Obsidian Concord

The Obsidian Concord, also referred to as the Ironclad Guardians or The Sable Authority, is a spiritual faction originating from the Spiritual World, distinguished by its rigid adherence to spiritual law, its control-oriented approach to Umbral Echoes, and, controversially, its increasingly authoritarian stance towards humanity. Emerging in the aftermath of the catastrophic Collapse of Spiritual Society, the Concord initially aimed to restore order and protect both the Spiritual World and the material realm from malevolent entities. However, over time, and particularly in response to the escalating phenomenon of Umbral Echoes, their philosophy has hardened into a belief that humanity itself is a primary source of spiritual instability, necessitating strict control and, in the view of some radical elements, outright subjugation. This stance places them in direct opposition to the Argent Sentinels, who advocate for the protection and spiritual enlightenment of humanity.

Origins and the Forging of the Concord

The Obsidian Concord's genesis is intrinsically linked to the cataclysmic Collapse of Spiritual Society, an event that shattered the established order of the Spiritual World and unleashed a wave of chaos and uncertainty. Before the Collapse, spiritual society was structured around a hierarchy of guardian spirits and enlightened entities dedicated to maintaining balance and defending against malevolent influences. However, the sudden and devastating nature of the Collapse decimated these ranks, leaving the Spiritual World vulnerable and fractured.

In this climate of upheaval, a coalition of surviving guardian spirits and spiritually disciplined entities coalesced, driven by a shared imperative to prevent further descent into anarchy. This nascent group, initially a loose alliance, recognized the urgent need for a structured and unwavering force to enforce spiritual law and restore a semblance of order. Drawing upon ancient doctrines of spiritual jurisprudence and the principles of rigid discipline that had characterized the pre-Collapse guardian orders, they began to forge the foundations of what would become the Obsidian Concord.

The Edicts of Unyielding Stone

The formative period of the Obsidian Concord was marked by the drafting and ratification of the Edicts of Unyielding Stone, a foundational document that codified the Concord's core principles and operational mandates. These edicts, inscribed on tablets of obsidian said to have been retrieved from the deepest layers of the Spiritual World, emphasized the paramount importance of spiritual order, the necessity of unwavering adherence to established laws, and the inherent dangers of spiritual chaos and unchecked emotionality.

The Edicts of Unyielding Stone established a rigid framework for the Concord's actions, prioritizing collective discipline over individual autonomy and emphasizing the use of decisive force to quell any perceived spiritual transgressions. They outlined a hierarchical structure for the Concord, establishing ranks and responsibilities, and defining protocols for spiritual law enforcement and the apprehension of entities deemed to be in violation of the established order. The very name "Obsidian Concord" was derived from these edicts, reflecting the unyielding, dark, and law-inscribed nature of their founding principles.

"From the fractured remnants of a fallen world, we rise as the unyielding stone. Let the echoes of chaos be silenced by the resonance of law. Let discipline be our shield, and order our sword. For in unity and unwavering purpose, we shall restore the balance, and safeguard the realms from the encroaching shadows."

— Excerpt from the Edicts of Unyielding Stone

The Initial Mandate: Restoring Spiritual Order

In its initial incarnation, the Obsidian Concord was primarily focused on restoring order within the Spiritual World itself. The Collapse had unleashed not only chaos but also a proliferation of uncontrolled spiritual energies and malevolent entities that preyed upon the weakened spiritual landscape. The Concord dedicated itself to suppressing these threats, reclaiming lost territories within the Spiritual World, and re-establishing a semblance of the pre-Collapse spiritual hierarchy.

During this phase, the Concord's actions were largely viewed as necessary and even benevolent by many spiritual entities. They were seen as a bulwark against complete anarchy, providing a much-needed sense of security and structure in a time of profound instability. Their methods, though already characterized by a certain rigidity, were generally accepted as justifiable in the face of the extreme circumstances. It was only later, as the focus of their attention shifted towards humanity and the phenomenon of Umbral Echoes, that the Concord's methods and ideology began to draw significant controversy and opposition.

