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Dr. Erikson writes to Dr. Kal'tsit from Laterano, apologizing for a delayed reply and thanking her for documents delivered safely by a Messenger despite rain. He rents a house on the outskirts of Pagus Faber, where his wife Susanna, much younger and from Sargon, handles the neighbors' four haloed children. He complains that his son William rarely writes and suspects William is keeping grandchildren Harry and Dara from writing to him. He credits His Holiness Yvangelista XI's Summit of Nations for easing communication, and says he will send a package including licorice tea from Yan.
The heart of the letter concerns his manuscript, twelve years of work begun in 1086, inspired by Kal'tsit's observation after his 1085 retirement that no book offered a holistic understanding of Terra. He explains his choices: opening with Originium, Catastrophe, and Oripathy; glossing over harsh details; sometimes omitting facts or using less reliable sources to reach desensitized readers; and struggling with a chapter on racial differences, which he is ashamed to discuss. He cut much on Sargon at Susanna's request, replaced it with material on Columbia, and is least satisfied with his treatment of Yan. Chapter Five was revised at Rhodes Island's request.
Writing as Edgar Hastings-Mercato, he questions sensitive documents Rhodes Island sent him concerning the Reunion Movement, and argues against publishing them: war now frightens people more than Oripathy, and revelations about Londinium could divert attention from Oripathy sufferers and the industrial workers exposed to Originium, risking social upheaval.
Kal'tsit replies that his loved ones are safe, endorses his choices, suggests shortening the book's title, confirms she sent the materials as a friend, and advises him to hold his beliefs and "let go of Victoria." A margin note by "erikson" asks whether he should mourn for his family, and says he fears he must mourn for Victoria.
In December 1099, Erikson, ninety, writes that ripples in the sky between November 21st and 22nd convinced him the "Startide" is bunk, and ponders whether Terra's separation of earth and sky is natural or man-made. He has bought the Faber house, left it and the key to William, and tells him he becomes ninth Baron Mercato on January 1st, 1100. He and Susanna will visit Rhodes Island with the revised draft, now titled simply "Terra: A Journey." Kal'tsit welcomes the visit and arranges transport.
Dr. Erikson writes to Dr. Kal'tsit, apologizing for his delayed reply since March and thanking her for documents delivered safely by a Messenger through heavy rain. He has enjoyed cross-referencing them with public sources and asks her to thank the company's public relations department. He is renting a place on the outskirts of Pagus Faber in Laterano, which is peaceful but occupied by neighbors' four haloed children, aged twelve to seventeen, whom the younger Susanna, being from Sargon, handles with ease while he envies her energy. Victoria seems to be improving, but his son William rarely writes; Erikson would rather believe William holds a grudge about his father remarrying a younger woman than that Londinium rumors are the cause. He admits he is not the best father but believes he never set a bad moral example, since William was already married when he remarried. He resents that William apparently prevents grandchildren Harry and Dara, now of college age, from writing to him—issues between father and son should not pass to grandchildren, especially when he, a fellow and retired president of Victorian National University, could help them. He thanks His Holiness Yvangelista XI for hosting the Summit of Nations, which has eased communication and brought him documents and regional products. He will send a package including licorice tea from Yan, recommending she brew it with hot water, pull out the slender white roots, and add sugar, and asks whether her company has contacts at Pikas Co., since the flavor would suit their potato chips.
He then hesitates, imagining her scrutiny, and reveals that the enclosed manuscript—aside from minor editorial adjustments—is final. It is the product of twelve years of work begun in 1086, which he hopes to extend to showcase sixty years of his work to humanity. He recalls that when he retired in 1085, she pointed out that despite a booming publishing industry, no book helped people understand Terra holistically. Searching the library at Victorian National University, he found works like Kazimierz: A History, How to Dine with Dignity in Londinium, and the Deity Grypherburg Bathing Guide, but nothing like "An Overview of Terra." Now, in 1099, on the eve of a new century, no such book exists; perhaps his forebears were cursed, or perhaps he is too, considering his son. The manuscript survived drafting, has not been blown up, burned, or lost to Catastrophe, and he gave it a hardcover, protective binding, silk bookmark, and shockproof jacket as both respect for her and a ritual of resolve. Should it turn to dust in transit, he has extra copies and might try Columbia's polycarbon steel—though he jokes he does not believe in curses.
