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[Orthodoxy]

Orthodoxy
Gausim al-Marain

When one embarks on a life devoted of faith they are instantly ushered into a world of wonder. The divine sacrament and investiture by a Spoke itself into your daily life is by no means an easy charge. It a challenge laid before yourself in the pursuit of a Potter, Craftsman, Artisan, a Teacher reshaping the world around you. Where as the Layman awakens and considers his task and chores, his duties, his hopes, his aspirations - The nature of Clergy is to place those secondary.

Yet for all the difficulty it brings, the headache, the heartache, so too does it bring such a sense of purpose, of acceptance of a higher power, of moments of pure ecstasy. To watch a man you have come to know is struggling, make a revaluation of himself and his world, in pursuit of something more. To watch a woman you have seen time and again maligned by others slowly build the confidence to stand up for herself. It fills the urn of the heart.

Yet this is not merely at the barest level, so too at the highest. Entire peoples, entire cities, may be studied and recognized to follow these same recourse. As they begin to find themselves, their purpose, as they grow and spread their arms and greet the night in a new and pleasant breath of fresh air. So too, may it fill the urn of the heart.

At its fundamental core Orthodoxy is the skeletal structure of the craftsman trades. The practices undertaken, the passage of master to apprentice, the undertaking of lessons until you are ready, journeyman status to discover and grow your craft, before in your own right becoming a Master of your work.

• If you are seeking a wagon built, you would not trust your precious wife and your life's works of cargo to ride up a mountain in one designed by the unproven.
• If you are seeking a bed for your child, you would not trust your younglet on something constructed on the sly by a man who cared more for money than craft.
• If you are seeking an armor to protect you from harm, you would not enlist a man who does not know the proper means of curving a breastplate - lest upon first strike it would buckle and pierce your chest worse than the strike.

Why then, why would, why should, Faith be any differed?

Many turn up their nose and rankle at the notion of Orthodoxy. Not so different than the believe that Governance brings with it restriction. Yet the very nature of a skeletal structure is with firm foundation a greater notion of all may be founded.

• Would you trust a House designed by a architect who eschewed blueprint because they "Told him what to do"?
• If you are placed on trial for a crime you did not commit, would you entrust your Advocacy to a man who had never studied Ephia's Legal Code, or read of the Law Library in the halls of Jurisprudence?
• A man who has first undertaken the Craft of Alchemy, would you trust to operate laboratory in a public space, where the misapplication and ill measurement could lead to the harm of many?

And to this I say -

Orthodox practices. These things hold merit, they hold place in Society, and they bring with them assurances. The understanding that one you seek is true, practiced, and learned in their craft.

The Refugee Clergy of Ephia's Well, the Apprentice or Journeyman Ullema, while they may make headway. they are far from Orthodox.

They are still learning. They are still discovering. I beg you have patience with their practices, and encourage all to seek to better understand. That because for five, for ten years one has studied a life of Faith? They are not Masters of this craft. There is still refinement to come.

And it is the duty of The B'aarat to aid in that refinement, as Mother of All Creation. As Overgod of the Wheel.

[Clearcreek Rebuttal]

Clearcreek Rebuttal
Gausim al-Marain

"To you, good folk of the Well, who find themselves torn betwixt that which they hear, and that which they feel in their heart, I ask the same as I did in one of the Debates. Is your faith in the Wheel, or the mouth's of those who proselytize for it? Have you spent the time to truly know your God?"

Jordan Clearcreek, Nisah 27th, 7788

These words issued in challenge have been weighed most of the day, and as Honored Bearer of the Great Temple of Baz'eel I lend weight and measure to my words.

"To you, good folk of the Well, who find themselves torn betwixt what they hear, and that which they feel in their heart" opens with ad hominem assumption. For the number of those who are pious, devout, and adherent of The Wheel greatly eclipse the dissenters.

The woman Miranda Marlin, who so graciously helps herself to the Waters of Ephia's Well, raising bellows calling for a "Grand Muffin" to be replaced. This is not a sign of one who has spent months in our fair city with earnest intention. She is a Learned Wizard, she actively knows many magics and boasts often of the Fifth Circle upon the bellows. The word Mufti is not so difficult.

The Nadiri, Zol Nur, who speaks of having Studied penal code. She is not disdained by the community for her charity, but for the source. There is already law upon the Assembly, and she sit in violation of such. She has been given a week's time to seek to err her ways and instead has taken to a tantrum, as children are want.

The Nadiri, Lapa, who speaks of Senseless Violence against a single woman who preaches what she holds close to her heart not being a show of strength - It is not about a showing of strength. It is about the Pantheon that has encouraged our Gates to be so opened, that has encouraged our Culture, our Life. We would not walk into a person's home and ungraciously offend their offering of a coffee, or insult their family. And yet she chooses to do just this. In multiple accountings.

Even now as I have offered Sofia time to reflect on her ways, rather than what some sought of merely arresting her for her crimes, she chooses protest.

She does not seek to learn, to change, to find place in our community. She merely takes her book to our Statue and to sow more discontent.

There are more, so many more, but I tell you this plain fair reader: "Is your faith in the Wheel, or the mouth's of those who proselytize for it?"

This question a cutting one. And not in the way that Scholar Clearcreek believes it.

For  those who proselytize for it are chosen, by the Wheel. Their deeds, their actions, their causes are championed in divine sacrament and the rawest communion that may be offered between a Mortal and a God.

A lifetime dedicated to study, to understanding, and to prayer. So too though depending upon the divine duties of the Spoke - the sacred deeds demanded. Restrictions upon decorum, upon practice, oaths layered and emplaced and honored.

Men and women do not "Learn" to be Clergy by the practices of scavenging arcane scrolls. Men and women do not "Become" the Speakers of the Wheel because of study of odd stars.

