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[IC] Intersection of Faiths
#1

Stoinian Star Kingdom,
Paragon,
Traian's Market - Amphitheatre of Piety
28/04/1620 PD


Nearly a month had passed since the Stoinian Embassy on Pax Dracon had been opened. The Drakari proved an open and cooperative people. It was clear that the Drakari were more religious compared to the other star nations the Stoinians had met so far. Both the Treecuu and Ryccians remained largely atheistic, but High Legate Umberto Berrocal saw an opportunity in the Drakari's faiths. Together with the Planetary University of Paragon he organized a large festival of religions. Both Drakari and Stoinian religions would come to the forefront and would converse with one another. This would hopefully strengthen the bonds between the two nations and help build stronger economic ties and understanding. The Drakari certainly were the most promising candidate to debate philosophy and religion. Paragon was chosen because of the planet's philosophical status. Although on its moon, Alqamar, was inhabited by the descendants of the Marcavani, High Legate Berrocal took the risk and understood from his previous experience that the Drakari were an understanding people. Besides, the Stoinian government didn't actively repress them and let the Marcavani evolve on their own now. No hate would be held towards the Marcavani of today for they no longer posed a threat and weren't the individuals who had pillaged the Star Kingdom during Traian's reign.
Traian's policy of cultural preservation affected the new colonies from the Golden Age. Paragon was dedicated to preserve the Yaltopyan culture from old Terra. Once these people inhabited the horn of Africa and ever since have had a strong Christian tradition. With the Philosopher-King's religious reforms, the ancient Yaltopyan faith had been brought under the larger Stoinian Orthodox Church. Now Paragon had its own Patriarch, Derartu Abebe, and he would help organize this large religious event. The festival would take place in the Amphitheatre of Piety on the eastern side of Traian's Market. The Market was large and hundreds of religious figures were converging and greeting each other as the markets were open and selling many traditional and religious fruits. The stones of the market were that of a sandy marble native to the planet. It wasn't as coarse like sand, but maintained its colour despite being refined. It was early in the morning and the birds were still singing as did the many merchants on the market, but not early enough for the Imams to sing out at dawn. Trying to convince the large religious conglomeration to try and buy some of their fresh foods. The Drakari certainly would be curious as the many merchants would expose them to new fruits, grapes and even tapestry. Not only was the Paragonian nature a sight to behold, but its people as well. The Paragonians were more open than most Stoinians, eager to debate philosophy and religion. Understanding others was a central pillar for them and they sure would welcome the Drakari with open arms.
Patriarch Abebe was close to the stairs that laid to the Amphitheatre. He was joined by several of his religious peers from the various Stoinian religions. Namely Rabbi Azriel Mizrahi (Judaism), Cardinal Tsega Amrat (Stoinian Catholicism), Imam Badr al-Din (Stoinian Islam), Pastor Oddvar Sandberg (Stoinian Protestantism), Pontifex Gnaeus Barbatius Taurinus (Deus Sol Invictus), Miko Kotoe nakamura (Shintoism), Granthi Lajpal Dahal Singh (Sikhi), Rinpoche Kelden Dorje (Buddhism), Guru Jayesh Bhardwaj (Hinduism) and Professor Reginald Smith (Atheism-Agnosticism). They conversed about the recent contacts with multiple xeno species and if it would affect their religions while waiting for the main Drakari religious figures to join them.

Pontifex Taurinus: I certainly hope these Drakari don't try and dissuade our faiths. It would be foolish to do so.

Guru Bhardwaj: Oh I'm curious if they themselves would see them part of our castes. Perhaps they have their own castes systems? 

Cardinal Amrat: From what I hear, they seem more similar to my faith. Perhaps a sign that the Catholic way is indeed the true way.

The bunch laughed. All agreed their religions were but different interpretations of the same truth, but a little of friendly competition never hurt their debates.

Patriarch Abebe: Oh, dear friend. You Catholics never learn do you. I for one hope the Drakari will try to challenge our believes as we do on each other's. 

Granthi Singh: If they wish to challenge us in a physical duel, I'll be more than hope to accept. Do you reckon some of their religions might be martial?

Rabbi Mizrahi: Given their long existence and longevity, I think they might be true followers of peace.