Assuming she has finished reviewing the draft titled Terra: A Journey, The Debut Work of Dr. E. E. Erikson, etc. (Draft Twenty-Three, Possibly Twenty-Four, which he refuses to revise further), he owes an explanation. He originally conceived the book as a cultural primer introducing nations, promoting historical knowledge, and fostering mutual understanding, conversational in tone. But the latest version opens with the chapter "Originium, Catastrophe, Oripathy," and he has smoothed over harsher details. These three topics are unavoidable and crucial, yet virtually no published material exists on them, fostering an illusion they are unimportant. He could not take a purely academic approach or the chapter would become like a "scripture" read but not understood, nor like The Crystal Age, full of factual reports with no useful conclusions. He assumed most people are desensitized to suffering and doomsday prophecies, so he simply answers "What are Originium, Catastrophes, and Oripathy?"—slipping in assertions without enough evidence, using less-reliable sources, and omitting facts. He cites controversial publications like The First Leap knowingly, did not overlook either Professor Lierlands, and trusts she can distinguish deliberate errors from senility; no author is completely objective.
Chapter Three contains greater pitfalls. Public opinion on its topics is heading in the wrong direction; most Laterans are unaware, but foreigners in Laterano feel it. He dare not delve further—not from fear of critique, but because he subconsciously regards the topic as taboo and shameful. "Racial differences have never been the most pressing issue in Terran society" is fact, but also his way of ducking the issue; he begs her not to ask whether, after a lifetime hiding in murky mud, something has truly disappeared. Chapter Four covers lighter topics—his favorite content, the reason he wrote the book, coincidentally tying into His Holiness Evangelista XI's recent radio broadcast. He regrets not devoting more pages to nations and cities; he would have included the full Deity Grypherburg Bathing Guide or described preparing Leithanian nut cake—sliced, arranged, topped with fruit, syrup, and cystylmilk cream. Space forced him to cut much on Sargon, which is too vast and diverse; even basic information would have become lists of names and titles. Susanna also objected to including certain "secrets" she revealed, and he must respect his partner's wishes, though he can share details privately. He replaced that section with material on Columbia.
Columbia, he writes, appears influenced by thinkers like Charles-Louis de la Brède and Jean Locke yet more refined, raising doubts the system originated in Gaul, whose failed reform never implemented it; and Columbia cannot answer what happens when a great power abandons monarchy. The public is overly optimistic, and meaningful conclusions await Mark Max leaving the political stage. His introduction to Yan satisfies him least: Yan is as large as Sargon, more diverse, reserved and isolated, indifferent to the rest of Terra, while "Core" residents' argumentativeness biases discussion of modern Yan. He dislikes the term "Core"—a center implies a periphery, an unnecessary exclusionary concept—but people love using it, and critics may demand he explain why their country is excluded; if any passage forces him to flee Laterano, it could be this one. In the Countries and Regions chapter he omitted certain political regimes; the situation is extremely complicated, they deserve independent chapters, and plans are made.
Chapter Five was revised per the request of Dr. Kal'tsit and her company, whose suggestions went beyond commercial interests. Then the letter shifts: "the following comments are not my own, but those of Edgar Hastings-Mercato." Hastings-Mercato asks whether the sensitive documents received alongside the Overview of Enterprises, Organizations, and Associations were meant for him and authentic. He observes the Chernobog-Lungmen incident, given how it ended, doesn't rank among the most serious bloodshed events—it may have given Islam Witte a headache but Fyodor Vladimirovich likely didn't take it seriously; politically it shook neither Ursus nor Yan, and three years of hindsight show concerns were unwarranted. But if the Reunion Movement is truly as the documents describe, the situation might shift elsewhere. He trusts her but hesitates to drop that "bombshell" given Victoria's political climate since '94. His great-grandfather Erik was somewhat a Duke of Victoria, making him a "half-noble"; as such, he struggles to see how revealing the information would aid stability or mutual understanding. Bluntly, despite the dukes' efforts, Victoria has uncovered too many of her own secrets lately. If certain people discovered "such a person" was still alive, it would not be pretty; stirring Londinium now could accelerate the trend away from focusing on Originium and Oripathy across Terra.