Ideology: Humanity as a Source of Spiritual Instability

A pivotal shift in the Obsidian Concord's ideology occurred with the increasing prevalence of Umbral Echoes. As these fragmented entities began to manifest in both the Spiritual World and the material realm, the Concord's analysis of their origins led them to a conclusion that would fundamentally reshape their purpose and methods: they identified humanity as a significant, if not primary, source of spiritual instability and the progenitor of Umbral Echoes.

This conclusion stemmed from the Concord's interpretation of Soul-splitting. They observed the correlation between human deaths marked by intense negative emotions – regret, trauma, moral failings – and the emergence of Echoes. From this, they extrapolated a broader theory: that the inherent spiritual fragility of human souls, compounded by the chaotic and emotionally driven nature of human existence, created a constant stream of fragmented spiritual energy that destabilized both realms.

The Doctrine of Spiritual Weakness

This perspective solidified into what became known within the Concord as the Doctrine of Spiritual Weakness. This doctrine posits that humanity, in its current state of spiritual development, is inherently prone to generating spiritual discord and fragmentation. They argue that humans, largely unaware of the spiritual dimensions of reality and driven by unchecked desires and emotional volatility, inadvertently weaken the fabric of the spiritual world and contribute to the creation of Umbral Echoes.

The Doctrine of Spiritual Weakness is not universally accepted within the Spiritual World, and is vehemently opposed by factions like the Argent Sentinels. Critics argue that it is a simplistic and prejudiced view, overlooking the inherent spiritual potential within humanity and unfairly blaming humans for a phenomenon that has complex and multifaceted origins. However, within the Obsidian Concord, this doctrine has become a cornerstone of their ideology, justifying their increasingly interventionist and control-oriented approach to humanity.

The Necessity of Spiritual Order and Control

Based on the Doctrine of Spiritual Weakness, the Obsidian Concord argues for the absolute necessity of imposing strict spiritual order and control, not only within the Spiritual World but also, crucially, within the material realm and over humanity itself. They believe that unchecked human spiritual expression and the free flow of human emotions pose an existential threat to spiritual stability and must be managed, if not suppressed.

This belief fuels their justification for increasingly authoritarian measures. They advocate for monitoring human spiritual activity, intervening to prevent perceived spiritual transgressions, and even, in the extreme views of some within the Concord, directly controlling human populations to minimize their perceived negative spiritual impact. This control-oriented ideology stands in stark contrast to the Argent Sentinels' belief in fostering human spiritual growth and empowering humanity to find its own path towards spiritual harmony.

Radical Factions: Advocating for Human Subjugation

Within the Obsidian Concord, radical factions have emerged that take the Doctrine of Spiritual Weakness to its extreme conclusion, advocating for the outright subjugation or even eradication of humanity. These factions, often composed of the most rigid and dogmatic members of the Concord, argue that humanity is beyond redemption and represents an irredeemable source of spiritual contamination.

While not officially endorsed by the entire Concord, these extremist views wield considerable influence within certain sectors of the organization. They justify their radical stance by pointing to the escalating Umbral Echo problem and the perceived inability of humanity to self-regulate its spiritual impact. These factions actively push for increasingly aggressive policies towards humanity, including surveillance, manipulation, and even direct attacks designed to suppress human spiritual expression and enforce the Concord's vision of spiritual order. This internal division between moderate and radical factions creates ongoing tension within the Obsidian Concord, influencing their strategies and posing a complex and evolving threat to humanity.

Structure and Organization: The Iron Hierarchy

The Obsidian Concord is structured as a rigid and hierarchical organization, mirroring the unwavering principles of spiritual law and order they espouse. This "Iron Hierarchy," as it is sometimes referred to, is designed for maximum efficiency in enforcing spiritual decrees and maintaining internal discipline. Ranks and responsibilities are clearly defined, and obedience to superiors is paramount.