Professor Smith: Or they have concluded that there is no such thing as a God?

Pontifex Taurinus: Professor, please. You should add a bit of colour to your life.

Professor Smith: Oh I have seen plenty of colour on my house's walls since my daughter finally discovered crayons!

The Stoinians laughed and continued to speculate on the mysterious Drakari until they arrived at them.
Pacifica: MyriaSallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor
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#2

The shuttle upon which the main Imperial delegation was due to arrive in certainly had a good sense of timing, touching down a short distance away at their designated landing pad with far more grace than a spacecraft ought to possess.  The passengers would be no doubt discussing who would step out first before even a semblance of an agreement could be made.  What was agreed upon, however, was providing something less of a shock by allowing the Drakari priests to step forth first, the airlock and boarding ramp hissing open towards the amphitheater.

Eight of the saurian aliens there were at the forefront as they entered the view of the Patriarch and his colleagues, their garb as varied as the color of their scales and the pattern of their horns.  One, a green-scaled individual clad in a simple white robe and a simple silver pendant in the shape of two hands joined, their smile serene and gentle as they inclined their head at the group.

The next seemed the complete opposite, their red and gold robes accented with a breastplate and bracers emblazoned with a fiery sword, stern and unyielding as bright yellow eyes swept across the area.

Between the two stood a rather fidgety yet cheerful-looking Drakari of grey scales, dark purple robes dotted with what could only be described as a network of silver constellations, marveling at every little detail of architecture and symbolism around them.  No doubt their mind was racing with piecing together what the meaning of each carving, each seat, each holy symbol meant, barely containing their excitement.

Trailing silently behind was a black-cloaked figure that, had it had it not been for the swishing of their tail, they likely would have been dismissed as a faceless shadow.  The only thing that could confirm they were one of the Drakari priests was what appeared to be a pendant of carved obsidian, shaped like an hourglass formed from a reaper's scythes.

The next seemed to clash with their colleagues' sense of fashion like a skycar did with a wall, a mishmash of earthy-brown robes and beast furs that served only to accentuate their bright blue and yellow scales and gregarious smile.  This individual in turn was closely followed by a figure clad in silken robes that shimmered like ice on a cold winter's morning that all but blended into their silver scales.  Even their pendants seemed to compliment this; one of gemstudded flowers and golden shafts of wheat, the other a simple bare circle of white.

At the forefront of them all stood two Drakari.  One clad in an elegant robe of silver and blue, the patterns flowing like waves upon the shore, their neck adorned with a golden pendant in the shape of perfectly balanced legal scales, their black scales and emerald eyes beaming cheerfully to their hosts.  The other an aged-looking individual with gold scales and bronzed horns that swept back and upwards towards the heavens, fleshy tendrils of scales at the front of their upper and lower jaw like a beard of scales, clad in white and red robes adorned with the symbols of the other seven arranged across a seven-pointed star.  No doubt a unifying figure amongst their priesthood.

The group slowly came to a halt, regarding the Terran scholars with a respectful countenance.
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#3

The Drakari religious figures certainly were... Mystifying. They had a certain Nova Roman aesthetic, but not quite Terran. The Drakari with his sword certainly seemed to be a Drakari counterpart of Granthi Singh. Some were more mysterious than others and the festival certainly looked promising now. Nearly all Stoinians looked in awe and curiosity at the Drakari delegation. This festival certainly would become interesting. Patriarch Abebe stepped forward to greet the Drakari.

"Greetings Drakari. Welcome on Paragon, the centre of Stoinian philosophy and an intersection of all Stoinian faiths. I shall present my people. In the meantime, be sure to take a little of this salted bread. For it's an old Stoinian tradition for visitors to eat it."

As some young girls in traditional Yaltopyan clothes came forth with the salted bread. Patriarch Abebe presented his religious fellows. He first pointed at Rabbi Mizrahi. A tad shorter on the Terran standard due to his old age, but he still thrived with enthusiasm. As the Rabbi nodded his head, his curls twirled yet his kippah remained ever on its place.

"This is Rabbi Azriel Mizrahi. He will represent the jewish faith of our Kingdom. The first Abrahamic religion from Old Terra."