He asserts that humanity has always feared death and always will; people eat, drink, and avoid those with Oripathy to escape death. This fear motivated the systems Terra has today—agriculture, water supply, sewage, Oripathy prevention—and the consistently high Oripathy rates since the Crystal Age drove real advances in research and treatment. But people now fear something deadlier: war. In the //th century, Terra has witnessed more death than ever; the War of the Four Nations nearly wiped out the agricultural population surge, and most of his generation lost friends or family to war—more than even Oripathy has killed. This prompts deeper discussion among the insightful but diverts public attention from Oripathy, a trend reflected in sixty years of academic publications. These discussions don't always aim at prevention: multinational military corporations like Raythean and Blacksteel have risen, and tensions increased. To common folk, war is two groups killing each other; to elites, it is an economic opportunity—cartloads of grain from Gaul to Londinium, or a chance for Kazimierz's old knights to escape the General Chamber of Commerce—a tool of negotiation and problem-solving. He fears nations will wield war in increasingly complex ways, so information that could fan flames must be released with utmost caution. Shifting attention from Oripathy would worsen alienation of sufferers. In Victoria, Originium mining and industry employ millions; in Leithanien and Columbia, hundreds of thousands (Ursus data unclear). These workers breathe Originium particles daily; when one falls ill, another fills their spot, each ground down like a cog. He believes an irreversible demographic trend is starting: some enjoy industrialization's benefits while others become its fuel, giving their lives for advancements they will never enjoy; once poverty or patriotism pushes workers into the meat grinder, there is no escape. If millions decide they've "had enough," he dreads what would become of cities, order, civilization. Sometimes one spark ignites the powder keg; therefore he strongly opposes releasing information about the Reunion Movement or its leaders, and has excluded it from the manuscript. Tensions escalate between Leithanien and Kazimierz, and Kazimierz and Ursus, but Victoria retains the dignity and capability to maintain order; the grand dukes' withdrawal from Londinium's outskirts suggests agreement among parties, and neither Yan nor Sargon cares about external affairs. Victoria's mediation should prevent major conflicts, buying time for humanity to refocus. If there is something he can do for Terra, she need only ask; Susanna and he are ready.
Dr. Kal'tsit replies, setting pleasantries aside. Londinium faces public service challenges, but basic security has improved under the new government. His loved ones are safe and uninvolved in incidents; Rhodes Island will not abandon friends and will step in if needed. She can offer little advice on his relationship with William, lacking experience with such sensitive matters, but believes his care is mutual and will yield positive results. She apologizes if her attitude caused misunderstanding—she never regarded him as an object of "observation"—and holds his career in the highest regard. She has read the "Magnum Opus" in its entirety, thanks him, believes it conveys truthful and useful information to the fullest extent possible, respects his concerns, and has one suggestion: even removing the draft clause leaves a title far too long; "Terra: A Journey" would be fine. Addressing him as the Eighth Baron Hercato (a margin note by "rikson" indicates this letter describes the version first sent, and subsequent chapter numbers have been adjusted), she confirms she sent those materials—not from malice, to educate, or to use him as a mouthpiece—and trusts his independent judgment, intentions, and conscience; as friend and patron, it was her duty to tell him truths concerning him. His assessment of Victoria is accurate and his concerns likely to become reality; the new government is diligent but limited, and the land faces a political power vacuum as before. Avoiding a topic will not spare its consequences, but Originium and Oripathy matter more to her than war, which causes immense harm yet pales beside the challenges Originium poses. To his request for advice: hold fast to his beliefs, let go of Victoria, and choose to truly reside among all people, in all places. They shall meet again; the Business Department will relay his feedback to Pikas Co.
Erikson writes again on the early morning of December 6th, 1099, warning that at ninety his mind may ramble. He may have chosen a poor time to publish: 1099 is extraordinary, and events have overturned long-held beliefs. He asks whether she looked at the sky between November 21st and 22nd; the ripples there convinced him the so-called "Startide" is pure bunk—the "chaos" of the stars is an illusion, and they follow a hidden order like everything on Terra. "Why would the heavens ever conceal the truth?" has nearly driven him mad; he has slept poorly and lashed out at neighborhood children. He realizes modern science favors technological advancement over fundamental principles: we know minerals' uses but not how they form; we take land and sky as eternal, though industry shapes mountains and cities leave waste and scars. With no basis for comparison, the recent discoveries force questions: Has Terra always been this way? Why are its earth and sky so firmly separated from observation and travel? Is the separation natural or man-made? If built by hands, are we tearing down a protective wall or breaking shackles? Do beings live on the other side, and could it be a new home? People everywhere are asking. One night he came to a realization: he was hungry. Susanna resolved it, but Kal'tsit surely understands what he is conveying. He believes Rhodes Island will continue aiding this land and that people like her remain the era's best hope.
