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Issica · Prezydent

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Oto historie, których można się dowiedzieć od Yuttosów w Scheolu.

Issica · Prezydent

Clear Thought Three
Pierwszej rozmowy (w której yuttos tylko daje questa) nie zanotowałam, jako że nie było tam nic ciekawego. Jeśli ktoś zanotował, proszę mi przesłać w PM Smile

Clear Thought Three: Ooh, I'm so happy to meet you! I am blessed with so many humans who want to preserve!
The tiny Yutto seems to bounce where he stands, clearly very excited.
Issica: I have cleared out some of the creatures.
Clear Thought Three: Thank you! More people will be safe travelling in Scheol now because of you. As I promised, I will tell you the origin of the Xan now.
But...It is virtually impossible for the human mind to comprehend the vast amount of time that has passed since the Xan's humble beginnings, long before the plane of Shadowlands existed. What is like a blink in history may in reality be several hundred thousands years ago or longer.
It seems it's really important for him that you understand what he means. This won't be a short story, just like the history of the ancient Xan wasn't.
Issica: I understand.
Clear Thought Three grows silent for a few moments, then seems to focus on you and speaks with a calm, content voice.
Clear Thought Three: Legends say that when life was first created, it didn't appear in an already existing world. The world was created from the power of Life, from the Source itself. In the beginning, this universe only had one world where life existed and it was known as Rubi-Ka. It was an exalted world, an abundant world.
He looks out across the torn lands behind him and you think you can hear a wistful sigh from within the thick robes.
Clear Thought Three: There was no death, no crossing any barrier like today. Matter could transform into energy and vice versa, but the force of life given from the Source was ever-present and almost ever-lasting. From this, the Xan emerged...developed and rose to their throne of absolute superiority.
Issica: How? Where did they come from?
Clear Thought Three: Surely there are many myths and legends, stories about how it all happened, but no one knows for sure. I am telling you how we think it all connects. They came from Life itself, as so many other living beings. They were born into existence from the Source. The world was home to a massive amount of flora and fauna. A large amount of organisms dwelled here, and only here. It was...a paradise.
And most extraordinary of them all was the life form that would become the Xan. Their intelligence and ability to feed on, and make use of the Source, which they didn't know about yet, boosted their evolutionary rate beyond any other creatures in the world.
Issica: What happened to them?
He chuckles warmly and sets his luminous eyes on you.
Clear Thought Three: Patience, Issica. You will learn what happened soon enough. This is the story of the Beginning. There are many stories that follow, but this is the first. You must learn to crawl before you take giant leaps.
You wait quietly a few seconds, then he continues.
Clear Thought Three: The ancient ones lived in several smaller groups spread over a small area. We Yuttocra always research what has been lost, and we call what you know as Nascence the birthplace of the Xan.
You must remember, young one, the world didn't look anything like you see here today. There were no separated areas like there is today, like the exuberant Elysium and the torn Scheol for instance. These were names that didn't exist, but I will use them as a reference so you can understand.
Issica: Ok, I get it. Please, go on.
He seems so happy that you're interested. If you could see his face, you're sure he would have the biggest grin plastered all over it.
Clear Thought Three: These groups were plentiful while the ancient ones were still young and forming. Through time and ratification for territory, several merged and became larger communities.
Issica: So they lived in tribes or something?
He is silent for a few seconds. You get an eerie feeling he's measuring you, looking for and recognising something in you.
Clear Thought Three: Yes, perhaps you could call it that. Tribal. Although they were never simple, the old ones. Not even before they became the Xan. Even in the dawn of ancient, undisturbed life. Never primitive. Just...raw.
Issica: What made them so special?
He tilts his head a little, pausing to look at you, then nods.
Clear Thought Three: That, young one, is a story you should hear from not only me. I have told you of the Beginning. It's all part of the Xan's history, but I cannot tell you everything. You have to unravel the story a little at a time to give yourself time to understand.
You knew it wouldn't be as easy as that...
Issica: So what do you want me to do?
He turns away from you and looks out over the strangely beautiful moors of Scheol.
Clear Thought Three: You should seek out and find another of my kind. He is called One With Developing Words. He shouldn't be too far from here. Last I spoke with him, he said he was looking for a swamp.
Good luck, young one. May your journey through Scheol open your mind and perhaps you will...
He hesitates, then turns back to you.
Clear Thought Three: No...nevermind. You will find what you'll find. And it will be in your power to do what you think is right with the knowledge.
And with that, he waves you on, encouraging you to get started on this unravelling he spoke of.

Issica · Prezydent

One With Developing Words
Pierwszej rozmowy (w której yuttos tylko daje questa) nie zanotowałam, jako że nie było tam nic ciekawego. Jeśli ktoś zanotował, proszę mi przesłać w PM Smile

The Yutto turns to you slowly, methodically. When it speaks, the voice is deep, grinding and slow.
One With Developing Words: You have the look of one who has spoken with Clear Thought Three.
Issica: I'm back from the Bog.
One With Developing Words: Good job. I'll have to find a way to keep their reproduction rate in check.
He turns to you, his hooded head bobbing slowly.
One With Developing Words: So...you're here to learn about how the Xan became just that. Settle down, then.
Issica: (Listen to the story)
One With Developing Words: You have already learned that the ancient civilization began as several small communities spread out in a small area. They were usually no more than a tiny village area with a few spread out dwellings nearby. You can still see the remains of it if you look around for it.
He speaks slowly now. In between sentences you can hear wistful sighs.
Issica: How many were they?
One With Developing Words: We don't know. No one knows. We can guess, but there are no set answers. From what the researchers in Jobe have found and from what Ergo has found in his salvaged backup databases they were few. At least to begin with. Much fewer that there are people on Rubi-Ka now.
Issica: So they were all called Xan? Like the name of their...species?
One With Developing Words: I see you're eager. That's good.
No, "Xan" was a name they chose for themselves, their kind, just like all of your kind are called humans, even if you look different. You may be the small, agile Opifexes, the versatile Solitus, the intelligent Nanomages or the strong Atrox. But you are still all humans. We Yuttocra find you very interesting.
You shuffle around a little, giving the Yutto a slight smile.
One With Developing Words: So where was I? Oh yes, all these small communities all had their own structure and identity. They would soon merge to grow larger and they would send their people out to trade and communicate with other large hubs.
That sounds almost like the solitus after the Long Winter...
Issica: Were they in war?
One With Developing Words: It's difficult to know, young one. Some signs point to the all-encompassing peace the Xan lived in during later ages, some say there were lesser disputes in these early days. There are so many reasons why people fight and argue. War is fought over countless reasons, hardly any of them good. Your kind comes from a bloody history.
Wait...what? "comes from"?
Issica: ...what are you saying?
The Yuttos looks at you for what seems minutes. If only you could see his face...
One With Developing Words: Nothing, young one. You will know yourself one day.
He waves a hand and continues with his story, completely ignoring your question. They are so irritating sometimes, the Yuttos!
One With Developing Words: Where was I? Oh yes... Finally, they were for the most part gathered under one; as one society, one people, one power. They named themselves Xan, and it is from this point their lives in total harmony and satisfaction ruled. They were the Manipulators.
Issica: Manipulators?
One With Developing Words: Yes. That's one name for them. But that is a story you should hear from another. I must get back to cataloging the life forms in the bog.
He motions out towards the moors.
One With Developing Words: Find the one called Scouting Panorama, he may be able to give you some understanding. He has a fascination for rocks, if I remember correctly and last time I saw him, he was a little bit to the north west of here. Good luck on your journey towards insight, young one.
He turns a little away from you and seems to be studying the area beneath where you're standing intently, humming a little.

