| Without warning, the silvery light that appeared to bring new people from other worlds and old items from home appears once more, and this time it lingers, forming portals as tall as an average human near each of the three Ingress shrines. The location does not appear to be a coincidence; this time, the portals are translucent, revealing the destination on the other side. Instead of taking Avagi's residents to the future, it will take them to another world.
If they step through the portal, travelers will find something far different from where they've been living this last month: Kaittos, a peaceful world containing one large land mass and a scattering of lived-on islands across a clear blue ocean. On the mainland, a large city-state occupies the central region and southern coast and resembles what some travelers from some versions of Earth might know of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon.
Bustling and lively, the city is clean and well provided-for due to the temperate climate and the bountiful natural resources found on its northern side; orchards, farms and forests extend into the distance, butting up against a small mountain range. The technology level is low compared to Avagi, with carriages and candles in place rather than cars and electric lights, but the craftsmen of the world have managed some very impressive mechanical feats.
Kaittans, the local residents of the world appear somewhat humanoid, but the bipedal race has hooves rather than feet, silvery skin and three eyes with vertical pupils. Although there is no sign of any other sentient species in the world, the locals are nonetheless excited to meet their guests, rather than suspicious or afraid; for some reason, they are not surprised that aliens exist, merely that they are here.
In the weeks to come, the stabilized portals will provide a respite from the more confined lifestyle aboard Avagi. Travelers are warmly welcomed and encouraged to explore the land. Some things they'll find include...
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With all their material needs taken care of, the civilization on Kaittos has come to highly value cultivation of the mind. The city itself is full of what can only be generalized as culture. Theaters, art galleries and sizable libraries can be found on every tier, but what they offer is not contained by their walls. Street musicians appear on every other corner, artists are easily found sketching at beautiful viewpoints or interested passersby, and people are as likely to find themselves pulled in to participate in a scene or improvisational performance as they are to witness one. Public debate and rhetoric are also valued, with credit given for style and clarity as much as substance. At the center of the city, a large conservatory teaches lessons in many fields to anyone who cares to study.
This love of culture is so encompassing that visitors who wish to acquire items or resources will find that culture is also the main form of currency. To get something, they will have to give something. Those with skills that fall into traditional arts and culture could offer a piece of art, a music lesson or participation in a debate with other philosophical scholars, perhaps. But visitors will also find that the locals have a deep hunger for information and wish to learn about other worlds; if they can offer nothing else, sitting down with a scholar to record a tale of folklore or an adventure from their own. Lessons in whatever skills they possess are likely to be eagerly sought after, although the aptitude to learn them may not be there.
For those who wish to gain resources or make purchases, a bartering economy does exist to a degree, but it is difficult to break into, as there is little that the locals would truly need from their visitors. The exchange of knowledge is much more prized. Keep in mind, though, that while the Kaittans are not ungenerous, they have an eye for value—the more precious something is, the more travelers will have to offer to earn it, and individuals have their preferences. What might be just the thing desired by one could be pooh-poohed by another.
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While many on Kaittos see food as the fuel that keeps their bodies going so they may better cultivate their minds, others see cooking itself as an art. This is especially prevalent in this section of the city, located deep in the heart of the city, where chefs toil over new recipes and experiment with new ingredients, serving meals free of charge—unless you consider sitting through a lengthy survey afterwards to be a payment, of course.
Although some meals are unpalatable or even dangerous to human bodies, most can be enjoyably consumed. However, around one in five chefs make extensive use of a particular herb that is incredibly delicious—and somewhat addicting. Those who begin to develop a dependency will visit again and again, and the more they consume, the more they may not want to leave at all...
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Spoken of in hushed voices, this section of woods is regarded with great caution. A space of around ten acres is home to many natural springs that form natural pools between copses of trees, many of which hang dropping branches with deep blue leaves over the surface of the water. If asked, the locals will say that this place is where some very old Kaittans—which are an extremely long-lived species—who have decided they've studied everything available in the world and mastered every skill they can, go to "renew" themselves. They prefer to speak of it in vague terms, as specific discussion of this choice is seen as something of a faux pas. If greatly pressed, it is possible to learn the details ahead of time—but difficult.
The truth is that the water of the springs, when mixed with a chemical secreted by the fallen blue leaves, represses memories of those who drink it. Not to the point of complete amnesia; a sip might do away with the recollection of a particular book that was enjoyed, while multiple glasses might hide the memory of a longer period of time. However, there is no control over what is forgotten, or how much is too much. The Kaittans who grow too frustrated with what they view as stagnancy drink to forget so they may have the joy of learning all over again, but the lack of control makes it a risky choice—and some continue to return to drink after they otherwise would have, as they have forgotten what they wanted to forget.
