Skophos

Skophos is the labyrinthine city of the minotaurs on Theros, described as a dark reflection of Akros.

History

During the Birth of the Poleis, the humans waged war with the minotaurs in Phoberos and the Katachthon Mountains. Myths say that Iroas and Mogis, the gods of war, fought over the land, reshaping it with their weapons. This conflict resulted in the founding of Akros and Skophos, each representing the ideological battle between honor and savagery.

Geography

The labyrinthine polis is a maze carved from red sandstone with homes, shops, fortresses, and temples built into the caverns' walls. The winding streets and twisting paths are difficult for foreigners to navigate. The minotaurs use the confusing layout to their advantage, catching intruders before they get too deep into the city.

Lesser Peristyle

The only temple that openly worships Ephara, minotaurs meet here for philosophical and political debates. The priests regularly attempt to keep the city's tyrants in check and inspire Skophans toward a new way of life.

Mogis's Chalice

At the center of Skophos is the largest temple devoted to Mogis and the seat of government. Minotaurs are said to not interfere with any duels held in the main chamber and will let the survivor leave unharmed, believing them blessed by Mogis.

Culture

Religion

Minotaurs most prominently worship Mogis, boasting grand temples in his honor, with his brother Iroas being their enemy. An ancient aspect of Karametra that requires blood sacrifices is worshipped in Skophos, and the violent sides of Erebos, Keranos, and Purphoros also have temples devoted to them, though Thassa is rarely recognized. Ephara is only worshipped in the lesser peristyle.

Inhabitants

Skophos was unknown to humans for centuries and has remained unexplored by non-minotaurs. Akroan hoplites refer to Skophan soldiers as the "Bonzebone band", believing them to be another raiding faction in Phoberos. Minotaurs are the predominant population.

Government

The city is divided into districts each ruled by a tyrant or war-priest. While these rulers often fight amongst themselves, on rare occasions the priests of Mogis's Chalice can force the council to convene in times of need.

Notable Skophans

• Haraksi the smith, priest of the lesser peristyle
• Olakia the Torn, oracle of Ephara and Mogis

In-game references

References