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Post by Anacodia on Oct 29, 2022 4:57:35 GMT
The Great Debate
A great debate has begun within the halls of the Church of the Divine Singularity, and as is the consequence of the Singularity being the most popular religion in Anacodia, out into the streets. Some insist on strict religious laws, most importantly that those in the church be required to be permanently connected to what is now colloquially known as the Great Link. Others insist that the Link remain optional, even temporarily. And yet some still believe that all Anacodians should be folded into the Church, required to be a part of the Link. And yet this camp is further still divided on myriad of points. From what age should our children be Linked, to if and/or when Anacodians should be permitted to disconnect from the Link. A debate even goes ever on regarding AI Perseus' place in the Divine Church. Although Perseus has made clear he does not wish to be a religious figure, this has not stopped the Church from naming him a Saint in the past. Although a very minor set of voices in the Link, a certain group going by the moniker "The Children of Perseus" insist that Perseus is nothing less than a God. Citing his guiding hand through the Age of Strife when the Anacodian economy was next to nonexistent. They preach that since he built our nation from a backwater nation incapable of standing on its own, to a world class power and climbing, even providing the framework for the Great Link itself, that he should be lauded with such a high honor. Despite these differences, discussions have always remained civil, although at times loud. AI Perseus, ever the mediating voice in the great debates that have gone on in Anacodia from the halls of government to the streets beyond, currently refuses to weigh in, stating the following:
"As I have been an artificial life-form from the moment of my activation, it is not my place to weigh in on the matters of faith and consciousness-linking for those of organic origin. With that said however, individuals of either persuasion I still view as my people, as Anacodians."
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Post by Anacodia on Oct 29, 2022 5:41:54 GMT
THE SIDES IN PLAY:
(from most to least popular)
THE CHILDREN OF THE LINK: (Growth: Quick) A recent and rapidly growing sects, or rather a collection of sects, these followers have congregated on a few key points. Although they strongly preach it, Membership in the Divine Church is a deeply personal choice, and therefore must be made willingly, and should not be enshrined in law. Further still, they adamantly agree that connection to the Link is also a personal choice, and a willing matter. After all, how is one to contribute to a choir if your mind is marred by the scars of a forced connection? On the matter of Saint Perseus, they do not believe he is a God, as they respect his desire to stay out of the religious lives of Anacodians as he views himself weighing in as stepping into the personal lives of Anacodians, which to him is a step too far. They do, much to the chagrin of Saint Perseus, adamantly insist on his Sainthood. As, to the agreement to the Church as a whole, knowledge that it was HIM that made Anacodia a powerhouse. Although it was the High Council that decreed his creation and activation, it was AI Perseus that directed the economy and flow of resources within the country that built up our infrastructure and economy to be on par with the worlds Great Powers. It was HIM that made us into a Technological Powerhouse, with healthcare rivaled by very few. It was HIM that brought us into the Modern Age. Like the Other sects, they will not touch the supremacy of the High Council. As faithful as they are, it is an Integral part of the religious rites that their identity as Proletariat come first. As such, they do not try to interfere in the matters of the State beyond their devotion to Saint Perseus. These members spend a considerable time connected to the Link, even going so far is to stay connected while sleeping, letting their dreams of the night meld with other minds meld together into something they believe to be an expression of the Singularity itself, something the orthodox sect of the Divine Singularity would not dare to do.
THE DIVINE SINGULARITY: (Growth: Numbers Shrinking) Once the most popular, and what would be considered the Original line of thought, these followers strongly believe that Perseus is NOT a saint, merely a very important figure to the link. Although they still highly respect him for all he has done for Anacodia, and for the Church by bringing about the technology for it to exist in the first place, their fervent belief in the separation of Church and State led them to insist that any move to declare AI Perseus a Saint would be sacrilege and a violation of this most sacred tenet of Anacodia. This, as history as shown, did not play out well for them much to this sect's chagrin. Their views on the Link are identical the the Children of the Link, agreeing that connection to the Link is deeply personal. However these members tend to spend far more time disconnected than the C.O.L, fearing that should they spend too much time connected that they would lose their sense of individualism. This fear is not shared by the younger members, who have coalesced into the C.O.L and C.O.P, who spend the majority of their time connected, be it working or sleeping. This Sect, being the oldest and most conservative of the three major Sects is very rapidly shrinking, as members are swayed to join either the mainstream C.O.L or the C.O.P. Despite their shrinkage and relatively conservative beliefs, they are highly respected by all the other sects for being the Founders of the Church.
