Post by veronw on Apr 29, 2023 2:22:24 GMT
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/25/2023 5:05 PM
Anxios Orbital Ring -- Habitat 27
It had been another long trek back home for Seria. She had managed to wake up one of the politicians the SR had, but she was suspiciously recalled back to the SR for some bullshit reason. Something about the DOE having an internal debate on what the next generation Seraphs should be, something she had no part in nor did she care about. It was a lonely couple of weeks from the Columen Artificialis back home, but this gave her valuable time to think. How long it'd be until her plan could come to fruition was unknown, but it needed to start soon or else Selia will go mad with power, like he hadn't already. The only main issue with his presidency is how he handled the UDS situation -- strong, and never backing down. A noble cause, but utterly stupid, and even through the latest efforts to modernize the nation's economy, massive habitat projects, fleet expansion drives, and other technological developments were draining the coffers of the SR ever faster.
All Seria wanted was a drink, though. Something to take her mind off of the clusterfuck of a nation the SR had become.
Boarding the orbital ring, in Habitat 27 as it was called, was one of many prefabricated blocks to house residents, those in favor of the SR's government. By proxy of being one of the heads of the DOE, she was given priority.
The interior of the habitat was modeled after a city down on the surface. Enormous slab-sided buildings made up the main streets of the habitat, with blossoming trees lining the sidewalk, a comfortable temperature for the serpentine creatures. It was almost painfully colorful, with hundreds of species of flowers, vines, and other plantlife brought up from the surface to make the environment more lively and even remotely bioactive. It was a pretty place, but still...hollow. Empty. Built to keep a population content enough to not rebel but not safe enough to speak out. Small microphones and cameras were dotted everywhere, observing.
A long, long trek brough Seria to her accommodations, a private apartment a bit too big for the Selenican lady but home all the same. It was almost a stark white inside, with Seria never having the time to unpack personal effects and heirlooms, constantly being shuffled from one assignment to the next. But, all she did this visit was get dressed to go out, and approached a local pub. It was one of the first private businesses opened within the SR, a small experiment by the government to see if their models of providing for the people were ideal in the long term.
It wasn't so starkly white inside -- with much more plant life and a more "homey" feel than the rest of the colony, bathed in obsolete orange bulbs purely for the aesthetic value. It reminded her of the rural home she and her grandfather once lived in before being evicted by the Selenican government on some bullshit emminent domain clause, forcing the two into the cities where the all-seeing eye of the Order of Amber kept watch.
"Sir?" She would ask, her oddly high-pitched voice and small length leading many to take slight note of her. "Gimmie one of the strongest cold thing you got. I don't care the price, I can pay it."
"Alright, ma'am. On i-" he bartender would ask, gruff and deep but still soft somehow.
"I don't care, just make it strong." She would reply. Recently rumors had been spreading that one of the Meta-Sax were roaming the space colonies, but she never cared for baseless rumors. Just needed one drink to have a dazed evening and some relaxation...
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/25/2023 8:02 PM
Saxheelian smallships were some of the most ubiquitous craft they possessed. More often than not, they were non-sentient single-person flyers, designed to shepherd a Meta-Sax from one location to another when a larger craft simply would not do. Vibrant and colorful, they were always tinged with the hint of the exotic, the dash of something other; the alien appeal of an alien peoples.
To Leysa Puma, it spoke towards ey’s purpose.
The Great Spark — the fire that invoked creation, that compelled survival, that enervated energy. It was this force that had called to em when they had first become truly self-aware. It was their mission, as such, to seek it out in all of its myriad forms. To catalog it, to assess it, to nurture it, to breathe fire upon the embers should ey come across it.
The flyer they had chosen was an elegant craft. The artisan who had grown it had no doubt cherished it from the moment it had been seeded. Supple wings of translucent rainbow arced from wing-tip to wing-tip while the cream colored bone of the ships skin made it ripple with life. Even a thing without a mind still sang with the quiet voice of ey’s people, and it was something ey appreciated a great deal.
Which was why they felt a small sliver of nerves as they enmeshed themselves into the core of the craft. Their mission wouldn’t have taken them outside the Volume back Home, but here, in Ancerious, there were millions of other Paths. Millions of other Sparks to take into account, to learn and understand.
This led em to the least eldest of the members of the ICEC: it had been reasonable in ey’s mind to consider the youngest when exploring the topic. Youth held a perspective that wretched age did not, and it had potential to revisit whole concepts that were long thought solved only to discover something astonishing and novel.
It had been naive, upon retrospect, to expect that the peoples of the Selenican Republic would be openly willing to discuss the nature of their Spark. Indeed, ey’s travels had thus far been rather fruitless. Passenger ships seemed to be disinclined to give the Saxheelian the time of day, let alone a moment to inquire about the Path.
They knew that their other kin in Higal Dianasd had been busy in Republic space designing the typical fanciful habitats that perpetuated Old Saxheelian Space, but that was outside of ey’s interests at this particular point in time. Perhaps in a century or two, they would feel inclined to participate, but for now, they simply kept to themselves, offering the usual polite hello’s and courteous explanation as to their presence. A simple mission to discover the Spark of the Selenican Republic.
No one pushed, it wasn’t their business and fellow Saxheelians respected what passed for privacy among them. But one did offer a bit of advice, “Seek out one of the places that they gather at for refreshment. They tend to be more willing to speak after ingesting the local toxicants.”
Interest piqued, both at the nature of the concept and at the possibility of locating a willing entity, Leysa docked at the Anxios Orbital Ring.
Meandering from place to place, they were rather perplexed at the construction. The whole thing was an odd mishmash, something that they couldn’t quite put their finger on.
Spotting something that looked similar to the image that ey had received from their Peer, they ducked their head in, softly adjusting the tongue in their mouth to be able to vocalize in a fashion that could be perceived, “Salutations. Ritual invocation of greetings is invoked: this one is Leysa Puma-–Meta-Sax.”
The figure was just shy of 2 meters in height, with a humanoid body plan and strong simian features. Though these were distinct, clearly not enough to be actually human but enough to seem like a far distant cousin. Tattoos swirl and move across the visible skin of their face, while eyes that defy distinct coloration stare unblinking at the room in curiosity.
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/25/2023 8:09 PM
The serpentine woman would turn her head to the new arrival. Seems like the rumors about the Meta-Sax being here were true. She thought to herself, staring down the empty glass. Given the immense mass Selenicans had, they could ingest a lot more and a lot stronger spirits than humans.
"Hey. You." She'd say, in her uncharacteristically high voice, "Sit down here, would ya? I've heard the Meta-Sax were around here and I've been dying to talk to one of you." Her scales shown a black exterior with a beautiful rainbow shine. "My name's Seria, yours?'
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/25/2023 8:22 PM
Leysa Puma found the other being to be fascinating.
In their culture, "staring" wasn't really a concept, and as ey were not a trained Pathfinder, they weren't quite certain if looking too long would be considered poor manners or not, but they couldn't quite help but stare a little.
Straightening emselves up, Leysa glides over, their feet barely touching the ground, "Ah.. invocation of greetings: this one is Leysa Puma. I, er, will struggle a moment with language. Will adapt, as we continue to exchange word-bits."
They sit down in the chair and swivel around for a moment before intoning in a ritualized lighter voice, "Seria entity is acknowledged and incorporated into The Flow. We welcome you. And we are graciously welcomed. Thank you. Ah, my Peers of Dianasd are here, yes."
Leysa defied gender, strictly sitting on the bridge of androgyny with a voice neither male or female sounding, and nothing in their visible anatomy to infer in any direction.
The eyes of the Meta-Sax scours the room, devouring information with the ravenous appetite of the curious.
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/25/2023 8:29 PM
Talk about eccentric... the serpent would think, mildly amused by the Saxheelian gathering so much data from the room.
"Just call me Seria. No need for the weird titles. If you want a drink I can foot the bill." She'd say, mildly intoxicated but still coherent. "Bartender, can I get a refill and something light for my friend here?" She'd redirect focus back to the Saxheelian. "Sorry if it isn't to your taste, Selenicans can chug alcohol something fierce."
A brief silence interrupted by mild chatter and peaceful ambience would follow, Seria observing the new creature. "I take it you have a reason to be here in the cushy outer ring of Selia's influence? Normally we don't get many visitors past the contractors, those looking to visit the surface, and invaders here, heh."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/25/2023 8:36 PM
Leysa Puma pondered the offer of drink, though decided against interrupting the apparent social ritual. They were studying the entire situation, openly fascinated at the concept of "ordering".
"Seria, then. My name would not make sense if it was only Leysa. Heh."
They laugh, the sound open and rich, as though laughter itself was a practiced custom among them. The thought of being simply soothing was entertaining to the Saxheelian. As for their companion, they split one eye to observe Seria again while the other continued its roaming path around the room.
