Cult of the Shattered Sky

The Cult of the Shattered Sky emerged as a response to the appearance of the Stormrift. This violent and fanatical group spread rapidly across the Imperial Colonies, driven by a belief that the Stormrift was a divine punishment for the hubris of the Old Empire. They preached a doctrine of penance and self-sacrifice, often resorting to brutal methods to achieve what they saw as divine appeasement.
While all gods of the Imperial Pantheon were worshipped, the cult heavily focused on the gods said to have ascended, believing that it was those gods punishing the mortals and as some radicals argued; the gods that were left behind.
Unlike most other Imperials religions, the Cult of the Shattered Sky is uniquely egalitarian. Since they believe that the Old Empire's hubris is at fault for Stormfall and thus disagree with the racial inequality ubiquitous in Old Imperial Culture. As such, all races are welcome in their ranks, particularly attractive to Beastfolk wishing to enact punishment upon their oppressors.
== Organization ==
The Cult of the Shattered Sky was a decentralized and often disorganised movement. It started out as an offshoot of the New Imperial Church but would quickly radicalize into a much more fanatic and violent form now know as the Cult of the Shattered Sky.
The most important rank was that of the Riftmender. Senior members of the cult, Riftmenders lead regional cells of the cult, organizing rituals and sacrificing while seeking to grow their ranks. Important Riftmenders were sometimes recognized as High Priests and High Priestesses. This generally gave them authority over all cells of the cult though this authority wasn't formalized and usually stemmed from their personal charisma or influence.
Below the Riftmenders were the Penitents. Mid-level members, the Penitents were trusted with the brutal work of the cult. They undertook the kidnappings, murders, and suicides required in the cults rituals. Usually a successful Penitent would inherit the position of a Riftmender, if the current holder dies, found a new cell and become its Riftmender or be allowed to perform an honourable suicide to appease the gods.
At the bottom of the cult were the Initiates. The masses expected to help the Riftmenders and Penitents. They would be expected to undergo harsh trials to demonstrate their faith commitment and humility before the gods. Sometimes, if not enough sacrifices could be captured, they would be forced to offer their children or themselves for sacrifice. Particularly powerful cells even organized their Initiates into militias and launched violent uprisings, culling all in their path.
== Cult Culture ==
Members of the Cult of the Shattered Sky typically wear tattered robes dyed in dark, red or blue colours. They often mark their bodies with scars and tattoos representing their gods, as a testament to their devotion and self-imposed subservience to them. Higher-ranking members may carry talismans or relics taken from their victims, further signifying their rank and dedication.
Cultists are known for their intense fervour and unwavering commitment to their cause. They value faith, determination, and ruthlessness, shunning cowardice, pride, and compassion. Their rituals and practices are designed to instil fear and demonstrate their willingness to go to any lengths to restore what they believe to be divine balance. They are relentless in their pursuit of non-believers, whom they see as obstacles to their goal of appeasing the gods.
== History ==
=== Emergence and Growth ===
The Cult of the Shattered Sky first emerged in 60 AtS, shortly after the Stormrift appeared. The cult quickly spread across the Imperial Colonies, fuelled by the widespread fear and uncertainty that lingered. They believed that the gods, angry with the empire's pride and hubris sought to punish the Imperials, and that only through extreme penance and sacrifice could divine favour be restored.
=== Decline and Suppression ===
Governor Alanus Damian initiated a brutal crackdown on the Cult of the Shattered Sky, deploying military units across the colonies to eradicate its influence. Soldiers were strategically placed in cities other than their own to prevent local sympathies. This military campaign was ruthless, targeting anyone suspected of cult affiliation. By 70 AtS, the cult was mostly eradicated, though remnants persisted in secret.
=== Legacy ===
While the cult was crushed, it left its mark. Its ideas would persist and remnants would survive as secret cults. The cult would never reach the size and outright influence it had when it first emerged and despite their near-eradication, stories of their deeds continue to be told and some find themselves sharing in their believes.