At the apex of the Concord's structure stands the Grand Obsidian, a figure of ultimate authority who serves as the supreme commander and interpreter of the Edicts of Unyielding Stone. The Grand Obsidian is chosen through a complex process of spiritual trials and selection by the Council of Pillars, a body composed of the highest-ranking members of the Concord. The Grand Obsidian's word is considered law within the Concord, and their pronouncements guide the organization's strategic direction and operational mandates.

The Council of Pillars

Beneath the Grand Obsidian, the Council of Pillars forms the executive body of the Concord. Composed of seven individuals known as Pillars, each representing a core tenet of the Edicts of Unyielding Stone (such as Order, Discipline, Law, Judgment, Vigilance, Fortitude, and Authority), the Council advises the Grand Obsidian, oversees major operations, and adjudicates internal disputes. Membership in the Council of Pillars is a lifetime appointment, typically granted to those who have demonstrated exceptional spiritual power, unwavering loyalty, and a profound understanding of the Concord's doctrines.

Ranks and Orders

The Obsidian Concord is further divided into a series of ranks and orders, each with specific responsibilities and levels of authority. These ranks, denoted by titles such as Obsidian Enforcer, Ironclad Sentinel, Sable Inquisitor, and Veridian Judge (a historical title retained despite the usual aversion to "Verid-"), reflect the specialized functions within the organization. Obsidian Enforcers form the rank-and-file, carrying out direct law enforcement and combat operations. Ironclad Sentinels are responsible for guarding strategic locations and maintaining internal security. Sable Inquisitors investigate spiritual transgressions and gather intelligence. Veridian Judges (historically named) preside over tribunals and issue judgments based on spiritual law.

This rigid rank structure ensures clear lines of command and accountability within the Concord. Discipline is rigorously enforced, and deviations from established protocols are met with swift and often severe consequences. This emphasis on hierarchy and obedience is central to the Concord's operational effectiveness and its unwavering commitment to enforcing spiritual order.

Communication and Intelligence Networks

Maintaining control and enforcing spiritual law requires sophisticated communication and intelligence networks. The Obsidian Concord employs a multi-layered system for disseminating information and gathering intelligence. Within the Spiritual World, they utilize spectral messengers, resonant frequencies, and magically enhanced conduits to transmit communications rapidly and securely. In the material realm, they rely on covert human agents, infiltrated organizations, and advanced surveillance technologies to monitor spiritual activity and gather intelligence on both human populations and rival factions like the Argent Sentinels.

Their intelligence network is particularly focused on identifying individuals with spiritual sensitivity, tracking Umbral Echo manifestations, and monitoring the activities of those deemed to be spiritual dissidents or potential threats to the Concord's authority. This comprehensive surveillance apparatus is a key component of their control-oriented approach, allowing them to preemptively address perceived threats and maintain their grip on spiritual order, as they define it.

Practices and Methods: Enforcing Spiritual Law

The Obsidian Concord's practices and methods are characterized by their directness, their emphasis on force, and their unwavering adherence to what they perceive as spiritual law. They are not inclined towards subtlety or diplomacy, preferring decisive action and the imposition of order through strength.

Spiritual Combat and Suppression Techniques

Spiritual Combat is a cornerstone of the Obsidian Concord's operational methodology. Their warriors, the Obsidian Enforcers and Ironclad Sentinels, are rigorously trained in techniques designed to suppress and neutralize spiritual threats, including Umbral Echoes and other entities deemed disruptive to spiritual order. Their combat style is often described as forceful and pragmatic, prioritizing efficiency and control over finesse or compassion.

They utilize specialized spiritual weaponry, often crafted from obsidian and imbued with binding and suppressing energies. These weapons are designed to disrupt the spectral forms of Umbral Echoes and other incorporeal entities, weakening them and facilitating their capture or banishment. Concord warriors also employ Chains of Constraint, magically forged shackles designed to bind and restrain spiritual entities, preventing them from causing further disruption.