By sacred Relic and Divine Will are the servitors of the Mother, The Protector, The Martyrs, The Wroth, The Wanderer, The Magi, and more given their powers.

And if they were fell, if they were false? They would have such powers revoked.

I do not admit they are not without flaws - but while many of you adhere to your hunt of Boardwork and Politic and Survival in this Great Ash, the Clergy of the Wheel aspire to enact the divine mandates of The Creator. There is a sacrifice of the self and a great cost that comes with such devotions.

And to question such - Not only having the thought, not only sharing the thoguht, but raising it across the realm by Bellow? By not only a Magistrate of Ephia's Well so reigned and governed by the Sultan, but in defense of a Sage Cultist of Il Modo?

These things fair reader give more than a degree of pause. They raise concern.

Not nearly though concern such as this - "Have you spent the time to truly know your God?"

Have you? Have you drank deep of the Waters of Ephia offered freely, have you walked the Roads protected by Warad, have you been graciously attended by the Martyrs who tend both gravesite and more to ensure the Dead may find their due and proper resting place?

In every facet of our Life, and in the barest skeleton of Ephia's Well, lays the Wheel.

It is the Guiding Star of Izdu that leads the Astronomers to wonder.

It is the Noble Warding of Warad that leads the likes of Lynneth, of Aurelio's service to the Mother, of Alain's tenants to the Martyr, that lead the Balladeers to the heights of heroism in the pursuit of a dream for a life a new with Cup.

It is the Janissary's pledge to the Wroth, his very Statue in their Garrisson, to see good works done and the wicked punished.

The Accord, The Sultan, the Leagues, the Populace.

For B'aara is the Creator. Merciful as she is Wise. But she defers to Izdu as she cannot be all thing. And her Wheel, touches all. From War to Peace, from Growth to cull. The Full breadth of existence. And in her Wheel, as it turns, the Waters of her divinity shared with those who may use it best among the Ecclesiastic Bureaucracy at that time. A Sultana deferring to her Court.

And in such a thing did Man learn to grow, and govern, in such manner.

That we have welcomed Asterabadian practice into Ephia though seems to have many believe such a thing also must apply to Divinity.

To this, and a great many others say the same in agreement:I know well my god.

I know my God, because I have been raised of it. And teach others the same.

And our City raised on such.

But Asterabadian Principle ends at the Secular Bureaucracy and the Assembly Chamber.

And to question such a thing is gravest insult.

[The Four Clays]

The Four Clays
Gausim al-Marain

When the earth mixes with Mother B'aara's waters, the outcome is the substance known as clay. It allows for the creation of wonders large and small, but as she created life the Civilized are able to see their walls raised higher. Their homes built. Their empire grow. The quality of this clay though, when sprinkled with the purest waters of the Mother's tears, lends to the differed outcome. She weeps so as there are unhoused, as there are those suffering so, as Refugees come.

Earthenware, a more porous and and able to be chiseled by simple knife it allows for the construction of simple abodes and contain water, grain, and more. It is the first steps towards a civilized life when a settlement is able to raise Earthenware.

Terracotta, a less porous but red hued clay, is not without impurity but it holds its form fairer. It lends well to the creation of irrigation, of growth of farm and flower, and the keeping of contents under pressure. So too, when struck just right - it shall emit such a sonorous tune provided the stonework is not fractured. The first steps of culture atop mere civilized life producing a greater push towards the Mother's hopes for all her children.

Stoneware is refined. It is a firm, well tended Clay sculpted by an Artisan. It allows the construction of great structures and durable homes to stand the test of time, but it must be refined and chiseled and carved as all stonework does. With due time and effort though it may move beyond the shortcomings of Terracotta to make truly water-tight, far less impure, and sturdy materials. Perfect for the construction of Walls, Wells, and more. A time when men and women may set aside sword and spear and begin to discovery not only the baseworks of civilization or the inklings of culture but a true and earnest step.

Porcelain is immaculate. The delicate carvings, the careful finish, the artisinal touches. It is refined beyond measure and it sits so valued, so precious, and so perfect. It is a Master's touch that forges such a thing and coveted by any and all. The housing of Water for not only necessity but for decorative purposes showing such wealth that one may give it charitably to any who have need. It is the last stage of a Culture's progression towards a truly Civilized lifelihood when Porcelain is introduced.

It is in the honor of the Mother's workings that the Four B'aaran Shrines of Ephia's Well are so made. Carefully carved with intention and purpose. Consecrated by Acolyte of the Blessed Temple under the duties of Mother Al-Fayyid, to bring her honor and respect among The Great Temple of Baz'eel. The iconography as well lends to the Progression of the Refugee, as they come from the harsh desert and progress to become a fully found and self-actualized Citizen. So long as they have made their way to each of the Four Shrines.

The Earthware Shrine - The B'aaran Almhouse of The Tablet, where many Refugee first find way.
The Terracotta Shrine - The Upper Floor of the Krak de Rose, where waters flow near the arena staining the Clay red, where Refugee may learn of how to survive this harsh desert.
The Stoneware Shrine - Hasheema's Hope, where the communal lessons of charity, of care, and of family begin to take root.
The Porcelain Shrine - The Palm Heights, where the refinement of Clay moves beyond art to miraculous, and where the Refugee becomes a truly contributing Voiced Citizen.

A miraculous thing it shall be when the Four Shrines are attended in unison, that the Blessed Temple of B'aara may operate in full capacity, and we of the Great Temple may honor such with celebration and blessings upon Ephia's Well.

One day.

[Vizier Hamdan al-Hamdan,]

Vizier Hamdan al-Hamdan,

In ritual prayer at the Temple, last eve at the Call to Prayer, did Lady Nasreen Shabani come forward. She had asked for guidance and of B'aara we asked. Her answer - An empowering of the Ashfolk.

