Disciples of Kanir

The Echani's creation by the Arkanians placed them in a unique position of both dependency and rebellion. As engineered beings created to fight wars better than any other, the Echani were designed for martial excellence and, over time, they sought independence.

The Rebellion (12 294–12 273 BBY) was a defining moment for the Echani. Their struggle for freedom not only shaped their martial culture but also fostered a spiritual longing to understand their purpose beyond servitude. The teachings of Kanir, whether mythical or based on a historical figure that featured prominently in the Echani's liberation, originated as an embodiment of this longing—a unifying symbol of their identity, independence, and shared suffering.

Post-Rebellion, the Echani developed their unique cultural identity centred around combat as a language. Teachings about discipline, honour, and balance in combat stemmed from their martial training and the strategies learned before and after the Rebellion. These lessons were coded into a spiritual framework, emphasising the sacredness of their martial heritage. Over time, as the Echani settled over the Six Sisters, they observed natural cosmic phenomena and connected them to their own cycles of life, growth and renewal. this cosmic awareness was woven into Kanir's teachings, emphasising harmony with the universe and their own bodies, as well as creating the cosmic and lunar imagery typically associated with the Goddess.

The sacrosanct rituals of the Disciples of Kanir began as communal practises meant to reinforce unity, discipline, and remembrance of their struggles. Ritualised sparring became a sacred act, symbolising not just communication but also connection with Kanir's teachings or Kanir herself. These duels served to resolve conflicts, mark important life events, and honour ancestors. The Echani's focus on adaptability and precision in combat inspired meditative rituals to heighten awareness and connect with Kani's gift, and festivals or observances tied to the moon's phases were introduced to honour Kanir, liking celestial cycles to personal and communal renewal.

As the Echani established themselves across the Six Sisters, the Echani Command played a significant role in formalising the religion. Their influence ensured that Kanir's teachings became a cornerstone of Echani society, deeply integrated into their governance and culture. Sacred texts and oral traditions were developed to codify the teachings, passing them down through generations and solidifying the religion's structure.

The Echani believe that the universe began in a state of chaos—a swirling void of raw potential without order or purpose. In this chaos, conflicting forces of light, shadow and energy clashed endlessly. From this, Kanir emerged as the Lunar Goddess, the balance which brought harmony to the chaos. Her light, symbolised by the mood, illuminated the void, creating cycles of rhythm and purpose. This act is the first "combat," with Kanir's graceful movements subduing the wild forces of the void and forging the structure of existence.

According to the Disciples, the physical world and all its beings were formed from the harmonised energies of the void. Kanir's movements shaped the land, sky and seas, each a reflection of her fluidity in battle: the mountains were her strikes, forceful and resolute. The oceans were her sweeps, flowing and ever-changing. The stars and moons were the glimmers of light she left behind to guide her children. Kanir imparted her essence into all her creations, gifting those with sentience the ability to communicate through combat. This was not meant for violence but as a means of connection, understanding and growth. Through combat, individuals could emulate Kanir's balance and grace, bringing harmony to their inner selves and the world around them. In this view, the Disciples see combat as the universal truth, mirroring the cosmic dance that created existence itself.

As such, the Echani see themselves as Kanir's chosen people, created with her divine intent to embody her ideals. They believe they were born from her movements during The Creation, their unique ability to communicate through combat marking them as her favoured children. Their ability to adapt and thrive is viewed as a continuation of Kanir's legacy, an eternal dance in which they play their part and honour her teachings.

The moon holds immense symbolic importance in the Disciples' understanding of creation. Its phases reflect the cycles of life: The new moon represents beginnings, potential, and the chaos from which all things arise. The waxing moon symbolises growth, learning, and the pursuit of balance. The full moon is the pinnacle of harmony and achievement, the moment of Kanir's greatest triumph. The waning moon represents decline, reflection, and preparation for renewal.

While Kanir is associated with light, her creation is now without shadow. The Echani believe that the shadow represents the untamed aspects of the universe—the remnants of chaos that persist in opposition to harmony. This duality is not seen as inherently evil but as a necessary counterpart to light, offering challenges that strengthen those who face them.