Issica · Prezydent

Scouting Panorama

Scouting Panorama: Don't you just love it?
Issica: Love what?
Scouting Panorama: The view, of course!
You look out from under the cliff to the barren, ravaged landscape. It doesn't look all that special to you.
Scouting Panorama: Yes indeed. Such beautiful panorama.
He seems to drift away in his own thoughts and after several seconds without a word to you, you realise you have to start over again.
Issica: The yuttos by the bog told me to find you.
He turns to you and it seems you've succeeded in getting his attention.
Scouting Panorama: Hm? Another sent you to me? Who would that be?
Issica: One With Developing Words
Scouting Panorama: Oh yes. He is a friend. For what reason did he send you to me?
Issica: He said that you could tell me why the Xan were called Manipulators.
Like so many of the others, this seems to have caught his attention and his voice sounds like he's speaking through a smile.
Scouting Panorama: So you want to learn of the Xan, do you? I have to admit, I was doubtful if the stories about your kind was right... All right. I can tell you what I know of their incredible ability to create life. But...
Issica: Let me guess...you want me to do something for you first?
He laughs with a deep, warm and rumbling laughter. Sometimes you wonder if the Yuttos are laughing at you or with you. You choose to believe it's the latter.
Scouting Panorama: Since you offer your help so willingly, I will accept it, young one. I can surely use some assistance.
He holds up an odd looking device you can't really identify.
Scouting Panorama: Do you know what this is?
Issica: No, but tell me more.
Scouting Panorama: No, of course you don't. How silly of me. This is a prototype TISU, a marvel of technology.
Issica: A what?
Scouting Panorama: A Topographic Interferometer Specification Unit!
He seems to wait for a reaction from you. When one isn't coming, he continues, his voice bubbly and energetic. It's obvious that this is what he lives and breathes for.
Scouting Panorama: It's used to input geographic changes, measurement and analysis of precision surfaces and transmitted wavefront. These instruments use interference phenomena between a reference wave and an experimental wave or between two parts of an experimental wave to determine wavelengths and wave velocities, measure very small distances and thicknesses, and calculate indices of refraction.
Issica: Fascinating!
He nods vigorously.
Scouting Panorama: Yes, absolutely! Look at the landscape here in Scheol, young one. Have you ever seen something as beautiful?
You see...I'm a cartographer. I make maps that we Yuttocra use to chart the changes in the geography here. With the things happening to the Shadowlands, this is a neverending job.
Having seen what the brink monstrosities do to the scenery, you can understand what he means.
Scouting Panorama: Right now, I'm looking to update the coordinates and growing altitude of the Three Paws. Will you help me with that?
Issica: Yes, I'd love to help. What should I do?
He gives you a device marked TISU.
Scouting Panorama: Very good! Here's what I want you to do. The Paws are the three largest protruding cliffs in this part of Scheol. I need you to scout the three tops in the specific order I instruct you, scan the altitude plates on each top with this device, then extract a report from it.
First you go to the northern one, then the eastern, then the western. The TISU will update your locations once it's registered that you've been there and send me the details, but take the reports too. Return to me when you're done.

Po wykonaniu questa:

Scouting Panorama: How did it go?
Issica: I found the three cliffs.
Scouting Panorama: Very good. I hope the troubles weren't too bad. Did you also remember to bring the reports?
He looks over the disks and nods.
Scouting Panorama: I thank you for your effort. Surely, I will have an updated version of my maps and charts now, thanks to you. Please accept this coat I have here. It's just lying around, and it's not really my style. Or size. Now then...are you ready to learn more about the Xan?
Issica: Oh yes, I've been waiting for this.
Scouting Panorama: Settle down then and let me tell you about how the Xan could direct energy and life.
We believe that with the nature of this utopian world only evolution could limit how good the Xan would become at manipulating their environments.You see, young one, as the most gifted beings of all, they were able to create new life from their own pools of energy.
Not only in a reproductive kind of way, but actually creating different life forms.
Issica: How could they do that?
Scouting Panorama: They were nothing like my kind or your kind, young one. They were beings that bordered on the divine, given the power to utilize the Source directly, even if they didn't know of its existance yet. They didn't have the same needs as we do, nor the same limits. By pooling the energy in their bodies and tapping from their vitality, they could form new, living things.
For a moment, it seems like the Yutto grows sad, his head slightly shaking from side to side and you hear a deep sigh from within the robe.
Scouting Panorama: Exactly how they did it, no one knows. Not even Ergo.
Issica: So they made animals and plants as they wanted?
Scouting Panorama: Well, it is said that they could not control the result in the beginning, being young in the power still. It was random what type of life they generated and where. Traces of the experimental period are still visible in this world today. It's believed that it was a time consuming and taxing process, but they were always learning to harness this extraordinary power in better ways.
Issica: Is that how they reproduced too?
He nods and bobs his staff towards you in a friendly manner.
Scouting Panorama: Yes, that is what all records of the Xan civilization say. Inevitably, they were able to create new Xan progeny, clones of themselves through a union of the vitality and energy of two...I suppose you could call them adults, fusing together to build a clone of themselves.
Issica: How could they know clone technology so early?
Scouting Panorama: Oh no, young one. This wasn't technology, it was biology. You must open your mind to grasp the concept of another way to have children. Nothing like the mess your kind makes when having young.
He laughs, clearly very amused at the idea of human reproduction.
Scouting Panorama: It became the only way the Xan would procreate, but it was a taxing method that would be moderated by their form of leadership to ensure their numbers wouldn't grow out of proportions. They would choose which families could produce offspring and when. It was a method that worked for the best of them all and was fully accepted. Only when it was time to expand and move further in the world, to new frontiers, their leaders granted them permission to greatly increase in number.
Issica: That sounds very restrictive...
Scouting Panorama: Perhaps it does, to you and me. But this period in the Xan civilization was very peaceful. Everyone agreed on everything. They were content with what they had and the way things were. It was long before the time of greed and avarice, much like...
He stops and once more you hear a deep sigh. He waves his staff dismissively and continues, the tone of his voice more flat now.
Scouting Panorama: They were not able to create inorganic objects with this vitality splitting, however. It has been duly registered that their creation abilities were restricted to making other living things; flora, fauna and copies of themselves. As such, there was a demand for those who could form objects from once living things, like engineers or artists.
Issica: Engineers? Tell me more about them.
Scouting Panorama: I'm afraid I cannot, young one. I haven't studied the structure of their society a lot, and as I'm sure you have been told before...this is something you have to learn a little at a time. I know the twins have revised the Xan tiers, maybe they can tell you more. They usually stick to the area west of here, both of them. You should talk to One Who Is The Same.

Issica · Prezydent

One Who Is The Same

The Yuttos turns to you and looks at you for a while before speaking. To your astonishment, the voice is much lighter than what you're used to hear. More feminine and soft. Is this a girl yutto?
One Who Is The Same: Hello.
Issica: Hello there..um..Miss?
One Who Is The Same: ...number 91 today...
Issica: Sorry, what was that?
One Who Is The Same: Just counting how many of you have passed through this area today. Sometimes you come in big herds, sometimes you come alone. We make note of how many you are and of what kind and then we catalogue it. Not only you, but all creatures and beings we see on our way.
Issica: That cartographer yuttos told me to ask you about the Xan society.
Her eyes shines brighter for a moment, turning her head and speaking to her sister.
One Who Is The Same: Do you think it's true, then? Clear Thought Three said they would come, to learn and to carry the memories...could he be right? With all these humans passing through and asking about the ancients, we may have to believe it's really happening.
For a moment you wonder if they are even aware of you.
Issica: So...do you know about them?
One Who Is The Same: Yes, we know. But if you want us to give you something, then you should give us something in return. This is fair, don't you think?
Issica: Sure, what do you want?
One Who Is The Same: We have lost our collection of data over four of the strongest beings in the temple catacombs. They are vicious creatures, and it is too dangerous for us to go down there. You look like you're able, and perhaps with some friends, you could find what we need.
Issica: What sort of thing are you looking for?
One Who Is The Same: They all have a very special cell structure. We would need some sort of internal organ from them to run tests and scans on. How you get it and what type you choose to carve out of their dead bodies is up to you.
Issica: That's gross.
She huffs and laughs in a tone that would befit a wicked old lady with warts on her nose from children's tales...
One Who Is The Same: Not as gross as other things your kind has done. In fact, you humans excel in doing abhorrent and heinous things. It's in your history, in your blood. But...if you don't think you can do it that is fine. We can find someone else who can.
Issica: No, I'll do it.
One Who Is The Same: Good. We will be waiting here until you return. Good luck, and remember...they are vile, vicious and very strong creatures. You may need help to get what you are looking for.

