Calan - The Immortality Paradox

Cloudcutter Drizzle - Incubus: Demon or Deity?

Date: 311, OA19,655

It has been over year since an official invitation was received by the Cercle to attend the Calan summit at their space station in wider orbit of Arena. The Gods who walk among us intend for the conference to be an opportunity to rebuild historic affiliations in light of the galaxy-spanning tragedy known as the Disappearing. Some representatives of government, however, believe that the true objective of "The Gathering" is for political gain. A spokesperson for the Administrator said that they would be attending for the purpose of "boosting Leonian reputation".

Regardless of personal opinion, it is unanimously agreed by the United Systems Senate that the Incubus is the true subject under scrutiny. Senate Chairperson Mariamu Ortega stated: '...Llywydd Tywysydd has dilligently guaranteed that the Gathering will be a diplomatic conference for all affected Chapters. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for representatives to decide the fate of a devilspawn that is responsible for the disappearance of thousands of loved ones...'

A significant majority of the Cercle believe Incubus to be a continued threat, and the failure of the mission led by Captain Lawrence has reinforced those views. Outside politics, however, a vocal group calling themselves the Toujours Sect have contrasting beliefs. Founded by former Archard Incorporated engineer, Alphonsine Vidal, in OA19,650, they have a strong opinion that the Incubus is in fact a force for good. They own and reside within a modest hostel in the Sainte Valley of the Blanc mountain range.

In her own words, Vidal described the celestial being as a blessing. 'It was responsible for the disappearance of my mother. A sinner, who exploited people out of money in the old Trouraide cathedral. Hundreds of people travelled to her for moral assistance and she repaid them with poverty. The Incubus witnessed this abhorrence and removed her from the Universe. It is a powerful God and it judges all of us equally. It has always been watching and now it will punish those who have sinned.'

Although preparations have already begun to travel to Castell, the Gathering is not expected to begin for over another year due to the vast distances that other Chapters must traverse. Historians believe this could be the first time since the Great Migration that this many Chapters have gathered for an event outside the United Systems Senate.

Published in the Cloudcutter Magazine, by political editor Lydia Moordale.