As you have been so denied Wroth's justice, as you have been so denied The Protector's Grace, I ask you this.

If she and I are able to secure the means, and you and she pool resources, and we undertake such a ritual-

Would you wish your Leg returned, your form restored by B'aara?

Magistrate Gausim al-Marain
Honored Water Bearer of the Great Temple of Baz'eel
First of the First Seatl

[The Sage-Priest Sofia d'Andrea is hereby Guilty of breaking Ephian Law.]

Hammered into the sands on the Ephian side of the Krak de Rose, a small notice is raised. It is double sided - One readable from the Krak de Rose, One readable from the Ephian Plaza.

On this day, Nisah 24th, is The Cult of the Dome given the last of the Mother's Mercy. The Accord has convened and in such its Officers have declared the following: The Sage-Priest Sofia d'Andrea is hereby Guilty of breaking Ephian Law. She has, in her blasphemy, declared as reported in first hand confession to a Priest of the Wheel:

"The priestess, Sofia, chiefly is the culprit for speaking of these things. Her words are honeyed, but that honey is venom and deceit. She raises her 'sage' as a being more compassionate than our mother, greater in fullness of her mercy. What little respect, the Modini must have, that She suffers for the wealth of us all, and they spurn her."

So testified by Balladeer Alain Chauderon, of the Twindari
And these sentiments of her admonishment are lent concurrent opinion by
Apothar Cosine Mevura, of Izdu, of Sergeant Arnock Reyer, Sultan's Justice

In rare convergence of the Accord of Ephia's Well, tenders and renders of Security, of Protection, The Sister-Priest Sofia has committed the following transgressions

- For a time enlistment within the Purple League of Ephia's Well, securing a Voice, seeking assimilation in the highest meetings with Candidate, yet vehemently undermining Faiths of the Wheel. And so too recently departed.

- Proliferation of Heretical Script among the Learned community by the named "Sacred Texts of Sage
Santina's Faith"

- Prostelytizing in open streets of Ephia's Well the Blasphemous Practices of the Dome.

-Willfully engaging in de-consecration of Ephia's Well by erecting a False Idol to the Dome.

- Knowingly and Purposefully tarnishing the Name of Princess Hasheema, Beloved Daughter of the Sultan, in propagation of her faith within Hasheema's Hope, her Namesak.

- Offering false-truth and blasephemous screed that her sage is "More Compassionate than our Mother, greater in fullness and mercy".

Attempts to stymie her by the Balladeer has proven fruitless as she rebukes him, continues to proliferate her works not only in the Krak de Rose but beyond, and sullies good name of Our Mother, the Creator, bringing ill portent upon all.

For it is not happenstance that Il Modo's waters recede, and if she allowed to continue so shall they here. It was mercy that she has been allowed her practice so, in hopes she would come to learn the error of her ways or to at very least respectfully retain it among the Krak de Rose.

She has not. So in this she is offered the Mother's Last Mercy: The Warning.

There has been meeting, there has been decision, and now she is given time. One week's time is given that she may settle her affairs and submit for Rebaptism, willingly and in sincerity, to the Wheel.

Failing such Sergeant Reyer has issued command for her Arrest on Serious Charges, at which point Ephian Law declares she must forcibly undergo Re-baptism, lest face harsher penalty.

In that time she may seek salvation from:

Grand Mufti Radislav of the Wroth
Khalid, of Warad, whose Patron sits upon the Stele.
Honored Water Bearer Gausim Al-Marain, of B'aara
Ex-Legate Marcellus, of Izdu
Balladeer Alain, of the Twindari
Ariel, of The Protector Agaslakku
Jerrod, of Kula

She may seek one, she may seek all, to learn and understand.

She has until one week time to choose her fate.

Magistrate Gausim al-Marain
Honored Water Bearer of The Great Temple of Baz'eel
First of the First Seat

[Worship and Liturgy in Ephia's Well]

Worship and Liturgy in Ephia's Well
Gausim al-Marain

For days now I have walked the streets of Ephia's Well. I had arrived to bare witness to the Grand Experiment, Asterabadi's puzzle, the Sultan's Gift to the Refugees that they may find themselves and in time assimilate to this burgeoning outpost. While it did indeed live up to its reputation that is cast across the Great Ash, it drew my attention to a matter which many have raised but few could articulate. It pleases me to no end to share that in B'aara's wisdom, I believe a diagnosis may be made.

Last night, in speaking with Lady Shabani, Jerrod of Kula and Ariel of Agaslakku who answered the B'aarat Call to Prayer, they came with questions abounding. And in their departure I took to meditation in the Hall of Jurisprudence.

The Refugees of the Well have arrived for the last eleven years with hardship and woe, and upon reaching Ephia's Well they have partaken fiercely of worship of the Wheel. They have taken it to heart, to very soul, letting the waters seep into their pores and hair to better themselves from the lives they had previously. They learn of our Gods from the passing street-preachers in Hasheema, they learn of our Religion from the Speaker's Mound, and they learn of the Clergy in their engagements.

Often though this is where the process ceases. That though is not their fault by any means. It is the nature of Worship. It is the nature of the self, and the first step towards greater practice.

The bridge that is lacking? Liturgy.

The conduct of the Clergy in the public forum, the Rites, the Ceremonies, the Rituals, the sense of community that is borne of the Call to Prayer, the familiarity that is born from working side by side with men and women you know well, and trust, by virtue of both Faith and Practice.

I do not say this to admonish the Speakers of the Spokes, only to seek to aid them in this problem raised to me by so many. To most of the Refugees of Ephia's Well they witness the basest form of Liturgy. Allow me to raise some examples.