(Of note to those of the psychic persuasion: memories affected by the spring water are not utterly obliterated, but merely deeply sublimated. It is possible to retrieve them, but it would be a challenge, especially if the placement of the memory gaps are not obvious.) |
| While Kaittos’ architecture and culture includes plenty to admire, a few points of interest stand both literally and figuratively above the rest. Three large pyramids tower over the landscape, shining the brilliant metallic blue of a local ore. Over the coming weeks, these structures will be adorned with temporary murals and hangings—apparently, a yearly celebration is approaching.
What kind of celebration? The kind, fortunately (?), that visitors are welcome to join in! November 23 marks the anniversary of what they call the Great Awakening: a visit by a powerful spirit that opened their people's awareness to worlds and cultures outside their own. For the next few weeks, the temples offer welcome to anyone who wishes to participate in their trials. On the day of the Awakening, all who succeed will experience a remnant of the spirit's gift. While descriptions of the process vary, all center around heightened awareness: of each other, and of worlds and places far beyond their shores. Those who decide to make this attempt may choose which temple—and which trial—they would face.
Trial of Life
A test for warriors and scouts, this trial is not recommended to the casual. On entering the temple, participants will find themselves in a maze of obstacles and passages, struggling for survival against dangers both mobile and environmental. To succeed, they must pass inside with no more resources or weapons than can be carried in two hands, and survive for a period of five days. The attackers and hazards within the space are phantasms generated by the temple: solid enough to harm or kill, but prone to re-appearing even once a region should be cleared.
Needless to say, extensive warnings will be given to those expressing interest in the trial. Most who attempt do so in groups, and teamwork among participants is readily encouraged. Those who need to leave early are welcome to do so, but fleeing does count as a failure.
Trial of Communion
The inside of this temple is divided up into a series of open booths. Participants are assigned a station, and will be approached by members of the local population with various disputes that require arbitration. The purpose of the trial is twofold: to assist others with their problems, and to test those making the attempt—in patience, debate, and their skill at resolving conflict through the use of words.
No authority is granted to those taking this test. None of those who come before them are obliged to listen. The participants will be presented with conflicts that have been saved up through the year, and required to work out a solution. This can include anything from property disputes to marriage arguments to literal children's squabbles. Breaks are allowed for food and basic rest, but otherwise, those taking the trial will need to spend five days in continual discourse for the sake of others. Those who give up on any problems brought before them or resort to violence in solving them are considered to have failed the trial.
Trial of Healing
The third temple presents no dangers, whether to one's life or to one's sanity. Instead, it serves as a medical center. Those stepping inside will experience a strange peacefulness and sense of comfort—one the full-time staff confirm has helped many patients to recover. While this temple is open throughout the year, the weeks preceding the Awakening are nonetheless a time of gathering: when healers of all disciplines will come together to assist those in need.
While doctors or healers are welcome to share information with their peers, no special skill or training is required to attempt this trial. Instead, participants are asked to spend a period of ten days doing whatever work is required to assist the sick. While most of the ailments brought to the temple are longer-term in nature, it also functions as a triage center for those harmed in the Temple of Life. |
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thisavrou_log2017-11-09 08:50 pm
It sounds goooood.
(Eddie was under everything. He was only 5'3 and clocked in at about 105 lbs and that was after he had been eating. He didn't know a single thing about fighting. It was a good thing Rogue had a bit more sense of relation than Eddie did because they absolutely would have toppled right on over on his bike.)
Ugh. Don't even say that. That'd be the worst.
(He'd been passing a lot of his time by learning some small tricks on his bike. There wasn't too much to do on the station for kids his age.)
Huh. (He was thinking far too literally to get a proper image into his head. Thinking of cream cheese instead of anything that might be similar. So he gives her a look and cracks a slight smirk. Maybe he could tease Rogue like he does his friends?
Never a better time to test out the waters.)
...You kinda suck at describing this. (His voice was light, to keep it impersonal, and he wondered what she would say to that. If she'd get insulted or...What. Give it back?)
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But she doesn't expect a kid to realize this, so it takes her a second to realize that that's what he's doing.]
Yeah? Tell you what. When we get to the stand, if it tastes anything like I described, you're buying. if it's different, it's all on me. [Sure, it wasn't exactly teasing him, but light-hearted bets were a light enough response.] But you have to be honest.
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The suggestion is a bit surprising to him. It inspires a snort out of Eddie, because no, it wasn't teasing, but he was aware enough to know that this was Rogue being okay with joking around.)