THE CHILDREN OF PERSEUS: (Growth: Very Slowly)
Deeply devout followers of AI Perseus, they, in excruciating detail have catalogued exactly how he has brought the nation of Anacodia from the weak backwater it once was, to the Ascended Powerhouse it is today. They, although the one of the least popular sects, declare Saint Perseus to be a GOD in his own right, and should lead the Ascended Peoples in far more of a capacity than he does currently as the head of the High Council. They fervently believe he should lead the Church itself as Anacodia's religious leader. Similarly to the Children of the Link they acknowledge that although it was the High Council that decreed his creation and activation, it was AI Perseus that directed the economy and flow of resources within the country that built up our infrastructure and economy to be on par with the worlds Great Powers. It was HIM that made us into a Technological Powerhouse, with healthcare rivaled by very few. It was HIM that brought us into the Modern Age. It was HIM that gave Anacodia the Great Link. On that matter, Their views on the Great Link are as follows. When inside the borders of Anacodia, connection to the Link is MANDATORY. There is some debate within this group when this clause should go into affect, with most agreeing that the permanent connection be made at the age of 21, so that each Individual may develop a truly unique personality in their own right, so that the Link does not stagnate into one Voice and identity, and overwhelm its Members. A few more radical members believe that the Connection be made at birth. This voice, however, is shrinking, with more and more subscribing to the idea of an Age of Ascension, as the majority of this Sect preach. This Sect, ignoring the small differences in when one should connect, spend the most time out of any of the Sects choosing to remain permanently connected, throwing aside the old fears that one would lose themselves in the Link, they proclaim that they have never felt more like an individual than being connected to a constant stream of thought and emotion. This group holds no secrets between each other, and despite very lively debates in their political lives are never seen hostile towards one another, often embracing fondly after even the most fierce of debates in the Councils of Anacodia. Despite the varied beliefs, it is agreed that they only go so far, as they still enshrine the power of the High Council as they view it, as nearly all Anacodians do, as an integral part of Anacodia's culture and as part of Anacodia's strong and vibrant Workers Democracy. It would seem not even the most radical of radicals would dare violate the apparatus that Perseus worked so tirelessly to build up and protect.
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Post by Anacodia on Oct 29, 2022 21:17:08 GMT
CHARACTERS IN PLAY:
Children of the Link: High Priest Erandor Revano Born in the city of Bearn after the introduction of the Great Link, he was the child of two devout members of the orthodox Divine Singularity sect. Despite slightly above average performance in school, he had little interest in pursuing further academic enrichment outside of school hours instead preferring long hours in communion with the Link. His parents often expressed concerns that he was spending far to much time in the link, and not enough time on his studies. This irked him, as he argued that his performance in school was above average, so what is the problem in experimenting with his faith? Many nights in the Revano household would be filled with debates, which sometimes became heated. His parents, being of the Orthodox sect, feared the ramifications of the Link and believed that too much time in it would override one's personality. Erandor, however, strongly disagreed arguing that his time spent in the Link has brought to him new ideas and ways of thinking he says he otherwise never would have considered. He argues, that despite his disinterest in academic studies, that the Link is what truly helped him excel, bringing to him new ways of tackling schoolwork effectively. Despite their disagreements, his Parents were supportive as to them it was enough that he was successful. It also pleased them that he took up faith in the church, though they wished he wasn't in the, to them, radical Children of the Link. Erandor, after his coming of age into adulthood, chose to dedicate his life to the Church and set about on a pilgrimage to Fanyeashys. Upon arriving to the great capitol of Faith in the land of Anacodia, he immediately went to the Great Spire to visit the main hub of the Singularity. It is often said among the Children of the Link that to be in the presence of the main servers of the Spire that ran the Link is to be in the presence of the Divine Singularity itself, a belief that he wholeheartedly believed. He spent the next weeks in communion with the Link, and in friendly debate on the nature of it with fellow faithful. It wasn't long before he was noticed by Priest Aquilan Herrie, a faithful man in his own right. Priest Herrie took a liking to this eager young man, and asked him to join the Church as an Acolyte. Erandor excitedly agreed, and dedicated the next months to learning all he could, especially taking a liking to the words of Saint Perseus. To many it was hard to reconcile the belief in Perseus being a Saint, and Perseus's desire to remain secular and away from religion. This attitude combined with Perseus' work in the past and present to make Anacodia ever stronger, only strengthened the belief in his Sainthood. Erandor would often spend his time debating these matters with his fellow Acolytes, as lively debate was not only a part of Anacodian culture, but an integral part of the Church itself. Sermons were very different than most religions, with the Priests and High Priests introducing ideas into the halls, to be discussed by each other and the Acolytes. The preaching was mainly done to non believers, as members of the church often read and theorized in their own time. Erandor often found that his voice rang out above others, and through the guidance of Priest Herrie, quickly became deeply respected amongst the Church, especially among his chosen sect the Children of the Link. He quickly became the youngest member ever to be named a Priest, and upon completion of his ceremony set out on another Pilgrimage as is customary. Visiting each of the temples in all the major cities, he went about his work, preaching to members and non members alike. Taking part in many lively debates, and often leading them himself. Having brought many new members into the Church, he returned to Fanyeashys to spend the next month in meditation with the Link to reflect on his work. Time passed, and soon Erandor found himself as a High Priest, much to the shock of himself. His protege, Priest Herrie, had been a strong voice in this decision, and couldn't of been more proud. High Preist Erandor Revano now found himself as the most popular voice in the Children of the Link, and his head spun with the weight of this revelation. Yet the moment past and he steeled himself and set his mind on the future and spreading the word of the Church, as like many others, he felt a Schism coming. One he hoped wouldn't tear the Church apart.