"I am driven here by the Path, yes. Communion with other beings informs us of the way the Path is followed. Playful-communion and friendly entosis realizes the potential between Spark and non-Spark moments."
Leysa Puma processes their words for a moment, then opens their mouth again sheepishly, "Ahhhh..."
"Let this one try once more: ahm.. I am.. seeking to understand the will to live. Yes."
They gesture at the building around them, "Dianasd seeks the Path of places like this. I seek the Path of beings like you."
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/25/2023 8:40 PM
"The...Path?" Seria would ask, inebriated quite heavily. "You said something about the will to live too. You Sax are interesting folks, I always wanna talk more. So, what do you mean by all the terms you said? Spark, the Path, all that."
She would take a long sip of her drink, a super concentrated alcohol with a mildly fruity flavor to it and spice.
"Y'know, for me, and a good few other Selenicans here, our life's purpose has already been determined for us. Not officially, of course, but life is very set in stone for us."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/25/2023 8:48 PM
The Saxheelian ponders the state of their companion a moment. It would be impolite to look deeper, so LP just smiles and answers, trying to wrangle the complexity of their native language with something that could be sufficiently translated.
"Many questions there.. mm. Yes, the Path is what each Higal binds to. Higal Honick, Higal Dianasd, Higal Ladon. It is purpose, drive, realization-of-being-in-the-moment."
The words blend and LP has to pause another moment. It's too easy to drift back into their normal ways of doing things.
Think...think...
"Ahh.. I sought to learn your means of defining your will to life. To learn how. Erm, for Honick, we seek to understand the ferocity. The fire of determined existence."
LP stares at the drink in front of them, content to assess the structure of it down to the molecule as they re-organize their thoughts, "Mm.. determined for you..? Set in stone? How is this? Is it biological?"
Do I drink the drink? Is this what should be done?
Deciding they did not wish to offend their host, LP picks up the glass and brings it to their lips. The liquid tastes strange, like a mixture of "good" flavor and "bad" flavor that attempts to burn on the way down. The sensation is immediately culled subconsciously and a veritable armada of biological mechanisms break it down into more palatable elements.
They swirl their languid tongue around the liquid, sucking it up through the makeshift straw-shape while they think.
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/25/2023 8:58 PM
"Eh, it isn't biological. Given the little I know about you, it seems you Saxheelians have near endless freedom eh? I don't know much about you guys, but it seems that way." She'd say, putting down the glass for a second to actually talk.
Fire of determined existence, huh? Seems like this guy might have something I wanna hear... She'd think, now possessed by not just curiosity but interest now.
"We Selenicans are restricted a lot by Selia and his gang of yes men and bootlickers." Seria's voice would hush significantly as she explained to the creature beside her. "Critique isn't really something they like to hear though, so I have to be quiet."
Another long drink.
"Well, anyways, I'm mostly free from that. Hey, bartender! Lemme just..." She'd stumble, pulling out a tablet-like object with her account details on it, trying to pay for the drinks. "...and that should get them gone for now..."
Shortly after signing the tablet, the other patrons were told the bar was closed for the night, to much annoyance and whispered grumblings, as the cameras and microphones bugged everywhere in the parlor went offline. A short flicker in the lights as the shop changed its power source, and Seria and the Saxheelian were able to talk in peace.
"Now we dont gotta worry about being spied on."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/25/2023 9:03 PM
Spied on was added to the list of bizarre and alien concepts that LP could already tell was starting to draw riders to their consciousness. They shooed them away for now, chiding them on interrupting a critical moment in Honickan Pathfinding.
The little flight of giggles informed LP that the riders would return, to stare out at the world through their own eyes, to hear with their ears, to think with their thoughts. It wasn't like they minded that bit, but this was crucial to focus on!
LP places the glass gently on the table, concentrating so as not to break the fragile crystalize structure before turning towards Seria. Both eyes were upon the being now, with every iota of LP's focus directed to her.
"If this one understands, you and your kin do not experience "freedom"? We do not have this concept. We simply exist as we are, whether that is alone or together. There is a word for freedom, but I do not think it means the same as you imply."
"...what is.. spying? And why would that be something one would do in a place of enjoyment? And why did all the other people leave? And why would this Selia not like critique? How do they grow their Spark without feedback from the universe?"
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/25/2023 9:17 PM
"Oh, Selenicans can do a lot of what they want on their own free will." She'd say, dropping the glass on the table. "If you're fine living in a slum that is. If you never do anything aside from what you want here, you'll end up either dead, starving, or in a work camp. So, you gotta be your superior's work slave until you can surpass 'em, then you can keep climbing and get more and more benefits from the government, as a "reward." But really it's just to keep us from rallying together."
"Spying is looking in or listening in on another person's life without their knowledge or willingness. Why they do it here? To keep tabs on any would-be revolutionaries."
Seria was staring down at the countertop, angry and hopeless at once, the drunkenness finally getting to her head.
"The others left 'cause I paid to shut the place down for the night so we could talk privately. Selia's the sham president of the SR. Elected once then never left office, with powers beyond what any one person should have. He's a tough son of a bitch, I'll give him that, but he's also an egomaniac. And the worst part is that no one says a damn word about it since if they do, oops! There goes your rations for the next 2 days, or you get demoted, or shamed out of your apartment. Its a self-reinforcing cycle."
She would take a long breath to calm down from the rant, and to let the Saxheelian process.
"That's the thing. Most Selencians don't have a spark. They're content to live their lives under another person, to work in the system. No one's around to tell 'em how horrible it is, 'cus they've been all fed the same lies since birth. And have been for 400 years."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 9:33 AM
A lot of these concepts were things that simply did not translate to LP. Slums? Work Camp? Starvation? The words didn't even exist in the Sax languages. At least, not ones commonly used by the non-anointed.
They listened intently, trying to find a way to build the necessary conceptual framework so that ey could understand her.
The emotions were clear and easy to read, so it was obvious that the topics had deeply negative connotations, but LP couldn't help but feel their own painful naivety would prove...unwelcome.
Grasping the bottom of the stool they were perched on with ey's dexterous feet as a brace, LP sucked in a breath and spoke, "That was a great deal of information."
The Saxheelian very carefully outlined their thoughts on the deluge, "...A Spark is not something that can be removed from a person. It is intrinsic to all sentient life. It can be suppressed by external forces, but it cannot be snuffed out."
LP tilts their head curiously, bringing their fluffy tail up to stroke as they speak, "Much of what you describe has no translation for me. But I can say with utter certainty that a Spark does exist. It is simple physics -- for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction, yes? To exist, one must have fire to exist. By virtue of existing, that fire is reinforced. You cannot exist without the fire, the fire cannot exist without you."
They hold up a right hand, "Touch, sensuality, sensation, physical connection, emotional connection, temporal connection; these are all elements that make up that Spark. Each one is representative of cultural aspects, yes, but each one can be individual as well."
"Erm.. change is constant. I think that conveys my intent. What exists in this moment is not always to be. No matter how many thousands of years one lives, change is ever a companion with you. Do not despair."
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 11:36 AM
"There lies the rub." Seria would say, almost too calm with her predicament. "Unlike you guys, we don't live for thousands of years. We don't have such long lives or time to experience the universe. We only have, what, 150? 200 maybe?"
She'd sigh as another gulp was heard, downing the final dregs of her drink.
"And that's why I wanna use the Spark I was given to break my brothers and sisters out of this hellscape."
There would be a long, long silence following from her declaration, normally something utterly taboo in the SR, but with privacy comes release.
"Y'see, I'm one of the top directors of a governmental office. The Department for Extraordinary Operations, or DOE. I've made my name on negotiations with outside powers, and more responsible use of force than my subordinates or my other peers. That's why I'm being picked to be the colonial governor for the massive colonization drive the SR is gonna go on, we've already begun preparations for the warship expansion, and the habitats you guys are building are also gonna help us move into systems we never were meant to by the Great Power."
She'd take several deep breaths, hardly maintaining composure and her lucidity, the drinks finally getting to her.
"That's their mistake though. I'm not gonna lay down and be Selia's lapdog, not this time."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 12:02 PM
LP resists the urge to try to comfort the other being. They remind themselves sternly that the Sax customs and ways could be seen as overstepping to most others, so they do their best to shake the nearly instinctive urge.
They were familiar with the generally short life spans of most sentient species in this universe, though they found it neither a positive nor negative thing. Saxheelians were entities of extreme purpose; they could not simply exist in the open-nature ontological perspective of the beings in the universe who lived on their own brief lives.
"We are very different entities, you and I."
Humming softly, they move their half-full cup over to Seria and again took their time in speaking, "It does not matter.. if one lives one year, or ten million. The will to live is the same. What one does with time is relative to what one experiences. Uhmhmm.. you say that the world you live in stifles you?"
