let the word of Sk’akh be sung so loud that it is heard in the Beastlands themselves!” There is cheering across the room, loud enough to be deafening. The camera cuts to an aerial shot, of an enormous crowd filling the streets outside the Scept - all cheering in rapturous celebration. In the towers of the Scept itself, bells are ringing, peals chiming into the streets of Skalamar loud enough that the High Priest’s hyperbole seems almost believable. The shot of the cheering crowds lasts a while longer, before the camera fades to black. Church and Hegemon Announce Agreement News Article Publisher: Sinta Articles Writer/Host: RustingWithYou Editors: Lent23/ Captain Gecko 6/03/2466 An accord is reached between the Church and Hegemony. Neither side is entirely satisfied. Shortly after his inauguration four days ago, High Priest Azandar was summoned to meet with the Hegemon, to discuss the future of the Church. Azandar stood in favor of Church militancy, an issue which the Hegemon has made his position on eminently clear, which led to some concern of a fraught relationship between Church and state. However, it seems that wiser heads have prevailed and Azandar’s reputation as a negotiator is not in doubt, as the office of the Hegemon has released an updated version of the ancient agreement between the Church and the Izweski. The full document is nearly sixty pages in length, and is available from the Izweski Hegemony government website for those interested. The most notable points, however, all cover the subject of the Church raising warriors in its defense, as well as several of the restrictions placed on the institution following High Priest Unzi’s failed coup of Hegemon S’kresti. The updated agreement includes new provisions and restrictions for the Church as a military force. In addition to the Priests of the Warrior which already serve the Church, the High Priest is permitted to maintain a standing armed force of no greater than two thousand men, for the protection of sacred sites and safeguarding of Church officials. No more than one hundred and fifty of these warriors may be headquartered in Skalamar itself, and they are forbidden from acting outside of Church lands without the express consent of the reigning lord. In addition, the Church is once again permitted to raise levies in its holdings, and is required to do so should the Hegemon require it. Taxes on the Church have been lowered, though they remain higher than they were prior to Unzi’s actions. Lastly, the Hegemon has not broken with tradition, granting High Priest Azandar or a representative of his choice a voice in his councils, to safeguard the spiritual wellbeing of the nation in times of uncertainty. Though many were uncertain if the Church would be allowed to hold such influence again, it appears that our Hegemon’s wisdom has led him to seek reconciliation with such an influential body. High Priest Azandar spoke on the matter, claiming that “the Healer has blessed our Hegemon with Her wisdom” - and we here at Sinta Articles wholeheartedly agree. With the Church whole once again, High Priest Azandar has already started to implement his agenda, with several missions having been ordered to some of the poorest and most desperate regions of the nation. Priests of the Fisher are overseeing food distribution in the slums of Skalamar, while priests of the Healer are providing medical treatment to those unemployed or working for guilds which cannot provide them with quality healthcare. Discussion has also been made of expanding on missions to the Wasteland, though the danger of such affairs will require further consideration. Our Camp Integrity correspondents have informed us that several Priestesses of the Healer currently work to provide medical care in the harsh wastes, but these efforts have so far been disjointed and frequently underfunded. The position of Archpriest of the Southlands remains unfilled, though Overlord Miazso has stated that he and the High Priest will likely have a successor appointed within the week. As always, for the fastest and most accurate reporting on the matter, stay tuned to Sinta Articles - your number one source for Sinta news, Spur-wide. Overlord Miazso Appoints New Archpriest! News Article Publisher: Sinta Articles Writer/Host: RustingWithYou Editors: Lent23, CaptainGecko 10/03/2466 The High Priest's vacant seat is filled - at last, the Church is whole again. Overlord Rokasi Miazo of the Southlands published an official announcement earlier today, appointing a new Archpriest of the Southlands to replace the new High Priest Azandar. The High Priest has confirmed Overlord Miazso’s decision already, and issued a brief public statement that “I have full confidence in the Overlord’s decision, and that the future of the Southlands Church is in safe hands.” The new Archpriest is a former Grand Priestess of the Healer from Teht, by the name of Eizkra Khanak. Khanak has served with the Church for nearly thirty years, having graduated a master doctor of the House of Medicine in 2429 and sworn to dedicate herself to the Healer shortly afterwards. She has played an instrumental role in the maintenance of the Grand Library, and has personally funded numerous historical and archaeological expeditions into the Wasteland, to preserve as much pre-war history as can be found. It has been well over a decade since a non-warrior was appointed as an Archpriest, with the last healer to hold the post having perished in the destruction of Guzari. To many, the appointment of Archpriest Khanak is a sign that the new High Priest wishes to bring the Church back into balance, while to others it is a sign that he will not commit to his promise of a strong faith in the years to come. Archpriest Khanak herself made a brief speech at the Grand Library, thanking the local priesthood of the Healer for their dedication and promising to continue the Aspect’s work from her new position. She is scheduled to arrive in Skalamar and take her seat within the next few days. The speed of this appointment, compared to the endless deliberation over the last Archpriest, has left many feeling optimistic about the future of the Sk’akh Church. It seems that, though the future is uncertain, High Priest Azandar has fulfilled at least one of his promises - bringing an end to the days of ceaseless deadlocks and debates. Whether he will be able to keep the rest, and how his leadership of the Church will be remembered, remains to be seen. For any future news regarding Church developments - and for all Sinta news, Spur-wide - Sinta Articles promises to uphold our dedication to providing you, our audience, with the fastest and most accurate reporting in the Orion Spur. Remember, stick to the source that you know you can trust.