Po wykonaniu questa:

One Who Is The Same: You are back. We have been waiting for you.
Issica: I have what you wanted.
One Who Is The Same: Very good. Could you give them to us, please.
One Who Is The Same: Yes. Yes, these will do nicely. We can go back to our work now.
She hands you a neatly wrapped, semi-soft package.
One Who Is The Same: We have heard that you humans have use of these...please accept it as our thanks.
Issica: About the Xan society...
One Who Is The Same: Yes, of course. We know a lot of things about the Xan society. Raising the young, the class tiers, their rituals...we can talk all day if you want. What part do you want to know more about?
Issica: I want to learn more about upbringing.
The yutto nods and seems to be pleased to talk about this subject.
One Who Is The Same: Because of the way the Xan reproduced, their family life was maybe not so like yours. The newly formed young Xan weren't children in physical size. They were like blank versions of their parents. Imagine a book of many pages, but no words on them. This is how they were when first created. Records show that they had to be taught everything from language, the social structure, feeding and of course how to manipulate energy.
Issica: But they were, in effect, children?
One Who Is The Same: Yes, that's right. Until they could handle the manipulative skills on their own, their parents were responsible in teaching them everything for their education in life, so to speak. It was also the parents who introduced the young to the different tiers and guided them while they spent time in each tier to discover their abilities and talents. They would spend as long as needed like this, always under the help and guidance of the parents, until such time where they had chosen what to do. Since the Xan still lived in large homes, parents and their children, their mates and their children again would live together. It would always be a large household. They were still social beings.
She bobs her staff happily.
Issica: I want to learn more about their rituals.
One Who Is The Same: Ah yes. The rituals. The Xan filled their daily lives with rituals and symbols. It seems it was a very important part of their life. Many rituals and ceremonies seems to have been very closely associated with celestial and terrestrial cycles, celebrating the arrival of each new season.
There would of course be religious rituals as well. They were highly spiritual people. From what we've learned, they would often host feasts of food and delight, music and dance. Some of the most monumental non-religious rituals for the Xan were the First, Second and Third pacts. These pacts were about each individual's rites of passage.
Issica: The Pacts?
One Who Is The Same: Yes, that is right. If you would like to learn some more about this, I have some replicas you could take a look at. They are inscribed with the understanding we have.
She reaches into a side pocket in her robe and pulls out three pieces of what looks like small jewelry.
One Who Is The Same: Here you go, young one.
Issica: I want to learn more about their tiers.
One Who Is The Same: The tiers...an interesting subject. Together with Ergo, we Yuttocra believe we have found four tiers. The Xan lived in a polity with slightly different groups. We are certain there were no forms of slavery or unfair status, but there was a separation between the different responsibilities. There were the Elders, the Clergy, the Engineers and the rest...the Plebeians if you will.
Issica: Tell me more about the Elders.
One Who Is The Same: Legend say that the Elders of the Xan were among the first who understood their power to create life. They were chosen as the wisest of them all and elevated to a higher status to serve as advisors and counsel the rest of the Xan. Through the development of the Xan civilization and their expansion, their role would be to moderate the reproduction rate, the needs for the society, binding the tiers together and evaluate young Xan and probably many other things we don't know of.
Whenever a decision for the whole society had to be made, it was always left for the Elders to decide. This was how it had always been and was accepted through out the civilization.
Issica: Tell me more about the Clergy.
One Who Is The Same: Those who studied the Braces and those who led the religious ceremonies and rituals were called the Clergy. They were chosen among those who devoted the most of their time into understanding the gods and we believe they were a big part of their society. Aside from the parents and the Elders, the Clergy took the biggest part in the raising of young Xan. They would teach them how to aspire to live in the same symbiosis and harmony as the Braces, which was something everyone hoped for and tried their best to do. Not a bad ambition by any measure of things.
Issica: Tell me more about the Engineers.
One Who Is The Same: The Engineers were those of the Xan who built the largest of the Xan structures, like temples, great halls and religious monuments. In this tier in Xan society were also the scientists and those who built the foundation for the ever-expanding Xan technology. The Engineers developed new ways of transportation, storage and computer processing systems too. We don't know all the things they did, but we know that this group was big, especially after...well.
After the Xan had discovered the Source, it was also the Engineers who built the massive network systems. They must have needed thousands, maybe more. It's hard to know. There are no trace of just how many the Xan were in total.
Issica: Tell me more about the Plebeians.
One Who Is The Same: Maybe it's wrong to use that word, but I don't know what other word you would understand. Remember what I said about their society not having any difference in rank no matter what tier you belonged in. It was a utopia, a world where every single one of them were equal.
These Xan were those who did not have a role in either of the other tiers, but were vital to the society nonetheless.
They were the artists, craftsmen, authors, thespians and entertainers.
They were the teachers, jewelers, technicians, and devotees. This tier pulled a great weight of the civilization as the Xan numbers grew. Scholars would develop the only written language the Xan would use. Explorers would travel far from the hub their community lived in, finding new areas and determining which were suitable to emigrate and expand to.
They all had their place in society and there is no reason to suspect that they were treated any different than everyone else.
Her voice turns soft and wistful.
One Who Is The Same: Can you imagine that? A world where everyone is equal, where there is no one better than the other, where everything that happens in your life makes you content.
Issica: Could you tell me more about the Xan religion?
She shakes her head a little.
One Who Is The Same: No, young one. We are not the right ones to ask about that. There is another one who knows much more about that than us. His name is Halcyon Creed. He likes to spend his days among the soothing sounds of rivers, lakes or smaller ponds. Find him. We are sure he will help you.

Issica · Prezydent

Halcyon Creed

He turns to look at you and you get the sense that this particular yutto is a calm one, his life filled with some sort of eternal bliss.
Issica: Are you Halcyon Creed?
Halcyon Creed: Yes, young one. That is what I'm called. What is your name?
Issica: They call me Issica.
Halcyon Creed: And why have you come to me, Issica?
Issica: I would like to learn more about the Xan religion.
He nods and beckons you to come a little closer.
Halcyon Creed: Religion can be a beautiful thing, Issica. Not always have mankind fought over whose deity is the right one. It's not about what god or goddess is right or wrong, it's about how one conducts one's life and the compassion one fills it with. The humble admiration of a true believer separates itself from the ugliness of those who kill in the name of their faith.
While your kind has many religions the Xan only had one. Their faith was untainted for as long as their harmony lasted. It's this you would like to know more about, yes?
Issica: Yes, I do.
He nods, clearly happy that you show interest.
Halcyon Creed: Very well. I would like to send you on a journey to understand how wrong it can get. There are still faint remnants of the Xan religion here, but they are corrupt, twisted branches of something pure and balanced. They play a big part in ripping what remains of this world apart. Perhaps it can be momentarily purged to slow down the process. I will send you more information. When you return, we can speak more, Issica.

Po wykonaniu questa:

He turns to look at you and you get the sense that this particular yutto is a calm one, his life filled with some sort of eternal bliss.
Issica: It's done.
Halcyon Creed: You have done well. Here, take this pattern essence. Perhaps it will be of use to you, somehow. Go to Clear Thought Three to learn how it works.
I hope and think that you have learned and discovered something...maybe about this world...maybe within.
He stops and tilts his hooded head to look at you.
Halcyon Creed: And now, young one, I will answer the questions you have.
Issica: Could you tell me about the Xan religion now?
He nods slowly.
Halcyon Creed: Yes. You are ready and you have certainly deserved it. The matter of Xan religion is well preserved through time and it's easy to conclude details, even after aeons. There are many who study religion and I am one of them. Sit down, Issica, and I will tell you about the Brace.
He looks around a little, slowly taking in the sights of the immediate area, as if recharging his energy with the view itself.
Halcyon Creed: The Xan believed in not one god, but many, a so called polytheistic religion. They included in their faith a supreme being who was above the numerous gods, the creator of everything.
Issica: Could you explain what "polytheistic" means?
His voice is warm and soothing and he nods at you.
Halcyon Creed: Forgive me, young one. I'm talking as the researcher I am. Polytheism is the worship of many gods, in contrast to monotheism, which is the worship of only one god. In this kind of religion, the gods are often seen as complicated, each with their own personality. They may have different needs, demands, abilities, knowledge and ways to show their favor.
The Xan religion in particular was devoted to several pairs of greater beings in union. They called each of these pairs a Brace. These two would complement, support and consume each other and work in perfect balance as an example to what the Xan aspired to be. The Brace would always be two sides of the same, without any such thing as a defined 'good' and 'evil'.
Issica: Tell me more about these Braces.
Halcyon Creed: I will, young one. Perhaps now you will understand why I sent you to do what you did.
He falls silent for several long minutes. It's like he's waiting for something.
Halcyon Creed: The Xan were religious beings already in their humble beginning and had brought with them their faith through their development from smaller groups into the great civilization they became. They identified and marked more gods throughout time.
Early on, the Clergy had marked the first Brace as Aban and Thrak. As the Xan developed and their numbers grew, they discovered new Braces; Enel and Shere, Ocra and Roch, Gilthar and Dalja and finally, Cama and Vanya.
Issica: But those are really here! Do the gods walk among us?
He sighs deeply and shakes his head sadly.
Halcyon Creed: Do you see now why I wanted you to explore the temples? What you have seen in these or other temples aren't the Xan gods themselves.
They are distorted mirror images of the Brace, made real by the corrupted imaginations and the rupture in the world. I'm sure you'll understand more on how this happened later, Issica
Suffice it to say that the "Braces" you see today are not what the Xan worshipped and shouldn't be confused with them. Yes, the redeemed and the unredeemed worship them as their deities, but they are not the same.
Issica: I'll have to take your word for it.
Halcyon Creed: As with their society and abilities, the Xan believed their gods were increasing in power and influence and always in sync with nature and the world.
Whenever the Clergy identified a new Brace there would be large celebrations and temples and special monuments would be erected. We believe that the garden statues you find throughout these lands today are replicas of these.
Remember when I told you that religion can be a beautiful thing, and that it's not about who is right and who is wrong? Fighting over which god was the 'right' one would be unheard of in the Xan civilization. According to finds, there were devotees to all Braces, and no religious strife existed between the different factions.They seemed to be in a mutual agreement that the Braces sprung out from the same source, the supreme creator of the universe and of life itself.
Issica: The unredeemed and the redeemed aren't very friendly...
Halcyon Creed: No, they're not. You're quite right that they have no love for each other, but you have to remember that what you see here today is not the Xan. Yes, the redeemed and the unredeemed are the descendants of them, but they are as different from them today as you humans are from us Yuttocra.
Issica: What about you? Does your kind believe in one or many gods?
For the first time, you hear him laugh. It's more of an amused chuckle.
Halcyon Creed: Now, now...you are not here in Scheol on this journey to learn about the Yuttocra way, are you?
He starts humming. It soon becomes clear to you that he's not going to tell you more.
Issica: I guess not. But maybe some day I will...
Halcyon Creed: Maybe you will, maybe you will.
Now...I have nothing more to tell you without going into deep theological discussion, and I don't have time for that today, I'm afraid. I think you understand the basics of what the Xan believed in and what it was like. Most things will eventually delve into the growing union between religion and technology.
Issica: I have so many questions about the Xan technology!
Halcyon Creed: As I knew you would have, young one. It's better that you move on. In fact, you should talk to another of my kind about that. You will probably find him somewhere east of here, on the moor. We call him One Whose Words Are Jumbled.
You have to excuse me now...I have something I must finish and much debate with the other researchers.
He waves his staff in a friendly manner and turns away from you, musing about Braces, temples and something you can't quite make out.

Issica · Prezydent

One Whose Words Are Jumbled

One Whose Words Are Jumbled: Oh! I will be, or maybe I am already, surely I have been spooked! Hahaa!
Oookaaaayy....this one seems to be a few cards short of a full deck...
Issica: Uh...are you ok?
If a crazy child ever laughed out in glee, this is what it would sound like..it's creepy.
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: Ok? Oh. Kay. Okay! Oki. Yes, I will be was ok, I am. Did you know that "ok" can mean many things, hm? If I didn't know and knew better, I would say you're a nanomage!
Issica: But...I am!
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: Oh, you are? You are! The calculations was and will be right, they were! They are never wrong, but they are always wrong. The machines!
Issica: What machines?
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: Oohh, mustn't be so curious about machines and technology. Mustn't trust them then and now and in the future. Bad things, bad things! They found the Source, they did. Did you? You did!
Man, if he could only concentrate for one second!
Issica: But I'm only researching. Halcyon Creed told me I should talk to you.
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: He did and will and always does. They come, all of them, they want to learn, they say, but should I trust they're truthful, should I, should I? How about you do some running for me, and then maybe perhaps I might maybe tell you.
Issica: Okay. Run where?
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: The machines and counting one two three. Not difficult. One is north, two is between south and east and three is between the first two. You can find them find them find them and...then I will ask you something. Maybe you will be able to store, save, cache, keep, stash and stock in your brain. Go and come back and tell me! Quick, quick! Hurry your foot!

Po wykonaniu questa:

One Whose Words Are Jumbled: Oh! I will be, or maybe I am already, surely I have been spooked! Hahaa!
Oookaaaayy....this one seems to be a few cards short of a full deck...
Issica: I found the machines you talked about.
The yutto claps his hands and bounces up and down a little, seemingly very happy you came back to him.
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: And you made it back you did! Now you have to solve my riddle!
Issica: Riddles. Ok. I can do that. Bring it on.
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: Ready steady go, then? Ok, ok...
A man is and was and will be looking at a picture of another man, and says...
Brothers and uncles I have none
but this man's father is my father's son.
Who is on the picture he is and was and will be looking at?
Issica: It's a picture of his son.
He claps enthusiastically and giggles like a crazed child.
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: Yes that is correct and right and complete! You are and was and will be clever. Now I will answer a riddle that you give me!
Issica: Err...I just want to know about the Xan technology.
For once, he doesn't seem to have any smart comments.
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: You were and are and will be curious. Your kind, you humans. But it's a good thing, good good. Not always have you been prepared. Maybe some day you will not do what you did and do. It's your choice. Be careful, young one, for technology is and was and will be a dangerous thing.
Issica: I think it's natural progression...
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: You may think so now and then but in truth it's a dangerous thing. It can and will control you. The Xan did not see and saw the traps. You must know about their drive to always learn more, always serching for their purpose in the world by now.They were and are and will be the superior life form in the world, incredibly intelligent, smart, clever. They learnt quickly, much like your kind. Clever little beings you were and are and will be.
You can sense he's grinning inside the darkness of the hood.
Issica: About the Source..?
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: ...and impatient ones too. One thing, item, topic at a time. We know much, a lot, plenty, of the Xan's technology. Danger, warning! But we don't know exactly when they discovered the existence of the Source. They were and was and will be unable to understand the net that holds it all together. They built a network to find, stretch, reach into the core of all things living and extract and transform it to a form of energy that they could and would and will use for their own means. Eventually, they came so close to the backbone of existence that they discovered the everything...the Source.
He shakes off a shiver, as if the very thought disturbs him somehow.
Issica: How did that affect their lives?
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: Have you seen a tree in winter and a tree in summer? Have you seen the light of day and the dark of night? It was and is and will be like that. Total change. Of course they knew a lot even before that. Of course their technology was and is and will be extremely advanced. They were all these things, they were the brightest star on the canvas of the sky, but when they learned to harness, catch, control the Source, there were no limit anymore. They could build and create and find the things they hadn't been able to before. It became the greatest power in the world. Like fuel, energy, propellant, it granted power and understanding that none could and would and should dream of. Warning, warning.
Issica: Kinda like us and notum...
He remains quiet for a few long seconds, apparently not commenting.
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: What happens when you always, forever, evermore strive to learn something and once you do, there is nothing more to learn? When you have made all you want and will, all you can and could imagine built. When there is nothing else to learn, what then?
It becomes apparent to you that he doesn't think much of the rate of Xan technology development, maybe yours as well.
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: But I am and was and will be confusing you, young one. You'll know the full impact some day.
Issica: What sort of machinery did they make?
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: Good question, and one I could not would not should not answer. You can find remains of them, you visited three of them already. We don't know exactly what they did, or how they still operate. We knew and know that the large machine in the canyon up ahead is and was a battery of sorts. You should and could and would ask and beg the scientists from Jobe. They may know more.
You get the firm impression that he knows plenty more, but doesn't want to tell you.
Issica: Ok, I'll do that. Who else can I talk to about the Xan?
One Whose Words Are Jumbled: There was and is one other here on the moor. He knew and knows and will know about the way they led their lives. Maybe you'll recognise it. We call him One Who Will Always Listen.
He lets out a chortle and waves you on your way.