I guess. But you described it as a lot of things. Seems like an unfair advantage if you ask me.
(For a split second, Eddie irrationally worries about her mistaking this for a date if he buys. It's a perfectly dumb fear that flickers across his childish mind that isn't too used to hanging out with girls, that's used to strict gender norms. But the thought's gone as soon as it comes, because of course Rogue wouldn't think that. She was too old and she didn't seem stupid enough to think something like that.)
I'm always honest. (Eddie says this with intentional exaggeration, placing a hand over his chest.)
I've never lied a day in my life. Lying can give you canker sores. (Oh man, now he was really going with it.)
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[Rogue fixes him with a look that says hse doesn't believe him for an instant. But then he says something she's never heard before.] What? Who told you that? I've never gotten a canker sore from any lie.
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(He's perfectly satisfied with that theory- even if fruit was a little too ambiguous.
Eddie Kaspbrak wasn't a liar, you can bet your bottom dollar on that. Except for the times he had to lie, of course, and then all bets were out the window. The hypocrisy of kids- and people, really. He stares over at her, frowning.)
My mom. It was probably something she just said to get me to do something. (He says this very quickly, as an afterthought, and it's clear that there's something internal going on there with the way his eyes swing away from Rogue before going straight back to her. Like he's been caught at something. Picking his way through what his mom has said that's true and not true was a complicated business. Edging off his own fears was even worse.
But it does sound pretty stupid now that he thinks about it. Lying giving you a canker sore. He touches his own mouth, frowning, poking at it.)
....But canker sores can give you herpes. (He knows that much at least is true. Or some part of it, anyway. Not that he actually really understands what herpes is either.)
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[Rogue nods- that sounds like something a mother would do. Her own parents had lied to her, she realized now. They'd been awful, all things considered, and she'd made the right choice, moving to run. No, lying gives you canker sores was most certainly something a mom would say to make sure their child never lied.
Just like Eddie was realizing. So she smiled reassuringly at him, and nodded. She got it, he didn't have to say anything more.]
They can- they're a type of herpes. But not the really bad one. It's more mild when it's a canker sore. At least, that's what I remember.
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One day in Eddie's future, he would think to move from his mom too. But she had got him deep with her manipulation, and he'd wind up moving back to her three times. In a weird way, this weird space abduction was a blessing for Eddie. Sort of. The kid never had a chance otherwise.
But Eddie wasn't about to explain his mom, about the whole..Thing. He doesn't think to, really, even as it's on his mind. Although Rogue certainly does set herself up here because of course Eddie asks:)
What's the really bad one?
(A lot of his medical knowledge had holes in it.)
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Besides, she was the last qualified person in the world to be telling him about the birds and bees. She'd been kissed exactly twice in her life. One of those times ended with a boy in a coma.
Not to mention, she was raised in a strict Southern Baptist household. There wasn't much sex ed in her life, either. Still, lying to him wouldn't do the kid any good. So it was best to just give it to him straight. Gently, but straight. Because that's what Logan would do.
Logan would also slice up half the landscape, and maybe not be quite so gentle, but other than that it's what he would do.]- The kind you get on your privates. I don't know much more'n that, though. [So please don't ask.]
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He had plenty of sex education. Some of it just happened to be completely incorrect. He was just at that age to be curious enough to ask questions, and horrified enough by most answers.
For example, this answer has his face twisting up into an expression of horror.)
Canker sores on your dick?!
(He can't help but shriek that. Even around a girl. It's almost enough to pass out on if only cause he knows what canker sores are. He covers his mouth and reels himself back in.)
Oooooh my God. Eugh! No!
(He juts his tongue out and pries his hands off his face. First syphilis, now herpes. Why did anyone ever touch their private parts together ever. Lord. He finally begins to relax a little bit and he stares at Rogue very, very gravely.)
That's disgusting.
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Rogue has to chuckle a little, nodding.]
Yeah. It's pretty brutal. Hopefully you never have to deal with something like that.
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Eddie shakes his head at once. Nearly hard enough that he probably could have given himself whiplash had he kept going at it.)
Nuh-uh. No way do I have to deal with it. Nope.
(That's the last thing anyone on this place needs to worry about.)
Thanks though. (He says this a little awkwardly, because in what situation was sex anything less than awkward?) For not lying to me.
(He says this a little hopefully- because Rogue wasn't lying to him, right?)
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When he thanks her, she regards him carefully. He's an adroit little fellow.] You're welcome. I don't see the point of it, most of the time. You're gonna find out anyway, right?