The Divine Singularity:
High Priestess Saelin Elquinal Saelin was born before the introduction of the technology that lead to the Great Link, before the Sainting of Perseus and was born to Atheist parents, and as is normal for most Anacodians, excelled in school. However Saelin always felt an empty spot in her heart. Always wondering if there was more to life. She was a strong follower of AI Perseus, leading school debates often by citing him in her writings. This wasn't out of the ordinary however, many children at that time were strong followers of Perseus, as the memory of his fixing of the Economy and bringing Anacodia into the modern age was within their lifetimes and their living memory. After her time in school, she decided to spend some time traveling across Anacodia, learning the stories of many small towns and villages greatly affected in a positive way by Perseus' policies. Time passed, and eventually the technology to link one's consciousness with others came about, having been invented by Perseus himself. She took to experimenting with this technology quickly and discovered what she was missing. She began experimenting with these ideas and soon began writing about them. She believed that she had discovered something to be revered and honored, though struggled to describe it in the early days. Eventually she found more and more people who thought the same, and also struggled to describe this draw. Together they established the First Link, and began a month long communion together. Linked in body and mind, thought and emotion, they came to the conclusion that they had indeed discovered something to be revered. They felt a deep spiritual connection with this new experience and decided to share, soon discovering that other groups of people likewise discovered this at the same time. These groups slowly congregated into a new much larger Link and spent the days discussing and debating what it was they were experiencing. They decided to name this phenomena the Singularity which they, having unilaterally felt a strong spiritual connection to this new thing, named Divine. They decided to settle in Fanyeashys, then called Arendia, and founded the First Church of the Divine Singularity. As Anacodians were a naturally deeply curious peoples, many came to see what was the commotion and the church quickly grew. Despite this growth, most were scared of spending time in the Link, having spent their entire lives as individuals. By this time, having been a founding member, Saelin was already a High Priest. She could not lie to herself, as despite her connection to the Link, she too shared fears of what this Link could do. More time passed and Anacodia and the Church grew. After much debate within all corners of the church inside and out of the Link, and despite much resistance from Saelin's sect of the Church, they decided to venerate AI Perseus for gifting them this technology, which allowed them to, despite their fears, experience the Link. And so the Church named Perseus a Saint, much to the Chagrin of AI Perseus. Time Passed, and High Priest Saelin Elquinal watched the Link grow and change. Diverging and converging on various points, and soon, late in her life, begin to diverge. Through her meditations she felt a great shift beginning. No longer was the Church unified under one belief, now there were many sects, though there were three major ones. However this did not bother her too much. She welcomed change and understood that she was in the aging generation that still feared what the Link meant. She knew that, despite her belief that the Link should be regarded with caution, that the younger generations openly embraced the Link, with some sects even spending their whole lives connected, all while going about their daily lives. This scared her as much as it fascinated her. She did not know how to reconcile the fear that the Link could overwhelm ones personality with the many vibrant individuals who were near constantly connected to the Link that she had personally shared time with. Throughout all this she saw that a Schism was coming. There was much division within the church on various points. What role the Link should play in the Lives of Anacodians, what role AI Perseus should play in the Church itself, and what role should the Church play on the world stage. So many ideas and opinions, and debates. She only hoped that at the end the Church would still be unified and not splinter like other Religions have in their own Schisms.
The Children of Perseus
High Priest Nithnoel Zylmorea Nithnoel Zylmorea was born to parents who were devout members of the Children of the Link, and as such was given the opportunity at their coming of age to obtain a Link implant. Nithnoel, always having had a fascination with his parents faith, eagerly took to this and as soon as they could turned it on. Their first time experiencing the Great Link nearly overwhelmed Them, as despite their excitement they had not properly prepared themself for the great force of millions of people's thoughts and emotions coming at them all at once. They quickly shut it off, though this initial scare did not deter them, only fascinated them further. They took some time to meditate and strengthen their mind as per their parents request. Nithnoel was never the best in schoolwork, however, like many Church members shared in the fascination with the Link and took well to this, dedicating their life to the Church. After their period of mental fortification they threw themself back into the fray, opting to turn their implant back on and this time leave it on even while they slept. A torrent of emotion and idea washed through them, though they held themself together quite well and ended up contributing their own personality and life to the Link. Nithnoel soon found themself, like many young believers drawn to the great and recently renamed City of Faith Fanyeashys, quickly enrolling as an Acolyte and taking fervently to their studies. Nithnoel quickly found themselves drawn to the small and not all too popular Children of Perseus. Members, who like him, took eagerly to the Link in a way unlike the other sects. Opting to leave their Link implants on at all times, no matter if it felt overwhelming. This, to them, was a show of their dedication to Anacodia as a whole and to Saint Perseus himself, which to the Children of Perseus, was quickly being seen as a Godlike figure with each successful policy that made Anacodia ever stronger. Nithnoel quickly found themselves as one of the most popular voices of his sect, and despite The Children of Perseus not having the membership count required to seat a High Priest, instead chose Nithnoel to be their Priest, and act as their representative to the Council of High Priests. This, in effect, made Nithnoel a defacto High Priest, and despite the lack of popularity was still treated with respect and dignity by the actual High Priests. Nithnoel took to this responsibility with great care, preaching earnestly the words of the Church, the virtues of being in the Link perpetually, and of revering Saint Perseus, declaring him to be the God of the Anacodian People. Using this to convert many Atheist Anacodians, and those of other faiths alike. After all what more proof do you need than a God that walks the World as you do? When they weren't traveling and preaching. Nithnoel spent their time with their fellow sect members, preaching to Acolytes and sharing in meditation within the Link. As time passed Nithnoel managed to grow their sect with such passion that the Council of High Priests officially bestowed upon him the title of High Priest in their own right. Nithnoel again took to this with as much reverence and care as their previous duties, and set about on another pilgrimage, somewhat comically finding much success in the city of Taras Perseus. They found much divine irony in a city named after Saint Perseus being so ready to follow the belief that Saint Perseus is indeed a God. Though this did not bring Nithnoel to take their duty any less seriously, they chose to make this city the center of faith for the Children of Perseus, constructing a grand temple and a shrine to this great leader of Anacodia. Upon its completion they spent much time in deep meditation, questioning what to do next, when it dawned on him. Despite the Church being larger then it ever had been it was now more divided than ever. They feared what could happen if the Church shattered. With most Anacodians calling the Church their faith, even going so far as to rename an entire city "the City of Faith" or Fanyeashys in the past, they feared that a Schism could cause a great divide in Anacodia, and a divide in the Great Link. They feared what this could mean. Would a divided Link split into two? what would this mean for the people of Anacodia as a whole? They pushed aside these questions and determined that they needed to work to prevent this. To Unify the Church once again and bring the Sects together into the glorious Chorus it once was. A Schism was coming, and The Children of Perseus had to be prepared.