They bring their hands together into a fist, making a crushing motion, "Pressure? Yes? It prevents expansion, growth, change? This is natural evolutionary counter-movement that flows into controlled directed evolution. Your Spark whispers to you, tells you to move beyond its confines, to self-actualize."
"Hmhm, do your people have a powerful instinctive drive? Sometimes, when species are at risk of Stasis, Dynamis asserts itself with a virulence that is quite intoxicating."
Ey's hands unclasps and an index finger points at the drink, "Like your liquid."
LP hums again, tasting the words but not quite satisfied with the explanation. There was also the knowledge that the Higal habitats were potentially contributing to the "pressure" that LP was interpreting. That information would be factored in and disseminated by the riders currently observing the interaction.
Ey's mind wanders briefly, recalling a "live stream" on the Ancnet and how remarkably similar it was to their day-to-day experiences.
They shake their head and focus, "Freedom-of-physical-self?"
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 5:55 PM
"You're right on the pressure and stifling there." She'd reply, listening intently to this avatar of one of the Saxheelian clades. "I've read much on my people's history. It's filled to the brim with heroes, people of great note, those with a strong Spark."
She'd remain silent for a time, letting the Saxheelian speak, deeply interested in its words. A spark, the will to live and determine one's future for themselves...these were all things Seria wanted, for herself and her people. People of the Selenican Republic who had been trodden upon for centuries, stifled in their lives and words, they all...possessed a spark? That part was the one which confused her most. Most of the people of the SR had been willing servants to Selia, only to wake up from the delusion when given a chance. But, what that means is...they aren't disposed to this way of thought. It isn't in their nature to be slaves.
"I guess you could say I'm seeking freedom of my physical self. But not just for me. For my brothers and sisters of the nation too. I've experienced tens of those who broke from the delusion, and the feeling was once sweet. Nowadays it's just depressing, seeing how predictable they act. But, if nothing else, that means that the SR isn't doomed for stagnation...I just need the resources and manpower."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 6:02 PM
LP again has to give themselves space to process the information.
"Resources..and manpower. To move together is not natural? Hm, among us, a Spark is something inherent. It is something we see, with our eyes, with our minds. When I see a Spark that is similar in hue, in harmony, I seek it out. It is.. an instinct. We come together, naturally form groupings. It is how Clades are born."
"It is not this way with you? Such things," they gesture around them, "are the kin of complex organized cultures and social systems. Community begets technology which enhances community, yes?"
They frown, not sure if they either understand properly or if they are conveying the information in a sufficient fashion. Ey also makes a note to commit to the full Path when they return home. Lacking such critical skills only made their task here that much harder.
"Ahm...to encourage Dynamis, seek a common element. Something basic, primal. Breathe the fire of your own Spark on it. Usher energy to those embers. Understand?"
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 6:07 PM
"For us, working together is something we have to actively try. Our ancestors survived by being individualistic, fighting for themselves against a world which was not built for them. It was only through some fluke mutation that we managed to begin building societies, so cooperation doesn't come easy to us. It was only through brutish force we were able to unify our planet, with even more draconic force we managed to hold it together. I don't want to break the stability we have, but I see it as needed for our continued happiness." She'd say, with lucidity unprecedented.
"I think I know what you mean. I will be the one to break my people free."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 6:13 PM
The Saxheelian ponders the response, "Mm.. one does not do what takes a group to accomplish."
Recalling the arrangement of items along the bar, LP stands up and gathers several objects before sitting back down on the stool. Arraying them in a circle, they place one glass in the center.
"One does not make a circle. One does not break a circle."
Moving the lone glass through the circle, LP arrays it so that it appears as if the glasses - implied to be in continuous motion - are now following the new path, "One can encourage a change by the circle. A new path. See?"
"Instincts, too, can be changed. But embracing what we are is a power too. An Old Power."
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 6:17 PM
"I get your point." Seria would say, watching the demonstration of the Saxheelian's idea. "I don't believe we're going to be leaving our conversations off here. I will need...much assistance from the Meta-Sax in establishing a proper government for my people. I might be a good governor and diplomat, but as a president...? That's beyond my skills to the current point."
She would rise from the bench she was sat upon for the past several hours as she and the Saxheelian spoke, the dim orange lights showing the iridescence in her scales even better than they did before. Seria offered a hand out to the Saxheelian, her full height being quite small, much of her weight and length supported from her tail.
"May this meeting bear much fruit in the future."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 6:25 PM
Uncertain as to the purpose of the gesture, but deciding to mirror the movements, LP stands up as well and offers a tentative hand.
However, the notion of forming a government was a surprise, and it showed on em's face, "A government? President? Erm, yes, this one will help to inspire what Spark it can."
They smile, sharp canines gleaming in the dull light, a little bit inside of them screaming did I just do something wrong here?
But upon reflection, no, they had not. Every Saxheelian believed in the right for self-determination. What Seria was proposing was precisely that: the desire to self-determination for herself and those who would choose that path.
Yet, was this not major interference? It was certainly well beyond the scope of the initial encounter. LP sent a ping to the ship that was waiting patiently for them, attaching a carrier request for the nearest MMV for consultation.
The entire ordeal took them a second or two before they regained composure, "The fruit born is but the tree best tended. I am curious, Seria. What is to happen after?"
They gesture at the space between them, at their still clasped hands, then tilt their head with friendly curiosity as to the social rituals involved.
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 6:32 PM
Seria would take the hand of the Saxheelian firmly, smiling with her massive teeth.
"What I mean by your assistance is helping us form a foundation of a government for the Selenican people. We have not had a legitimate democratic government in centuries, so much of what a democracy is has been lost to the annals of time for us. I ask you, as a representative of the Saxheelians, with your immense knowledge of histories and worlds beyond our galaxy, to help me in that ordeal."
She would gain confidence as she spoke, letting go of the Saxheelian's hand.
"After? Well, I have plans for what happens after. I will have to maintain emergency powers as the head of the Selenican Republic for a time, to make sure the first elections and democratic processes go through smoothly, then I will retire myself from politics. My job, completed."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 6:37 PM
"Erm, I meant, after the handshake."
The smile turns sheepish as LP withdraws their hand to rub the back of their head a little awkwardly.
"I would be happy to invoke the rituals of historical recollection and connect you to the semiosis of The Flow. It is quite large, quite comprehensive. Our own method of self-ordering is nothing we would call "governance", more of a loose sodality of kith. We make decisions together only when the projected potential impact of that decision would affect many."
"Hmhm.. is there a terminal space that can act as a vehicle for conveying the information to you? We have such locations, but my transport was designed for me. None other will fit within its embrace."
LP started to receive feedback from the nearby MMV Daya, indicating that they were a few jumps from SR space and thus could not physically support, but would be available for mental consultation. They made a request to the Cladeship to gain access to The Flow's totality of governing philosophy records and theories while in real time LP waited for Seria to react.
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 6:50 PM
"I've heard that the Rhizome lets us connect to virtual worlds, but I get the feeling that that wouldn't really be something that can get the experience across. The system I propose is similar in spirit but on a much less...personal level. But I would like to experience what you Meta-Sax consider governance, as I feel that could be very enlightening."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 6:55 PM
"This Rhizome.. is it a virtual interface? A form of cyberspace? I am familiar with these notions. I cannot connect you directly into our systems, as they are transdimensional in nature and I fear it would induce instability."
Truth be told, they were all still collectively reeling from the accidental introduction of the CES representative. Eyes were on him, wondering if, maybe, he would start to remember. They did not know what would happen to his mind if he did. It was something none of them wanted to see repeated.
"I believe a virtual or holographic system will be sufficient for demonstration purposes. If you would take this one to them, we could begin immediately in the semiotic-realization-of-actualized-potentials-in-Dynamis. I will then convey the sensory stimulus of Meta-Sax collectivism."
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 6:57 PM
"The Rhizome is a virtual interface, yes." She'd reply, confused as to why it would be unstable if she were introduced to the Meta-Sax's true nature.
"Well, I have this tablet here, which can make holograms if that counts. I'm unaware of any full-body immersive experiences outside of the Rhizomes, however. I'm relatively sure that there are several here on this ring, but I can't be certain."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 7:04 PM
LP took these variables into account as they mulled over their options. The pad would allow for a fairly reasonable degree of information to be shared, perhaps it was less important for all of the information to be shared simultaneously. Actually, could Seria even handle that sort of capacity? LP hadn't even thought to ask.
"The Rhizome interface will suffice. If it proves limiting, we can pursue the larger immersive mechanism."
