Human Sacred Text
Histories
1 The Creation of Humans
1In the beginning, when the world was yet unshaped, and the Essence Weave was a tempest of untamed power, the gods of humanity gazed upon the void.
2Vunen, bearer of wisdom, his eyes alight with the glow of knowledge, spoke, “Let there be a race, wise and intrepid, to walk upon the lands of Tuyin.” 3And so it was that humans were formed, crafted from the essence of the world, imbued with the spirit of adaptability and the hunger for understanding.
4Carthana, goddess of kindness, smiled upon these new beings. She blessed them with compassion and a heart for unity, that they might live in harmony with all creation.
5Tinbas, mistress of cunning and luck, weaved her essence into their souls. She granted them the gift of serendipity, that fortune may favor their bold and adventurous spirits.
6Ingtu, god of courage, bestowed upon them a flame of bravery in their hearts. He taught them to stand steadfast against the trials and tribulations that lay ahead.
7And Feincru, the Dark Mirror, with a sly grin, whispered into their beings the seeds of ambition and desire, ensuring that their paths would be as varied as the stars above.
8The children of these gods, the humans, stood upon the shores of Tuyin, their eyes wide with wonder and minds eager for the tales yet unwritten.
9Under the guiding stars, etched with the visages of their deities, the humans ventured forth, spreading across the lands, each step a testament to the multifaceted nature of their creation. 10In the north, they built great cities, their towers reaching towards the heavens, a symbol of their unyielding quest for knowledge and mastery over the arcane arts. 11In the south, they tilled the lands, their communities thriving in the embrace of Carthana’s warmth, a beacon of peace and benevolence. 12To the east, where shadows danced and fortunes turned, the followers of Tinbas thrived. 13In the west, the brave and the bold carved their legacies, guided by the unyielding spirit of Ingtu.
14Yet in the shadows, Feincru’s influence grew, as some hearts swayed towards the lure of power and self-gain, weaving a complex tapestry of light and darkness within the human soul.
2 Early Humanity
1And it came to pass, in an age of blossoming, that we, the children of humanity, found our place upon the vast canvas of Tuyin. 2Our hands, guided by the wisdom of Vunen, delved into the mysteries of the world, unearthing secrets veiled since creation’s dawn. 3With minds eager and hearts resolute, we ventured into realms unknown, seeking the hidden truths that lay beneath star and stone. 4We raised altars to Carthana, our goddess of kindness, in every hamlet and city. Her teachings of compassion and generosity flowed like a gentle river through our communities. 5But lo, Tinbas, our unpredictable patroness of luck, did cast her whimsical gaze upon us. Under her influence, we danced on the edge of fate, our fortunes as ever-changing as the phases of the moon. 6In the face of adversity, we sought courage from Ingtu. His indomitable spirit burned within us, a guiding light through the tempests of life. 7Yet, in our midst lurked the shadow of Feincru. His whispers of self-glorification and power seduced the hearts of the unwary, leading them astray into the night.
8Amidst our journey, we faltered, for the alluring voice of Feincru sowed discord and desire, casting a dark veil over our noblest intentions. 9Yet, in our darkest hour, the light of our gods shone brightest. Their divine guidance steered us back to the path of virtue and unity.
3 The First Stories
1When the world was young and untamed, there lived a man named Ern, a scholar under the tutelage of Vunen. 2Ern, whose thirst for knowledge was unquenchable, journeyed to the farthest reaches of Tuyin, seeking the ancient wisdom hidden in forgotten lands. 3In a desolate valley, he discovered an arcane script, its letters shimmering with celestial energy. 4Through this, Ern unlocked secrets of the cosmos, bringing enlightenment to his people.
5There was also Ala, a devout follower of Carthana, whose heart was as vast as the sea. She wandered the lands, a healer and a giver, her hands bringing solace to the troubled. 6Ala founded sanctuaries where the weary found rest, and the hungry were fed. 7Her deeds of kindness rippled across Tuyin, sowing seeds of compassion.
8In the shadowed corners lived Jorn, a gambler and rogue, favored by Tinbas. His life was a dance on the edge, each step a flirtation with destiny. 9Jorn’s escapades were legendary, filled with twists of fortune and whispers of luck. 10Yet, in his wildest venture, he outwitted a serpent king, winning a treasure lost to myth.