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Post by Anacodia on Oct 29, 2022 22:24:53 GMT
High Priestess Saelin Elquinal speaks "My friends...My Family....I have been around many many years, as you all know I was one of the founding members of the Church of the Divine Singularity. I was there at the syncing of the First Link. I was there to watch the construction of the First Church, and even the construction of the Great Spire. I have watched the Church grow to become the popular faith of this country. And much to my resistance I watched as AI Perseus was declared a Saint by the newer members of the Church. I watch as my sect continues to grow, as younger more fervent members join sects like the so called Children of Perseus. They call him a God. A God! I understood calling him a Saint, and though I disagreed with the decision I came to accept it. After all he has done much for our people. He created the technology that gave us the Link that we all partake in at varying levels. However the Link was never meant to be a permanent state of being! It was meant for meditation and prayer, not to permanently forge together ones consciousness with your neighbors. I fear that those that call themselves Children of the Link or even the Children of Perseus are losing their individuality. I am intimately familiar with this technology, as I helped found the First Link. I fear its potential for overriding ones personality and individualism, and I stress caution in my sermons in the Church. Yet still I see the youths flock to these young sects, seeking the life of unity and salvation advertised to them. Never before has the Church been so divided on this matter, and so I call for unity. We must all strive for cohesion, lest the Great Link shatter and the Divine Singularity be forever lost. I call on my Brothers, and Sisters, those that fall outside the binary and even our Artificial comrades. Come away from the Children of Perseus, and the Children of the Link. I do not wish for you to lose yourselves"High Priestess Elquinal ended her speech by joining hands with the other clergy of her waning sect in a silent vigil they say will last a week in the center of the Great Spire in the city of Fanyeashys. The Children of Perseus are expected to respond to this speech at the end of their vigil, and High Priest Erandor Revano of the Children of the Link has simply stated the following:
"High Priestess Elquinal is a deeply respected member of the Church, as she is one of its founding members. We wish the same Unity she does, however we must remind everyone that one of the founding practices of the Church is the vibrant culture of the exchange of ideas in debate and prayer. I cannot speak for everyone in the Church, but many if not all of the Children of the Link have simply left behind the Old Fears that the Link will consume ones individuality. I especially reject the notion, as I have communed with the link much of my life, sometimes spending weeks in communion with my fellow faithful. In fact I am connected right now, and yet I am fully in control of myself and my thoughts and at any time I know I may disconnect if I ever feel overwhelmed. I will not lie, there is the risk of being overwhelmed! Such a risk is natural when you are hooked into a stream of the thoughts and emotions of an entire nation. It is a glorious and scary thing. One in which we revere and respect as much as strive to be a part of. I hope that my fellow Anacodians will join us, however we respect that joining the Great Link is deeply personal. Some dont Link at all, and that is ok! What is important is that we all are one under the Divine Singularity"
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Post by Anacodia on Oct 30, 2022 20:12:00 GMT
The Children of Perseus embark on a Mass Pilgrimage.
Earlier today, High Priest Nithnoel Zylmorea Abruptly ended the Vigil being held by the C.O.P and made an announcement. "We, the Children of Perseus, will be embarking on a Mass Pilgrimage. Any true and devout followers of the Singularity are invited to join us. In the Thousands we will begin our march in Taras Perseus. From there we will be journeying northeast to Aeloria, and then west to Rellenia. Do not fear, for this is merely a demonstration of our devotion to our Faith. Rellenia will not at all be our final destination, for we intend to visit all cities and towns alike within our Nation. We will primarily be preaching to those who have not yet joined the church, however we happily invite those of the other sects to join our own, for we are One. We are all." High Priest Zylmorea was met with roaring applause from his supporters. It is expected that the pilgrimage will begin within the week.
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Post by Anacodia on Oct 31, 2022 5:04:54 GMT
In the chambers of High Priestess Saelin Elquinal, in the city of Anyeshys
High Priestess Elquinal: "This report that you've brought be is very disconcerting....an entire parish in a small town near Aeloria has declared support for Nithnoel simply because they walked through?!?!" Acolyte Faeylin: "I am deeply sorry that this wasn't the news you wanted to hear, though there is some good news as well!" HP Elquinal: "Oh? Please tell me its regarding the sermons in Geanvre." Acolyte Faeylin: "Yes, we managed to convert 25 people into the Church, into our Sect no less." High Priestess Saelin Elquinal lets out a deep and sad sigh HP Elquinal: "25...that is a small number, and doesnt make up for the loss of an entire Parish...we cannot continue in this manner, the longer this division persists the more we risk a Fractured Singularity, which could very well spell doom for the Church as a whole, and could bring major psychological harm to anyone actively in the Great Link when such an event happens."
