Intergalactic Summit

I am a priestess, not a playwright. That said, I present these to you all for your edification.



ACT I
SCENE I. A Discussion between two capsuleers over the Fluid Router, on a public channel.
Two capsuleers are connected to a public chat, SANGUINA AND MIRANDA.

MIRANDA
Forgive me if I'm jumping to conclusions, but you seem to be a Sani...er? You speak like a believer, are you one?

SANGUINA
I am a Sani Priestess.

MIRANDA
I've been trying to understand the Sani faith and what it is tonight.

SANGUINA
The Sani Sabik is a religion, a rather ancient one, related to the Amarr faith. Though, extremely different. The Amarr will tell you that the Sani faith is a heresy of the original Amarr faith, but that's not correct. Don't listen to them.

The religion is varied in its practice and practitioners. There's Sanist in the Federation mainstream, to the Blood Raiders, all a part of the same faith The Blood Seed, the Sani Sabik. We believe in a few key things that define a Sani Sabik follower, after these the other tenants vary.

The first is a belief in the Red God. The existence of a deity is key to the faith. The second, and where we get our name is the use of blood in our rituals. Blood is the essence of life and spirit. We also believe that there are certain persons that are greater than others. Not all men are equal. A defining difference from the Sani faith compared to the Amarr is that we do not base it on one's parents, birth, or anything like that. It is your achievements that define you and determine your life. Lastly, we believe that through our faith, we will find immortality. That the death of the physical body is just a stepping stone to an immortal existence with the Red God in paradise.

After that, it can vary widely.

MIRANDA
Huh, I suppose being a capsuleer their are still some ways to truly die.

SANGUINA
Even though we'll live a long time, what happens when the stars go out?

MIRANDA
You quickly convert to every faith and hope whichever God is real takes pity on you?

SANGUINA
I'm not worried about that day.

MIRANDA
You said there were splits in the faith past those basic tenets though; what do you believe those others should be?

SANGUINA
Such theological discussions are best kept internal. I am hesitant to describe any Sanist's earnest beliefs as wrong. If we can agree on the big things, the minor details are not really important.

MIRANDA
Understandable.

SANGUINA
I'm not sure that there is a one size fit all solution for salvation. I believe we are each judged on our own. What one person does as a part of their faith may please the Red God, but another person doing the same thing may not. I never wish to bind the power of God.

MIRANDA
So it's more about having faith and following the big tenants than it is about following one specific set of ritualized set of beliefs?

SANGUINA
It could be. My sect, Ordo Sani Calix, is what's called high church. Very formal, ritualized. But, it's not for me to declare that someone living in the Federation that practices the faith differently is doing it wrong. God is glorified in the Greatness and Strength of Humanity. That is the standard by which we are judged.

MIRANDA
Well, I have to go.

SANGUINA
Be well then.

SCENE II. SANGUINA’s office.
SANGUINA and MIRANDA are standing by chairs in front of a desk. There is a book on the desk.

SANGUINA
It is good to meet face to face. Please, have a seat.

SANGUINA sits in one chair and MIRANDA the other one

SANGUINA
So, your trip wasn't too bad, I trust?

MIRANDA
Not bad at all. I didn't see a soul until I reached the system.

SANGUINA
Good to hear. Before we go further, please understand that there are some people that like to treat my faith as a fad or some sort edgy cool thing to do. If you turn out to be one of those, I will be quite unhappy.

MIRANDA
I can assure you that I'm not one of them.

SANGUINA
I'm glad to hear it. So, I gave you the very basics earlier, did I not?

MIRANDA
You did ma'am... SANGUINA.

SANGUINA
So, I suppose I should ask if you have questions on those?

MIRANDA
Not one.

SANGUINA
Alright then. Let's start at the beginning. In the beginning all things were as one. God parted them and breathed life into his creation.
I'm not totally sure your upbringing, so I don't know your stance on God. How do you feel about that?

MIRANDA
On God? Well, I was raised in a rather secular household with extremely patriotic parents. For them gods didn't matter, it was all about the state. My own feelings are rather mixed. I've never felt like I had reason to believe in one but never found the belief preposterous.

SANGUINA
Raised in the State?

MIRANDA
Born and raised. Both parents spent time in the navy before settling down somewhat.

SANGUINA
Well, then. I can relate to that.

So, we, the Sani Sabik, believe in God. And God is the creator of the universe. This is important for us, because we exist in a place with God's rules. Like, if you go to a bar, you obey the rules of the owner, or she throws you out, right? Same concept on a cosmic scale.