Issica · Prezydent

One Who Will Always Listen

The yutto turns towards you and slowly nods his head.
One Who Will Always Listen: Hello, Issica.
Issica: You know my name?
He nods and speaks a warm, friendly tone.
One Who Will Always Listen: Yes, I do. Your name among others have been in the air for a while. We have heard of you humans and how you meet with us Yuttocra. If you listen carefully, the world around you tells you and you know these things.
Issica: The yuttos down on the moor told me to come see you.
One Who Will Always Listen: Yes, I know this too. You come from One Whose Words Are Jumbled. There is one thing I do not know, though. That is whether or not you care to listen.
Issica: What do you mean?
One Who Will Always Listen: Only those who listen to their own heart and mind will find the answers they are searching for. Perhaps that was the Xan's biggest mistake, trying to listen where there was no voice. Now let me ask you this, Issica...do you like to read or be told stories?
Issica: Yes, I enjoy that.
One Who Will Always Listen: That is very good to hear. The number of people who enjoy storytelling is dwindling, sadly. I'm pleased to see there is still hope for the stories of old to live on alongside the ones made today.
Would you like to hear some stories, maybe?
Issica: Sure, I have the time.
He sounds happy that you agreed and bows his head in something that seems like gratitude.
One Who Will Always Listen: That is good to hear. I will ask you to visit three people I know. They are humans, like you, but they enjoy the vistas here in Scheol. They say it inspires them to make new stories. Talk to them in turn and listen to one of their stories, then come back to me and we'll talk some more.
He draws a primitive map in the dirt close by and tells you the names of the three people and then waves as you get ready to leave.

Kira Quinn

She stands at the edge of a cliff, viewing the endless gorge beneath her.
Kira Quinn: Hello there. Isn't it a nice day for stories?
Issica: I guess.
Kira Quinn: Every day is, really. I try to tell at least one to people I meet every day. Do you want to hear a story?
Issica: That's why I'm here. A yutto sent me.
Kira Quinn: That's very nice to hear. The yuttos are awesome storytellers. I wish that one day I knew as much as they do. Very well...I'll tell you a story. This one is about how sometimes we can be blind but still see more than the seeing.
Issica: (Listen to the story)
Kira Quinn: This was in the time after the discovery of the Source. A young Xan was training to become an explorer, his future set to those who would roam the lands, always searching for a new place to settle, a new place to expand the Xan civilization to. He had done very well in anything he was taught and was considered a great student. While the Xan had no need to hunt for food, those who travelled would sometimes carry weapons with them to fend off predators. He had chosen the bow and the sling and was an excellent marksman. He could shoot an arrow into a tree and then cleave that arrow in two with his next shot and repeat the whole thing with a third arrow. With his sling, he could throw his bullets with incredible accuracy and hit the smallest acorn at the top of the tallest tree.
Issica: (Listen to the story)
Kira Quinn: Now, this young Xan knew very well how good he was and had told others that he was better at it than even the most experienced explorer. So one day his teacher, a wise old Xan, heard this and decided to teach the young one something he didn't know. He asked his student to come with him on a trip across the hills to the west of where they lived.
The journey was uneventful until they came to a deep chasm, much like the one behind me here.
She points behind her.
Kira Quinn: A narrow log spanned the chasm, looking wobbly but old enough to have been there a while. The teacher tied a blindfold of canvas around his head and balanced to the middle of the log, brought up his bow and shot an arrow into a tree on the other side. His next shot cleaved the first arrow in two and a third cleaved the first pair.
Issica: (Listen to the story)
Kira Quinn: "Now it's your turn," he said, walking back to where his student was waiting and removed the blindfold. He then tied it around his student's head. The youth stepped gingerly onto the log and very slowly and carefully made his way to the middle. But his heart was in his mouth. He knew that if he lost his footing, he would plunge down into the dark ravine and perhaps perish if he wasn't helped quickly enough. His hands trembled as he strung an arrow into his bow. Preoccupied with the danger he was in, he found it hard to focus on the target. So when he let go of the string, it missed the tree altogether. Whimpering, he turned around.
"Help me!" he shouted to his teacher. "I'll fall."
Issica: (Listen to the story)
Kira Quinn: The older Xan walked up to him, took his hand and stepping backwards led him to safety. Neither of them said a word on the return journey but the youth had much to think about. He had realised that to be a master of his art it was not enough to know how to control his weapon; he had to learn how to control his mind too.
Issica: Thank you for the story. I should be on my way now.
She nods and smiles to you, happy that you stayed to listen.
Kira Quinn: Alright. I wish you a safe journey. And remember...stories are the memories of the past. If you want to hear some more, go see Shawn Ramsey. He's usually down by the Crystal Forest.

Shawn Ramsey

This man stands close to the spiders down in Crystal Forest, seemingly intrigued.
Shawn Ramsey: It's so fascinating, so inspiring!
Issica: What is?
Shawn Ramsey: The spiders here. See how they've made their nests right by, even on, the water in the middle of those crystals? They don't seem to be bothered by the very element that can sweep them away and destroy them, because they've grown so big, they can tackle the river's current. Such a sight inspires me to write so many new stories!
Issica: Yes, about stories. I was sent to hear one from you.
Shawn Ramsey: You were? Oh, that has to be Kira who sent you, right? She's a great author and a wonderful storyteller.
So she asked you to get a story from me, did she? Alright, I have one for you. It's an ancient fairy tale that has survived through time. Even if it's meant for children, it's a sweet story.
He clears his throat and prepares.
Issica: (Listen to the story)
Shawn Ramsey: Once upon a time there was a prince who wanted to marry a princess, but she had to be a true princess, not just a girl with a nice dress and a tiara. So he travelled all over the country to find one, but there was always something wrong with each of the princesses he met. There were plenty of them, but he could not find out if they were true princesses in every sense of the word. In every case there was something that wasn't right, which proved to him that he hadn't found a truly regal bride yet.
Issica: (Listen to the story)
Shawn Ramsey: So he came home again in a very low mood, for he had really wanted to marry his future queen. Now it seemed he wouldn't have a bride at all. Several months passed by and then one night there was a dreadful storm; there was thunder and lightning and it was raining cats and dogs. It was fearful! There was a knocking heard at the palace gate, and the prince's father, the old king, went to open it.
Issica: (Listen to the story)
Shawn Ramsey: Outside the gate stood a princess but she was a sad sight from the rain and the storm! The water was running down from her hair and her dress into the her shoes and out again. And yet she said she was a true princess and begged to get shelter for the night. The king let her in and introduced her to his wife.
"Well, we will see if she lies or not!" thought the old queen when the girl had gotten some warmth in her. She said nothing to her husband the king or her son the prince, and went into the bedroom where the princess would sleep that night, took off all the bed-clothes, and placed a pea on the bottom of the bed. Then she put twenty mattresses on top of the pea, and twenty-five soft quilts on the top of the mattresses. This was the bed in which the princess was to sleep.
Issica: (Listen to the story)
Shawn Ramsey: The next morning the girl was asked how she had slept. "Oh, very badly!" complained the princess. "I barely closed my eyes all night! I am sure I didn't sleep more than two hours. I don't know what was in the bed, but I slept on something so hard that my whole body is black and blue. It is dreadful!"
The royal family decided that she had to be a true princess, because she had felt the pea through all the mattresses and quilts. No one but a true princess could be so sensitive. So the prince married her, for now he knew that at last he had found a true princess and they lived happily ever after.
Issica: That's nice. Thanks for sharing the fairy tale.
He smiles to you.
Shawn Ramsey: You're welcome, friend. Maybe some day you will tell it to someone else. If you want to hear another story, you should find Miya Okuma. She is fascinated by old buildings and last I heard, she was on her way to a ruin in the far east of Scheol. Good luck and safe travels!