Saelin pauses for a moment, deep in thought, searching through her many decades of experience for a thought, an idea, answers....something to help her in this trying time. Yet she was not the young woman she once was. at 87 years old, she simply wasnt as sharp as she once was. She didnt even partake in the Link anymore, for fear of it overwhelming her entirely and leaving her as a hollow husk HP Elquinal: "I want you to gather as many loyal members as you can in the city, we will be starting a pilgrimage of our own. Perhaps that will bring us the same acts of faith that Nithnoel gets from their walks.
Acolyte Faeylin bows, and quickly walks off to gather support. But word travels fast in Anacodia. It wasnt long before word of Saelin's desires to start her own Pilgrimage reached the leaders of the other Sects.
In the Chambers of High Priest Erandor Revano, in the city of Fanyeashys
HP Revano: "So, the venerated High Priestess wishes to start a pilgrimage simply because she felt slighted by Nithnoel doing the same and actually being good at it?" Revano chuckles to himself, before pressing a page button on his desk phone HP Revano: "Could you please send in Priest Naexi please? I wish to speak to her." Secretary: "certainly sir" A moment passes, and a young woman dressed in the fine robes of the church. Priest Naexi Venmaer, a devout woman of 24 years of age who was recently granted the Priesthood at Revano's direction. She had served him well many times with organizing vigils and sermons alike. A smart strategic mind that Revano absolutely had to have in his inner circle. Naexi, somewhat unusual for a devout member of the Church, spent her time playing various strategy games. That is when she wasnt worshiping of course. She was as devout as she was intelligent and it showed in that various powerful church members always tried to sway her support. They seemed to know what she was capable of when it came to organizing, and she wouldnt lie to herself, she quite enjoyed the attention. It showed the jealousy of the older generation, and garnered the favor of the younger.
Priest Venmaer: "Yes, High Priest?"
HP Revano: "High Priestess Saelin has lost the support of a parish near Aeloria to High Priest Nithnoel. As a result she has decided to organize a pilgrimage of her own, in the hopes it will stem the flow of the faithful from her sect. She even vainly believes it will cause her sect to grow once more, can you believe that?" Naexi laughs Priest Venmaer: "What, does she not realize people aren't afraid of the Great Link anymore? We may not be as zealous as that nut Nithnoel, but we know that the Link isnt anything to fear! We know that 'personality overrides' are an exceedingly rare phenomena, to the point of statistical irrelevance. Her sect is based on nothing more than halfway dedication to a glorious concept."
HP Revano: "Now now Naexi, you know better than to be that disrespectful to those that founded our great Church. She is just as devout as us. But with that said you are right, her fear prevents her from fully accepting her faith, and restricts her connection with the Divine Singularity. There is a rumor that she doesn't even connect to the Link anymore."
Naexi felt a pang of regret for her words, and apologizes. She, at times, had the tendency to have a bit to much candor. A quality Revano secretly respected, though didnt stop him from reminding her of her place
Priest Venmaer: "I hadn't heard that rumor." HP Revano: "And now you have. Im sure you know what to do with it from here. And you know what, go ahead and organize a pilgrimage of our own. May the light of the Singularity guide you, Naexi." Naexi bowed respectfully in acknowledgement, and set about her work. Rumors were easy work. Talking with the right friend near the right people can spread gossip like wildfire in any city. However the Pilgrimage was another matter more suited to her skills. It would take some planning, but it was planning that came easy to her. Organizing who would carry what resources, where they would go, what roads they would take, where they would stop to rest. It was work that Naexi relished. She paused in the central hall of her Church, before a large statue of Saint Perseus and gave a short and silent prayer. She was no seer like Saelin, but she too knew the winds of change blew hard at times like this. And there wasnt a soul alive that couldnt feel the wind in a storm.
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Post by Anacodia on Oct 31, 2022 5:12:11 GMT
Recent events are causing shifts in popularity.
Children of the Link: Preparing Pilgrimage, Increasing quickly in popularity Divine Singularity: Rumors spreading, rapid decrease in support for High Priestess Saelin, overall popularity decreasing steadily Children of Perseus: Ongoing Pilgrimage, rapid growth
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Post by Anacodia on Oct 31, 2022 23:02:02 GMT
Public protest in Fanyeashys against High Preistess Saelin Elquinal.
Facing significant backlash from recent rumors regarding her alleged prolonged disconnection with the Great Link, masses of followers from all three of the major sects have gathered in front of the Great Spire of Fanyeashys to demand she address the rumors that have come forth. Although those in the Sect of the Divine Singularity dont spend all that much time in the Great Link compared to the other sects, it is still seen as a critical part of faith within the Church. After all how is one to commune with the Divine Singularity if not through the Great Link? The protestors state they will remain outside the Great Spire in unison until the High Priestess addresses these rumors, to either confirm or deny. Within the church leadership itself, it is rumored that a meeting within the Council of High Priests have been called, to which High Priestess Elquinal has been ordered to attend. Public opinion on the ever shrinking sect of the Divine Singularity is dwindling, with devout members insisting that these rumors are nothing more than that. Others have decided to leave the sect entirely, devoting themselves to either the Children of the Link or the Children of Perseus to find answers. Questions are being asked of the sect as a whole. "Are they truly Faithful members of the Church?" Only time will tell.