Preaching and Sermon by Bellow, rather than in call to Shrine and Temple. If lacking such then the Speaker's Mound. If lacking such in prayer book, pamphlet, and more in consideration of public peace. It is true less may hear your message than if you yowl into the night like Dunecat but if you hold these rituals, spread these words, I guarantee my friends that those who do show will be all the more engaged, the relationships there grown, and an intimate exchange of Faith you may have. A far more satisfying thing to the layman and Spoke alike to have such engagement over hearing your calls.

Blessings offered in Boardwork, but only for barest name prayer, not of Tithe or Formal charity. As if the God's themselves are less favored than the merchants of the Souk who are at least given offering for their service. If the Pious expected to bloody hand they should be paid for the water it will take to clean them. It is not respectful to offer "A Share" of reward - that is expected of any man, woman, wizard, or mercenary. The Ecclesiastic Bureaucracy are due more respect. If they refuse this respect then seek others who do, that you may grow your flock, faithful, and ally.

Two Assemblies I have witnessed and no calls, none at all, for the Patron of the Stele to be Honored before assembly. In benediction by Preacher of the Spoke that is Patron who is present, or barring such one of the B'aarat who may offer such in their absence before the political debates commence. Allow the faithful in opening ceremony to remind the Voiced what it is to be privileged of caste, of wealth, and more before they descend into baser Secular contest.

Far more charitable works done by the Secular factions - The Palatial Pyramid and the Leagues, The Priory of the Sisters, than the organized faiths of Ephia's Well.

A belief raised that the phrase "The Wheel Turns" is a catch all and excuse to codify any action, shift any faithful matter, and disregard some faiths in preference of others as the time so pleases. The Mother has assigned to each Spoke a duty, task, and more for purpose. This is not errantry. To ignore such and seek Asterabadian Democracy on matters of faith, or constant shifting, is an unsettled foundation to raise any notion.

While Agaslakku and Warad may contest who is Protector when it comes to the matter of the Roads, one should in no way or form expect either to uphold Funerary Rites. For that is the realm of the Twindari. Any more than one would ask the B'aarat to lead a charge of War when that is the realm of the Protector Agaslakku.

The Wheel Turns in essence - means the Waters of B'aara are dispensed by a Water Wheel. To those who serve it best. The expert, the champion of cause, and those who serve her.

By attending these five barest matters, in reminding the peoples the difference between Worship and Liturgy, I belief firmly all of the Wheel shall prosper and all shall begin to bridge that vast chasm.

That difference between Accepting the Wheel, and Embracing it.

Between the Faithful Refugee who pays lip service, and one who steps forward as the Pious who serve the Speaker.

[Legate Domnhall]

Legate Domnhall,

I write you now in public letter which shall be published to my records of my first official duties as First of the First Seat, Magistrate of Ephia's well. Please note that your response as well will be catalogued, and keep in mind such a thing.

My First Counsel is as such: Suspension of Article 12 of Ephia's Legal Code, either conditionally suspended or removed from the Stele entirely. In regards to "Accomplices" In its current incarnation it creates an atmosphere in which aiding one guilty of a minor crime results in a citizen's own charge, allowing near universal power for the Fourth to link a daisy-chain of criminal charges ad nauseum. A savvy prosecutor could in theory charge every single man, woman, or child who holds a hypothetical Blue League Badge of one crime by saying they were co-conspirators per written evidence.

Trials and investigations should be pursued individually, not as some interlinking web of confusion and spidering paths of hearsay and who delivered what to where and shifting judgements on what is or is not constituting of "Knowingly" serving as accomplice based upon which legate and which magistrate sits.

It is a heavily leaning sentiment at a time when there is a very swift instinct by the Fourth to lean heavily, as already proven this day. The Law must be clear, concise, and direct to counter that. Not left to such...wiggling interpretations.

Theft is Theft, scaled as defined as sum.
Vandalism is Vandalism, scaled as defined as sum.

These are clear, direct and what is required for Refugees to understand. Article 12 is a glaring misrepresentation of jurisprudence in attempt to be a wide net and lazy process.

It must be suspended pending a redraft or removed.

Beyond that

The First official act shall be compiling a Legal Code of the currently updated text as of the Nisah 22nd Assembly. I shall then on a per-assembly basis, proceed to see it updated as required or enlist Scribes in Jurisprudence to assist in such.

Should other services be required merely leave word or seek me.

Magistrate Gausim al-Marain
Honored Water Bearer of The Great Temple of Baz'eel
First of First Seat of Ephia's Well

[Senior Scribe Bashir]

Senior Scribe Bashir,

It is known that matters are woeful and are only likely to be made moreso. If it is a matter you deem untenable I would extend to you an opportunity to work in capacity and service as my Senior Clerk in the House of Jurisprudence.

Your talents with your works of License, your rise to Senior Scribe, and your praises have been sung by the Deputy Chief Scribe.

If you wish some distance from the Pyramid, or exemption from your current duties among the Lily PYramid, you need but ask and I shall be glad to bestow upon you such a charity of speaking with the Deputy Chief to see you reassigned in a new capacity. I intend to perform my duties to a degree beyond my compatriots, as is expected and required of my station.

If though this is not the path for you, I shall offer no judgement.

Gausim al-Marain
Honored Water Bearer of the Great Temple of Baz'eel
Magistrate of Ephia's Well
First of First Seat

[Rulings of Magistrate Al-Marain]

Rulings of Magistrate Al-Marain
And other musings, thoughts, and motions.
Appointed First of The First Seat, Nisah 23rd, 7787
Gausim al-Marain

Herein in-closed reader do I share what may be considered a legal journal, kept in public record and trust. May Mother B'aara judge these records kept fairly, and may the Public of Ephia's Well judge them with scrutiny.

