The Great Obscuration
"The Great Obscuration" is a foundational event in the lore of the Cult of the Hallowed Veil, a cataclysmic phenomenon that reshaped not only the physical world but also the spiritual landscapes of those who witnessed it. This event is steeped in myth and regarded as a divine manifestation of Arakzul's power and a herald of the deep teachings that the Cult now follows.
Summary
Nature of the Event: The Great Obscuration was a prolonged solar eclipse that lasted for an unprecedented period, plunging the world into darkness for three days and nights. Unlike typical eclipses, which are predictable and last for only a few minutes, this event caught all by surprise, defying the natural laws known to astronomers and sages at the time.
Physical and Environmental Impact: During these three days, the natural world fell silent, and the temperature dropped, leading to widespread panic and confusion. Wildlife behaved erratically, and plants failed to photosynthesize, causing a temporary but significant disruption in the natural order. The darkness was palpable, described by some as "thicker than any night," with the sun obscured by a mysterious, opaque shadow rather than merely being blocked by the moon.
Spiritual and Cultural Repercussions: For those in the nascent Cult of the Hallowed Veil, The Great Obscuration was a divine sign from Arakzul, revealing the true power and sanctity of darkness. The event radically changed the spiritual landscape, leading to a surge in the cult's followers. It was seen as a clear demonstration of the falsehood of light and the truth that lies hidden in darkness, providing a foundational myth for the Cult's beliefs.
Theological Interpretation: The priests and scholars of the cult interpret this event as the first of many "Veilings," where the world is periodically tested and purified by darkness. It is taught that during The Great Obscuration, Arakzul whispered secrets of the universe to those who were willing to listen and embrace the dark, granting them insights into hidden powers and deeper realities.
Legacy and Continuation: The anniversary of The Great Obscuration is commemorated annually by the Cult of the Hallowed Veil with a major festival that involves ritualistic celebrations, reflections on dark wisdom, and renewals of faith. The event continues to inspire the theology and rituals of the cult, reminding them of the dark deity’s power and the eventual return to an age of darkness that the cult believes will come.
The Great Obscuration remains a pivotal element in the Cult of the Hallowed Veil's lore, symbolizing the profound and transformative power of darkness as both a literal and metaphorical concept in their faith.
Date of First Recording
142th year of the Divine Age
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