In a postscript he thanks her for help returning from Londinium to Laterano and for all letters; he was gathering information on Nuova Volsinii and New Siesta and forgot to reply. He notes the surge of "New" city names, particularly in Columbia, and wonders if the species is running out of ideas. He has come to terms with Victoria's future; though his relationship with William needs time, he has purchased the Faber house and left it, and everything in it, to William—key and address enclosed, deed processed through a notary. He asks her to tell William that as of January 1st, 1100, he will be the ninth Baron Mercato of Victoria, inheriting County Mercato and some former Hastings land, to do with as he sees fit. Susanna and he will set out before month's end, visiting Rhodes Island briefly—he will bring the first edited draft of Terra: A Journey, retitled as suggested, with many revisions—and then proceed with earlier plans. He has heard the potato chips are finally reaching market. Kal'tsit's brief reply welcomes him, says the Doctor and she look forward to the visit, and promises to arrange transportation despite the difficult route; he should discuss details with the Messenger.
A margin note by "erikson" adds: the Doctor is wise and never acts carelessly; he was simply slow to realize it. What she wrote, and the conclusions he drew from it, will soon become reality if they haven't already. He asks whether he should mourn for his family, and fears he must mourn for Victoria.
PH.D E.E ERIKSON
Dear Dr. Kal'tsit,
I truly did not expect you to respond to my request so swiftly, and I am immensely grateful. I, on the other hand, have been tied up with various matters since March, and it's taken me until today to write you this letter—my sincerest apologies for the delay. I received the documents you mentioned earlier. The Messenger did an excellent job. It was pouring rain when he arrived, yet none of the documents got wet. The information in the documents has been incredibly valuable. I've greatly enjoyed cross-referencing them with publicly available sources. Please extend my thanks to your company's public relations department.
As for me, I'm doing well, though from what I can tell, Susanna seems to be doing far better than I am. As you know, Laterano is not exactly the ideal place for convalescence. I'm renting a place on the outskirts of Pagus Faber. It's relatively far from the city center and kind of "peaceful". But my neighbors have four children with halos—four of them! The youngest turned twelve this year, and the oldest is still just seventeen. As a result, Susanna is practically consumed by the daily challenge of handling these little devils (please don't mention my comments to the Sanktas). She's much younger than me and, being from Sargon, handles it with ease. I have to admit, I envy her energy—I just want to sleep.
Though there's not much news, things in Victoria seem to be improving. Unfortunately, William does not write me very often. Honestly, I'd rather accept he's still holding a grudge about my marrying someone younger than him than believe it has anything to do with those rumors in Londinium. You and I discussed this years ago. I know I am not exactly the best father. That's no secret. But at least, morally, I don't think I ever set a bad example for him (he was already married by the time I remarried, so that doesn't count). Besides, even if he had issues with me, he shouldn't be preventing little Harry and Dara from writing to me—issues between father and son shouldn't be passed down to the grandchildren! They're both of college age now—just think how much I, a fellow and a retired president of Victorian National University, could help them!
Don't ask me how I know William's behind this—I just know. My grandchildren are wonderful and well-behaved. I have a good relationship with them. If William drags them into his... sigh, I don't even know why I'm writing this, but doctor, you've always been willing to listen to me prattle on about my family, so thank you for your patience.
Look at that, I've spent nearly a whole page complaining—so unlike me.
Let's pivot to something more positive. I am eternally grateful to His Holiness Yvangelista XI for hosting the Summit of Nations. It's now much easier for "ordinary" Lateran residents to communicate. This summit has allowed me to gather a treasure trove of documents and unique regional products from friends across this great land. And thank the heavens for keeping them safe! I feared they would all be blown to smithereens before reaching my hands. I'll be sending a package along with this letter. In addition to the items we discussed, I plan to include some of the local specialties I mentioned earlier, though I'll have to see how much space is left in the box after I finish writing. I imagine you'll open the letter first, so if I'm right, consider these "extra items" a surprise!