The same God that created the stars and planets and all that we can experience in this physical world also created the concepts of justice, love, courage, nobility. It is all that is seen and unseen. God is not just the unexplained. Our world is extremely consistent.

SANGUINA picks up the book off the desk and holds it out

SANGUINA
What happens if I let go?

MIRANDA
The book falls to the floor

SANGUINA
How do you know?

MIRANDA
Because it's happened many times before.

SANGUINA
Because it always happens. Throughout human existence there has never been a case of gravity simply not working. Now, we know the rules for it. We can generate it. But that doesn't make the fact that it is one hundred percent foolproof. Any less miraculous.

SANGUINA puts the book back on the desk

SANGUINA
So, if God created everything that includes us, yes?

MIRANDA
Everything would include us... and therefore we must obey his rules?

SANGUINA
You're jumping ahead.
So, riddle me this. God created the universe perfectly. He had to, else it wouldn't work at all. What about people?

MIRANDA
Did he choose to make us imperfect, or are we actually perfect?

SANGUINA
Interesting question, is it not? What do you think?

MIRANDA
I would have to assume we are intentionally imperfect. We seem to do so much wrong but God made us.

SANGUINA
After a long, long time of pondering, the Sani Sabik pinged on a third option. We were made perfect, but given free will. It was our choice to become imperfect.

Free will is a part of perfection. If I fashion a perfect six sided die, perfectly balanced, it will still sometimes roll a one.

MIRANDA
I can see that.

SANGUINA
That's a tough one to wrap your head around, I know.

SANGUINA
And this goes back to our reason for being. God has Angels, whom are his perfect servants. The obedience of the Seraphim to God would make Sansha Kuvakei green with envy.

MIRANDA
So our purpose was and is to serve god?

SANGUINA
Why a duplication of efforts?

MIRANDA
You mean why have two separate creations for one job?

SANGUINA
Exactly.

MIRANDA
I don't know. What is our purpose?

SANGUINA
Well, hazzard a guess. It's not to be mindless slaves. He already has his angels.

MIRANDA
To find weaknesses in His creations? No, he made everything perfectly... To spread His will? Well, that seems like a job for angels.

To create something that could learn and realise His works were perfect of their own free will rather than through instinct or compulsion?

SANGUINA
Close. Very close. It is companions that the Creator seeks. Fellow Creators. We who paint and sing, who sculpt and build. There is but one God. But each of us has a spark of the divine in them.

MIRANDA
I see. It certainly makes sense.

SANGUINA
So. There is this life and then there is the next, in Paradise. Don't ask me to describe that, who really knows. What we do know is that we will be in communion with God there. We know this because this existence is fleeting. We know that one day the stars will go out and the universe will end. What is a long time to us is just a blink of the eye to God.

With me there?

MIRANDA sits silently for a moment in contemplation before nodding.

SANGUINA
Alright. So, here's the catch. We're not perfect. We've already admitted as such. And since we're not perfect, perfection is impossible. Something imperfect cannot make something perfect, right?

MIRANDA
I suppose so, yes.

SANGUINA
The question then becomes, who should get into Paradise.

MIRANDA
And the answer is those who follow God's rules?

SANGUINA
Well, yes, in a very simplified manner. But, do you think everyone should?

MIRANDA
Absolutely not, there are plenty of horrible people in this world.

SCENE III. SANGUINA’s office.
SANGUINA and MIRANDA are seated in the same chairs from the previous scene

SANGUINA
Well, I am glad to see that you came back and that I didn't scare you off.

MIRANDA
I doubt much would scare me away from this. The very least I can say about yesterday is that it was enlightening.

SANGUINA
I'm glad you found it so. Before we move on, did you have any questions over what we've talked about so far?

MIRANDA
No- Actually, yes. Yesterday you mentioned that in order to enter paradise and be with God we should strive to be better, to remove our imperfections. With what little you know of me, what do you think I could do to improve myself?

SANGUINA
Well, that's a pretty heavy question. She chuckles Step one would be to convert to the Sani Faith. After that find your strength. You must have something that you do better than anything else, a forte. Develop that.

I've only just met you, so I can't really give you a better answer, unfortunately.

MIRANDA
Well, thanks for the help anyway. That was really the only question I had.

SANGUINA
Maybe as we talk further, I can give you something more specific. Now, where did we leave off . . . right, Salvation. We were talking about how those that prove themselves worthy will be taken into Paradise.
Actually, let me recap what we've covered
I believe in the Red God, Creator of all, Master of the Universe.
I believe that He created us perfect, but that through no fault of His, we have failed to be a perfect creation.
I believe that redemption is possible for anyone, but that only a few are able to prove themselves worthy and that each of us are responsible for our own salvation.
The first part of our Litany of Faith.