[They're approaching the edge of the market at this point.] Alright, the not-icecream place is over this way.
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She was refreshing too. Then again, Eddie didn't have a great basis for teenage girls.)
...I mean, hopefully, yeah.
(Eddie says this in a weird sort of way, though it'd be impossible to determine how or why. He likes to think he'd find out, but sometimes, he was still convinced his mom would step out from behind one of these buildings to start in at him again.)
You know, you should make a name for it. I know they probably have a name for it here, but since you kind of discovered it, that'd be cool.
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If it's already got a name, why give it another? [Rogue asks, glancing over at him. She shoves one gloved hand in her back pocket casually.] Maybe it's named after the actual discoverer?
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I dunno. That's what people do all the time, right? They discover stuff then give it a name.
(At least that's what Americans did all the time. They were really good at claiming things on their own terf.)
Maybe. What if we can't pronounce the name though? They're aliens, after all.
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Kind of a dick thing to do though, don't you think?
[She looks over at him again for a moment.] If we can't pronounce it, we'll find an easier way to say it, I guess. Or just mispronounce it.
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Now this is a curious moment in Eddie's life. He doesn't look angry or defensive like some people might who had long since ingrained that sort of thinking into their life. No. Eddie's knowledge of stuff was pretty shallow still. He didn't quite start thinking so hard about everything he was taught, so he gives Rogue a genuinely interested stare.)
Why is it a dick thing to do?
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Does that make sense?
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(His voice is soft, carrying out his thoughts.)
Kind of like when bullies call you names, huh. (If Eddie had a dime for every time he'd been called a girlyboy, sissy, or queer, he'd be filthy rich. He scratches at his cheek, feeling only slightly uncomfortable.
There's something irritating him too. Something that he desperately wants to remember but just can't then. Don't call me that! Except it hadn't been a bullying thing - it'd been...What had it been?)
I think I know what you mean. I guess that was a pretty dumb question.
(Hardly. He just had to apply umbrella-kid logic and suddenly it made perfect sense.)
I think so. My real name's Edward but I go by Eddie- so. Yeah. That makes sense.
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No, it's not a dumb question. Don't worry about it. [This kid was always putting himself down. Not that Rogue did anything differently, but it was easier to recognize in someone else.]
Yeah. And Eddie's what I'll call you until you tell me different.
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It always was easier, wasn't it? It is assuring to have her tell him it wasn't dumb though, and Eddie himself even looks a little relieved to hear it.)
Good. I think we both fit our names too. You look like a Rogue.
(He likes to think that that's a compliment. He's pretty sure she would too. After all, why else would she use the name?)
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[Edwards were tall, marble adonis with golden eyes and a taste for blood. Eddie was... not. He was a cute kid, and he'd grow to be a handsome young man. Eddie was the kid next to her with the bike.]
Alright- here we are! [Rogue leads them over toward a small what looks like food cart. Inside the cart are large cartons of the not-ice-cream. She asks for two of the blue one, and the waiter gets to work. Each not-ice-cream is served in what's a sort of a pancake. She steps to the side with Eddie, moving to one of the picnic benches. They could pay when they were done.
After sitting, she holds out one of the creations to him.]
Alright. Tell me what you think.
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(He would say 'cool' if he wasn't so positive that he was very much not-cool. Lord though if he knew she thought that about Edwards! The only taste for blood Eddie had ever had was one for cheeseburgers and hotdogs. As for being an Adonis...
Well that's a laugh.)
All right...Looks pretty legit, I'll give you that. (He says it with a dramatic-suspicious voice in tact, squinting with "skepticism" at the stand, rubbing at his chin for effect.
Eddie looks down at the food once he gets his own helping. The pancake was unexpected. He pokes the center of it, taking a bit of personal pleasure in how soft it was. He gets up onto his knees on the bench and first takes a bite of the pancake, mostly because it was stranger to him. It...tasted almost like chocolate. Almost.
Then a bite of the not-ice cream.
It only takes three seconds for his face to split into a grin and his eyes to practically glow.)
Oh, yeah! That's- wow. That's really good. Oh no. I'm gonna eat all they have in that stand. Wow.
(He digs in for a bigger bite this time.)
....It's definitely a little fruity.
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Isn't it great?
[She takes the time now to bite into her own food.]
So how would you describe this, then?
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(He says this with the slightest blush. He squirms on his end of the bench and finally sighs, bowing his head.)
Okay, okay, so I owe you.
(Eddie can fess up when he owes someone something. Even if it was embarrassing. That embarrassment doesn't last too long though, because this was way too delicious to care too much about being wrong.)
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