Some of them you may find agreeable, some you may find disagreeable, but above all else I shall keep them to the utmost. Though I am by Faith, Oath, and Culture bound to peace remember these words well before you read forward:

I am B'aarat. This does not mean she is without judgement, only that she errs towards mercy.

B'aara is the Mother of Sultans.

To Rule, and aid the Ruler, is sacred.
To adhere to and uphold the tenants of Law divine.
And in this matter I will do as I must and am able to honor She and The Sultan.
Whose law has now been entrusted to me.

Motions to Assembly
Writ Issued
Criminal Judgement
Civil Judgement
Counsel to Legates
First Counsel to Legate Domnhall, Nisah 23rd 7788

Second Counsel to Legate Domnhall, Nisah 27th 7788

Resignation
Letter of Resignation in the wake of the Radhem Decision Overturn

[The Three Impurities]

The Three Impurities
Gausim al-Marain

In light of the Pauper Push of Nisah 23rd, a time in which the Groknak of Governance was treated as something as simple to lead as a goat, our streets have been visited upon by many. Some of malice, some of desperation, but so too some of true desire for betterment and mercy. I share this to educate, but so too to remind the Citizens of Ephia's Well that so too were you not long ago the same as they. And even, though I do not say this disparaging, many of you still are.

Gaze now upon the Parable of the Three Impurities.

The Parable of the Three Impurities

Four individuals took to walking the Great Ash Desert. They were a band of brethren and sisters bound not by birth, but by family chosen. That upon the Second Day, the Holy Day of the Baz'eel Week, they would gather and partake of mizzar and then to wander the desert in search of wisdom and answers. They would then return to their favored coffee shop to share of tale and vision, regaling their compatriots with what they had seen.

The first, a man with vigor and temper, slammed the table and quickly launched into tale before the others could even take their first sip with no regard for decorum or practice. He was eager to claim credit and share his tale.

"You would not believe my friends - Far into the Great Desert I walked. Days, nights, my battles were so many. It was divine. I was never bored, I never wanted for something as I plundered as I liked, and I never dared stop as when in battle one must press every advantage. Only then may you be victorious. After though my sixth day of marching I came upon the most spectacular sight - An Oasis.

Rejoiced I pulled from my bloodied satchel my canteen, drinking deep and full.

As the day went on I found myself miserable and woed to have stopped. But as Night came on the horizon I witnessed the most fantastic vision. Within the Oasis I saw it - Blood. A gift from the Wheel that I ought continue my marches. That I ought continue my strife. That I would welcome any contest, that I would welcome any challenge, that I would conquer and prevail and let none thwart my ambition. If need be I would spit in their very face, rip from them limb, it would be glorious."

The other three looked on impressed - a tale of violence, of treasure, of victory. It was hard not to be envious. Second though came a woman of unrestraint, and purpose, but not without her own rough edges

"Hah. While you wasted time with battle, I focused only on that which truly matters - To do what I please. To travel the roads, to get to know man of walks as I hear their tales. I found that Oasis in Three. And my friend let me tell you plain it was a Gift well and true. I could rest my weary feet and remove my muddied boots on its bank. I could meditate and listen to the winds. I could find myself. I found myself even taking a nap in the shade.

When I awoke I gazed to the oasis, and what I saw was stirring. My once pristine visage skewed. All that I had hoped for, all that I had raced for, all that I had dreamed of in my slumber dashed! /Dashed!/. One of you is responsible, I do not know who, but I shall shout it on highest and I shall drive deep a fist into your belly until I learn who sullied my hopes."

At this did the First grin, welcoming challenge, but the others recoil. There was only so much that may be done against such a challenge, so they each offered their apologies in hopes that the matter would settle. The Second gruffly, begrudgingly, accepted but kept shrewd and skeptical eye on all the others as they shared their tale. So spoke the Third -

"Ah. While you Fought, while you Raced, I took well my time. I stopped to learn of the peoples, of the ways of this land. I have adorned my self in finery, I hold property along the road, not one, but more. A beautiful shrine I have seen erected and secured in my name. I tend it at my leisure when I am not attending my business elsewhere. In due time though I too found this Oasis you speak. I came upon its Banks and it was not as you said at all - Perhaps I bested you both, arriving with short cut learned by local?

I was standing upon the edge gazing upon my reflection and I could not consider what to wash first. My boots as they fair, my gloves as they fine, my helm as it majestic, my rod God-gifted and true? So I watched and I awaited, welcoming my amassing wealth, my growing reputation, and would you not know it I saw in the Oasis my path - I would serve God, and with my Land, and with my Shrine, and more I would be charitable to all. How can one choose with such bounty to offer?"

The others Laughed, japed, continued speaking for a time. Eventually though all three took to gazing upon the Fourth. A young woman. She awaited the conversation to come to a stall and then she took to speaking.

"...I saw the Oasis. I thought of taking a drink but I smelled copper of blood upon it. I thought of bathing in it but I could see the chunks of dirt floating in it. I thought of washing my garb in it but the deep foot prints you left while awaiting what choice to make, began to have the waters spill out and drain.

So I moved the sands to fill in your boot-prints. I boiled it to remove the blood. I used my garb to Filter out the mud. And after so many days of work I sat aside it and simply watched. Smiling as it glimmered so lovely in the moonlight. Awestruck that it was so full despite the harsh sun.

...Now it is pure anew, if you wish to return tomorrow."

It was not realized as she spoke, but not just her table, but all of the Coffee Shop had stopped to listen. To stare. Hanging upon her every word.

...Tomorrow they would return. Not just as four, but as dozens.

[close]

You gaze upon the Wheel, you take its name, you offer your prayers,
but our ways, our practices, you make presumption upon.
And in those presumptions you are prepared to stake your lives,
and the lives of so many others.

It is not unlike gazing into a pool's reflection and assuming you know all.
Never feel woed to ask question, and never feel worried to learn.
It is why B'aara, the Mother, the Overgod of the Wheel is so kind.