MIRANDA
It's certainly much more inspiring than I would have thought any litany would be.

SANGUINA
Faith has to be inspiring, otherwise it it worthless. Now, get get into the defining part of the Sani faith blood.

SANGUINA looks at MIRANDA to see her reaction.

MIRANDA
I think you mentioned something about the importance of blood yesterday, or maybe when we first talked. Something about it being the essence of spirit? Or at least very spiritual?

SANGUINA
Yes. We briefly covered it when we first talked.. And you're right. Blood is the essence of life and spirit. Blood also defines our faith and our relationship with the Red God. It's very involved. Firstly, blood is a mark of faith, its use in ritual and worship identifies us as Sani Sabik.

You're parents were in the Navy, did you ever go to one of their functions? A change of command, a promotion, or something?

MIRANDA
I was too young to go to anything of importance when they were still in the Navy, but I was present for several promotions after they left. They wanted to give me a taste of what the Navy was like in more formal situations.

SANGUINA
Well, the Navy has certain traditions and customs that mark it as the Caldari Navy. Uniforms, manners of address, ways of acting that make it distinct from civilians and indeed other Navies.

So it is that the first aspect of Blood in our ritual and worship is to mark us as followers of the Red God. It's for our benefit and for God's. We show God that we believe.

Like a contracts. You've signed a contract before, yes?

MIRANDA
Quite a few, yes.

SANGUINA
The use of blood in our rituals is the consideration for a contract.
There are plenty of different religions. Believing in a god is not enough. We show the Red God that we believe in the True God.
Then, there's the other use of blood, that as the essence of life and spirit, that it washes away our imperfections, spiritually. If you are dirty, you take a shower in water and soap to get clean. But, that doesn't work on your soul. Still with me?

MIRANDA
Yes.

SANGUINA
That is the mechanism by which The Red God has told us to signify ourselves as His followers and the way that He will cleanse us of our sins.

Now, within the Sani faith there is a lot, and I mean a lot of different interpretations on how to go about that. Some Sanist use blood as a token gesture, or exchanged between members of the sect. I have visited a few sects just like that on trips to the Federation. On other other end of the spectrum is the Blood Raiders. I'm sure I don't need to elaborate on that.

MIRANDA
I suppose not.

SANGUINA
So, that covers the line in the Litany I believe that redemption requires a Blood Sacrifice. That only through Blood Sacrifice can we prove ourselves worth God’s grace and that only He can purify us.
The last bit of the Litany I believe in the Sacraments of Faith, the Forgiveness of Sins and Life Eternal. we've mostly covered. The Sacraments of Faith are mostly specific to my order, but the other two we've covered quite well.

I just threw a lot of theology at you. she smiles. But, I've not given you any real foundation for that.

So, we had to get all this from somewhere, yes?

MIRANDA
I would assume so.

Scene IV. A Sani Sabik Chapel.
SANGUINA and MIRANDA are in a chapel. There is an altar. On the altar is a book and a golden bowl filled with blood

SANGUINA
Miranda, welcome.

MIRANDA
Thanks for inviting me here, I imagine this is usually a rather private place for you.

SANGUINA
It's not open to everyone, that's true. Though, you had said you had wanted to go deeper and become Sani Sabik, so I felt it appropriate to bring you here.

MIRANDA
I suppose it is.

SANGUINA
So, now it's time to separate the wheat from the chaff. I had sent you a mail on some points to ponder. Hopefully you have.

MIRANDA
I got it, and I have been thinking on what you asked me to.

SANGUINA
Let's start with why you want to become Sani. Do you believe? Do you believe in the Red God and all that entails?

MIRANDA
Yes, I believe. I want to become Sani Sabik because I believe, because I want to know the truth about this world we live in and something tells me that this is that truth.

SANGUINA
Very good. And based on what I have told you, what you have heard and what your own reasoning tells you, tell me your thoughts on blood and sacrifice?

MIRANDA
Blood really is the essence of spirit; something wonderful. Sacrifice though... I must admit, it's something I'm more hesitant to embrace without knowing more. It... well, it is Gods will but something I am not used to.