LP did not seem inclined to expand on their reasoning as they touched the tablet. To them, to their people, the universe was less static objects and more galaxies-upon-galaxies of particles in motion. The tablet itself was no different, it had a particular kind of cohesion, a unique signature, a fascinating way of organizing the informational data of the universe.
"This topic is significant. We will need to narrow it down before exploration. What do you desire to explore first? Meta-level 1 is recommended as our infomatic barrier."
Daya connected to LP's mind directly. The link shared between them was taking a significant portion of LP's concentration as the Cladeship communicated The Flow archive that LP had requested. It was not simple text on a page; it was the actual first person experiences of researchers, scientists, students. Whole generations of them were embodied in that archive.
It will be a struggle to convey..
They felt their confidence growing, however. This was familiar territory, something they understood and felt that they could express accurately for Seria.
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 7:23 PM
"What I most want to know and to understand is how to formulate a government for the people, something where the people have final say. While learning about how your nation...if that's even accurate to say...works is interesting, that isn't my purpose for asking you to show me. Come with me. We've occupied this dingy bar for long enough."
Seria would head out of the door to a somewhat nearby Rhizome resort -- a place where those dissatisfied by life can take a break and fall into a virtual slumber for a time, living a life that is not their own. It was about 30 minutes walking away, the streets sparsely walked by now as most had gone to sleep for their routines of work and relaxation tomorrow.
Upon entering the resort, Seria and LP were given access to a room, and the interface to the Rhizome -- a cybernetic which could attach to ones head and bring them into the virtual world.
"Care to go first?"
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 7:27 PM
LP followed, busying themselves with sifting through the relevant memories and experiences of their ancestors. Upon arrival at the virtual center, they were intensely reminded of a virch bar that one of the negotiators of the elder Confederation once had.
Yes, it was on Baybous, the capitol. I remember.
The headset was odd to say the least. They had anticipated simply merging cilia with the native device and connecting to its data processing system, then overwriting that to imprint the desired result. Having a simulated system via nerve induction would be a different challenge.
"Yes. I will do my best."
A walk through history, perhaps?
They put the headset on and closed their eyes, waiting to see how it might attempt to connect to the Meta-Sax mind.
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 04/10/2023 3:09 PM
It would not be long before they were within the Rhizome. The strange, pulsing feeling for first time entrants was not uncommon for the Selenicans, Seria no different.
"So...now that we're in the virtual world..." she'd ask, with their environment taking the form of a similar parlor they had just left although significantly higher-class, "what could you show me about how the Meta-Sax operate? And what else could you show me about the government I seek to make?"
"I'm also curious...would a visual be better in helping me understand this...spark you talk about?"
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 04/10/2023 4:53 PM
Leysa Puma found the questions curious.
Almost as curious as the space they were in. It was.. loose, like an ill fitting robe. It echoed against the Duality which a full half of their self was within. Sparing her mental acuity between three realities at once was proving a bit of a strain on them.
"Hm? Oh, yes. We may begin with the earliest days of the Confederation. It will be simpler, to examine each of these questions in procession. By the end of this, Spark should be obvious, yes?"
Touching the neural interface, LP asked for it to allow access from LP's memories. Building upon the first recorded meetings of the ancient Confederation was like walking through the annals of history itself for them. In the place of the parlor was instead a grand domed building, whose high ceilings were decorated with murals and pictograms in dozens of languages.
Obvious alien races were played above them, and above them near the crown of the dome were the symbols of a dozen worlds.
In front of Seria and LP is a dias, and around it are one-hundred individuals. They see through the eyes of a vasudani ancestor of LP's and hear through her ears. The simulation does not proceed yet, however.
"In the old tongue, this was New Babylon -- the heart of the Confederation. In the new tongues, it is Babyous. My ancestors made their home on this world. This chamber was the Star Council," they pauses to give Seria a wince at the name, "which held one representative of each world. This beginning form of the interstellar Confederation was what is called a representative democracy."
LP points at the dias, "Decisions are made collectively, passed with a unanimous vote, and distributed through this administrative complex to the various participant communities. This was the first form of our collective governance over 15,000 years ago."
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 04/10/2023 7:01 PM
"It seems almost like the parliament we have..." Selia would say, staring down at the congregation of alien species, the veil of the digital world falling over both of those present. "But if it's such an old memory, then how...? How didn't it change? It seems ideal, a decision of those who represent all for the good of everyone."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 04/10/2023 7:11 PM
The vasudani turns towards Selia, "It did change, significantly. The initial form of our governance was this representative democracy. However,"
The image moves, and the chamber adjusts from one filled with representative leaders to one filled with something almost akin to a mob, "Two centuries after the formation of the Confederation of Nations, a new method of collective governance was proposed. The haleelians were never fond of it, representative democracy, and preferred to advocate for a form of anarchism."
They gesture at the halls filled with thousands of people now, "Direct democracy is the one that has held true in our society for many millennia now. It serves us, because of our noetic, noema, and noemata. It is a semiotic function that results from the choice of system we participate in."
LP walks them up to a space where they can see people debating greatly over a topic relating to trade between border worlds, "Consensus in the early years was difficult. It did not arise naturally until the first millennia came to pass. By the fourth, it was so instinctive to us that it was second nature. By now, it is simply a virtue of existence."
They fold their arms over their chest and hum softly, "Hmmm.. we changed to many different ways of expressing that direct democracy. No two of our internal clades are alike, and we each govern ourselves as our communities see best fit. But there is a form of unity in our meta-culture and how it is expressed. We are the way we are due to an exodus from our home galaxy and having to survive in the conditions presented. Rather than die out, we adapted and embraced that noetic."
The image again changes and now they are someone standing on top the silvery-pearl hull of an ancient starship. The vast behemoth is one of thousands that make their way across the void.
"It serves us, but we are uniquely well suited to it. For you, a foundational republic is a good start. Plan for the long term."
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 04/10/2023 7:19 PM
The Selenican was awestruck. Taken through literal millenia of history, all in the space of a few minutes. The Rhizome was truly addictive, it seemed, being able to live out lives far beyond yours...
"I...I see." She'd reply after several minutes of silence, attempting to grapple with the visions she saw.
"It's...hard to comprehend." She'd speak, after the time was done. "I bore witness to millennia of history, and yet, I'm none the wiser. How do you communally decide what the best course of action is, even when every individual maintains what makes them...unique? What grants them their...Spark, I think you mentioned it earlier."
"We've never had something like this. Even before the parliament was corrupt, it always served as an inferior body to the president, subject to their whims. I...I don't understand. I suppose Selenican nature is to be selfish, and grab what we can for ourselves..."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 04/10/2023 7:30 PM
LP tilts her head curiously at the confusion, wondering how to express what could not really be expressed.
"Mmm.. in this current conjunction of time, I am in connection with all Saxheelians in this universe. We share a part of our continuity-of-self with a...mm.. sub-reality, you might call it. You interact with the physical portion of me, where as the other portion of me can only be interacted there, in that domain."
LP does not, however, attempt to conjure this into the Rhizome, and instead settles for a view that they enjoyed. Now standing atop the peak of a mountain chain, they can see a vast array of wilderness before them. Arcing up in the sky is the tell-tale sign of a ringworld.
LP sits down, humming again, "This is challenging."
"I decided to come to your domain to learn about you. This did not require consensus, as there is no element that forbids us from moving of our own volition. Our Pathfinders in Corona went of their own accord, independent of the Consensus. It is our way. My uniqueness is not subsumed in the whole, but nor does it act as a destabilizer. They enrich each other."
The vasudani points at Selia, "You enrich the presence of your peers by acts of community, yes? You come together, live side by side, your days are yours. So too for us, but without the need for control over one another. It is.. a matter of trust, I think."
"Spark is expressed by the desire to do. It is a part of The Flow process. Mmm.. they are juxtaposed?.. No.. they are balanced aspects. Dark and Light, stasis and dynamis--a Spark is the expression of that elemental part of you."
LP smiles at her, "My spark is my desire to seek it in others. An inceptive noetic. By seeking it, I breath upon the embers of it, which goes on to breath on others. Your spark is a desire for freedom from the system you exist within. This is natural, to be expected. It is why the control most use confuses us. Freedom is an inevitable end state for all beings in the universe, yes?"
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 04/10/2023 7:41 PM
Seria remained silent as the scenery shifted, sitting atop a mountain with her partner. It was cold, but likely not as cold as mountains truly were.
"I suppose you could say I desire freedom. Not for myself, alone though. I want to bring it to my brothers and sisters, and bring down the bastard who hurt us all." She replied, staring out at the vastness of the environment in front of her.
She would remain silent for 10 minutes, then an hour, then several, staring out at the horizon, not once looking down at the mountains beneath her.
"The more I think, the more I think I understand what you mean." She'd say, a light smile creeping up her face.
"I think I know...I think I know."