Of your spokes, in their charitable deference to her of respect and fealty,
she graciously delegates to they the many tasks and duties that this World requires.

And when you, layman, have questions, ask of your Clergy.
And when you, Clergy, have questions, ask of the B'aarat.
And when your Spoke is absent of Clergy you can find, ask of the B'aarat.

For she is the Mother, the Creator of All, and that creation is not without purpose nor guidance.

And as her Servitors may we aid each and all of you.

[Knight Aurelio]

Knight Aurelio,

I thank you for your support and words of consideration said. A majority of the reason I kept of relative quiet is I am still unused to the methods and means by Humans comport themselves in such instances. That it was even chosen to be a "Vote" to me is befuddling. That the roots of Asterabadian principle have permeated so deep into the thoughts and minds of the Refugee a sign in some ways of how fair and far they have come for Assimilation to Ephia's Well - But it still shows a sizeable lack of understanding of the Wheel.

Where yourself and Sister Amelie both spoke true I felt it was important that they have chance to learn, to grow, and if need be make such mistakes. I find it best to not try and infringe authority, be it of status or wealth, betwixt such gatherings.

It is a failing perhaps I will need work on in the coming days but each of those clergy have their own views of the spokes - Views that to I are bordering on steering dreadfully far from heterodoxy. They gaze upon the pool of the Well in hopes of gleaning the Wheel and it is skewed by the impurities of blood, mud, and greed.

Of more pleasing matters however -

Lyrist Lynneth I investigate for Canonization. Your statue and poem spoke fair of her, I wonder if your own tales and records held by your College share any insights that may be gleaned? Of her travels, of the origin of her love of the Camelback Tortoise, Of her life and any miracles undertaken, or the final moments of her death.

Do seek me at your leisure, and may you remember that though you are dissatisfied with this outcome - It will likely be we who must bring mercy in the wake of such.

Gausim Al-Marain
Honored Water Bearer of The Great Temple of Baz'eel

[The Canonization ofLyrist Lynneth Lywarch]

The Canonization of
Lyrist Lynneth Lywarch

A poorly drawn portrait of a brown-haired, green-eyed woman
Raised to the Shrine of Warad of Ephia's Well,
Illul 25th 7787

As Water Bearer of The Great Temple of the Mother, radiant and resplendent in Baz'eel, it is part of our most sacred duties and greatest privileges to navigate and investigate the Great Ash Desert. In our travels we seek signs of the Divine, traces of high and low considerations, and above all else the portents of The Wheel. To investigate and discern these traces before seeing them submitted to the Great Temple's Archives for assessment. If they are proven then they shall receive the highest of honors in Canonization. That their miracles and deeds preserved and as recognized by the Mother, Overgod of the Wheel, raised as blessed Saint in service to their Sacred Spoke.

Lyrist Lynneth Lywarch has been identified as one such candidate. And in such an investigation has been undertaken. In speaking with the likes of the Cinquefoil Rose, the Fourth Legion, The Astronomers, The Waradim, and more a picture has begun to be assembled of the impacts left by this woman who, like so many arrived a Refugee but devoted her life to the faith of Warad.

From my investigation I have discerned the following and would invite her friends, those who considered her family, and those who shared her faith to seek me for interview and discussion.

• The Scribes of the Sublime Garden, keepers of Record and Lore, for transcript of her speech before the Blessed Jeweled Princess at Kardesler in which she stoked even Ka'esh and Qadira to charitable march.
• Apothar Mae Stern, who spoke so valiantly in defense of her Shrine tended and kept upon the Gold League Office
• The Honorable Legate, Marcellus Saenas, Keeper of Izdu and tender of Museum, Library, and more. His dealings with the woman as well as the insights and considerations from Kardesler to the Battles held, as well as any other studied fragments uncovered among his Library or recollection.
• Magistrate Sephidra of the Torchbearers, whom has Jamileh said knew the woman well and as survivor of Red Hill may share first hand testimony in the final moments of her gracious sacrifice to ensure the wayward travelers may find passage to Ephia's Well.
• The Cinquefoil Rose, whom in their duties or records may note and historical context be left of her many workings and undertakings on behalf of the faithful of Warad, the Wheel, and the sacred charge of her works.
• The Faithful of Warad and its Clergy, whom in their solidarity or merely passing in the road may share her affinity of the Camelback Tortoise, her many rituals and practices of Faith, and any miracles she may have performed in their presence.

Be you upon this list or nay, seek me at your leisure. However if your duties keep I welcome submissions by parchment of tales, parables, stories, and more of testimony. First hand is preferable but not required.

Leave these at your humble and Blessed Temple of the Mother of Ephia. That we may get a better picture of this fair woman.

A woman whom had as so many started a lost and wayward Refugee, before taking to the Faith of the Wheel and rising to be one of the most renowned and notable of both Ecclesiastic and Secular Bureaucracy as Priestess and Officer of the Accord.

That, if she is proven true, may take place among the Spokes-

As Honored Saint in service of Warad.

Honored Water Bearer Gausim al-Marain
The Great Temple of The Mother

[Legate Domhnall,]

Legate Domhnall,

While I am unable likely to visit tomorrow for the Assembly, as we spoke on faith last evening I am called to lead prayer on the morrow as the Day of Settling Affairs upon us, I wish to raise to you a question.

The Temple of B'aara is an institution that which while long standing, I have come to assist in renewed teaching and growth. A great many Refugees have taken to adhere but in such they have also some wildly unorthodox presumption. I have had the pleasure of speaking with the likes of Yourself, Of Sister Selsi, and many others who have professed to revere and honor the Faith and I am eager to reach and meet with more.