Next was Cardinal Tsega Amrat, the Cardinal of Paragon. Like Patriarch Abebe, he was the largest authority of his faith on Paragon and was of Yaltopyan decent. The man was clean shaven and wore a red robe and a red hat, similar to Rabbi Mizrahi's kippah. On his chest he had a modest but shiny cross.

"Cardinal Tsega Amrat of the Stoinian Catholic Church. Like myself, the highest religious authority of his faith on the planet. Also an Abrahamic religion."

Imam al-Din wore simple white robes and sandals. Like the two gentlemen before him, he too wore a hat similar to the jewish kippah, but with different blue colorations. Unlike the Cardinal, the Imam had grown a respectable beard despite his relative age.

"Imam Badr al-Din, a priest of Stoinian Islam. The second largest religion on this planet and reformed by the famed duellist Tavi Rouhani. The youngest Abrahamic religion from before Stoinia was even an idea."

Pastor Sandberg was one of the religious leaders "imported" for the festival from a far away planet in the Qingdao Sector. He wore a black robe with a white neckerchief. Like the Cardinal he was clean shaven, but didn't have the ridges thanks to his young age.

"Pastor Oddvar Sandberg. A preacher of Stoinian Protestantism, a continuation of a religious rebellion from Old Terra against the Roman-Catholic Church of old. Luckily, this time around to no internal wars were fought."

The Stoinians cheered on the Patriarch's comment. Next was the fashionable Pontifex Taurinus who wore an exquisite red toga with pride alongside plated armbands. The Pontifex had a respectable curly beard and jet black hair.

"Pontifex Gnaeus Barbatius Taurinus. One of the Pontifexes of the revitalized religion Deus Sol Invictus. An ancient religion of the Romans, whom shared many linguistic similarities with yours."

Next were the eastern religions and their clothing showed a drastic difference compared to the rest. First up, was a young woman named Kotoe Nakamura who had actually travelled all the way from Shikoku. She wore a black kimono with a towering hat. The young lady smiled as she bowed respectfully with her hands hidden in her sleeves.

"Miko Kotoe Nakamura. This young and fine lady came all the way from the planet of Shikoku where our Kings learn how and what it means to lead our people based on the teachings of the Shintoists."

Next was Granthi Singh a middle aged man who just started to receive gray hair. Though it was only visible in his beard as his hair was tucked away neatly in his orange turban. Singh wore an orange robe similar to the Pontifex, but it exposed more of his fit and muscular body. His moustache was curled and revealed a warm smile. In his belt a small sword which was a bit larger than the traditional small kirpan all Sikhs were required to wear.

"Granthi Lajpal Dahal Singh a proud warrior and preacher of the Sikhi faith. A faith of warrior, hence his sword."

Then it was the turn of the bald and clean shaven Buddhist monk. The young man was visibly from an other ethnicity which prominently inhabited the Qingdao Sector. He too came from a far away planet, but made sure to only take his essentials. A small bowl and his clothing. His orange robe were tucked in a similar fashion like Granthi Singh, but exposed less of his body. A true humble man, he bowed respectfully with his hands put together.

"Rinpoche Kelden Dorje. Although his faith says there is no God, it does lead him to live a very pious and faithful life."

On the left of the Rinpoche was Guru Bhardwaj. He had looked of a similar ethnicity as the Sikh Granthi, but was clean shaven. He wore a simple but detailed set of clothes and on top of his head sat something similar to Granthi Singh's turban.

"Guru Jayesh Bhardwaj, a true Hindu in form. Though perhaps he might not be as handsome in his next life."

Last but not least was the Professor. The young man who just received his firstborn, stood proudly in his modern classical suit. The young man tall and blonde man had a small stubble beard.

"Professor Reginald Smith. He will represent those of the Stoinians who don't believe that there is such a thing as a God or Gods. Be it outright denial or just questioning the existence or form."

The Patriarch wore a black robe with a large golden cross with a round white hat with a silk sheet that covered the back of his head. On top of the hat was a small cross that glittered as the sun rays shined on it. In true Orthodox fashion, Abebe had a large and graying beard that nearly covered the cross on his chest.