11In the west, stood Kel, a warrior of Ingtu’s creed. His valor was unmatched, his strength forged in the heart of strife. 12Kel faced a horde of beasts from the darkened forests, his blade a beacon of hope. His triumph over fear inspired a generation to rise with courage in their hearts.
13Amidst the splendor of the cities, there moved a figure, shadowed and silent, named Vars, a disciple of Feincru. 14Vars sought power through dark channels, his path marked by cunning and whispered pacts. 15His ascent to power was meteoric, but his fall was tragic, a reminder of the perilous dance with Feincru’s temptations.
16Thus, we remember and honor our forebears, the architects of our legacy, their tales a mosaic of the human spirit, eternally enduring under the gaze of the gods.
4 The Second Stories
1As the seasons turned, there emerged from among us leaders of vision and valor, who set forth to carve new paths for our kind.
2Ela, a seer blessed by Vunen, founded schools where the young and old alike gathered to unravel the mysteries of the stars and the secrets of the earth. 3Her wisdom spread far, igniting a thirst for knowledge, and under her watch, the first great library of Tuyin was erected, a haven for scholars and seekers.
4In lands where the rivers ran deep and forests whispered, Lira, follower of Carthana, established communities bound by brotherhood and sisterhood. 5Her compassion nurtured a culture of care and sharing, where none were left wanting, and the spirit of kinship flourished.
6There was also the enigmatic Moli, favored by Tinbas, whose exploits were as unpredictable as the changing winds. 7He traveled through villages and cities, his adventures birthing legends, teaching us the value of wit and the charm of the unexpected.
8Among our warriors arose Bren, a disciple of Ingtu, whose bravery became a beacon for those who faced adversities. 9Bren led expeditions into the unknown, his courage inspiring those around him to overcome fears and embrace the challenges that lay before them.
10In the shadows, however, moved Selen, a figure swayed by the whispers of Feincru, her ambitions cloaked in secrecy. 11She rose to prominence through cunning and manipulation, a reminder of the allure and danger of power unchecked.
5 Feincru’s Influence
1There once lived Edri, a leader among men, known for his wisdom and strength. 2Feincru, drawn to Edri’s ambition, whispered promises of power and glory into his dreams, visions of a kingdom vast and unchallenged. 3Seduced by these promises, Edri began to stray, his actions no longer for the good of his people but for the shadowed glory Feincru offered. 4As Edri’s heart darkened, so too did his rule. The people, once thriving, began to suffer under his selfish decrees.
5In his hubris, Edri planned a grand temple in his honor, a monument to his newfound power, forsaking the old ways and the gods of his people. 6But Lys, a priestess devoted to Vunen, saw the corruption in Edri. She feared for the soul of her leader and the fate of her people. 7Lys approached Edri, reminding him of the true path of knowledge and leadership. 8Edri, enraged, refused her counsel, blinded by the false promises that had taken root in his heart.
9Yet, the words of Lys planted a seed of doubt. In the stillness of night, Edri found himself wrestling with his conscience. 10He turned to the teachings of Carthana, seeking solace and guidance in the virtues of kindness and humility he had once cherished. 11Slowly, the veil of Feincru’s deceit lifted from Edri eyes. 12He saw the pain his greed had inflicted upon his people.
13With newfound resolve, Edri sought to undo the wrongs he had committed. He abandoned the grand temple, instead directing resources to aid the needy. 14Edri transformation was not immediate, but his journey back to virtue inspired his people, showing them the power of redemption and the strength of true leadership. 15In time, Edri kingdom flourished once more, not in opulence and fear, but in unity and prosperity, guided by the wisdom and kindness he had rediscovered.
Lessons
1 Knowledge
1Always seek knowledge and wisdom, as they are the sacred paths to enlightenment.
2Speak truthfully and with integrity, for honesty is the cornerstone of understanding.
3Share your knowledge with others, for in sharing, the light of wisdom brightens the world.
4Remain open to learning and new ideas, for wisdom is found in the embrace of the unknown.
5Question and explore the world around you, for through curiosity, greater understanding is achieved.
6Preserve and respect both ancient lore and new discoveries, as they are the beacons of human progress.
7Educate the young and the curious, for they are the future bearers of wisdom.