Miya Okuma

The young woman studies the ruins nearby and almost doesn't notice you when you approach.
Miya Okuma: Oh! Sorry, I was lost in thought.
Issica: You like ruins?
Miya Okuma: Yes, I do. There are so many stories in a ruin, an old home that has sheltered families through-out generations, or a building more people have visited than you and I will ever know. It makes me daydream a little about long lost times.
She smiles quietly at you.
Issica: Shawn Ramsey said I should find you to hear a story.
Miya Okuma: That's great! Shawn and I are friends from many years back. We both like literature and storytelling. He's a nice guy.
She looks dreamily out towards the land behind you.
Miya Okuma: Oh, right...you wanted to hear a story. I was just thinking about one. It's a love story, kinda. Here goes...
Issica: (Listen to the story)
Miya Okuma: A young boy called Jivan and young girl called Siroun had fallen helplessly in love with each other, but theirs was a love that could never be, for his family were miners and her family were high officials in Omni-Tek. The young lovers would sporadically meet where no one could see them, all to exchange short promises of love. They would meet like this for several years for they were still young and innocent and their parents suspected nothing.
Issica: (Listen to the story)
Miya Okuma: Then one day they met near the outpost Terra in Andromeda. The boy ran up to his beloved with a big smile. It had been days since last time they met and his heart ached to be with her. However, when he came closer to her, he got no smiles in return, but tears. He asked her what was wrong, and the girl told him that her parents had said she would marry. They had found a young man they felt was a perfect husband, but she didn't want him, she only had eyes for Jivan. She said she would rather die than be with any other man, but this horrified him for he couldn't live without Siroun by his side.
Issica: (Listen to the story)
Miya Okuma: He told her that they would be together one day, that he would build them a home away from everyone else and that their love would be strong enough to overcome all the troubles in the world and he hugged her.
Two months later, Siroun stood bride to a young man from the same social sphere as she. He was a kind and understanding man, so when Siroun spent long hours away from their home, he didn't say anything. He did not know she spent them with Jivan.
Issica: (Listen to the story)
Miya Okuma: Over the years to come, Siroun gave birth to three children, and she was very happy to see that none of them looked like her husband, but had the eyes of Jivan, their real father. Her husband never doubted her, he had no reason to. Many years passed, and every week the two lovers would meet in secret to talk about how they would one day be together. Jivan had spent the last years building a house on the far Coast of Tranquility, where they hoped to run away to.
Issica: (Listen to the story)
Miya Okuma: Many years passed and Siroun and Jivan both grew old. Soon they were too weak and they could only meet when the weather was warm. Then, one day late in the fall, Jivan lay exhausted in his bed in the house. It was finally finished, and he could not wait until he could bring the love of his life there. The day after he would go to her town and take her with him. He fell asleep and woke from Siroun's voice. She stood by his bed, her head crowned by her silver hair, her body wrapped in a thin night gown. Never had she looked as fair as now. She said that their time had finally come, that they would be together forever from now on, and lay down in the bed next to him.
Issica: (Listen to the story)
Miya Okuma: The next day Siroun's husband found her lifeless in her bed, a smile on her peaceful features, and a wandering trader found Jivan dead in his house, his arms wrapped around something that wasn't there, also with a smile upon his face. They were buried on the same day, many miles from each other, but still in each other's company for ever more.
Issica: That's really sad...
She smiles at you, eyes brightly glinting.
Miya Okuma: Not necessarily, traveller. Love is a wonderful thing that reaches far across the world. It has no borders, neither in time or distance.

Po wykonaniu questa, jeszcze raz One Who Will Always Listen

The yutto turns towards you and slowly nods his head.
One Who Will Always Listen: Hello, Issica.
Issica: I've talked to all three now.
One Who Will Always Listen: So I hear, Issica. So I hear. Now then...I'm keen to know how your ear for details is. I wonder if you really listen to things people tell you, if you catch the small details or not. Will you indulge me and answer some questions?
Issica: Sure, I guess.
One Who Will Always Listen: Very good. I will start with an easy one. What is the name of the second person you talked to?
Issica: Shawn Ramsey.
One Who Will Always Listen: That's right. I will ask you some questions from the stories you've heard now. It shouldn't be too difficult.
Issica: I'm ready.
One Who Will Always Listen: Who opened the castle doors for the princess in the fairy tale?
Issica: The King.
One Who Will Always Listen: That's correct. What did the teacher stand on when he wanted to show the youth how a real marksman works?
Issica: A log.
One Who Will Always Listen: That's correct. Who found Siroun after she had died?
Issica: Her husband.
One Who Will Always Listen: That's correct. How many mattresses did the princess sleep on?
Issica: Twenty.
One Who Will Always Listen: That's correct. How many children did Siroun have?
Issica: Three.
One Who Will Always Listen: That's correct. What kind of weapon did the youth use, apart from the bow?
Issica: Sling.
One Who Will Always Listen: That's correct. You have done well, young one. I believe you really do have a sense of details, that you always listen to what people have to tell you. Take this ring as a symbol of my appreciation. I hope it will serve you well.
And now, if you want, I will tell you a story of my own.
Issica: I'd love to hear it.
One Who Will Always Listen: That is good to hear. Maybe in the future, it will be your kind's responsibility to carry on the stories. Very well. I will tell you a little about the Xan's daily life, how they spent their time when they were not working. You may be surprised to see how much like your kind they were.
He chuckles deeply, as if amused by a good story.
Issica: (Listen to his story)
One Who Will Always Listen: Their life was uncomplicated. They strived to live to the best of the community and lived by an unspoken set of rules. Although, there was no real government like you would recognise it at that time, they had no need for it, they all knew what they had to do.
As the supreme beings in the world, they had no natural enemies, no predator that would hunt them for food or attack aimlessly. No enemies...Other than themselves.
Issica: (Listen to his story)
One Who Will Always Listen: These people did not need to hunt...they had no need to farm or keep animals for food. They didn't eat like you and I do. You must understand that they were indeed very different than us, even on the most basic of levels. They were, on a much larger scale, driven by raw energy, and instead of consuming meat and greens for nutrition, like you do, they were able to draw the energy they needed directly from other living things.
As a result, they did not raise livestock or farmlands. There was no need to secure food supplies for a possible famine, no reason to store up, as they had an endless supply of energy around them.
We don't know exactly how, it's a science we don't have in our day, but it's reasonable to assume they devoured the vitality and thereby nutrition from plants and animals directly, without any steps of harvest or processing.
Issica: That's gross. It sounds vampiric.
One Who Will Always Listen: Is it, really? It seems to me it was a humane and clean way of feeding themselves, never taking more than they need. It may be difficult to understand, but that is how it was. Don't be afraid of the unfamiliar, young one.
They kept pets, though, much like your kind does. Some tableaus show that these pets were small animals, and that they were regarded highly. My kind carry stories of some of the Xan even trying to "domesticate" our Yuttocra forefathers.
He snorts and laughs deeply, clearly amused by the very idea.
One Who Will Always Listen: That didn't go too well, of course.
Issica: What did they do for fun?
One Who Will Always Listen: We know they liked to play games. They were, in their nature, an inquisitive and playful people. They would play games just like you do, ball games, board games, tactical games...probably several that has been lost through history.
All things point to that they didn't play to win, but for the game itself and to play well. Since they were social beings, we assume that they often spent time in groups, perhaps indulging in sports or games of the mind. We have not found any trace on the rules for these games they played. Maybe they had no rules at all, who knows?
Later in their evolution, they forgot all about playing and having fun. When their corrupted minds only cared for what new ways they could gain power, there was no room for the simple things in life.
Issica: How about cultural heritage?
One Who Will Always Listen: Oh, they were very much like you. The Xan valued their artists highly. Those who could sing, dance, play music, write poems, act and more were regarded highly and respected. There are several texts remaining that describe their sense of entertainment. It seems to have been an important part of their daily life and also in rituals, feasts and celebrations.
You see, in all their power, the Xan could not easily create things that had no life. Yes, they could clone themselves in a process we do not understand. Yes, they could give life to smaller creatures. It was an innate ability in all of them. It cannot have been a big mystery to them, it was just something they were able to do. But creating art, song, music and dance...that was something only some of them could make beautifully. It was a special gift.
Issica: I think I've seen some traces of that...
One Who Will Always Listen: You may have, yes. They were very fond of decorating every nook and corner with their art. Pottery, paintings, sculptures...all handcrafted things were admired.
They would decorate their homes with intricate glyphs and logograms, and some would co-operate to make larger works of art. It is a sad thing most of this is gone now.
He sighs and seems sad for a moment.
One Who Will Always Listen: If only we could relive the time. Their time. To see how the ancients lived...I can imagine nothing more exciting and beautiful.
Issica: Thank you for telling me all this.
He seems to shake off the sadness and nods at you.
One Who Will Always Listen: You are most welcome, Issica. I am sure your travels through these lands will give you even more knowledge of what was once the world.
If you care to learn more, I suggest you travel to Marble Orchards and talk to another of my kind. He is called One Who Never Stops Looking. Be on your way and travel safely. Maybe some day we will meet again.