"Ah, let us not forget myself. I'm Patriarch Derartu Abebe, the head of the Stoinian Orthodox Church on this planet. The largest religion of the Stoinian Star Kingdom and a brother religion of the Stoinian Catholic Church. We too are an Abrahamic religion. Now that we have presented ourselves, perhaps you'd be so kind to introduce us to the main Drakari faiths?"
Pacifica: MyriaSallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor
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#4

The Drakari clad in armored red and gold robes stepped forward after the assorted priests had each accepted a piece of the salted bread (which admittedly looked rather small in their hands), their taloned hand resting upon the hilt of their (hopefully ceremonial) blade.  The voice that came from it was... rather feminine, if a rough contralto, in tone.  "Milatia Oraka.  Arch-Militant of Junaia, the goddess of war and valor.  Conduct yourselves with honor, and we shall have no quarrel in our discussions."

The priest in the simple white robe took a half-step forward, bowing deeply to the assembled humans with their hands open, as if to welcome all to their embrace.  "Venatius, plain and simple Venatius.  Revered Shepherd of Shalya, the healing and merciful mother.  You'll have naught to fear of me or those of my flock."  The Drakari's deep baritone rumbled forth, possessing an almost-grandfatherly cheerfulness to it as he rose to his full height once again.

"Grand Magos Augurius Glycia, leader of followers of Daion, father of sciences and knowledge.  IMMENSE pleasure to visit home territory of Stoinians.  Even greater pleasure to share knowledge with fellow scholars, ensures eternal progress.  Prevents mutual stagnation."  The excitable grey fellow with the star-studded robes practically blinked over to the assembled theologians and the professor, rapidly (though thankfully gently) shaking each of their hands with what could only be called youthful excitement.

The black-clad figure silently approached Augurius from behind, tapping his shoulder.  "Yes?  OH!  Apologies, friend!  Happy to interpret as always!"  What little of the shrouded Drakari's face could be seen lifted into a mildly amused grin before facing the Terrans, their hands moving about in what was undoubtedly a Drakari method of non-verbal communication or sign language.

"'Caretaker Nervan, a humble priest of Morii the Unseen, guide of the dead, at your service...'  Ach!  Apologies!  Slowing speech.  Difficult to break force of habit..."  Augurius chuckled sheepishly as Nervan paused in their signing to tap him on the head as he unknowingly started translating faster than the Caretaker could sign.

"'The Last Companion is not one to be viewed with fear.  For we are all bound to the cycle.'"  The Caretaker's stance seemed to indicate gratitude for the translation, the black robes flowing back behind the group.

The seemingly mismatched pair would step forward, the boisterous looking priest in earthen robes and furs confidently placing her fists on her hips.  "Vassenia Agorix, High Wanderer of the father of the hunt, blesser of the harvest, master of love and the wild places, Aari."  Her counterpart stepped forth, his smile genuine if a bit dour and self-deprecating.

"Larisus Attius, Shieldfather of Inara, the breath of winter, the Vengeful One, and the mother of endurance.  Don't let my seemingly chilly appearance be reason to avoid me."

The blue and silver-clad Drakari stepped up, the pattern flowing like the sea as a clawed hand was laid upon her chest.  "Grand Judicator Caecina Vakari, priestess of Verenor the Justice-maker, the father of civilization, just law, and the sea."

The somewhat aged gold-scaled creature next to her smiled, those fleshy tendrils along his muzzle flowing gracefully as he bowed to his hosts.  "Ecclesiarch Parrakas, Father of the Seven Undivided and steward of the Holy City on Pax Dracon."
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#5

The Stoinians were intrigued by the Drakari. They were different, but they couldn't sense an inch of hostility towards them. Even though some looked like it. The diverse group of Drakari were then faced again by the Paragonian Patriarch.

"It's seems our appointment with death will have to wait for some time. Though I am relieved. And no worries Arch-Militant Oraka, honour is in no short stock on Paragon. Even so, Granthi Dahal is more than compensating for it. I hope your flight wasn't too tiring? We still have plenty of discussing to do!"
Pacifica: MyriaSallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor
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#6

Even as Oraka nodded approvingly at the Patriarch's words, Augurius was quick to respond, his gums flapping as rapidly as they were moments ago.  "Quite the opposite!  Observing Warp transit always exciting, hum of ship systems soothing."  He took a deep breath before grimacing sheepishly.  "Galley probably needs to restock on caf..."