As the Mother sits Patron on the Stele, as you sit of the Faith, as so many of Ephia the same I wish to inquire -

What would be required to see the Temple honored with proper raising as organization to the Stele? As a Voiced I am told this is a possibility among your City's protocols, and as we begin to offer new services and lessons to draw in more of the Faithful I would wish to do things accordingly.

If yourself or one of your Scribes could aid me in learning more of the processes I would be most grateful.

Al-Marain

[Legate Casella]

Legate Casella,

I wish to extend on behalf of the Souk's Temple our congratulations on your victory. It was a contest for certain.

I write to you this night because in these last few days I have had the privilege of lengthy debate and discussion with your Prelate, Akna. I wish to commend you first on your choosing partnership with her as the two of you are exceedingly complementary. If all saw as such, it would indeed be a brighter Well.

Those partnerships forged are what build a foundation for growth. It is the sort of collaboration in which the Mother wishes of all her children, those who have come from diverse background to arrive here as refuge and in their bonding, taken well to learn our ways and methods.

Though I cannot say how soon I will adjust to this human practice of... being "Awake" during the Demon's gaze, if you should have need or desire I would be glad to correspond or as I meed with your Prelate often, work with her as proxy.

Live. And Drink.

Al-Marain

[Janissary,]

Janissary,,

I have procured licensure and may begin to offer aid in earnest. Do seek me soon that we can perhaps speak on outfitting you with the tools required for your charge, be they magical or mundane.

Al-Marain

[Cooking to Brooking]

Cooking to Brooking
Gausim al-Marain

It is a phenomenon that I have not heard before arriving at Ephia's Well, but the notion of Cooking being tied to the act of Brooking is not merely a twisting of the tongue or a children's level rhyming couplet. I have, in conversation with citizens of Ephia, come to wonder if it is not a more cleared path.

Consider if you will the terror of the blood warping djinn, of the flesh warping djinn, these primal and raw elements of the very nature of our Mother's creations. To take something that was made perfect and with intent and purpose sunder and skew it towards your own desirous ends. Be it for pleasure, be it for purpose, be it to impress others. She who loves all, made all, and only can watch on as mankind chooses such a path.

Ripping flesh, tearing bone, draining blood. It is a grotesque notion.

...Now re-read that notion.

Consider if you will the terror of the hunt, of the peeling of carcass for fur, these primal and raw elements of the very nature of our Mother's creations. To take something that was made perfect with intent and purpose sunder and skew it towards your own desirous ends. Be it for pleasure, be it for purpose, be it to impress others. She who loves all, made all, and only can watch on as mankind chooses such a path.

Ripping flesh, tearing bone, draining blood. It is a grotesque notion.

Is it any wonder, that those who partake of such a life are preyed upon by the Djinni? The scent of blood beneath the fingernails, the taste of violence upon the tongue, the eagerness for doing whatever is required for survival, sacrificing any sense of decency for one more day? What is more aphrodisiac to the twisted whims of the pact-touched? What is more narcotic to the blackest beast and most profane and blasphemous abomination?

The scent of a kindred spirit, the likeness of a fellow flesh-warper, one that has tasted the odd sensation of "Devouring" meat that was "Killed".

Perhaps next time, consider the fruit or vegetables grown of garden, the paste of a fine hummus.
Perhaps next time, consider enjoying the company of small animal and large beast.
Perhaps next time, consider leaving things as they are and enjoying them for what they are.
Perhaps next time, consider peace.

And I pray to B'aara that more may come to know such. For a good culinary artist is lauded high and low for their creations.

Preferably though, absent of blood and violence.

[The Second Day]

The Second Day
Gausim al-Marain

The Parable of the Second Day

It is a parable well known in the streets of Baz'eel but upon this frontier it has fallen to the wayside as so many rites, rituals, and ceremony have come to be so. It is my pleasure to share with you one of my favorite tales of the Mother however. A chance that you may see in plain the wisdom of the Mother, she who gifted life upon all, she who created we her favored children.

Long and far when all began, did a family wander in the unforgiving desert. So many were their personalities, their ambitions, their hopes, and their flaws. And so many were their paths. Time and again though their paths lead to one another crossing. Some times three, some times six, sometimes nine. While there were times they were struck with the acute sense of loneliness they knew a time would come in which they would see their family again.

The precocious daughter, the stern son, even the uncle who was treated as blackgoat of the nomadic would find themselves in passing. At times they were gladdened to see one another, at times they were cantankerous and rankled to have their peace disrupted, at times they shared laughs, at times they shared insult.

One such day though as the Family made its way, on that rarest occasion they were assembled whole, through the horrific desert they walked. Sand burning their feet, sweat drenching their brow, the youngest begging and pleading for rest. Father though knew the grim truth - This desert, this Ash, if one were to stop in the daytime they would bake and burn and know only hunger, thirst, and death.

So as their caravan continued they passed the time. Japes, stories, though some ever kept eye for bandit and others for Dune Bison to feast. And it was in this pursuit of feast something spectacular would occur. For as the Father left the oldest to watch his family he took to a herd of Bison. He walked well and far until he came upon Dunebison grazing. He let fly his spear and it glimmered in the sun, reflecting the light so bright.

...and it missed.

"Ai-Yat!", he cursed, knowing well his family would hunger. He took to his knees in woe and worry. Bereft and uncertain of what terrors would come throughout the day, what pain of watching his children suffer, starve.

And yet... through his lamentations he began to hear a noise. A strange one. A gurgling. A bubbling.

From beneath spew forth a torrent of water high and far, sending flying his spear and drops of the most precious water upon him. He exclaimed and begged forgiveness for his curses, the drops mixed with his tears of joy, and far and why he cried in ecstasy.

Away did his children hear these cries, large to small, and they came to running. Some quickly, some slowly, yet all did come.