8Value diverse perspectives, for in diversity lies a broader and richer understanding.
9Use your knowledge for the betterment of all, never for personal gain at the expense of others.
10Reflect upon your knowledge and experiences, for self-awareness leads to true wisdom.
2 Compassion
1Practice kindness and compassion in all your actions, for they are the essence of a harmonious community.
2Offer aid and comfort to those in need, for through generosity, we strengthen the bonds of humanity.
3Foster understanding and empathy, for in understanding each other, we build a world of peace.
4Cherish and protect the weak and vulnerable, for in their care, we uphold the values of our community.
5Seek to resolve conflicts with grace and fairness, for harmony is achieved through balance and respect.
6Share your resources with those less fortunate, for in giving, we enrich our own spirits.
7Value the well-being of others as you value your own, for in their welfare lies our collective prosperity.
8Practice forgiveness, for in forgiveness, we release the burdens of the past and pave the way for healing.
9Cultivate a spirit of unity and cooperation, for together, we can overcome the greatest of challenges.
10Uphold loyalty and trustworthiness in all relationships, for they are the foundations of a strong and caring society.
3 Bravery
1Cultivate courage within yourself, for it is the shield against the trials of life.
2Stand firm in the face of adversity, as resilience is the mark of true strength.
3Protect and defend those who cannot protect themselves, for in their safeguarding, your own valor is affirmed.
4Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, knowing that each trial shapes your spirit.
5Act with honor and integrity in all endeavors, for these are the hallmarks of a noble heart.
6Encourage others to find their inner strength, for in lifting them, you also rise.
7Face your fears with a steadfast heart, for in conquering them, you find your true power.
8Remain committed to your convictions, even when the path is difficult, for steadfastness is the companion of bravery.
9Seek justice and fairness in all things, for courage is empty without a righteous cause.
10Celebrate acts of bravery, both great and small, for each is a step towards a braver world.
4 Luck
1Embrace the unpredictable nature of life, for it teaches adaptability and resilience.
2Seek fortune not just for oneself, but in ways that benefit others, sharing the whims of fate.
3Approach risks with wisdom, understanding that daring can lead to growth, but recklessness to downfall.
4Recognize the value of intuition and the sudden spark of insight, for these are Tinbas’ gifts.
5Celebrate both success and failure, for each holds lessons and opportunities for growth.
6Cultivate a spirit of playfulness and joy, for in light-heartedness, one finds true freedom.
7Understand that luck favors not just the bold, but also the prepared and the perceptive.
8Use cunning and cleverness for constructive purposes, never for deceit or harm.
9Appreciate the chance encounters and serendipities of life, for they often lead to unforeseen paths.
10Balance the pursuit of one’s own fortune with the well-being of others, for true luck lies in harmony and mutual prosperity.
5 Selfishness
1Guard against the lure of unchecked ambition, for it leads to isolation and downfall.
2Practice humility and self-reflection, for arrogance blinds the soul to true wisdom.
3Avoid manipulation and deceit in your interactions, as these sow discord and distrust.
4Cherish empathy and compassion, for they are the antidotes to selfishness.
5Seek power only to serve and uplift others, not for personal gain or dominion.
6Remember that true leadership is found in service and stewardship, not in domination.
7Cultivate contentment in what you have, for endless desire leads to endless discontent.
8Be wary of promises of grandeur and quick gains, for they often come with hidden costs.
9Recognize the value of others, understanding that every individual is more than a means to an end.
10Foster genuine relationships based on respect and kindness, for connections built on exploitation are fragile and fleeting.
Parables
1 Vunen
1In the realm blessed by Vunen, god of wisdom, there lived two scholars.
2The first, a solitary scholar, devoted his life to amassing a vast library. He believed that through the accumulation of texts and artifacts, he would attain unmatched wisdom. His days were spent in isolation, surrounded by towering shelves of knowledge, yet his heart remained untouched by the wisdom they contained
3The second scholar, a wandering teacher, believed that true wisdom flowed from the sharing of knowledge and experiences with others. She traveled from village to village, teaching and learning in equal measure. 4Her wisdom was not confined to the written word; it was a living, breathing tapestry of shared human experiences.