Anxios Orbital Ring -- Habitat 27
It had been another long trek back home for Seria. She had managed to wake up one of the politicians the SR had, but she was suspiciously recalled back to the SR for some bullshit reason. Something about the DOE having an internal debate on what the next generation Seraphs should be, something she had no part in nor did she care about. It was a lonely couple of weeks from the Columen Artificialis back home, but this gave her valuable time to think. How long it'd be until her plan could come to fruition was unknown, but it needed to start soon or else Selia will go mad with power, like he hadn't already. The only main issue with his presidency is how he handled the UDS situation -- strong, and never backing down. A noble cause, but utterly stupid, and even through the latest efforts to modernize the nation's economy, massive habitat projects, fleet expansion drives, and other technological developments were draining the coffers of the SR ever faster.
All Seria wanted was a drink, though. Something to take her mind off of the clusterfuck of a nation the SR had become.
Boarding the orbital ring, in Habitat 27 as it was called, was one of many prefabricated blocks to house residents, those in favor of the SR's government. By proxy of being one of the heads of the DOE, she was given priority.
The interior of the habitat was modeled after a city down on the surface. Enormous slab-sided buildings made up the main streets of the habitat, with blossoming trees lining the sidewalk, a comfortable temperature for the serpentine creatures. It was almost painfully colorful, with hundreds of species of flowers, vines, and other plantlife brought up from the surface to make the environment more lively and even remotely bioactive. It was a pretty place, but still...hollow. Empty. Built to keep a population content enough to not rebel but not safe enough to speak out. Small microphones and cameras were dotted everywhere, observing.
A long, long trek brough Seria to her accommodations, a private apartment a bit too big for the Selenican lady but home all the same. It was almost a stark white inside, with Seria never having the time to unpack personal effects and heirlooms, constantly being shuffled from one assignment to the next. But, all she did this visit was get dressed to go out, and approached a local pub. It was one of the first private businesses opened within the SR, a small experiment by the government to see if their models of providing for the people were ideal in the long term.
It wasn't so starkly white inside -- with much more plant life and a more "homey" feel than the rest of the colony, bathed in obsolete orange bulbs purely for the aesthetic value. It reminded her of the rural home she and her grandfather once lived in before being evicted by the Selenican government on some bullshit emminent domain clause, forcing the two into the cities where the all-seeing eye of the Order of Amber kept watch.
"Sir?" She would ask, her oddly high-pitched voice and small length leading many to take slight note of her. "Gimmie one of the strongest cold thing you got. I don't care the price, I can pay it."
"Alright, ma'am. On i-" he bartender would ask, gruff and deep but still soft somehow.
"I don't care, just make it strong." She would reply. Recently rumors had been spreading that one of the Meta-Sax were roaming the space colonies, but she never cared for baseless rumors. Just needed one drink to have a dazed evening and some relaxation...
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/25/2023 8:02 PM
Saxheelian smallships were some of the most ubiquitous craft they possessed. More often than not, they were non-sentient single-person flyers, designed to shepherd a Meta-Sax from one location to another when a larger craft simply would not do. Vibrant and colorful, they were always tinged with the hint of the exotic, the dash of something other; the alien appeal of an alien peoples.
To Leysa Puma, it spoke towards ey’s purpose.
The Great Spark — the fire that invoked creation, that compelled survival, that enervated energy. It was this force that had called to em when they had first become truly self-aware. It was their mission, as such, to seek it out in all of its myriad forms. To catalog it, to assess it, to nurture it, to breathe fire upon the embers should ey come across it.
The flyer they had chosen was an elegant craft. The artisan who had grown it had no doubt cherished it from the moment it had been seeded. Supple wings of translucent rainbow arced from wing-tip to wing-tip while the cream colored bone of the ships skin made it ripple with life. Even a thing without a mind still sang with the quiet voice of ey’s people, and it was something ey appreciated a great deal.
Which was why they felt a small sliver of nerves as they enmeshed themselves into the core of the craft. Their mission wouldn’t have taken them outside the Volume back Home, but here, in Ancerious, there were millions of other Paths. Millions of other Sparks to take into account, to learn and understand.
This led em to the least eldest of the members of the ICEC: it had been reasonable in ey’s mind to consider the youngest when exploring the topic. Youth held a perspective that wretched age did not, and it had potential to revisit whole concepts that were long thought solved only to discover something astonishing and novel.
It had been naive, upon retrospect, to expect that the peoples of the Selenican Republic would be openly willing to discuss the nature of their Spark. Indeed, ey’s travels had thus far been rather fruitless. Passenger ships seemed to be disinclined to give the Saxheelian the time of day, let alone a moment to inquire about the Path.
They knew that their other kin in Higal Dianasd had been busy in Republic space designing the typical fanciful habitats that perpetuated Old Saxheelian Space, but that was outside of ey’s interests at this particular point in time. Perhaps in a century or two, they would feel inclined to participate, but for now, they simply kept to themselves, offering the usual polite hello’s and courteous explanation as to their presence. A simple mission to discover the Spark of the Selenican Republic.
No one pushed, it wasn’t their business and fellow Saxheelians respected what passed for privacy among them. But one did offer a bit of advice, “Seek out one of the places that they gather at for refreshment. They tend to be more willing to speak after ingesting the local toxicants.”
Interest piqued, both at the nature of the concept and at the possibility of locating a willing entity, Leysa docked at the Anxios Orbital Ring.
Meandering from place to place, they were rather perplexed at the construction. The whole thing was an odd mishmash, something that they couldn’t quite put their finger on.
Spotting something that looked similar to the image that ey had received from their Peer, they ducked their head in, softly adjusting the tongue in their mouth to be able to vocalize in a fashion that could be perceived, “Salutations. Ritual invocation of greetings is invoked: this one is Leysa Puma-–Meta-Sax.”
The figure was just shy of 2 meters in height, with a humanoid body plan and strong simian features. Though these were distinct, clearly not enough to be actually human but enough to seem like a far distant cousin. Tattoos swirl and move across the visible skin of their face, while eyes that defy distinct coloration stare unblinking at the room in curiosity.
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/25/2023 8:09 PM
The serpentine woman would turn her head to the new arrival. Seems like the rumors about the Meta-Sax being here were true. She thought to herself, staring down the empty glass. Given the immense mass Selenicans had, they could ingest a lot more and a lot stronger spirits than humans.
"Hey. You." She'd say, in her uncharacteristically high voice, "Sit down here, would ya? I've heard the Meta-Sax were around here and I've been dying to talk to one of you." Her scales shown a black exterior with a beautiful rainbow shine. "My name's Seria, yours?'
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/25/2023 8:22 PM
Leysa Puma found the other being to be fascinating.
In their culture, "staring" wasn't really a concept, and as ey were not a trained Pathfinder, they weren't quite certain if looking too long would be considered poor manners or not, but they couldn't quite help but stare a little.
Straightening emselves up, Leysa glides over, their feet barely touching the ground, "Ah.. invocation of greetings: this one is Leysa Puma. I, er, will struggle a moment with language. Will adapt, as we continue to exchange word-bits."
They sit down in the chair and swivel around for a moment before intoning in a ritualized lighter voice, "Seria entity is acknowledged and incorporated into The Flow. We welcome you. And we are graciously welcomed. Thank you. Ah, my Peers of Dianasd are here, yes."
Leysa defied gender, strictly sitting on the bridge of androgyny with a voice neither male or female sounding, and nothing in their visible anatomy to infer in any direction.
The eyes of the Meta-Sax scours the room, devouring information with the ravenous appetite of the curious.
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/25/2023 8:29 PM
Talk about eccentric... the serpent would think, mildly amused by the Saxheelian gathering so much data from the room.
"Just call me Seria. No need for the weird titles. If you want a drink I can foot the bill." She'd say, mildly intoxicated but still coherent. "Bartender, can I get a refill and something light for my friend here?" She'd redirect focus back to the Saxheelian. "Sorry if it isn't to your taste, Selenicans can chug alcohol something fierce."
A brief silence interrupted by mild chatter and peaceful ambience would follow, Seria observing the new creature. "I take it you have a reason to be here in the cushy outer ring of Selia's influence? Normally we don't get many visitors past the contractors, those looking to visit the surface, and invaders here, heh."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/25/2023 8:36 PM
Leysa Puma pondered the offer of drink, though decided against interrupting the apparent social ritual. They were studying the entire situation, openly fascinated at the concept of "ordering".
"Seria, then. My name would not make sense if it was only Leysa. Heh."
They laugh, the sound open and rich, as though laughter itself was a practiced custom among them. The thought of being simply soothing was entertaining to the Saxheelian. As for their companion, they split one eye to observe Seria again while the other continued its roaming path around the room.