Unlike the Argent Sentinels, who often prioritize containment and spiritual purification, the Obsidian Concord frequently resorts to more permanent solutions, including the outright banishment or even spiritual dissolution of entities deemed irredeemably disruptive. This reflects their emphasis on absolute order and their perceived necessity of eliminating any source of spiritual chaos, even if it means employing harsh and irreversible measures.

Spiritual Tribunals and Judgments

The Obsidian Concord operates a system of spiritual tribunals, presided over by Veridian Judges (again, a historical title), to adjudicate cases of spiritual transgression. These tribunals are designed to enforce the Edicts of Unyielding Stone and maintain spiritual law within both the Spiritual World and, increasingly, in their interactions with the material realm.

Accusations of spiritual transgression can range from minor violations of protocol to major offenses such as consorting with rogue Umbral Echoes or defying the Concord's authority. Tribunals are conducted with rigid formality, and the accused are subject to interrogation, spiritual scrutiny, and judgment based on the Concord's interpretation of spiritual law.

Punishments imposed by the tribunals can vary widely, from spiritual reprimands and temporary confinement to banishment from the Spiritual World or, in extreme cases, spiritual dissolution – the permanent eradication of an entity's spiritual essence. These tribunals serve as a stark reminder of the Concord's unwavering commitment to enforcing spiritual law and their intolerance for any deviation from their rigid code of order.

Manipulation and Control of Umbral Echoes

In a controversial and ethically dubious practice, the Obsidian Concord has been known to experiment with the manipulation and control of Umbral Echoes. Rather than solely seeking to eradicate these entities, certain factions within the Concord believe that Echoes can be weaponized and utilized to serve the Concord's purposes.

These experiments involve attempts to bind Echoes to the Concord's will, exploiting their inherent spiritual hunger and distorted motivations to direct them against perceived enemies or to enforce the Concord's authority. This practice is deeply controversial, even within the Concord itself, with many members expressing concerns about the ethical implications of manipulating fragmented souls and the potential for such control to backfire. However, the pragmatic and control-oriented mindset of the Concord, particularly in its more radical elements, has led to the continued pursuit of this dangerous and morally ambiguous avenue of power.

Conflict with the Argent Sentinels: Ideological Warfare

The ideological chasm separating the Obsidian Concord and the Argent Sentinels has inevitably led to a protracted and multifaceted conflict between the two factions. This conflict is not characterized by open warfare on a grand scale, but rather by a constant state of tension, subtle sabotage, ideological clashes, and occasional covert skirmishes. The fundamental disagreement over the nature of humanity and the appropriate response to Umbral Echoes forms the core of this ongoing antagonism.

Contrasting Philosophies in Action

The conflict between the Concord and the Sentinels is fundamentally an ideological one. The Obsidian Concord, driven by its Doctrine of Spiritual Weakness, views humanity as a liability and advocates for control and suppression. The Argent Sentinels, grounded in their Covenant of Luminescence, believe in human spiritual potential and champion protection and enlightenment. This diametrically opposed worldview shapes every aspect of their interaction.

In practice, this ideological divide manifests in contrasting approaches to dealing with Umbral Echoes. The Concord favors forceful eradication or manipulation, seeing Echoes as threats to be neutralized by any means necessary. The Sentinels prioritize containment, spiritual healing, and, in rare cases of rogue Echoes, attempts at understanding and even redemption.

Similarly, their approaches to humanity differ drastically. The Concord seeks to monitor, control, and even subjugate human populations, viewing this as essential for maintaining spiritual stability. The Sentinels operate covertly to protect humans, offering subtle guidance and fostering spiritual awareness without infringing on human free will. These contrasting philosophies create constant friction and fuel the ongoing conflict between the two factions.

Covert Operations and Sabotage

Open warfare between the Obsidian Concord and the Argent Sentinels is rare, largely due to the potential for such conflict to escalate and destabilize both the Spiritual World and the material realm. Instead, their conflict is primarily waged through covert operations, espionage, and subtle sabotage.