5One day, a great dilemma arose in the land, a riddle that baffled the wisest of minds. The king, in his desire to find a solution, summoned scholars from across the realm. 6The solitary scholar, confident in his extensive collection, approached with an air of certainty. 7The wandering teacher, her mind open and adaptive, came with the intent to listen and understand.
8The solitary scholar, relying solely on his books, proposed a solution that was complex and theoretical, echoing the words of ancient texts. 9His answer, though intellectually profound, was impractical, failing to grasp the nuances of the problem at hand.
10The wandering teacher, drawing upon her diverse experiences and the wisdom she had gathered from the people, offered a solution that was simple yet effective, addressing the core of the dilemma. 11Her answer demonstrated not only deep understanding but also empathy and practicality.
12The king, impressed by the wisdom of the wandering teacher, declared her the victor. 13The solitary scholar, humbled, realized that true wisdom was not in the mere collection of knowledge but in its application and the sharing of it with others.
2 Carthana
1In a land watched over by Carthana, goddess of generosity and kindness, there lived a farmer and a merchant. 2The farmer, though not wealthy, was known for his generous heart. He shared his harvest with his neighbors, always ensuring that no one in his village went hungry. His home was a haven for the weary and the needy, and his table was always open to those less fortunate.
3The merchant, on the other hand, was a man of considerable wealth. He amassed his fortune through shrewd dealings, often at the expense of others. Despite his riches, he clung to his wealth tightly, never offering a helping hand to those in need.
4One year, the land was struck by a harsh drought. Crops failed, and people were plunged into despair. 5The farmer, despite seeing his own fields wither, continued to share what little he had. 6He gave away his stored grains and worked tirelessly to help his neighbors in their time of need.
7The merchant, seeing an opportunity, hoarded his vast resources, selling them at exorbitant prices. 8He grew richer as the people around him sank deeper into poverty and hunger.
9In time, the rains returned, and the land began to heal. 10The villagers, grateful for the farmer’s selflessness, came together to help rebuild his farm. 11They worked as one, their efforts a testament to the bonds the farmer had forged through his acts of kindness.
12The merchant, however, found himself alone. 13His wealth could not buy the loyalty or love of those around him. 14In his pursuit of riches, he had neglected the true wealth of community and compassion.
3 Ingtu
1In a land under the watchful gaze of Ingtu, god of courage and fortitude, there lay a small village shadowed by a vast, dark forest. 2The villagers lived in constant fear of the unknown terrors that were said to lurk within the woods. 3None dared to venture near, and the forest became a symbol of fear and dread.
4Among these villagers was one who believed in the virtues of Ingtu. 5Unlike his peers, he did not cower from the forest. 6He saw it not as a place of fear, but as a challenge and an opportunity to find strength. 7He remembered Ingtu’s teachings that courage was not the absence of fear, but the will to face it.
8One day, a great howling arose from the forest, and the village was gripped with panic. 9The fearful townsfolk prepared to flee, but the brave villager chose to stand his ground. 10He ventured into the forest, his heart fortified by the spirit of Ingtu.
11As he journeyed deeper, he realized that the terrible noises were not monsters, but the groans of a great tree, twisted and in pain. 12The villager, using his wit and bravery, managed to free the tree from its torment.
13When he returned to the village, the forest was silent once more. 14The villager told his people of the tree and how their fears had been unfounded. 15Emboldened by his example, the villagers began to explore the woods, finding it full of beauty and resources. 16In facing what they feared, they not only found strength but also uncovered the blessings that lay just beyond their comfort zones.
4 Tinbas
1In a village blessed by Tinbas, goddess of cunning and luck, there lived a gambler and a farmer. 2The gambler, always seeking the thrill of chance, lived his life on the edge, his fortunes swinging wildly from abundance to ruin. 3He revered Tinbas, praying for her favor in his risky endeavors.
4The farmer, on the other hand, was cautious and methodical. He worked hard on his land, believing in the virtues of steady effort and careful planning. 5He viewed the gambler’s ways with skepticism, trusting more in labor than luck.
6One season, the gambler decided to bet his entire fortune on a venture, believing that Tinbas would grant him a great windfall. 7He invested in a trade caravan, risking everything for a chance at immense wealth.
8The farmer, meanwhile, continued his diligent work, tending to his crops and livestock, slowly but steadily building a modest but secure life.