"I am driven here by the Path, yes. Communion with other beings informs us of the way the Path is followed. Playful-communion and friendly entosis realizes the potential between Spark and non-Spark moments."
Leysa Puma processes their words for a moment, then opens their mouth again sheepishly, "Ahhhh..."
"Let this one try once more: ahm.. I am.. seeking to understand the will to live. Yes."
They gesture at the building around them, "Dianasd seeks the Path of places like this. I seek the Path of beings like you."
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/25/2023 8:40 PM
"The...Path?" Seria would ask, inebriated quite heavily. "You said something about the will to live too. You Sax are interesting folks, I always wanna talk more. So, what do you mean by all the terms you said? Spark, the Path, all that."
She would take a long sip of her drink, a super concentrated alcohol with a mildly fruity flavor to it and spice.
"Y'know, for me, and a good few other Selenicans here, our life's purpose has already been determined for us. Not officially, of course, but life is very set in stone for us."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/25/2023 8:48 PM
The Saxheelian ponders the state of their companion a moment. It would be impolite to look deeper, so LP just smiles and answers, trying to wrangle the complexity of their native language with something that could be sufficiently translated.
"Many questions there.. mm. Yes, the Path is what each Higal binds to. Higal Honick, Higal Dianasd, Higal Ladon. It is purpose, drive, realization-of-being-in-the-moment."
The words blend and LP has to pause another moment. It's too easy to drift back into their normal ways of doing things.
Think...think...
"Ahh.. I sought to learn your means of defining your will to life. To learn how. Erm, for Honick, we seek to understand the ferocity. The fire of determined existence."
LP stares at the drink in front of them, content to assess the structure of it down to the molecule as they re-organize their thoughts, "Mm.. determined for you..? Set in stone? How is this? Is it biological?"
Do I drink the drink? Is this what should be done?
Deciding they did not wish to offend their host, LP picks up the glass and brings it to their lips. The liquid tastes strange, like a mixture of "good" flavor and "bad" flavor that attempts to burn on the way down. The sensation is immediately culled subconsciously and a veritable armada of biological mechanisms break it down into more palatable elements.
They swirl their languid tongue around the liquid, sucking it up through the makeshift straw-shape while they think.
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/25/2023 8:58 PM
"Eh, it isn't biological. Given the little I know about you, it seems you Saxheelians have near endless freedom eh? I don't know much about you guys, but it seems that way." She'd say, putting down the glass for a second to actually talk.
Fire of determined existence, huh? Seems like this guy might have something I wanna hear... She'd think, now possessed by not just curiosity but interest now.
"We Selenicans are restricted a lot by Selia and his gang of yes men and bootlickers." Seria's voice would hush significantly as she explained to the creature beside her. "Critique isn't really something they like to hear though, so I have to be quiet."
Another long drink.
"Well, anyways, I'm mostly free from that. Hey, bartender! Lemme just..." She'd stumble, pulling out a tablet-like object with her account details on it, trying to pay for the drinks. "...and that should get them gone for now..."
Shortly after signing the tablet, the other patrons were told the bar was closed for the night, to much annoyance and whispered grumblings, as the cameras and microphones bugged everywhere in the parlor went offline. A short flicker in the lights as the shop changed its power source, and Seria and the Saxheelian were able to talk in peace.
"Now we dont gotta worry about being spied on."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/25/2023 9:03 PM
Spied on was added to the list of bizarre and alien concepts that LP could already tell was starting to draw riders to their consciousness. They shooed them away for now, chiding them on interrupting a critical moment in Honickan Pathfinding.
The little flight of giggles informed LP that the riders would return, to stare out at the world through their own eyes, to hear with their ears, to think with their thoughts. It wasn't like they minded that bit, but this was crucial to focus on!
LP places the glass gently on the table, concentrating so as not to break the fragile crystalize structure before turning towards Seria. Both eyes were upon the being now, with every iota of LP's focus directed to her.
"If this one understands, you and your kin do not experience "freedom"? We do not have this concept. We simply exist as we are, whether that is alone or together. There is a word for freedom, but I do not think it means the same as you imply."
"...what is.. spying? And why would that be something one would do in a place of enjoyment? And why did all the other people leave? And why would this Selia not like critique? How do they grow their Spark without feedback from the universe?"
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/25/2023 9:17 PM
"Oh, Selenicans can do a lot of what they want on their own free will." She'd say, dropping the glass on the table. "If you're fine living in a slum that is. If you never do anything aside from what you want here, you'll end up either dead, starving, or in a work camp. So, you gotta be your superior's work slave until you can surpass 'em, then you can keep climbing and get more and more benefits from the government, as a "reward." But really it's just to keep us from rallying together."
"Spying is looking in or listening in on another person's life without their knowledge or willingness. Why they do it here? To keep tabs on any would-be revolutionaries."
Seria was staring down at the countertop, angry and hopeless at once, the drunkenness finally getting to her head.
"The others left 'cause I paid to shut the place down for the night so we could talk privately. Selia's the sham president of the SR. Elected once then never left office, with powers beyond what any one person should have. He's a tough son of a bitch, I'll give him that, but he's also an egomaniac. And the worst part is that no one says a damn word about it since if they do, oops! There goes your rations for the next 2 days, or you get demoted, or shamed out of your apartment. Its a self-reinforcing cycle."
She would take a long breath to calm down from the rant, and to let the Saxheelian process.
"That's the thing. Most Selencians don't have a spark. They're content to live their lives under another person, to work in the system. No one's around to tell 'em how horrible it is, 'cus they've been all fed the same lies since birth. And have been for 400 years."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 9:33 AM
A lot of these concepts were things that simply did not translate to LP. Slums? Work Camp? Starvation? The words didn't even exist in the Sax languages. At least, not ones commonly used by the non-anointed.
They listened intently, trying to find a way to build the necessary conceptual framework so that ey could understand her.
The emotions were clear and easy to read, so it was obvious that the topics had deeply negative connotations, but LP couldn't help but feel their own painful naivety would prove...unwelcome.
Grasping the bottom of the stool they were perched on with ey's dexterous feet as a brace, LP sucked in a breath and spoke, "That was a great deal of information."
The Saxheelian very carefully outlined their thoughts on the deluge, "...A Spark is not something that can be removed from a person. It is intrinsic to all sentient life. It can be suppressed by external forces, but it cannot be snuffed out."
LP tilts their head curiously, bringing their fluffy tail up to stroke as they speak, "Much of what you describe has no translation for me. But I can say with utter certainty that a Spark does exist. It is simple physics -- for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction, yes? To exist, one must have fire to exist. By virtue of existing, that fire is reinforced. You cannot exist without the fire, the fire cannot exist without you."
They hold up a right hand, "Touch, sensuality, sensation, physical connection, emotional connection, temporal connection; these are all elements that make up that Spark. Each one is representative of cultural aspects, yes, but each one can be individual as well."
"Erm.. change is constant. I think that conveys my intent. What exists in this moment is not always to be. No matter how many thousands of years one lives, change is ever a companion with you. Do not despair."
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 11:36 AM
"There lies the rub." Seria would say, almost too calm with her predicament. "Unlike you guys, we don't live for thousands of years. We don't have such long lives or time to experience the universe. We only have, what, 150? 200 maybe?"
She'd sigh as another gulp was heard, downing the final dregs of her drink.
"And that's why I wanna use the Spark I was given to break my brothers and sisters out of this hellscape."
There would be a long, long silence following from her declaration, normally something utterly taboo in the SR, but with privacy comes release.
"Y'see, I'm one of the top directors of a governmental office. The Department for Extraordinary Operations, or DOE. I've made my name on negotiations with outside powers, and more responsible use of force than my subordinates or my other peers. That's why I'm being picked to be the colonial governor for the massive colonization drive the SR is gonna go on, we've already begun preparations for the warship expansion, and the habitats you guys are building are also gonna help us move into systems we never were meant to by the Great Power."
She'd take several deep breaths, hardly maintaining composure and her lucidity, the drinks finally getting to her.
"That's their mistake though. I'm not gonna lay down and be Selia's lapdog, not this time."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 12:02 PM
LP resists the urge to try to comfort the other being. They remind themselves sternly that the Sax customs and ways could be seen as overstepping to most others, so they do their best to shake the nearly instinctive urge.
They were familiar with the generally short life spans of most sentient species in this universe, though they found it neither a positive nor negative thing. Saxheelians were entities of extreme purpose; they could not simply exist in the open-nature ontological perspective of the beings in the universe who lived on their own brief lives.
"We are very different entities, you and I."
Humming softly, they move their half-full cup over to Seria and again took their time in speaking, "It does not matter.. if one lives one year, or ten million. The will to live is the same. What one does with time is relative to what one experiences. Uhmhmm.. you say that the world you live in stifles you?"