Of course, I'll definitely include a few large bags of licorice tea I brought from Yan. If you haven't tried this drink before, I highly recommend it. As an old Feline, I doubt any of our kind could resist this
Ph.D E.E. ERIKSON
flavor. Just brew it with hot water. The first time you try it, I suggest that you tear open the packet, pull out the long, slender white roots inside, and add a bit of sugar. However you choose to drink it, I strongly urge you to try it out. Feel free to share it with your colleagues in the Medical Department! Actually, speaking of which, could you see if your company has any contacts at Pikas Co.? This licorice flavor would go excellent with their potato chips.
As I write this, I can imagine your sharp eyes scrutinizing me. Your glaring is making me hesitate, as I repeatedly raise and lower my pen. You know I'm procrastinating—no one appreciates when I do that, no?
Sigh, I really shouldn't delay any longer. This letter will sail across the vast expanse, but it's still just a few sheets of paper, so thin that it can block neither light nor the critical scrutiny of a learned peer.
I can imagine it now. You, Dr. Kal'tsit of Rhodes Island, shall receive this letter and open it. You shall hold my manuscript in your hands.
That thought does give me a bit of hesitation.
But the version of the manuscript you've received, aside from minor editorial adjustments, is final. This manuscript is the product of twelve years of painstaking work which I started in 1086. Actually, I hope it will stretch beyond that. My ultimate aim is to showcase the entire sixty years of my work to all of humanity.
I've mentioned this to you before, but I will repeat it here again, even though this section probably won't make it into the official preface (which is why I haven't written it into the manuscript).
When I retired in 1085, you pointed out that, even though the publishing industry was booming, there wasn't a single book that helped people understand this great land holistically. After you left, I scoured the library at Victorian National University, and discovered that you were indeed right. We have Kazimierz: A History, How to Dine with Dignity in Londinium, and even the Deity Grypherburg Bathing Guide, yet there isn't a single book called "An Overview of Terra" or something of the like. It made me think, "why hadn't I realized that we needed such a book before?" Why hadn't I thought of writing such a book myself? I thought to myself, "countless others have traveled this great land before me. Where are their books? Could it be that they were all cursed?"
It is now the year 1099. We are about to enter a new century, and we still don't have a single book on "Terran" history. Maybe my forebears really were cursed. Maybe I'm the only one who isn't cursed—then again, considering my son, I very well may be cursed too. Regardless, after twelve years of drafts, I've sifted the wheat from the chaff, and you now hold that harvest in your hands. It hasn't been blown up, burned, or lost to Catastrophe. And look, I even went through the trouble of giving it a hardcover, a protective binding, a silk bookmark, and a shockproof jacket. This is not only a symbol of the respect you deserve as my friend, doctor, but also a sort of "ritual" for me to solidify my own resolve. If the so-called curse truly does take effect, and this letter reaches you but the manuscript turns to dust, just know that I've done everything I could to protect it. Of course, if that happens, I still have plenty of extra copies of the book. Maybe next time, I'll consider using Columbia's new polycarbon steel.
Ha! Surely, you don't think I actually believe in curses!
In any case, if this humble work makes it to you in its intended form, I sincerely ask you to read it (not that I expect you to ignore me). Once you've finished reading it, I suspect I'll have some explaining to do.
So, assuming by now you've completed your review of Terra: A Journey, The Debut Work of Dr. E. E.
PH.D EE RIKSON
Erikson, Written for His Dear People and in Turn You the Reader, Following His Twenty-Three Years of . Travel and Fifty-One-and-a-Half Years of Teaching, or "A Survey of Terra" (Draft Twenty-Three, Possibly Twenty-Four, which from Hereon I Categorically Will Not Revise any Further, No, I Refuse), I thank you for your time. I think I've already said "thank you" several times in this letter, and I'll likely say it again later. Please don't mind my poor choice of words. Even though I haven't mentioned the sunshine, the spring breeze, or the morning song of the fowlbeasts (which in Laterano is more likely to be an explosion), or used those Sargonian metaphors about roses, daisies, and camellias, my gratitude has never diminished in the slightest... But I digress again—I'll get back to it right away... Yes, the explanation—I owe you an explanation.