9As fate would have it, the caravan the gambler had invested in was lost at sea. 10The gambler found himself penniless, his reliance on luck having failed him. 11In his despair, he turned to the farmer for aid.
12The farmer, seeing the gambler in his time of need, shared his harvest with him, despite their differing beliefs. 13He offered the gambler work and a place to stay, teaching him the value of steady effort and preparation.
14In time, the gambler came to understand that while luck could grant momentary riches, true fortune lay in the balance of risk with reason. 15He learned to blend his daring nature with the wisdom of careful planning, embodying both the spirit of Tinbas and the sensibility of the farmer.
16Thus, the followers of Tinbas learned that while fortune favors the bold, it smiles most kindly on those who balance their daring with wisdom and preparation.
5 Feincru
1Two rulers came to power in neighboring lands. 2One ruler, swayed by the whispers of Feincru, sought power and glory above all. 3He believed that in strength and dominance, his legacy would be secured and his name revered.
4The other ruler, wary of Feincru’s deceitful influence, chose a path of fairness and service to his people. 5He believed that a ruler’s true strength lay in the well-being and loyalty of his subjects.
6The ruler under Feincru’s spell expanded his territory through conquest and intimidation, his name becoming synonymous with fear and tyranny. 7Wealth flowed into his coffers, and his power seemed unshakeable. 8But in his pursuit of glory, he neglected the needs of his people, sowing seeds of resentment and rebellion.
9In contrast, the other ruler focused on building a just and prosperous society. 10He listened to his people’s needs, resolving disputes with fairness, and investing in the welfare of his realm. 11His people, in turn, offered him unwavering support and respect, their loyalty rooted in genuine admiration and gratitude.
12As time passed, the tyrannical ruler faced revolts and uprisings. 13His empire, built on fear and greed, crumbled from within, leaving him alone and powerless. 14The shadows of his ambition had led him to a hollow and lonely end.
15The just ruler, however, saw his realm flourish. 16His people lived in peace and prosperity, their society strong not because of fear, but because of a shared commitment to the common good.
17Thus, the followers of the gods learned that while Feincru’s path of selfish ambition might offer temporary power, it leads to downfall and isolation. 18True strength and legacy are built on the foundations of justice, service, and the genuine respect of one’s people.
Prophecies
1 The Sage
1In a time of turmoil, when wisdom’s light dims in the hearts of many, the heavens shall part, sending forth a star, bright and guiding. 2This celestial harbinger, a gift from Vunen, shall herald the rise of a new epoch.
3In its wake, a child shall be born in the land of unrest. 4Marked by the star’s light, they shall be an embodiment of Vunen’s wisdom, a vessel of enlightenment in a world shrouded in confusion.
5This child, though young and unassuming, shall walk the lands of division. 6With words and insights born of the stars, they shall weave a fabric of understanding, mending the tears of discord.
7Through their voice, unity shall blossom from the soils of conflict, and an age of peace and knowledge shall flourish. 8Known as the Sage, this child shall fulfill the will of Vunen, their deeds becoming a beacon of hope for all.
9Now, as the prophecy has come to pass, a child, born under the streaking light of the fallen star, walks among us. 10In their presence, the chaos of misunderstanding begins to still, replaced by a growing sense of unity and clarity.
11In villages and cities torn by strife, the Sage speaks, their words resonating with the wisdom of Vunen. 12Where once there was division, now there are bridges of communication and understanding.
13Peoples and nations, long at odds, now gather to hear the Sage’s teachings, finding common ground in the wisdom imparted. 14Under the guidance of this remarkable child, an era of peace and enlightenment is dawning.
2 Harbinger of the Bloom
1It was said that in an era when hearts grow cold and compassion wanes, a great bloom, nurtured by Carthana, shall appear amidst desolation. 2This blossom, radiant and healing, shall signal the beginning of a transformation.
3From its petals, a leader shall emerge, one who carries the essence of Carthana’s kindness. 4This person, ordinary in appearance yet extraordinary in spirit, shall walk among the suffering and the lost.
5Their actions, small but profound, shall ignite a flame of generosity and empathy. With every deed and every word, they shall rekindle the fading light of compassion in the hearts of many.
