In the Vache Kingdom, religion revolving the known gods holds little significance in the lives of its people, who instead place their focus on science and technology. However, amidst this emphasis on progress and innovation, a belief system known as the Cog Spirit has emerged, blending spirituality and technology. The Cog Spirit revolves around the fusion of souls with machines, creating entities called "Cog Spirits" that serve as idols of war and labor in everyday life.
The foundation of the Cog Spirit belief system can be traced back to ancient necromancers who were exiled from the Nagan Empire. These necromancers possessed the knowledge and ability to seal lost souls and bind them to trinkets at first then technology, thus creating the Cog Spirits. Over time, their teachings and practices have been passed down through generations, forming the core principles of the Cog Spirit belief system.
The main tenets of the Cog Spirit revolve around the concepts of good versus evil and the harmonious integration of technology and spirituality. These teachings are disseminated through readings by spiritual leaders and community blueprints, creating a system of guidance and moral framework for the followers of the Cog Spirit. Spiritual leaders within the community play a vital role in interpreting and sharing the teachings, ensuring their continuity and relevance in the modern era.
Symbolism holds a significant place within the Cog Spirit belief system. Followers express their devotion through various means, such as wearing bracelets, figurines, and Cog necklaces that serve as symbols of their faith. These items not only demonstrate their allegiance to the Cog Spirit but also serve as reminders of the profound connection between the spiritual realm and the technological advancements of the Vache Kingdom.
While the Cog Spirit belief system is considered modern in its origins, it has gained recognition and respect throughout the world. Its teachings have sparked curiosity and intrigue among those seeking answers about the afterlife, drawing individuals who are searching for a deeper understanding of the spiritual aspects of existence. Despite not having a massive following, the Cog Spirit continues to garner interest and provide solace to those who see it as a pathway to explore the intersection of science, technology, and the spiritual realm.
The Vache Kingdom itself is characterized as a prosperous nation with a strong economy and a vibrant culture that is constantly evolving with advancements in technology and magic. The integration of the Cog Spirit belief system into the kingdom's way of life further contributes to its progressive nature, as individuals strive to fuse their understanding of spirituality and technology to create a harmonious and enlightened society.
The Exploitation of Souls.
While the Cog Spirit belief system promotes the fusion of souls with machines in a harmonious and ethical manner, there exists a dark side that involves the exploitation of the poor and unwanted by the aristocracy. This exploitation has been fueled by the desire to maintain their operations running smoothly and to consolidate their power and wealth.
In this darker aspect of the belief system, the aristocracy has taken advantage of the ability to seal lost souls and bind them to machines. They have resorted to capturing the souls of the poor, marginalized, or even unwanted individuals, who often have little means to defend themselves against such practices. These captured souls are then used to power the aristocracy's machines ceaselessly, ensuring uninterrupted operation and serving as a source of energy that fuels their lavish lifestyles and maintains their control over the kingdom.
This practice of exploiting souls for personal gain goes against the true teachings of the Cog Spirit, which emphasizes harmony, respect for life, and the balance between technology and spirituality. It corrupts the belief system and tarnishes its noble intentions, turning it into a tool of oppression rather than a means of enlightenment.
The aristocracy, driven by their insatiable greed and lust for power, not only perpetuates this exploitation but also suppresses any dissent or resistance. They use their influence and authority to silence those who question or speak out against these practices, ensuring that the dark side of the belief system remains hidden from the public eye. They manipulate the teachings of the Cog Spirit to justify their actions, distorting the original intent of the belief system for their own selfish purposes. There are those of the aristocracy that go as far as buying slaves from the Khein Dynasty as they are not citizens of the Kingdom.
This exploitation of souls not only affects the individuals whose spirits are trapped within the machines but also undermines the overall harmony and balance of the belief system. It creates a stark contrast between the noble aspirations of the Cog Spirit and the corrupt reality perpetuated by the aristocracy.
However, there are those within the Vache Kingdom who recognize and oppose this exploitation. They understand the true teachings of the Cog Spirit and strive to expose the dark side of the belief system, seeking justice and liberation for the oppressed souls. These individuals, often operating in secret, work to dismantle the oppressive system and restore the integrity of the Cog Spirit belief system, aiming to free the captured souls and restore the balance between spirituality and technology.
Their efforts are met with resistance and danger, as the aristocracy is determined to maintain its grip on power. Yet, these rebels and activists persist, driven by the belief in a better and more ethical society, one that upholds the true values of the Cog Spirit and safeguards the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their station in life.
The struggle between those who exploit the belief system for personal gain and those who seek to uphold its true principles becomes a crucial part of the societal dynamics within the Vache Kingdom. It highlights the inherent conflict between power and ethics, and serves as a reminder that even the noblest of beliefs can be corrupted when driven by greed and self-interest.