They bring their hands together into a fist, making a crushing motion, "Pressure? Yes? It prevents expansion, growth, change? This is natural evolutionary counter-movement that flows into controlled directed evolution. Your Spark whispers to you, tells you to move beyond its confines, to self-actualize."
"Hmhm, do your people have a powerful instinctive drive? Sometimes, when species are at risk of Stasis, Dynamis asserts itself with a virulence that is quite intoxicating."
Ey's hands unclasps and an index finger points at the drink, "Like your liquid."
LP hums again, tasting the words but not quite satisfied with the explanation. There was also the knowledge that the Higal habitats were potentially contributing to the "pressure" that LP was interpreting. That information would be factored in and disseminated by the riders currently observing the interaction.
Ey's mind wanders briefly, recalling a "live stream" on the Ancnet and how remarkably similar it was to their day-to-day experiences.
They shake their head and focus, "Freedom-of-physical-self?"
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 5:55 PM
"You're right on the pressure and stifling there." She'd reply, listening intently to this avatar of one of the Saxheelian clades. "I've read much on my people's history. It's filled to the brim with heroes, people of great note, those with a strong Spark."
She'd remain silent for a time, letting the Saxheelian speak, deeply interested in its words. A spark, the will to live and determine one's future for themselves...these were all things Seria wanted, for herself and her people. People of the Selenican Republic who had been trodden upon for centuries, stifled in their lives and words, they all...possessed a spark? That part was the one which confused her most. Most of the people of the SR had been willing servants to Selia, only to wake up from the delusion when given a chance. But, what that means is...they aren't disposed to this way of thought. It isn't in their nature to be slaves.
"I guess you could say I'm seeking freedom of my physical self. But not just for me. For my brothers and sisters of the nation too. I've experienced tens of those who broke from the delusion, and the feeling was once sweet. Nowadays it's just depressing, seeing how predictable they act. But, if nothing else, that means that the SR isn't doomed for stagnation...I just need the resources and manpower."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 6:02 PM
LP again has to give themselves space to process the information.
"Resources..and manpower. To move together is not natural? Hm, among us, a Spark is something inherent. It is something we see, with our eyes, with our minds. When I see a Spark that is similar in hue, in harmony, I seek it out. It is.. an instinct. We come together, naturally form groupings. It is how Clades are born."
"It is not this way with you? Such things," they gesture around them, "are the kin of complex organized cultures and social systems. Community begets technology which enhances community, yes?"
They frown, not sure if they either understand properly or if they are conveying the information in a sufficient fashion. Ey also makes a note to commit to the full Path when they return home. Lacking such critical skills only made their task here that much harder.
"Ahm...to encourage Dynamis, seek a common element. Something basic, primal. Breathe the fire of your own Spark on it. Usher energy to those embers. Understand?"
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 6:07 PM
"For us, working together is something we have to actively try. Our ancestors survived by being individualistic, fighting for themselves against a world which was not built for them. It was only through some fluke mutation that we managed to begin building societies, so cooperation doesn't come easy to us. It was only through brutish force we were able to unify our planet, with even more draconic force we managed to hold it together. I don't want to break the stability we have, but I see it as needed for our continued happiness." She'd say, with lucidity unprecedented.
"I think I know what you mean. I will be the one to break my people free."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 6:13 PM
The Saxheelian ponders the response, "Mm.. one does not do what takes a group to accomplish."
Recalling the arrangement of items along the bar, LP stands up and gathers several objects before sitting back down on the stool. Arraying them in a circle, they place one glass in the center.
"One does not make a circle. One does not break a circle."
Moving the lone glass through the circle, LP arrays it so that it appears as if the glasses - implied to be in continuous motion - are now following the new path, "One can encourage a change by the circle. A new path. See?"
"Instincts, too, can be changed. But embracing what we are is a power too. An Old Power."
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 6:17 PM
"I get your point." Seria would say, watching the demonstration of the Saxheelian's idea. "I don't believe we're going to be leaving our conversations off here. I will need...much assistance from the Meta-Sax in establishing a proper government for my people. I might be a good governor and diplomat, but as a president...? That's beyond my skills to the current point."
She would rise from the bench she was sat upon for the past several hours as she and the Saxheelian spoke, the dim orange lights showing the iridescence in her scales even better than they did before. Seria offered a hand out to the Saxheelian, her full height being quite small, much of her weight and length supported from her tail.
"May this meeting bear much fruit in the future."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 6:25 PM
Uncertain as to the purpose of the gesture, but deciding to mirror the movements, LP stands up as well and offers a tentative hand.
However, the notion of forming a government was a surprise, and it showed on em's face, "A government? President? Erm, yes, this one will help to inspire what Spark it can."
They smile, sharp canines gleaming in the dull light, a little bit inside of them screaming did I just do something wrong here?
But upon reflection, no, they had not. Every Saxheelian believed in the right for self-determination. What Seria was proposing was precisely that: the desire to self-determination for herself and those who would choose that path.
Yet, was this not major interference? It was certainly well beyond the scope of the initial encounter. LP sent a ping to the ship that was waiting patiently for them, attaching a carrier request for the nearest MMV for consultation.
The entire ordeal took them a second or two before they regained composure, "The fruit born is but the tree best tended. I am curious, Seria. What is to happen after?"
They gesture at the space between them, at their still clasped hands, then tilt their head with friendly curiosity as to the social rituals involved.
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 6:32 PM
Seria would take the hand of the Saxheelian firmly, smiling with her massive teeth.
"What I mean by your assistance is helping us form a foundation of a government for the Selenican people. We have not had a legitimate democratic government in centuries, so much of what a democracy is has been lost to the annals of time for us. I ask you, as a representative of the Saxheelians, with your immense knowledge of histories and worlds beyond our galaxy, to help me in that ordeal."
She would gain confidence as she spoke, letting go of the Saxheelian's hand.
"After? Well, I have plans for what happens after. I will have to maintain emergency powers as the head of the Selenican Republic for a time, to make sure the first elections and democratic processes go through smoothly, then I will retire myself from politics. My job, completed."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 6:37 PM
"Erm, I meant, after the handshake."
The smile turns sheepish as LP withdraws their hand to rub the back of their head a little awkwardly.
"I would be happy to invoke the rituals of historical recollection and connect you to the semiosis of The Flow. It is quite large, quite comprehensive. Our own method of self-ordering is nothing we would call "governance", more of a loose sodality of kith. We make decisions together only when the projected potential impact of that decision would affect many."
"Hmhm.. is there a terminal space that can act as a vehicle for conveying the information to you? We have such locations, but my transport was designed for me. None other will fit within its embrace."
LP started to receive feedback from the nearby MMV Daya, indicating that they were a few jumps from SR space and thus could not physically support, but would be available for mental consultation. They made a request to the Cladeship to gain access to The Flow's totality of governing philosophy records and theories while in real time LP waited for Seria to react.
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 6:50 PM
"I've heard that the Rhizome lets us connect to virtual worlds, but I get the feeling that that wouldn't really be something that can get the experience across. The system I propose is similar in spirit but on a much less...personal level. But I would like to experience what you Meta-Sax consider governance, as I feel that could be very enlightening."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 6:55 PM
"This Rhizome.. is it a virtual interface? A form of cyberspace? I am familiar with these notions. I cannot connect you directly into our systems, as they are transdimensional in nature and I fear it would induce instability."
Truth be told, they were all still collectively reeling from the accidental introduction of the CES representative. Eyes were on him, wondering if, maybe, he would start to remember. They did not know what would happen to his mind if he did. It was something none of them wanted to see repeated.
"I believe a virtual or holographic system will be sufficient for demonstration purposes. If you would take this one to them, we could begin immediately in the semiotic-realization-of-actualized-potentials-in-Dynamis. I will then convey the sensory stimulus of Meta-Sax collectivism."
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 6:57 PM
"The Rhizome is a virtual interface, yes." She'd reply, confused as to why it would be unstable if she were introduced to the Meta-Sax's true nature.
"Well, I have this tablet here, which can make holograms if that counts. I'm unaware of any full-body immersive experiences outside of the Rhizomes, however. I'm relatively sure that there are several here on this ring, but I can't be certain."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 7:04 PM
LP took these variables into account as they mulled over their options. The pad would allow for a fairly reasonable degree of information to be shared, perhaps it was less important for all of the information to be shared simultaneously. Actually, could Seria even handle that sort of capacity? LP hadn't even thought to ask.
"The Rhizome interface will suffice. If it proves limiting, we can pursue the larger immersive mechanism."
LP did not seem inclined to expand on their reasoning as they touched the tablet. To them, to their people, the universe was less static objects and more galaxies-upon-galaxies of particles in motion. The tablet itself was no different, it had a particular kind of cohesion, a unique signature, a fascinating way of organizing the informational data of the universe.