First, there's an issue that demands clarification. As we've discussed on.and off since 1086, I originally conceived this book as "a cultural primer which would introduce the various nations, promote general knowledge about history, and foster mutual understanding among humans". I wanted it to be detailed enough to have credibility, but concise enough to keep the readers' attention. I had planned to use a more conversational tone to "chat" with the readers about my decades of experiences and talk about tea and flowers. But recently, as you can see, I decided to switch things up. This latest version starts with the chapter, "Originium, Catastrophe, Oripathy". You'll also notice that I've smoothed over some of the harsher details, giving a slightly prettier picture of this land—what you might consider to be glossing over the facts.
You know that even trying to describe any one of these three topics: Originium, Catastrophes, or Oripathy, is no simple task. But I had no choice but to start with them, not only because they're such unavoidable and crucial factors in our society, but also because there are virtually no published materials on the subject, which seems to foster the illusion that they are "unimportant" (more on this later). However, I couldn't take a purely academic approach. Otherwise, the chapter would have lost all meaning. It would have turned into one of those "scriptures" that everyone reads at southern festivals but no one understands. I also wanted to avoid making it like that old book The Crystal Age (I mean no disrespect to its author), which offered lengthy, factual reports but no useful conclusions. On the other hand, I did want to ensure the book was mainly factual, and not just a compilation of my own personal opinions. The reason for this is based on experience: I had to assume that most ordinary people on this great land, after repeatedly hearing about suffering and doomsday prophecies, have become desensitized to it. This has hardened their perceptions of Originium, Catastrophes, and Oripathy, which I cannot easily challenge. The approach I adopted simply attempts to answer one key question: "What are Originium, Catastrophes, and Oripathy?" I've slipped in some of my own assertions, without offering quite enough supporting evidence. I've used a few less-than-reliable source materials, and I've left out several details that I know to be factual. As you'll notice later in the manuscript, I employ this method quite frequently, each time for similar reasons.
I've cited publications like The First Leap, which may be somewhat controversial in academic circles, but that doesn't mean I'm unaware of or ignoring that controversy. I also did not intentionally overlook the works of both Professor Lierlands, senior and junior. As for other errors or omissions in the manuscript, I trust you will be able to distinguish between those I made deliberately and those resulting from my senility—after all, no author can be completely objective while writing. My writing is certainly influenced by my opinions, my intentions, and my conscience.
There's no doubt that Chapter Three contains even greater potential pitfalls. Unfortunately, based on my observations, public opinion on the concepts discussed in this chapter seems to be heading in the wrong direction. I'm fairly sure that most Laterans are unaware of this trend in society, but any foreigner living in Laterano likely experiences it to some extent. However, I dare not delve further into this topic here. It's not because I fear their critique, doctor, but because—I've just now realized—I also, subconsciously, regard this topic as taboo, as a source of shame. Here's the truth: I am ashamed to discuss the topic of one of the chapters of my own book with a fellow scholar, though I know open discussion can never change the underlying facts. "Racial differences have never been the most pressing issue in Terran society" is a statement of fact, but it is also my way of ducking the issue. I beg of you, do not ask me the following question: Even if it's spent my entire life hiding in the shadows of the murky mud, have I truly disappeared?
Chapter Four, by contrast, deals with lighter topics (as mentioned earlier, throughout the book, I've tried to ensure that my readers feel at ease). The content in this chapter... is why I wrote the book in the first place, and it's where I've spent the most effort. Coincidentally, it also ties in with His Holiness Evangelista XI's recent radio broadcast. But when it comes to the nations of Terra, I have so much more to say. My main regret is that I couldn't allow myself to devote more pages to a detailed introduction of the various nations and major cities. Ah, if I could, I would have included the full text of the Deity Grypherburg Bathing Guide, or at the very least given a more detailed description of how to prepare and serve Leithanian nut cake—how people carefully cut it into slices, arrange the slices on plates, top them with fresh fruit, and drizzle them with syrup and a touch of cystylmilk cream... I suppose I'll have to save such wonderful things for another time.