6Communities, long fractured by neglect and strife, shall find renewal in acts of kindness. 7Through this leader’s example, a new era of care and unity shall unfold. 8Known as the Harbinger of the Bloom, their influence shall extend far beyond their humble beginnings, embodying Carthana’s vision of a world united by compassion.
9A leader has now risen, their path marked by the appearance of a miraculous bloom in a forgotten land. Their actions, though simple, carry the weight of profound kindness.
10In towns and villages once shadowed by despair, this Harbinger of the Bloom walks, their every gesture a testament to the power of compassion. 11They share food with the hungry, offer comfort to the grieving, and help to mend what was broken.
12Witnessing their acts of kindness, people are inspired to follow suit. 13What begins as a ripple soon becomes a wave of generosity and care, transforming communities and healing long-standing wounds.
14The emergence of this era of compassion, ushered in by the Harbinger of the Bloom, stands as a fulfillment of Carthana’s prophecy. 15It serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in our darkest hours, the light of kindness can bring about a profound change in the world.
3 Beacon of the Storm
1According to the scrolls, in a time when fear grips the hearts of many, and courage seems but a faint echo of the past, a great storm, born of Ingtu’s breath, shall sweep across the land.
2From amidst the tempest, a figure shall emerge, a beacon of Ingtu’s indomitable spirit. 3Neither warrior of renown nor heralded leader, this individual shall embody the essence of true bravery.
4Their journey, marked by trials that test the spirit, shall inspire courage in the hearts of the weary. 5With each act of valor and each challenge faced, they shall rekindle the flame of bravery that lies dormant in many.
6Communities, long cowering under the shadow of dread, shall find strength in this figure’s example. 7Through their actions, a new era of courage and resilience shall dawn. 8Known as the Beacon of the Storm, their legacy shall ignite the fires of bravery across the lands.”
9As foretold by the prophecy, a great storm has ravaged the land, its might a challenge to the courage of all. 10From this chaos, the Beacon of the Storm arose, an unassuming figure whose acts of bravery became a light in the darkness.
11Facing dangers that many fled from, this individual stood firm, their actions a testament to the power of courage in the face of overwhelming odds. 12They ventured into the heart of the storm, saving those in peril and protecting the weak.
13Witnessing their bravery, people found the strength to confront their own fears. 14The once-timid and fearful began to stand up against the adversities that plagued them, their spirits bolstered by the example of the Beacon of the Storm.
4 The Future
1In times to come, a magnificent age of human grandeur and might shall unfold. 2Lands once fragmented will unify under the banner of human endeavor, their collective strength heralding a new epoch of prosperity and dominion.
3Within the ambitious and the bold, a resolute power shall awaken. 4Dreams of greatness, once mere whispers in the night, shall bloom into splendid reality, sculpting the world with visionary force.
5Leaders of this golden age, steadfast and unyielding, shall rise as pillars of this era. 6Their influence, far-reaching and profound, shall mark a time of unparalleled human achievement.
7The kingdoms of antiquity shall seamlessly blend into this new order, contributing to a grand mosaic of human aspiration and triumph. 8This unity, a testament to mankind’s resilience and innovation, shall shine as a luminous example through the ages.
9In the heart of this glorious ascension, the brilliance of human ambition is fully realized. 10The artistry of power and achievement is laid bare, a spectacle of human prowess and determination.
11Thus, the prophecy stands as a testament to a future resplendent with the splendor of humanity. 12An era where the zenith of human potential is reached, the future a canvas painted with the bold strokes of human mastery and ambition
Balance
1 Excess
1 In the early days of the world, when the gods looked upon humanity with both hope and caution, they saw within the hearts of men and women a great thirst—a thirst for power and knowledge, to bend the world to their will. 2The gods gave freely to the people, offering wisdom through Carthana, courage through Ingtu, and the strength of resolve through Ingtu. 3But with every blessing came a trial, for within every gift lies the seed of temptation. 4The people, eager for mastery, stretched their hands toward the heavens, and in their grasp they felt the pull of ambition.
5Onnatop dust, found in the far-flung reaches of the wild, is but one of many gifts whose power is double-edged. 6It may heal the wounded flesh and purge the dark sickness, but it may also cloud the mind, severing the thread of memory and identity. 7Those who seek to heal may find themselves healed, yet those who seek to forget may lose more than they intended. 8The people, when faced with this power, were divided—some sought to harness it for good, to bring light where there was none; others, driven by desire and weakness, sought it for escape, for oblivion. 9Those who forgot the teachings of the gods sought onnatop without thought of consequence, and their minds were lost to the wind.