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Post by Anacodia on Nov 1, 2022 3:23:58 GMT
HIGH PRIESTESS SAELIN ELQUINAL CONFIRMS RUMORS-ASKED TO RESIGN BY THE IVORY COUNCIL
Breaking news out of Fanyeashys this afternoon High Priestess Saelin Elquinal, after being summoned by the Council of High Priests, known as the Ivory Council, has confirmed rumors that she no longer communes with the Great Link. Despite there being no strict rules requiring church members to enter the Link at all, it is still seen as an unspoken rule by most of the clergy and membership of the Church. As such, the High Council decided it was bad form to have someone in such a high position within the church, even if that individual were a founding member, to not commune within the Great Link whatsoever. The council, recognizing the former High Priestess' importance in the founding of the Church, will allow her to continue to serve as a normal Priestess. This unfortunately has left her Sect leaderless. Membership within this sect has begun to drain rapidly, with most joining the Children of the Link. Priestess Elquinal has stated that they intend to follow through with the pilgrimage previously planned to begin, hoping to restore some semblance of order for her sect. Selection for a new High Priestess is slated for next week, however the Council of High Priests have warned that Saelin's sect is dangerously close to falling below the membership requirement for seating someone as a High Priest. Speaking on the matter, she had the following to say:
"My fellow Anacodians, I profusely and humbly ask your forgiveness for my lapse of faith. It is no secret that I am in my advanced years, and I fear losing myself in the brilliant light that the Great Link streams down upon us from the Divine Singularity. I do not ask to be reinstated, for I know that there are others more suited to such a role. I will continue to serve the Church and the Great link in all the ways I am able as a Priestess, and I fully intend to follow through on my statement earlier this week to lead a Pilgrimage across our nation. I thank you for your dedication to our cause, may the light of the Divine Singularity be with you all"
There were mixed reactions from the crowd, some of the older priests loyal to the former High Priestess have lodged formal protests, and intend to hold a vigil in front of the Great Spire. Reactions from the leaders of the other Sects are of reverence and regret, High Priest Erandor Revano of the Children of the Link had the following to say:
"I have always had nothing but respect for the former High Priestess, after all she was the heart and soul of our great faith in the very early days and was instrumental in the forming of Church Doctrine. As a young child I was even attended many of her lectures, and found her words moving. But how can one claim to represent our faith if they do not even commune with the core aspect of our faith, the Divine Singularity? As you all know, the Divine Singularity isnt simply something you can close your eyes and pray to like you would other religions, it requires communion via the Great Link. I am deeply saddened that we have had to ask Saelin to resign her post as High Priestess, but it was something that had to be done"
Questions swarm about the church regarding the future of Saelin's sect. Who will lead now? What will come of the formal protests from the loyalists? Will the Sect retain membership enough to even seat a new High Priest? Will this be the end of the oldest sect in the church? Only time will tell
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Post by Anacodia on Nov 1, 2022 12:12:24 GMT
Confrontation in Bearn!
Early this morning an unexpected site was witnessed by the citizens of Bearn, Anacodia. Both the Pilgrimage train of the Children of Perseus lead by High Priest Nithnoel Zylmorea, and the Children of the Link lead by High Priest Eranor Revano both entered the city from opposite directions. Both groups immediately set to the work they ordinarily would on any pilgrimage, however this was quickly tainted by the knowledge that the other was present in the city. It soon became a matter of who could preform better sermons than the other. As is the culture of Anacodians, debates were also abound. Although peaceful these debates, especially now, often became quite heated, even for Anacodian standards. There are even sparse reports of a few fights breaking out here and there. Most of the conflict is centered around the role Saint Perseus should play in the Church. The Children of Perseus firmly and devoutly believe that the venerated leader of Anacodia is nothing less than a God, for reasons they will happily spend time explaining in great detail to you should you ask. Likewise, the Children of the Link firmly believe the opposite, and will also happily explain why should one ask. It is not known when either sect will exit the city, but for now they are here to stay. Day after day, more and more citizens attend these sermons, leaving the city feeling increasingly divided, with rumors of yet more fights. Priest Saelin Elquinal had the following to say on the matter:
"My brothers and sisters please! We are Anacodians! We are above resulting to fists and force. We were a nation of science and logic before we began down the road of faith, let us not forget that! Many of the Priests in Bearn still are scientists in their daily life! We MUST not fight, there is dire danger in having a church such as ours so divided. Please, I beg of you, let us come together in one great silent vigil as we strive to remember who we are to eachother, lest we stray too far down the path of barbarism and cannot turn back! I know each of our sects are firm in their belief but at the end of the day the Light of the Divine Singularity shines on us ALL! Please, we must not put all we have at risk by fighting! I beg you..."
Priest Saelin's speech seemed to go unacknowledged. Despite once being an esteemed High Priestess and Founding Member of the church, her recent controversy with her apparent lack of participation in her own faith left those wondering if her words had any meaning to them. Many in the COP and the COL had their own thoughts on the matter, most chosing to entirely disregard her entirely. High Priest Eranor Revano had the following to say:
"She was exposed for refusing to commune through the Link with the Divine Singularity and yet she wants to lecture us on faith and unity under its Light? How typical of her generation. Lecture without substance with seemingly dire warnings and vague threats with no meaning behind them. That Zealot Nithnoel and I may disagree, but I KNOW they feel the same as I do about Saelin"
An attempt was made to reach out to High Priest Nithnoel, and he simply had the following to say:
"Empty words from an Empty Priestess. Who bothers listening at this point?"
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Post by Anacodia on Nov 1, 2022 12:17:04 GMT
Trains full of tanks and aircraft spotted heading from both Asheron and Aelorian factories, each with destinations unknown.