Space limitations also forced me to cut a large portion of the content on Sargon. That southern nation is simply too vast, too diverse, and too different from us'. Even providing basic information about Sargon would have resulted in a long list of names, titles, strange and strange terms, so I decided to cut most of it out of it. There were also certain things that Susanna objected including in the book. Although as I call it, didn't take much effort to get her to reveal many of Sargon's "secrets". However, she never intended for those remarks to be shared publicly, and I must respect my partner's wishes. If you're interested, I can share the details later, and you can judge for yourself if they really need to remain confidential. However, for now, I've replaced that section with material on Columbia.
From the perspective of people like us, Columbia is quite a peculiar country. Her political structure seems to be influenced by thinkers like Charles-Louis de la Brède and Jean Locke, yet it appears much more refined. This raises doubts about whether the system truly originated in Gaul, as widely claimed—especially since the people of Gaul, with their failed reform, never implemented such a system themselves. Moreover, for well-known reasons, Columbia cannot provide an answer to the question of "what happens when a great power abandons monarchy?". I must say the public is overly optimistic about Columbia, and any meaningful conclusions about the country likely won't be drawn until after Mark Max leaves the political stage.
PH.D EE ERIKSON
My introduction to Yan is the content I'm the least satisfied with. Yan is almost as large as Sargon, but she is even more diverse and unique. Although I tried my best to recount my experiences in Yan in the book, I suspect that if I were to travel there again today, the country would be rather different. At the same time, Yan is so reserved and isolated. As if she has no concern for anything happening on the rest of Terra. We, as residents of the "Core", tend to be argumentative, which often leads to biases when discussing modern Yan. These factors make it hard for me to find a way to promote better understanding of this nation.
Speaking of the "Core", you can imagine how much the media in Kazimierz would have to say about this. The notion of a "center" inherently implies a "periphery". This is an exclusionary concept that is entirely unnecessary. Personally, I dislike the term "Core", but the fact remains that people today love to use the term. I can already hear the critics asking me to "explain why their country isn't considered part of the Core". Throughout the book, I have deliberately avoided writing anything that might offend certain groups of people. However, if there is any passage that would force me to flee Laterano, it could very well be this one.
In the Countries and Regions of Terra chapter, you will also notice that I've clearly omitted some content that should have been included, or rather, certain political regimes that deserve attention. I could justify this by saying, "I don't know much about that country" or "this region is no longer widely recognized as a country". But you know that the situation is extremely complicated for certain political regimes. Before you blame me, let me clarify: They deserve their own independent chapters, and I've already made plans for that.
Chapter Five underwent major revisions per the request of you and your company. I can tell your company's suggestions for this chapter took more than just commercial interests into account, and I appreciate that. While I may have preferred to write about other groups and organizations, I myself, Edgar Everett Erikson, have decided to fully respect your suggestions.
With that in mind, the following comments are not my own, but those of Edgar Hastings - Mercato.
I'm not sure if there was a mistake with the reference materials Rhodes Island sent, but along with the Overview of Enterprises, Organizations, and Associations, I received some highly sensitive documents. I need to confirm with you whether they were meant for me and if they are authentic.
Among the many bloodshed events in modern Terra, the Chernobog-Lungmen incident shouldn't be overlooked. However, due to how it ended, it doesn't quite rank among the most serious. It may have given Islam Witte a headache for a few weeks, but Fyodor Vladimirovich likely didn't take it too seriously. Politically, it didn't shake Ursus or Yan, nor did it impact the broader international landscape. As the past three years have shown, all the concerns that arose from it were unwarranted.
However, if the Reunion Movement is truly as described in the documents you sent, the situation might shift elsewhere.
I trust you, and I have no doubt that what you say is true. However, I am still hesitant to drop that "bombshell" given the political climate that has persisted in Victoria since '94. As you know,
PH.D EE RIKSON
my great-grandfather Erik was somewhat of a Duke of Victoria, and this, for better or worse, has made me a "half-noble" in the parlance of our times. As a half-noble, I struggle to see how revealing this information would contribute to social stability or foster mutual understanding.