SANGUINA
With regards to sacrifice. On one end of the spectrum we have the Blood Raiders. They will capture anyone they can and bleed them dry as an offering to the Red God. I am greatly simplifying that, but it will do for now. On the other end of the spectrum, there are cults in the Federation where blood is mostly symbolic and exchanged between members. It comes down to what you feel, what you reason is appropriate.

MIRANDA looks relieved

SANGUINA
So, what do you think is appropriate?

MIRANDA
I lean towards the more symbolic side of the spectrum, though something more... I suppose more bloody wouldn't be something I'd object to, if that makes sense. In all honesty, I could see myself adopting something akin to the Blood Raiders, as long as.the participants were willing.

SANGUINA
I assure you, no one would consent to a blood cocoon. Not anyone sane, at least.

MIRANDA
A blood cocoon?

SANGUINA
A price of Blood Raider technology. Some Sani Sabik do practice human sacrifice, but it's not a requirement, as I said.

MIRANDA
I see. I suppose the Blood Raiders are still in the forefront of my mind when I think of the Sani Sabik. You're really the only Sanist I know of besides them.

SANGUINA
They are the most visible sect. Many of the more vocal or well known capsuleers also loudly preach human sacrifice. It really comes down to your understanding of the faith and how God speaks to you. Don't expect a coms call. He's much, much more subtle.

What do you think a good Sanist looks like? As you convert to the Sani faith, how do you think it will change how you act, or how you live?

MIRANDA
A good Sanist is... well, you've put forth such a compelling argument I would have to say a good Sanist looks like you. Someone who understands God comes to everyone in His own way, and that everyones faith is different. I hope I'll be able to live up to that, and spread the faith as you have.

SANGUINA
Oh dear. I hope I have not given that impression. Within the Sani faith there are differences and I respect that. However, that is as far as I go. I do not hold the same respect to the Amarr faith, or Caldari Wayism, for example.
Those that worship and believe in the Red God are the Chosen of God. Those that do not, well, will not be brought into Paradise.

MIRANDA
That's what I had meant to say, I'm sorry I wasn't as clear as I could have been.

SANGUINA
Alright. Apart from that, unless you intend to take up the life of the clergy, which is something that you might consider in a few years, how do you think being Sanist will impact your life?

MIRANDA
I'll commit to strengthening myself and others, and I will strive to do what I feel the Red God wishes I do.

SANGUINA
Yes. A Sanist is someone that succeeds. They live their life to the fullest. Obstacles are seen as not hindrances, but challenges to overcome.

You should understand that no one is more responsible for yourself and your salvation than you. Others of the faith may help you along the way, but at the end it is you that will stand alone.

MIRANDA
Just like the State.

SANGUINA
I'm not even going to touch that one.

Just remember that while you might fly for the State, keep your priorities straight. God, yourself, then the State, if that is what you chose.

MIRANDA
It's all about choice, isn't it? Choice and strength?

SANGUINA
Exactly.

Before I ask you if you are ready to commit to the faith and the Red God, I have to tell you that the Sani faith is not forgiving of apostates or those that betray the faith. There are no second chances if you leave.

MIRANDA
I understand.

SANGUINA
Once you commit and your name is added to the Book of the Dead, we expect your fidelity to The Red God. Betray that trust and your name will be stricken.

MIRANDA
I can't find a single reason to leave now, and I never will.

Now you may post, Mr. Jones.

Del.
Upon the request the working people.

Sani Sabik cultists are typically pictured by outsiders in the singular form of the ruthless, human sacrificing extremists of the Blood Raiders. Indeed, the most vocal followers of the so-called Red God here on the IGS are of a variety so fanatically delusional that they would never recruit or even gain the understanding of a single, sane individual. They are borderline caricatures of a sort that almost appear to be the result of a thinly concealed propaganda campaign meant to paint all the Sani Sabik as foaming at the mouth, murderous, megalomaniac lunatics. They are no true threat to the Faith nor will they ever be a serious source of converts to their heresy.

This is not that.

Blood thirsty animals that like to rant and hiss on these forums for attention give me no worry and cost me no lost sleep. Moderate, well-displayed proselytizers who obfuscate their perversions of Scripture and tap into the human need for belief and belonging as they cast their net for the wayward and unsaved are the real threat. Those that surreptitiously make use of these tricks and commandeer the needs and feelings of their victim before ensnaring them into their cult, and the Sani Sabik are far from being the only ones with such expertise, have been and continue to be the reason for many restless nights.

Del.
Upon the request the working people.

A monster with fancy clothes and eloquent words is still a monster.

I wear fancy and eloquent clothing and often act like a monster.
Please don't lump me in with these... 'people.'