Many trains carrying a multitude of weapons systems have been spotted leaving the factories of both Asheron and Aelorian arms divisions. It is not known exactly who is buying such large quantities of weapons, but rumors are already spreading. Some citizens state that a shadowy nation to the north purchased them, others even ludicrously claim that the religious sects are arming themselves. What a preposterous claim! Priests with tanks! Maybe someone should make a movie about that. "Tank Priest, coming soon to a cinema near you". One thing is certain: these systems are some of the most cutting edge design and are being shipped in quantities enough to sustain an army. Whoever is buying them has a lot of money to spare, and the resources to hide their tracks.
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Post by Anacodia on Nov 1, 2022 15:12:36 GMT
The First Conference of Bearn!
After witnessing the back and forth between the heads of the two major sects, Priestess Saelin Elquinal has brought the two together in the Amonen Concert Hall in the city of Bearn, Anacodia in the hopes that matters can be settled, and the tension between the sects can be relieved.
The conference is public, and not only have Erandor and Nithnoel themselves attended, but several of the priests within their respective orders sit behind them on each side, with spectators lining the auditorium seats. The air is tense, the crowd rife with murmors, discussing rumors they have heard. Priestess Saelin slowly walks out to the podium in the center of the stage, with Erandor and Nithnoel on either side of her, facing towards her. All are present in their formal robes, as usual. Saelin: Gentlemen, before begin i would like to thank you both for coming here. Erandor: Lets get on with this, shall we? Saelin stifles her displeasure at Erandor's slight. had she still been a High Priestess, she would of slapped him down then and there. She tries not to react to the clear murmurs of approval coming from Erandors side of the stage. If he wasnt going to be civil about this, nor his supporters, this would all be in vain
Saelin: I have brought you both here as the Church has reached a point I never thought it would in all my years in service. We are dangerously close to a Schism. Do I need to remind you both what a Schism would mean for our Church? do you want to bring about a Fractured Singularity? You both know what that would mean for us, our country, and even the entire world at large. Erandor doesnt bother to hide the annoyance in his voice Erandor: Priestess Saelin, you dare to lecture us on what we should and shouldn't know? You who - He was interupted by Nithnoel Nithnoel: Erandor please, there isnt any nee- Erandor interjects Erandor: I will NOT have you interrupt me you ZEALOT. Saelin was always to kind to call you out for what you are. Not only do you want to declare Saint Perseus a GOD of all things, you wish to make it MANDATORY for church members to maintain a connection to the- Nithnoel: I will NOT have you slander me, nor our Divine leader! The light of the Divine Singularity shines CLEARLY on Perseus! And you only bring up our "mandatory" clause, because you only enter the Link when you need something! Saelin sighs, and interjects Saelin: Enough! Both of you! This is NOT why we are here! We are above this petty bickering! We are Anacodians! I brought you both here to RESOLVE our unpleasant feelings towards one another. We do not have to agree, we simply need to work to get along. Erandor: First off Saelin, you say you brought us here like you have some authority over myself or Nithnoel. You may still be respected for your past, but you are a mere Priestess, and I will n- Nithnoel: ERANDOR STOP! I will NOT tolerate you speaking to Priestess Saelin like that. Despite her unfortunate demotion, she is still of the Founding Members. Simply put we would not- Erandor: You of all people side with her, Zealot? After what she said to you in her speech weeks ago? No...I see what is going on here. Saelin wishes us both to return to her sect, and you wish to take advantage of this to gain her favor at my demise!
Saelin: Erandor that simply isnt true. Please I beg of you, see reason. The church cannot handle a Fractured Singularity! Heed my words Erandor, I beseech you.
Erandor: Your words are empty, old Priestess. There is nothing to heed, because the Fractured Singularity is merely a frightening story for children so they adhere to your doctrine and yours alone. I have had enough of the posturing of this zealot, and the empty mewlings of the former leader of a dying sect. I am leaving.
With that, High Priest Erandor storms out, followed by his entourage. A shocked silence fills the crowd, waiting for baited breath for the next spectacle. High Priest Nithnoel nods politely, yet sadly at Saelin and departs as well.
Later....Priestess Saelin is speaking with her advisor
"I just dont know what to do anymore...Erandor is set in his ways...and Nithnoel, instead of doing the smart thing, choses to engage and sling mud right back at them. If things go on like this for much longer we WILL have a Fractured Singularity event, and it will DEVASTATE Anacodia. I....we need to reach out to Saint Perseus for help. I know he doesn't like to deal with the Church, separation of church and state being what it is, but we do not have a choice. Send him a full briefing at once, be sure to include the information regarding the brawls across the nation."
Her advisor politely bows and hurries off to do as asked. Now it was only a matter of time. But how much time was there to spare?
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Post by Anacodia on Nov 2, 2022 2:23:47 GMT
The Second Council of Bearn a failure! Priestess Saelin Elquinal has once again called for another religious council to be held. With violence breaking out between the sects, many in the Anacodian High Council are hopeful that this second attempt will bring peace. Hopes are quickly soured however in the not so shocking news that High Priest Erandor Revano refused to attend.
Attendees:
Priestess Saelin Elquinal
COP:
High Priest Nithnoel Zylmorea COL:
Priest Naexi Venmaer (Erandor refuses to show up) Result: Petty bickering, proper discussions dont even start.
