Temple Trouble

In a distant, dust‑laden world the hulking idol Yat‑Zar dominates a grand, incense‑filled temple, its six arms clutching swords, goblets, scales and a mysterious jeweled object. Priests in shimmering robes conduct a solemn sacrifice, chanting as blood drips onto the altar fire and the congregation bows in reverent rhythm. The ceremony seems ancient, but the careful movements of high priest Ghullam hint at something far more practical than devotion.

Behind the ritual’s grandeur, Ghullam discards his golden regalia and reveals a concealed pistol and a compact device that unlocks a hidden door. He steps out of the priestly role to become Stranor Sleth, an operative of the Transtemporal Mining Corporation, tasked with exploiting the temple’s hidden technology. As he descends an antigrav shaft, the story plunges listeners into a clash of mysticism and corporate ambition, where each sacred relic may hold the key to a lucrative, time‑spanning venture.