"Augurius, my friend, leave that to the ship's quartermasters," Venatius smiled serenely as always as he pat the fidgety priest's shoulder.  "Regardless, the Patriarch speaks truthfully.  There is much to discuss, and still others more to arrive.  What inquiries do you have of us?"  The blue-scaled Shalyan turned his smile to the assembled humans.
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#7

"I suggest we first introduce the basic beliefs from each religion or dedicated deity. After each religion, all parties may inquire on the presented religion. Our star nations have yet to fully understand the scope of each other's understanding. I take it you agree with the sentiment?"

The Patriarch smiled again at the Drakari. Reassuring them that they are welcome.

"Our aides are ensuring the last details. Meanwhile, how do you like our planet of Paragon? I hope you have seen quite a bit of our beautiful planet."
Pacifica: MyriaSallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor
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#8

Vassenia let loose what could only be described as quite possibly the most bombastic and cheerful bout of laughter from a single individual in recent memory, the furs and beast bones that adorned her robes shaking vigorously.  "In my opinion, both by observing from orbit and in the shuttle descent, this world has an arid beauty that makes it shine all the brighter!  Myself and the acolytes who accompanied me are quite looking forward to traversing and hunting among the dunes further inland as tribute to Aari's blessings, should time and local authorities permit."

Augurius nodded vigorously, his excitability climbing by the second.  "Agreed!  Would like to make observations of local flora and fauna, study evolutionary adaptations to local pressures and resources."

"Personally, I've always been fascinated at how society manages to set roots in even the most inhospitable locales," Caecina said as she looked at the domes and minarets with an approving smile.  "Life, and most importantly civilization, ultimately finds a way."
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#9

The Stoinians were surprised by the Drakari's attitude. They seemed such alike when it came to the subject. No fear of hunting, but actively partake in it! From the vegetarian Treecuu to the scared Ryccians, this was a sight of relief for many Stoinians. The enthusiasm of some of the Drakari when it came to Paragon was astonishing to some. It seemed that they understood each other concerning the environmental symbiosis. Paragon was a prime example of this symbiosis. When it was colonized in the prime of the Golden Reign, the Stoinians had long found the balance of sustainable colonization. And now it was admired by far off travellers. It couldn't help but bring smiles to most of the entourage.
Imam Badr al-Din was one of these Stoinians.

"Well perhaps we should organise with Mrs. Agorix and her acolytes a hunt. The dhuga hunting season is slowly coming to a halt. Though perhaps those brave enough will take on the challenge of hunting mogull lion! Those not suited for the thrill of the hunt can still visit the beauties of the Selassie valley and admire the great river. I'm sure Granti Singh will take the lead for the mogull lion."

"You can count on it friend. I take it it won't be too much of a challenge for the High Wanderer?"

The Sikh Granthi clenched his hands on his fists and put them on his hips. With he lifted up chest and a high chin boasting his thick beard, it was clearly a friendly challenge.
Pacifica: MyriaSallodesia, Stoinia • A1-0: Stoinian Star Kingdom • Aurora: Kingdom of Threnebor
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#10

The High Wanderer's almost feral enthusiasm practically radiated off of her, stepping up to the Granthi to carefully place a hand upon his shoulder.  "Master Singh, consider that challenge accepted!  What say you to a friendly wager, eh?  Quickest tracker gets the greater share of the hunt?"

Augurius, on the other hand, practically lit up at the invitation to explore the valley and the river that lay within.  Even those not adept at reading more reptilian faces could tell that the wheels were turning in his skull, no doubt drudging up knowledge of shared evolutionary trends and the survival methods of plants and animals that dwell within arid regions.  "Excellent!  EXCELLENT!  Will need to make a brief return to the ship after initial talks.  Single datapad insufficient for data analysis, cataloguing new discoveries."

"All in good time, my friends," Parrakas chuckled softly as he approached.  "But first, I think it only fitting that we get settled in.  We have much to discuss, and clerics from other species in the Imperium have yet to arrive.  Speaking of which, I must apologize in advance if the Sinthari delegation appears... unnerving at first glance."
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