Zyon
Zyon is the sacred capital district and divine seat of power within the Omnium Theocracy, serving as both the physical residence of Uzhyr and the spiritual center of his divine authority. This colossal citadel-palace complex stands as the most heavily fortified and architecturally magnificent structure in the known universe, protected by nine concentric layers of metaphysical bulwarks that render it effectively impregnable to all forms of assault.
The central spire of Zyon rising above its nine protective aureoles, as viewed from the outer districts
Architecture and Design
The architectural design of Zyon defies conventional understanding, as its very structure seems to exist partially outside normal space-time. The central palace complex rises in impossible geometric patterns that appear to fold in on themselves, creating what observers have described as "architecture that thinks." The main spire reaches heights that cannot be properly measured, as its upper sections seem to phase between different dimensional states.
The outer sections of Zyon are arranged in nine concentric rings, each corresponding to one of the divine bulwarks that protect the citadel. These rings house various administrative functions, military command centers, and ceremonial spaces. The design incorporates elements that reflect the diverse architectural styles of all major species within the Theocracy, creating a harmonious blend that represents the unity Uzhyr seeks to maintain.
The Hall of Concordance serves as the primary gathering space where the various military and administrative leaders of the Theocracy convene for major declarations and councils. This vast chamber can accommodate beings of vastly different sizes, from the towering Deipurae to more modestly-sized species, with its space seeming to adjust itself to maintain perfect proportions for all present.
The Nine Bulwarks
The legendary nine bulwarks of Zyon represent the pinnacle of Uzhyr's defensive powers. Each barrier exists as a massive ring of pure divine energy that extends both physically and metaphysically around the citadel. These barriers are not simply walls or shields, but rather fundamental alterations in the fabric of reality itself. The bulwarks require Uzhyr's constant presence and power to maintain, which has led to his necessary confinement within Zyon during the War for Eternity.
Each bulwark possesses unique properties that make them particularly effective against different forms of attack. The outermost barrier nullifies any attempt at teleportation or dimensional travel, while inner layers provide protection against physical, spiritual, and metaphysical assaults. The innermost bulwark is said to be capable of erasing from existence anything that somehow manages to penetrate the other eight layers.
Role in Governance
As the administrative heart of the Omnium Theocracy, Zyon houses the primary command structures for both the Lawwatch and the Theocratic Navy. The citadel maintains constant communication with all districts through an extensive network of Lumigraphic displays and specialized communication arrays that allow for instantaneous transmission of divine edicts and military orders across the entire plateau.
The presence of multiple Deipurae within Zyon creates a unique dynamic, as these divine offspring of Uzhyr serve various administrative and ceremonial roles while bound to the citadel's confines. They can only interact with the outside world through technological means unless specifically dispatched by Uzhyr himself, a restriction that has become particularly relevant during the current conflicts.
Ceremonial Functions
Zyon serves as the primary location for the signing of the Covenant of Sanctuary, where new species pledge their allegiance to the Theocracy. The ceremonial chambers used for these occasions are said to adjust their appearance to reflect the homeworld of whatever species is being inducted, creating a profound psychological impact on the signatories.
The citadel also houses the Chamber of Eternal Vigil, where specially selected representatives from various species maintain a constant watch over the nine bulwarks, monitoring their stability and reporting any anomalies to the appropriate authorities. This duty is considered one of the highest honors within the Theocracy.
Cultural Impact
The mere existence of Zyon has profound implications for the various cultures within the Theocracy. Many species have incorporated the citadel's nine-fold symmetry into their own architectural and artistic expressions, viewing it as a sacred number. The Cyber Paladins in particular have adopted various architectural elements from Zyon into their own fortress-monasteries, seeing them as expressions of divine order.
The citadel's impenetrability has given rise to numerous idioms across different species, with phrases equivalent to "as secure as Zyon" becoming common throughout the Theocracy. Even the Cult of Uzhyr has developed specific rituals and prayers centered around the nine bulwarks, viewing them as physical manifestations of divine protection.
See Also
- The Concordat
- Archwarden of the Law
- Core Base