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Talanian Heartlands
Grand Sanctum of the Fathers
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[img]https://img.roleplayerguild.com/prod/users/0b7b1cac-5e2e-47f0-8092-7b639440b721.png[/img]
The Grand Sanctum, a small semblance, a small piece of what was once the home of the Fathers. Rebuilt and expanded upon to fit their desired result, a home away from home. The eerie glows of blood red ether crystals shining a menacing light in these darkened lands. Lord among all Fathers, Duralus, strolled upon the ashened ground, escorted by a cadre of of the robbed, faceless Black Guard, making his way into the largest structure at the center of the Sanctum's grounds. 

As Duralas approached the steps leading to the assembly hall, he was greeted by rows of priests, members of the Church of the Fathers. The appearance of the priests were typical of one directly in service of the Church, cleanly shaven scalps with an assortment of finely-designed tattoos engraved upon their flesh, their person wrapped around in ornate golden, ebony and crimson garbs and trinkets. "Welcome, oh greatest of Fathers." They announced in unison. Duralas made no reply, his very presence, if silent, was more than enough to please the priests. 

The Black Guard escort moved ahead, pushing through the grand doors that awaiting him. Walking down the grand hall as it led to the assembly room, fellows members of his race awaiting for Duralas. One of the other, lesser fathers, Ukani, stepped forward to greet his superior. "Pleasant mornings, my lord Duralas." He spoke. "I trust you rested well?"

"Well enough." He replied bluntly, clearly not in the best mood today, his bright eyes scanned the assembly room, it appears all members are accounted for. Duarlas turns to his guards. "Leave us." Without hesitation, the Black Guard turned and left, leaving the Fathers to their own devices. All took their seats around a large round table, at the center was a holograhpic device projecting an image of riftworld, although the Greater Talan region was more focused. "My compatriots." Duralas announced. "This past month, we've received both promising, and troubling reports from outside our borders." He paused for a moment, than continued. "Acra Aprella continues their game for the Northern Seas, another skirmish is on the horizon."

Another Father, Ellumis, spoke up. "Our spies have shared with us that there have been talks between Rosecordia and Norshao of a royal marriage of all blasted things."

"Speak not of those damnable barbarians..." Another, Jrekmal, spoke up with distain. 

"We've also heard reports that the Valgradian Empire has been providing material support to Acra Aprella." Another spoke.

"The irritable insects had always looked upon us with distain." Duralas said. "It seems our enemies and rivals are intent on out maneuvering us. For what we know, we must act on it."

"I can arrange a diplomatic envoy to the kroak homeland." Jrekmal said. "They've proven loyal enough to our cause and may relish a potential battle to come."

Duralas nodded. "Make it so." He paused and scanned the room once more. "As for the rest of you, do what you must to protect our holdings. Make all who dare challenge us weep with regret and sorrow!"