Issica · Prezydent

One Who Never Stops Looking

One Who Never Stops Looking: Hello, young one.
Issica: The yutto on the moor sent me to see you.
This yuttos seems like he's got a pained leg. The few times he moves, he limps and it doesn't seem like he's planning to move very far at any rate.
One Who Never Stops Looking: I expect he did. They all come through here some time or another, to ask us questions and listen to our stories.
Normally, we would help you, but as you can see, I'm alone. I don't have time for anything until my mate is back with the list, I'm afraid.
Issica: Wait, wait. Your mate? List?
He nods and looks around, as if scouting for someone.
One Who Never Stops Looking: Yes, my life mate. She has been gone for a whole day and that's unlike her. I can't move very far with my bad leg, and if I leave this spot, I'll lose the count.
We take care of the animals around here but I can't do that alone. Yesterday, she said she was going down the canyon to look for some chimeras we've heard are wounded or sick. She was going to bring back a detailed list on the status of the pack.
Issica: But these chimeras are vicious...why help them?
You think you can hear a gruff from within the hood.
One Who Never Stops Looking: Does life mean so little to you? Do you separate between what type of life is "worthy" and what is not? Animals have no sense of good and evil. They are not like you humans, who fight wars for all the wrong reasons, they merely want to exist in this broken and hurting world.
Yes, it's true that they may attack the unprepared traveller, but can you blame them? This is their territory.
He stares at you intently, his luminous eyes drilling into you.
Issica: I guess. I'm sorry. Maybe I can help you...?
One Who Never Stops Looking: Well..now that you mention it, I would appreciate it if you could find my mate and ask her for the list, then return to me with it. If I have that, I can continue my work while she does hers.
Here, take this. It's so she can know that I sent you.
He hands you what looks like a predator fang and then points down the canyon.
One Who Never Stops Looking: She should be somewhere in the Marble Orchards but I don't know exactly where.

One Who Is Full Of Compassion

One Who Is Full Of Compassion: Isn't it awful?
Issica: What is?
One Who Is Full Of Compassion: These poor chimeras have caught some sort of disease and we don't know what it is yet. Oh...I have so much to do...
She sighs heavily and looks out across the nearby area.
One Who Is Full Of Compassion: I don't have time to chit chat with you. Be careful when you leave so you don't hurt any of the animals.
Issica: Your mate sent me to find you and get a status list.
She tilts her head to one side and her voice doesn't sound like she fully believes you.
One Who Is Full Of Compassion: I'm not sure if giving the lists to a complete stranger is a good thing. You may be lying for all I know.
Issica: But I have proof that he sent me. Here...
Her voice sounds stern and impatient as you fumble in your pockets, looking for the tooth.
One Who Is Full Of Compassion: I doubt that...
One Who Is Full Of Compassion: Oh...I recognize this. I gave this to him when we started working in this area. You must be telling the truth.
Her voice is friendlier now than before.
Issica: Can I have the lists, then?
One Who Is Full Of Compassion: If I had them, I would give them to you, young one. I haven't finished them yet, I got sidetracked trying to find out more about the disease. Maybe if you helped me, I would have them done faster, or you can wait.
Issica: Ok...what do you want me to do?
One Who Is Full Of Compassion: I'm sure you noticed coming here that there are certain chimeras in the pack who look worse for wear than others. I need to count how many they are and try to do what I can for them. I have some medicine here.But...I can't leave this spot, or I'll lose oversight on those I've already counted. I would like you to bring me three of the sickly chimeras around these part. Just gently herd them here and I'll see what I can do for them. Here, take this collar to bring me the first one.

Tutaj przegapiłam dialogi "międzyquestowe", nie działo się tu nic ciekawego, ale jeśli ktoś je ma to PM do mnie Smile

Po wykonianiu questa, znów do One Who Never Stops Looking:

One Who Never Stops Looking: Hello, young one.
Issica: I have the list.
One Who Never Stops Looking: Good, I was worried you wouldn't return. Was my mate alright?
Issica: Yeah, she was fine. She had me doing some animal health care or something.
One Who Never Stops Looking: Sounds like her to me.
He nods and chuckles, clearly amused.
One Who Never Stops Looking: Could I have the list, please?
He holds out his hand and waits.
One Who Never Stops Looking: Thank you. I appreciate this. Now I can return to my work, unless you had something to ask me.
Issica: Yes, I was wondering about how the Xan were affected by the use of the Source.
One Who Never Stops Looking: Ah, I see. I'm glad you're showing interest. I can tell you what I know. This is a part of the Xan history that was extensively charted, even though much of it was lost. Since my mate and I do the work we do, I will tell you about something related.
In their earlier days, the Xan were among the most harmonic beings any world has ever seen. There was a bliss about them that can't be translated into words. There was simply no discontentment among them.
All that changed when they discovered the existance of the Source and started purifying it, harvesting it and exploiting it. Slowly at first, they may not have noticed how their whole society and mentality changed.
Issica: Did they start fighting?
One Who Never Stops Looking: Not at first, no. With the power they had gained from the Source along with the way they could manipulate energy, they were growing arrogant and ignorant. At first only towards the rest of the planet's life, never thinking about the long-term consequence of their actions.
Habitats for animals were destroyed without any care if they could survive or not. Resources were harvested without any thought of quantity. The world was slowly being drained because of their arrogance and it would never be restored to the same splendour as in the beginning.
He looks to the side, his shoulders hanging a little.
Issica: Didn't anyone do anything?
One Who Never Stops Looking: Some did, but they were too few. It was difficult still, to disagree with the majority, especially when that majority didn't listen at all. So the arrogance and false supremity raged on. Not only were they careless with the nature around them, this shift in their mentality had them looking down on other intelligent beings. Us Yuttocra, for instance.
Yes, young one, we are almost as old as the Xan themselves. My kind and theirs used to trade, but in their minds, they no longer needed this exchange. After all, they could create anything they could dream up themselves and my ancestors were told that they had nothing the Xan could ever want, and ties were slowly broken between them.
Issica: What was their intention in all this?
One Who Never Stops Looking: We think they nurtured a hope and wish to someday find answers to all their questions. Legends say the first thing any Xan spoke was "Why are we here? Who are we?" and by those words, the eternal questions were born into every Xan that ever lived, never to be fully answered or explained.
They spent their entire history trying to define the inexplicable and in the end, it was what destroyed not only them, but the world itself. They would examine every aspect of their lives, to the point where one could say they could not live without searching.
Issica: They would sacrifice all they had for that?
One Who Never Stops Looking: You must remember that knowledge is power and that power corrupts. They wanted to elevate to divinity, to understand the creator of the universe and be equal. It may be difficult for you and me to grasp all they threw away, and probably would be for them as well, if they had seen it.
He sighs deeply again.
One Who Never Stops Looking: But they didn't.
We may not be able to understand the why's and where's, but we are able to track their history through research and continued preservation of history, to learn about this great people and how their blind search ruptured both them and the world.
Issica: Where did they search for these answers?
One Who Never Stops Looking: Anywhere they could. Words, like ideas, are not physical. You can't touch them, so it was a much more spiritual search. Texts and inscriptions show the waves of their efforts, how it moved in their society. They would turn to their faith but no amount of study of the Braces could satisfy them.
My people tell stories of old, stories that tell of horrific creation rituals, where the Xan would try to create something larger than life, to outdo their limits, perhaps in a hope to prove that they were in fact divine and next of kin to the Braces. Failure after failure discouraged them and soon enough they would turn to their Elders.
Issica: Did they have the answers?
One Who Never Stops Looking: Of course not. While there probably was some comfort in having the wisest Xan of them all tell them they would understand some day, they couldn't have found clarity, since they continued looking.
The Xan had long since discovered the Source, and while the use of it was restricted in the beginning, it was the Elders who lifted it. We can assume they told the rest of the people that they should use this gift responsibly, hoping that it would help them find what they coveted more than anything, but...
His voice trails away.
Issica: And from that, they turned to science.
One Who Never Stops Looking: Exactly. And that is when it started breaking down. The change in their lives must have been monumental. Perhaps they thought that the discovery of the Source was the first step to enlightenment.
With the staff, he motions out towards the landscape behind you.
One Who Never Stops Looking: Out there you can see the remains of what they did.
They built machines they refered to as 'listening devices', trying to pick up and understand the frequency of the Source. We don't know exactly how they worked, maybe the ones from Jobe can answer, but we know that they are directly related to what happened later. The Source was never meant to be exploited like that.
Issica: Is this when the conflict started?
One Who Never Stops Looking: If you mean if this is when the Xan split into the Redeemed and the Unredeemed, then no. This was long before that. We don't know what the clear point of disagreement is, if there even was one. However, we know that one major influence was that they no longer listened to the Elders.
At some point, the Xan numbers exploded, clearly indicating that they no longer cared about the reserved cloning they did earlier. They must have wanted to break out of tradition, wanting to do exactly what they felt like instead of following advice. From overpopulating the world, caring more about their individual place than the good of the community, to depleting the resources in it...the Xan never stopped.
Issica: Can you tell me about the exploitation?
One Who Never Stops Looking: I would, but I'm afraid I have to go back to my work now. My mate will be back soon, and we have reports to send. Since I have the lists now, I can get some of the work done. But you can talk to another of my kind, he may be able to answer your questions. Look for him far to the north, where the spawn of these lands waits to be born. He is called One Who Fears Corruption.
With a friendly nod, he sends you on your way.
Issica: What other changes were there?
One Who Never Stops Looking: Many things, most of all the wedge within. Their self-importance soon turned against themselves. We can only guess that their reasoning was that if they were masters of the world, why wouldn't they have a hierarchy within their own people? Certain texts we have found describes a growing gap between the tiers until they became more of a class system. They grew much more self-centered and they started to doubt, change and dislike the way their civilization had worked since the dawn of time.