There they had no time to think, no time to reflect, no time to care - Water. Delicious, glorious, life saving water. They drank, and drank, until they could no more. Day gave way to night and as they laid in blessed peace they took to slumber.

Come morning they realized the errors of their way.

In their thirst, in their ecstasy, in their begging for the forgiveness of their father's curses they forgot to give their thanks. And so in such they took from their Caravan, a wheel.

And upon the site they placed this wheel, and upon this site the sons were sent to gather great stones, and upon this site did the Daughters collect nearby mud and clay to make jars to bear this water in their journey.

And they would travel far and wide sharing tale with any who would listen...

[close]

Upon the first day came rejoicing, relief, embrace of family and new future. Upon the second day came reflection, gratitude, realization, and piety. And from this the Calendar of the Week was formed.

Upon the First Day ((Sunday)) is owed your Earthly Mother, your Family, to share in feast and rejoice and make merry for the renewing of the week to come.

Upon the Second Day ((Monday)), is holy, owed to your Divine Mother, your Creator, to share in prayer and meditation, to reflect upon the heavens, to honor your place in ritual, and answer the call to Prayer.

Upon the Third Day ((Tuesday)) you may enjoy the fruits of your freedom to do as you please, as all children may, having done their chores. Wander, play, race.

Upon the Fourth Day ((Wednesday)) you may tend to your flock of goats, your crafts, your creations, and your artistry to embrace the joys of life.

Upon the Fifth Day ((Thursday)) you may grace your lover or those special to you charitable gifts and showings of admiration and affection, spoil your children, flatter your neighbor.

Upon the Sixth Day ((Friday)) you must rest, but remain ever watchful, for the week is long and the heat is fierce. If you parent or elder sibling you must protect the younger while they rest, for this is your charge.

Upon the Seventh Day ((Saturday)) you must get your affairs in order to finish business for the week, and prepare for the next week to come.

And in such the Wheel renews.

Mother be Praised.

[Services of the Blessed Temple of B'aara]

After an odd call for sermon and bestowing blessings in which there was no sermon at all and a newly arrived rotund ashfolk...took to washing people's feet at the Speaker's Mound, came bellows of a simple parable...

Gausim al-Marain
...And upon the Sultan for his charity and grace, bestowed the Mother a trio of daughters. Faziima as she was favoured and eldest, Crown Princess and Crown Jewel. Shaimela, who's Ashsail travels far and wide aiding all with her splendor, and Hasheema so blessed, and in kind blesses the meek.

In their honor are the potions beloved so named, now available for purchase at the Temple of B'aara within the Souk. Along with those who require Healing, as well as the rare Vial of Mirage - to aid in passive travel throughout the Great Ash.

Afterwards are notice raised within the Temple of B'aara

Services of the Blessed Temple of B'aara

From Gausim al-Marain

Blessings for Travel

100 Dinar for full acompaniment of light blessings. (Circle 1)
150 dinar for full accompaniment of moderate blessings. (Circle 1 & 2)

[close]

Blessings in Bottles

Potion of Faziima's Favor, 45 Dinar
Potion of Hasheema's Blessing, 45 Dinar
Potion of Shaimela's Aiding, 150 Dinar
Potion of Mother's Protection (Prot from Align), 45 Dinar
POtion of Wrothful Deflection (Mage Armor)
Potion of Mirage (Camoflauge), 45 Dinar
Potion of Light Water, 35 Dinar
Potion of Medium Water, 45 dinar
Potion of Aged Water, 50 Dinar

Potion of Sabotage's Bane (Find Trap) 100 Dinar
Potion of Kula's Shade, Greater (Resist Elements), 90 Dinar
Potion of Greater Creation (Enhance Ability), 80 Dinar

[close]

From Mother Zalhanna al-Fayyid:

Blessings of the Mother: 30 Dinar
Mother's Touch, Lesser: 15 dinar
Mother's Touch, Medium: 30 Dinar
MOther's Protection from the Sun (Protection from Evil), 30 Dinar[/color][/color]

The Halfling Domain Power doesn't seem to do anything, and as now that Cat's Grace doesn't exist anymore, both seem to be broken/moot point.

It's a niche thing so likely why it never came up but just wanted to make note if the team had time to give it a tweak.

[their terms]

Overview: Agaslakku teaches "Record the glorious; their tales may be remembered for eternity.", making them functionally immortal. Based on this notion The Immortals of the Great Khanate are a nomadic, free-spirited, and often violent collection of survivors rallied beneath the primitive slave turned conqueror, Chraub. Seeking to master the Wyld frontier on their terms they are constantly in a struggle with man, beast, and monster in great battles - and revel in the glory and fortune that survival brings. In more practical terms they are outcasts and survivalists offering the Refugees and defiant of Ephia's Well an alternative to the twisted tunnels of the mad Creep. Survival though does not come easily and as the camps begin to dot the landscape are alliances forged, smaller tribes and organizations absorbed, and the battlefield shifted to the Diplomatics and Espionage of Ephia's Well.

Recommended Alignment: Any. While my PC Is a CN Barbarian he welcomes counsel from Lawful military PCs, goodly priests, wicked traders, and others I've met IG so almost any PC can find a place.

Recommended Classes: Any though PCs without Survival, Navigation, or experience in the wilds may be in for a challenge. The Ephian Diplomatic/Spy option is available for those who wish to be more hub focused.

Recommended Race: Any non-monstrous, however Dwarves welcome if they want to get more heavily involved in the Camp of Kulkhan.

Advancement: No app required as it is a PC Faction but PCs who are more invested of time and effort will gravitate towards higher positions or be given camps of their own to serve as Overseer of, PCs who rock diplomacy can potentially outright become our Ambassador to Ephia's Well, Spymaster for the roguish sorts, etc.

Current Territory