Church of Zenethia, Porgorag
The Church of Zenethia in Porgorag is the primary place of worship for the Zenethian faith in the city. It is located on the northern end of Porgorag Plaza.
The Church of Zenethia is one of the oldest and largest structures in the city, which was completed within the first few decades of the orcs return to Tarteria. Inside the large structure are statuary depictions of each of the Zenethian Heroes.
As part of her duties, the church is run by Godsguard Ankhan, daughter of Audeh.
Description
The church is a great cathedral constructed primarily of white stone arches and columns. Many of the windows of the structure are made of green glass. It’s very traditional in its style, and it mimic other designs that are seen in Zenethian places of worship since the Third Age. Above the entrance, made of stained glass, is the symbol of the Zenethian faith. It is not flush with the wall but is angled slightly into the structure of the front. The angle focuses the light entering the church into a column of emerald light that runs the length of the church and illuminates the raised altar at the end of the chancel, even at night. Inside, down the body of the church are multiple rows of pews, where people may be seen alone or in small groups quietly conversing or in prayer. Along the walls are thin glass windows riding upwards that let in much of the interior light. At the far end sits the altar. The altar is a circular platform raised so that any standing on it are visible from the rows of pews. Situated on this altar is a podium used during services. Behind the altar platform is a walkable path forming a semicircle. Along this section of the church wall are eleven enclaves where eleven large, golden statues of the Zenethian Heroes are set. They are on square platforms set into an enclave in the wall. Each platform is about 4 feet high. There is a connected garden of white edelweiss that runs beneath and between each statue, giving the appearance that the statues are standing in garden. On the front of the square platforms are gold nameplates which give the name and title of the Hero the statue was modeled after.Statuary
The statues are slightly larger than life-sized depictions. Each has a light emanating from within so even in the brightness of the rest of the church, the statutes prominently stand out. The statues, from left to right:- Gruknock, Captain of Burland: The statue depicts a tall orc man in plate armor. The symbol of Burland, the Kingdom of the North, is engraved prominently on the pauldrons.
- Leo, Captain of the Black Barrow: The statue depicts a tall human man with tousled hair wearing a long, collared coat. He carries a long, angular scythe and has a dour expression.
- Aoth Stormwind, Vassal of the Platinum Dragon: The statue depicts a human man with long hair pulled up tightly. He has a quiver on his back and carries a finely crafted bow.
- Ivan, the Oozemaster: The statue depicts a humanoid, though the features are somewhat muted or rounded. Even in statue form, it appears wet and condensation seems to glisten in the nooks of the stone staff it carries.
- Trip, the One Who Fell: The statue depicts a tall and thin half-orc woman. Her long hair falls to one side. On her hip are two paired longswords. The statue is positioned slightly farther back on the platform, putting it not quite in line with the rest.
- Grupe, the Monster Hunter: The statue depicts a big and broad orc man. On his head is a prominent mohawk and in his hands is held a stone chain with a hooked blade on one end.
- Brigitte, the Grayguard: The statue depicts a half orc woman standing proudly. Her heavy armor is very detailed and from the back are angular, draconic wings.
- Rath, the Blackguard: The statue depicts a human man with dark eyes and long hair. He wears an armor set with the head of a wolf on the chest and in his hand is a curved sword. Statue is looking down, so anyone at the base may make eye contact.
- Joseppe, the Shadow Mage: The statue depicts a half-elven man, dressed simply. His face is lean and he smiles gently, and on his shoulders is a flowing hooded cloak.
- Johanna, Shieldmaiden of Endor: The statue depicts a tall and broad-shouldered human woman who stands solidly. Her eyes are focused and she’s holding a huge slab of a greatsword easily in one hand.
- Petra D'Silva, Emissary of Beasts: The statue depicts a half-elven woman with braided hair. Her clothing is nautical, giving the impression of one familiar with the sea, and casually held in her hand is a small but ornate dagger. The statue's pose is light and set somewhat to the side.
Office
Behind the altar are a number of small rooms for the church's staff. There is a small office for the head of the church containing a number od desks and bookshelves. After Argilla, son of Kla, retired, this office was left to gather dust, and it was filled with various discarded art supplies. Ankhan kept Argilla's old journals, notes, and scrolls here, which she would reference when needed. On the wall of this office is an art piece painted by Argilla, titled "Peace be with Yew."Notable People
- Godsguard Ankhan, daughter of Audeh: Dragonborn head of the church as well as the city’s Godsguard. She is a devout follower of Chedae, The Heaven's Light.
- Argilla, son of Kla: Before Ankhan became Godsguard, Argilla held this position in Porgorag. He ran the church and worked out of the small office in the backrooms of the building.
History
The Fifth Age: The Age of Beginnings
Early in the city of Porgorag's history, construction on the church began. However, it took many years to finish. In the evening of 1 Adroth 5A 352, Gertrude Oathenhammer, Arwin, and Demitri attended the sermon of Godsguard Ankhan, daughter of Audeh. After the sermon, they spoke with the Godsguard. Demitri interacted with the statue of Leo, Captain of the Black Barrow, and Gertrude interacted with the statue of Johanna, Shieldmaiden of Endor. In the evening of 2 Adroth 5A 352, Demitri, Ilmendwyth, and Arwin came to the church before the evening sermon. They convinced Godsguard Ankhan to accompany them back to the Darksteel Foundry to aid them. On 3 Adroth 5A 352, the party met Godsguard Ankhan here and discussed the Eight-Pronged Residuum Ring and the Spring of the Natant Yew. After finding old notes from Argilla, son of Kla, Romulus and Ilmendwyth made a prayer to Gaia, The Allmother, and the statue of Joseppe, the Shadow Mage, reacted, revealing a hidden spell scroll.
Type
Temple / Church
Parent Location
Related Report (Primary Locations)