Issica · Prezydent

One Who Fears Corruption

As you approach the yutto, you notice that he turns around to look for..what...dangers? It seems like he's jittery and nervous...maybe afraid?
Issica: Is something wrong?
One Who Fears Corruption: What? Is it happening again? Where did it start? I see the signs, they are all over!
Issica: Whoa, whoa...calm down. What's happening?
One Who Fears Corruption: They didn't see it coming. They don't see it now either. What is happening? Isn't something being done? Don't you understand?
Issica: No, I don't. Calm down and tell me.
One Who Fears Corruption: You have to learn, you have to see with your own eyes. I can't tell you anything if your mind can't grasp the full consequence. You and your kind...there is little time, your hearts and your minds are already darkening.
The ancients didn't understand it, they didn't see it slithering up on them like a snake, the corruption.
Issica: The ancients...you mean the Xan, right?
He nods and breathes deeply, as if to calm himself down. You think you hear a quiet sob, but that can't be right...yuttos don't cry, do they?
One Who Fears Corruption: Yes. Yes, young one. They are who I mean. They had everything and they lost it in a world-shattering consequence of their own foolishness and greed. But you can't understand without seeing for yourself.
Issica: Ok...show me, then.
He points to the east.
One Who Fears Corruption: There is a stretch of very broken land east of here. It is like standing on the brink of madness, the creatures there are the result, the consequence. Find them all and take a good look at them. Bring help if you must. Maybe then you will comprehend.
They have names that you humans have used on the world you come from. Seven nightmares, seven horrors, seven deadly sins. You must understand. You humans must...must...
His voice trails off and he turns away from you.

Po wykonaniu questa:

As you approach the yutto, you notice that he turns around to look for..what...dangers? It seems like he's jittery and nervous...maybe afraid?
Issica: I found them all.
It seems like he's taking a deep breath of relief.
One Who Fears Corruption: I'm glad you're back in one piece. They are dangerous, like the history they represent.
Issica: I'd like to know more about that history.
One Who Fears Corruption: I will tell you what I can.
He looks around, seeming nervous.
One Who Fears Corruption: Assuming you have heard from others how the Xan lived, how they discovered the Source, how they grew arrogant...I will tell you about how the corruption of the world affected everything in it.
You know that life in the world was near neverending, yes? So it was for the Xan. They would not die of old age or disease and their natural healing must have been incredible.
Issica: So they were immortal?
One Who Fears Corruption: Not exactly. If they suffered a massive trauma, they could possibly perish if they did not get help quickly. You see, they could use their energy to mend wounds, as long as they had the strength to do it. It can't have happened very often, because of all the things we have found about their history none have been as monumental as the first time one of them died from no apparent reason.
Issica: You mean they started dying from old age?
One Who Fears Corruption: Maybe, we cannot know. Ergo wasn't built yet, so the detail of history we have available can't be one hundred percent sure. However...there are plenty of references. We must understand what a monumental happening this was, how frightening it must have been. Imagine that something you think of as impossible suddenly happens.
They searched for an explanation everywhere, but couldn't find one. Eventually, it was written off as a freak incident, a weakness in the one who had so mysteriously died. And then it happened again during a cloning process. Both the parents and the offspring perished. The way artifacts we have found describe it, these three deaths had a major impact on the Xan - nothing would ever be as big of a distress as that.
Issica: We all get old and die sometime, though.
One Who Fears Corruption: Yes, we do, but we don't expect to not die or to live for thousands of years, like they did. The fact that they started dying was only the beginning of the problems, a direct result of the corruption that stands knocking on the door of humanity. We have no idea how long it took, how long the poison flowed in the life of the planet before...before other things started happening.
Issica: Like what?
One Who Fears Corruption: There have been geologists here. Some of the Jobe people say that they can find odd traces of what could be giant landslides and earthquakes. Odd because they don't match up to anything the Xan have noted down. It's a tale my kind have carried with them since the beginning of the decay. We say that the planet was tired of being starved, tortured and drawn thin and began getting even. Enormous tidal waves would wash away every trace of settlements and earthquakes swallowed whatever life came in the way. Lakes would run dry and deserts would grow from the death of life in areas where the Source extraction was too heavy.
Issica: That's horrible!
The yuttos nods and grows silent apart from a gentle whispering and what sounds like a sob again.
One Who Fears Corruption: Yes, it was. Such a loss. There was never any like the Xan. They were given everything and they lost it. Their minds became corrupted and instead of thinking as a group they fell down to the importance of self. Greed and envy and pride and more...
He begins looking around nervously again
One Who Fears Corruption: You must go now, young one. It's dangerous. It's everywhere. Remember what I've told you. Remember and be careful. Like those who built Ergo.
Issica: Wait! Can you tell me about who built Ergo?
No manner of begging or asking nicely seems to change his mind. He turns away from you and refuses to say anything else. He seems as nervous as he was when you met him. Great...how are you gonna find out about Ergo now?

Issica · Prezydent

Vanward Four

The yutto in front of you turns towards you and greets you with a slow nod, his voice gentle and wise. You find yourself wondering how old this particular one is.
Vanward Four: Hello young one. You have arrived at last.
Issica: Have you been expecting me?
He nods his massive head and looks at you with his brightly burning eyes.
Vanward Four: Yes, I have. I have heard a lot about your travels through Scheol from my fellow Yuttocra, and I am pleased to see you here at last.
Issica: Is there something you want me to do?
Vanward Four: Straight to the point. That is one thing that never ceases to impress me about you humans. Your short life span forces you to spend every minute doing...something, on the eternal search to improve, and so you grow into effective and ambitious people.
His voice is warm and friendly, and it's obvious that he means nothing ill with what he says.
Vanward Four: There might be something you can help me with, child. But I can tell that you're not fully prepared yet. Your exploration of Scheol continues for some time still. There are several scientists from your city of Jobe doing some research here. While we have different values than them, I think it's to your benefit that you talk to them all. When you have, return to me, and we will talk more.
Issica: I will come back later.
Vanward Four nods calmly.
Vanward Four: Very well, young one. I look forward to it.

Issica · Prezydent

Vanward Four czeka teraz na skończenie przeze mnie linii "Jobe Scientists", czego jeszcze nie zrobiłam, a jak zrobię to uzupełnię Smile

Issi, król spammerów.

Dymek · Romantyk i PR

Jesteś świrem...

wilkzlasu

Iss chyba robi nadgodziny w pracy Razz

to jedyne wytłumaczenie:)

Issica · Prezydent