"This topic is significant. We will need to narrow it down before exploration. What do you desire to explore first? Meta-level 1 is recommended as our infomatic barrier."
Daya connected to LP's mind directly. The link shared between them was taking a significant portion of LP's concentration as the Cladeship communicated The Flow archive that LP had requested. It was not simple text on a page; it was the actual first person experiences of researchers, scientists, students. Whole generations of them were embodied in that archive.
It will be a struggle to convey..
They felt their confidence growing, however. This was familiar territory, something they understood and felt that they could express accurately for Seria.
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 03/26/2023 7:23 PM
"What I most want to know and to understand is how to formulate a government for the people, something where the people have final say. While learning about how your nation...if that's even accurate to say...works is interesting, that isn't my purpose for asking you to show me. Come with me. We've occupied this dingy bar for long enough."
Seria would head out of the door to a somewhat nearby Rhizome resort -- a place where those dissatisfied by life can take a break and fall into a virtual slumber for a time, living a life that is not their own. It was about 30 minutes walking away, the streets sparsely walked by now as most had gone to sleep for their routines of work and relaxation tomorrow.
Upon entering the resort, Seria and LP were given access to a room, and the interface to the Rhizome -- a cybernetic which could attach to ones head and bring them into the virtual world.
"Care to go first?"
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 03/26/2023 7:27 PM
LP followed, busying themselves with sifting through the relevant memories and experiences of their ancestors. Upon arrival at the virtual center, they were intensely reminded of a virch bar that one of the negotiators of the elder Confederation once had.
Yes, it was on Baybous, the capitol. I remember.
The headset was odd to say the least. They had anticipated simply merging cilia with the native device and connecting to its data processing system, then overwriting that to imprint the desired result. Having a simulated system via nerve induction would be a different challenge.
"Yes. I will do my best."
A walk through history, perhaps?
They put the headset on and closed their eyes, waiting to see how it might attempt to connect to the Meta-Sax mind.
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 04/10/2023 3:09 PM
It would not be long before they were within the Rhizome. The strange, pulsing feeling for first time entrants was not uncommon for the Selenicans, Seria no different.
"So...now that we're in the virtual world..." she'd ask, with their environment taking the form of a similar parlor they had just left although significantly higher-class, "what could you show me about how the Meta-Sax operate? And what else could you show me about the government I seek to make?"
"I'm also curious...would a visual be better in helping me understand this...spark you talk about?"
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 04/10/2023 4:53 PM
Leysa Puma found the questions curious.
Almost as curious as the space they were in. It was.. loose, like an ill fitting robe. It echoed against the Duality which a full half of their self was within. Sparing her mental acuity between three realities at once was proving a bit of a strain on them.
"Hm? Oh, yes. We may begin with the earliest days of the Confederation. It will be simpler, to examine each of these questions in procession. By the end of this, Spark should be obvious, yes?"
Touching the neural interface, LP asked for it to allow access from LP's memories. Building upon the first recorded meetings of the ancient Confederation was like walking through the annals of history itself for them. In the place of the parlor was instead a grand domed building, whose high ceilings were decorated with murals and pictograms in dozens of languages.
Obvious alien races were played above them, and above them near the crown of the dome were the symbols of a dozen worlds.
In front of Seria and LP is a dias, and around it are one-hundred individuals. They see through the eyes of a vasudani ancestor of LP's and hear through her ears. The simulation does not proceed yet, however.
"In the old tongue, this was New Babylon -- the heart of the Confederation. In the new tongues, it is Babyous. My ancestors made their home on this world. This chamber was the Star Council," they pauses to give Seria a wince at the name, "which held one representative of each world. This beginning form of the interstellar Confederation was what is called a representative democracy."
LP points at the dias, "Decisions are made collectively, passed with a unanimous vote, and distributed through this administrative complex to the various participant communities. This was the first form of our collective governance over 15,000 years ago."
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 04/10/2023 7:01 PM
"It seems almost like the parliament we have..." Selia would say, staring down at the congregation of alien species, the veil of the digital world falling over both of those present. "But if it's such an old memory, then how...? How didn't it change? It seems ideal, a decision of those who represent all for the good of everyone."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 04/10/2023 7:11 PM
The vasudani turns towards Selia, "It did change, significantly. The initial form of our governance was this representative democracy. However,"
The image moves, and the chamber adjusts from one filled with representative leaders to one filled with something almost akin to a mob, "Two centuries after the formation of the Confederation of Nations, a new method of collective governance was proposed. The haleelians were never fond of it, representative democracy, and preferred to advocate for a form of anarchism."
They gesture at the halls filled with thousands of people now, "Direct democracy is the one that has held true in our society for many millennia now. It serves us, because of our noetic, noema, and noemata. It is a semiotic function that results from the choice of system we participate in."
LP walks them up to a space where they can see people debating greatly over a topic relating to trade between border worlds, "Consensus in the early years was difficult. It did not arise naturally until the first millennia came to pass. By the fourth, it was so instinctive to us that it was second nature. By now, it is simply a virtue of existence."
They fold their arms over their chest and hum softly, "Hmmm.. we changed to many different ways of expressing that direct democracy. No two of our internal clades are alike, and we each govern ourselves as our communities see best fit. But there is a form of unity in our meta-culture and how it is expressed. We are the way we are due to an exodus from our home galaxy and having to survive in the conditions presented. Rather than die out, we adapted and embraced that noetic."
The image again changes and now they are someone standing on top the silvery-pearl hull of an ancient starship. The vast behemoth is one of thousands that make their way across the void.
"It serves us, but we are uniquely well suited to it. For you, a foundational republic is a good start. Plan for the long term."
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 04/10/2023 7:19 PM
The Selenican was awestruck. Taken through literal millenia of history, all in the space of a few minutes. The Rhizome was truly addictive, it seemed, being able to live out lives far beyond yours...
"I...I see." She'd reply after several minutes of silence, attempting to grapple with the visions she saw.
"It's...hard to comprehend." She'd speak, after the time was done. "I bore witness to millennia of history, and yet, I'm none the wiser. How do you communally decide what the best course of action is, even when every individual maintains what makes them...unique? What grants them their...Spark, I think you mentioned it earlier."
"We've never had something like this. Even before the parliament was corrupt, it always served as an inferior body to the president, subject to their whims. I...I don't understand. I suppose Selenican nature is to be selfish, and grab what we can for ourselves..."
Varen (Meta-Sax) — 04/10/2023 7:30 PM
LP tilts her head curiously at the confusion, wondering how to express what could not really be expressed.
"Mmm.. in this current conjunction of time, I am in connection with all Saxheelians in this universe. We share a part of our continuity-of-self with a...mm.. sub-reality, you might call it. You interact with the physical portion of me, where as the other portion of me can only be interacted there, in that domain."
LP does not, however, attempt to conjure this into the Rhizome, and instead settles for a view that they enjoyed. Now standing atop the peak of a mountain chain, they can see a vast array of wilderness before them. Arcing up in the sky is the tell-tale sign of a ringworld.
LP sits down, humming again, "This is challenging."
"I decided to come to your domain to learn about you. This did not require consensus, as there is no element that forbids us from moving of our own volition. Our Pathfinders in Corona went of their own accord, independent of the Consensus. It is our way. My uniqueness is not subsumed in the whole, but nor does it act as a destabilizer. They enrich each other."
The vasudani points at Selia, "You enrich the presence of your peers by acts of community, yes? You come together, live side by side, your days are yours. So too for us, but without the need for control over one another. It is.. a matter of trust, I think."
"Spark is expressed by the desire to do. It is a part of The Flow process. Mmm.. they are juxtaposed?.. No.. they are balanced aspects. Dark and Light, stasis and dynamis--a Spark is the expression of that elemental part of you."
LP smiles at her, "My spark is my desire to seek it in others. An inceptive noetic. By seeking it, I breath upon the embers of it, which goes on to breath on others. Your spark is a desire for freedom from the system you exist within. This is natural, to be expected. It is why the control most use confuses us. Freedom is an inevitable end state for all beings in the universe, yes?"
Ana (SR) (CONA) — 04/10/2023 7:41 PM
Seria remained silent as the scenery shifted, sitting atop a mountain with her partner. It was cold, but likely not as cold as mountains truly were.
"I suppose you could say I desire freedom. Not for myself, alone though. I want to bring it to my brothers and sisters, and bring down the bastard who hurt us all." She replied, staring out at the vastness of the environment in front of her.
She would remain silent for 10 minutes, then an hour, then several, staring out at the horizon, not once looking down at the mountains beneath her.
"The more I think, the more I think I understand what you mean." She'd say, a light smile creeping up her face.
"I think I know...I think I know."