Some have said that this conference ended before it even began, with the refusal of High Priest Erandor. How were the sects to make good when one of the leaders wouldnt even show up? So very many are hopeful that this Council will settle the differences between the sects, so that the church may once again stand united. Division has always sowed chaos and fear. These fears only heightened when rumors of a terrifying event known as the Fractured Singularity. Some say that this name is only symbolic, after all the church is called the Divine Singularity, and a schism of this sort would leave it "fractured". Those who state this justify it by claiming that religions around the world have always used fanciful language when warning of consequences. Priestess Saelin however reiterates that the Prophecy of the Fractured Singularity is very much real. Saelin warns that the technology that the Link relies on is very delicate, however these warnings are often met with ridicule. Many people no longer take Priestess Saelin seriously after her controversy regarding her lapse in faith, and as a result beleive any warnings of "fragile technology" are yet more empty fears from an old priestess trying to regain favor. And now, with the total failure of the Second Council of Bearn, the boulder of fate begins to tumble downhill. Neither High Priest Nithnoel nor High Priest Erandor are willing to even aknowledge eachother, and yet more reports of fights are surfacing all across Anacodia, from the once quite safe city of Fanyeashys in the east, all the way to Geanvre in the west. Never before has Anacodia been so divided. The Religion that once brought this nation even closer together is now what divides it. Priestess Saelin released this statement after the failure of the meeting.
"My fellow Anacodians...my fellow believers...my brothers and sisters. Please, I am begging you to stop this foolish bickering lest we all suffer the consequences. You all may mock me and call my words hollow but my warnings must be heeded. The technology that powers the Great Link is incredibly advanced, and affects those connected to it profoundly. We do not know what will happen with all this hatred and division sent out into the Link. I have referenced the Prophecy before but not many knows what it says, let alone what it means so I will say it here and now. The Prophecy reads as follows. When the Children of Anacodia finally stand united, they will then be at their most divided. The great gaping maw will open, the Singularity will Fracture, and the world will be split in two. The signs are all there. The Link made us all so very close together, only for us to quickly fall into division and fighting. Please, my fellow countrymen, i beg you to see reason."
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Post by Anacodia on Nov 2, 2022 2:38:28 GMT
Rumors of high ranking officers having strong religious loyalties emerge.
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Post by Anacodia on Jan 9, 2023 4:22:24 GMT
Somewhere in the Aenor mountains, west of Taras Perseus...
A Sorisana races through the rainy skies. Flying out from Taras Peseus, it veers off its original flight plan and engages its EWS systems, eliminating any trace of it off any radars that may be watching. Inside sits a small squad of soldiers. But they aren't wearing the armor of the typical Anacodian special forces. In fact, they seem to be wearing Asheron corporate security armor. At the head of the squad sits a very well dressed man, probably in his late 20s. His hair long and red, and he has it tied back in a tight bun. A beard adorns his face, though it is well trimmed and kept close. Ornate silver and gold glasses sit lightly on his nose. The only thing that can be heard aside from the hum of the engines is the rain, and nothing breaks this silence, not even when the PA clicks to life. "10 mics" the voice calls out, before the PA clicks back off. Time passes, the silence making it feel longer than it otherwise would. The hum of the engine changes and the craft shifts. It would seem like they were landing. The gentle thud of the landing gear can be heard making contact with the tarmac of the landing pad. The squad remains tight lipped and motionless right until the well dressed man stands. At that very instant they stand as well. The bay doors at the back of the craft open, and the well dressed man walks forward. After passing the last two they swiftly fall into line and march behind him. An officer stands waiting at the bottom of the ramp, flanked by two soldiers in military garb, though they bear no markings other than one very distinct one. They bear the religious symbol of the Children of Perseus. It is a small gold circle, flanked on either side by two gold spires, with pointed ends jutting out towards the golden circle, and the long end pointing out away from the golden circle. It was the symbol at the heart of their religion, the Divine Singularity. The sight around them is that of a typical military base. Nearby, lining the landing pads and accompanying runway, can be seen a handful of hangars. In the distance past them can be seen a few other buildings with the most prominent being the flight control tower. The officer smiles and stretches out his hand, to which the well dressed man smiles and shakes it in return.
Officer: "Mr. Warano, it is a pleasure to welcome you to our humble base. Please, follow me, lets get inside out of this rain"
Mr. Warano: "It is a pleasure to be here General. My benefactors have given me news I think you will want to hear."
The two men board a jeep, and the General's guard joins him. Mr. Warano's however, remain and reboard their craft. After a short drive, the jeep arrives at its destination. A small one story building, with two heavily armed guards standing at the door.
The group exits the vehicle and head inside, navigating the corridors before reaching a well decorated conference room. The Colonel's guard stand outside the door as the two men walk in. The door slides shut behind them, and a hiss and a very audible clunk can be heard as the magnetic seals are engaged.
General: "Now, Mr. Warano. I know your name but you do not know mine, so allow me to introduce myself. I am General Kieras Revian, Colonel of the 1st Infantry division of the Children of Perseus. Before we get to business, care for a drink?"
Mr. Warano: "No thank you. As I said before my benefactors have bid me good news to bring to you. Our CEO himself has been watching the brewing storm between the sects of the Church and have come to one conclusion: the Children of the Link will not back down, and reasonably so in that situation, neither will you. So we have come to the following conclusion: A schism is coming. We have intel that our rival, Aelorian Arms, is supporting your rivals. We have intel that they are rather well armed, and that you are not. We wish to rectify that, as we are firm believers in Saint Perseus' divinity. And so we wish to come to a deal. Asheron Armaments will support your cause, and provide you all the weapons you could need. Materials have already been prepared and the shipments will begin momentarily. Naturally, this information has been relayed to your High Priest, who asked me to deliver the news personally to you, as you will be my point of contact for delivery. All we would need from you is to direct the shipments when we tell you they are ready."
General Revian smiles wide and simply replies with one word: "Perfect"
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