10The gods watched and saw that too much power in the hands of those without balance leads not to strength, but to ruin. 11Carthana wept, for in their pursuit of power, the people abandoned compassion. Ingtu grew silent, for in their search for greatness, they forgot courage’s true meaning. 13Vunen spoke to the people: "Power without purpose is a flame that consumes itself. 14The dust may heal, but if it is misused, it will leave only ashes behind." 15And the people trembled, for they realized that the greatest danger was not in the onnatop dust, but in their own hearts.
16The gods saw that humanity’s unchecked thirst for power could turn even blessings into curses. 17"Beware the gifts of the world," spoke Vunen, "for they are not given lightly, and each bears its own weight." 18The people were reminded that for every gift, there is a trial, and for every blessing, there is a lesson. 19The world is full of wonders, but without wisdom, those wonders become traps.
2 Restraint
1 From the beginning, the gods gifted humanity with tools, knowledge, and strength, but with these gifts came the trial of restraint. 2Ingtu, the god of courage, taught: "Strength is not measured by what you hold, but by what you can release." 3The power to wield, to command, and to shape the world is a heavy burden, one that can lead to ruin when not handled with care.
4Carthana, the goddess of kindness, spoke: "Power, when used for others, brings prosperity, but when sought for oneself, becomes a curse. 5"The power to heal, to lead, and to build must be shared, for it was never meant for the few alone." 6Those who sought power for selfish reasons found themselves adrift, consumed by their own desires, while those who wielded it with compassion found that their communities thrived.
7Tinbas, god of cunning and luck, warned: "The game of power is not won by force alone. Power without wisdom is like a blade too sharp—it cuts both the wielder and the foe. 8"Luck may favor the bold, but the wise know that power is a tool, not an end."
9Vunen, the god of knowledge, spoke last, teaching that understanding must come before action. 10"Seek first to know the nature of power, and only then can you wield it with purpose. Those who rush into power blind will find themselves burdened by their own ignorance." 11The gods agreed that power, unchecked by knowledge and compassion, would always lead to destruction.
12Feincru, the god of selfishness, whispered from afar: "Why hesitate? The world is yours to take." 13But the people knew that without balance, even the greatest power could destroy all that had been built. 14Ingtu reminded them: "It is not the strength of your arm, but the strength of your heart that determines how power is used. 15"Let restraint guide you, and you will find that the true power lies in knowing when to hold back."
3 Ambition
1Ambition, like power, is a force that drives humanity forward, but it too must be tempered with wisdom. 2Ingtu taught: "A warrior knows when to strike and when to stay his hand, for not every battle is meant to be fought. 3Ambition without foresight is like a sword swung wildly—it brings chaos, not victory."
4Carthana spoke of ambition in the service of others: "Let your ambition raise up those around you, not tear them down. 5For ambition that serves only yourself will leave you standing alone, even at the height of your achievements." 6She reminded the people that a city built on shared ambition, where each person’s rise lifted their neighbor, was a city that would endure.
7Vunen, god of knowledge, urged the people to seek learning before they pursued their goals: "Let your ambition be guided by wisdom, for without knowledge, ambition is a blind journey. 8"Seek first to understand the road ahead, and your steps will be sure." 9Those who learned before acting found their ambitions fulfilled, while those who rushed ahead found only failure and disappointment.
10Tinbas, the god of cunning and luck, added: "Fortune may smile upon the bold, but luck runs thin for those who gamble recklessly. 11"Ambition must be paired with cunning, for the road to success is narrow, and many who pursue it blindly will stumble." 12He reminded the people that luck and ambition are not enough; foresight and wisdom must also guide their steps.
13Feincru, from the shadows, whispered to those who sought glory for themselves: "Why stop? Take all you desire, for no one will give it to you." 14But the people who listened to the wisdom of the gods knew that ambition, unchecked, would lead only to isolation and ruin. 15Ingtu spoke again: "To rise is not a sin, but to rise alone is folly. Let your ambition be the fire that warms all, not the blaze that consumes you."