Sentinels actively work to undermine the Concord's control efforts, disrupting their surveillance networks, rescuing individuals targeted by the Concord, and exposing their ethically questionable practices. The Concord, in turn, seeks to discredit the Sentinels, portraying them as naive and ineffective, and actively hunts down Sentinel cells, attempting to dismantle their operations and silence their opposition.

This covert warfare is a constant undercurrent of tension, with both factions engaged in a perpetual game of cat and mouse, seeking to gain strategic advantages and undermine the other's influence without triggering open and potentially catastrophic conflict.

Ideological Propaganda and Influence Campaigns

Beyond direct confrontations, the Obsidian Concord and the Argent Sentinels engage in ongoing ideological warfare, seeking to sway opinions and influence perceptions within both the Spiritual World and among spiritually sensitive humans. The Concord utilizes propaganda to portray themselves as the sole guardians of spiritual order, necessary enforcers of law, and the only force capable of effectively managing the Umbral Echo threat. They demonize the Argent Sentinels as weak, idealistic, and dangerously naive, arguing that their compassionate approach endangers spiritual stability.

The Argent Sentinels, operating with greater subtlety, counter this propaganda by emphasizing the Concord's authoritarianism, their ethical breaches, and the dangers of their control-oriented ideology. They promote a message of hope, human spiritual potential, and the importance of compassion and understanding in navigating the complexities of the spiritual realm. This ideological battle for hearts and minds is a crucial aspect of the ongoing conflict, shaping perceptions and influencing the allegiances of various spiritual entities and spiritually aware humans.

Relationship with Humanity: Control and Manipulation

The Obsidian Concord's relationship with humanity is characterized by distrust, control, and, in certain factions, outright hostility. Fueled by their Doctrine of Spiritual Weakness, they view humanity as a source of spiritual instability that must be managed and, if necessary, suppressed to maintain order and prevent the proliferation of Umbral Echoes.

Surveillance and Spiritual Monitoring

A key aspect of the Concord's approach to humanity is extensive surveillance and spiritual monitoring. They employ a network of human agents, infiltrated organizations, and advanced spiritual and technological means to track human spiritual activity. This surveillance is focused on identifying individuals with spiritual sensitivity, monitoring emotional energy fluctuations in human populations, and detecting any signs of perceived spiritual transgression or potential for Umbral Echo creation.

This constant monitoring allows the Concord to preemptively intervene in situations they deem potentially destabilizing. They may subtly manipulate events to suppress human spiritual expression, disrupt gatherings perceived as spiritually chaotic, or target individuals deemed to be spiritual dissidents or potential threats to their authority. This pervasive surveillance network is a cornerstone of their control-oriented approach to humanity.

Manipulation and Covert Influence

Beyond surveillance, the Obsidian Concord actively engages in manipulation and covert influence within human societies. They may subtly steer human leaders and institutions towards policies that align with their goals of spiritual control. This can involve manipulating political events, influencing cultural trends, and subtly shaping human beliefs and perceptions about the spiritual realm.

Their methods are often subtle and deniable, designed to operate beneath the threshold of human awareness. They may utilize psychic suggestion, spiritual currents, and carefully orchestrated events to nudge human societies in directions that serve the Concord's objectives. This manipulation is driven by their belief that humanity is incapable of self-regulating its spiritual impact and requires external guidance, or rather, control, to prevent spiritual chaos.

Extreme Measures: Suppression and Repression

In their more radical factions, the Obsidian Concord advocates for increasingly extreme measures to control humanity, including direct suppression and repression of human spiritual expression. These factions may instigate events designed to instill fear and discourage spiritual exploration, actively persecute individuals deemed to be spiritually rebellious, and even consider measures to directly control human populations on a large scale.

These extreme measures are controversial even within the Concord, but they represent a growing trend within the organization, fueled by escalating anxieties about Umbral Echoes and a deepening distrust of humanity. The potential for the Obsidian Concord to escalate their control efforts into outright repression poses a significant threat to human freedom and spiritual autonomy.