Let me skip over some details that we both already know. To put it bluntly, despite the dukes' efforts to control information, I believe Victoria has uncovered too many of her own secrets lately, each bringing its own consequences. I don't want to overstate the potential impact of this book, but if the people of Victoria—especially a certain segment of them—were to discover that "such a person" was still alive, it would not be pretty. You'll surely remember that earlier in this letter, I mentioned a societal shift away from focusing on Originium and Oripathy. I fear that if I were to stir up Londinium with this news right now, it could accelerate this trend across all of Terra.
Why? Let me make an assumption, or rather, an assertion: Humanity has always feared death and always will. While I won't equate this with fundamental questions like "what is our destination," accepting this basic truth from the experience of life allows us to better understand and analyze human behavior.
People eat so they don't starve to death; people drink water to avoid dying of thirst; people stay away from those with Oripathy to avoid contracting a disease that will ultimately kill them.
This natural fear of death gives humans the motivation to avoid it, and that motivation has driven us to create many of the systems Terra has today: Agriculture, water supply, sewage systems, and Oripathy prevention efforts—before questioning whether the term "prevention" is appropriate, we must first acknowledge that the consistently high rates of Oripathy since the Crystal Age have, in fact, led to significant advancements in the research, understanding, and treatment of the disease.
But now, people fear something even more terrifying than Oripathy or Catastrophes, something that brings death on a larger scale: war.
In the //th century, Terra has witnessed more death than ever before. The War of the Four Nations almost wiped out the population surge driven by agricultural advances. In my generation, the vast majority of people have lost either friends or family to the flames of war. Nothing in history has brought as much death as modern warfare, not even Oripathy. This has added unprecedented gravity to the risks and consequences of the wars our nations face.
It is a double-edged sword. While it prompts deeper discussions on war among insightful individuals, it also diverts public attention from issues like Oripathy. The shift in academic publications over the past sixty years undoubtedly reflects this trend.
However, these discussions about war are not always focused on preventing it. Instead, we've also seen the rise of multinational military corporations like Raythean and Blacksteel, not to mention the increasing tension between nations.
I believe we can look at war in two different ways. First, war is a harbinger of death and destruction. To the "common folk", the simplest definition of war is, "Two opposing groups of people killing each other". However, to the "uncommon folk" (elites), wars are economic opportunities—cartloads of grain shipped from Gaul to Londinium, or a chance for Kazimierz's old knights to break
PH.D E.E RIKSON
free from the General Chamber of Commerce. For them, war is a tool, a means of negotiation, and a method for solving problems. I, along with many others, fear that in the near future, nations will wield war in increasingly complex and unpredictable ways—leading to consequences far more devastating than we can imagine. For this reason, I believe we must act with the utmost responsibility and caution when releasing any information that could fan the flames of war.
Furthermore, any shift of attention away from Oripathy, even a potential one, would only worsen society's alienation of those suffering from the disease. I'm no doctor. So why am I so concerned with Oripathy sufferers? It's not just because I sympathize with their suffering: I've also noticed an alarming trend.
Originium causes Oripathy: the more one is exposed to Originium, the higher the risk of contracting the disease—this is common knowledge among the educated. In Victoria, the Originium mining and industrial sectors employ millions, and in Leithanien and Columbia, hundreds of thousands (note: as of this writing, we don't have clear employment data for Ursus). These people breathe in Originium particles and consume Originium dust on a daily basis. When one worker falls ill, another quickly fills their spot, and the cycle repeats, with each worker ground down like a cog in the relentless industrial machine.
I firmly believe we are witnessing the start of this massive, irreversible demographic trend: Some fully enjoy the benefits of modern industrialization, while others become the fuel that drives it forward, giving their lives to advancements that they will likely never enjoy. Once poverty and/ or patriotism push workers into the meat grinder, there is no escape.
This is not even about fairness. Before seeking status, class, or political power, humans first strive to survive. If one day, millions or tens of millions of people decide they've "had enough"... I dread to think what would become of our cities, our social order, our entire civilization.
Sometimes, all it takes is a spark to ignite the powder keg. Therefore, I strongly oppose releasing any information about the Reunion Movement or its leaders. As such, I've refrained from including any relevant content in the manuscript. I ask for your understanding.
Currently, tensions are escalating between Leithanien and Kazimierz, as well as between Kazimierz and Ursus. However, it is somewhat comforting that Victoria seems to retain the dignity and capability to maintain international order. Recently, the grand dukes have withdrawn from the outskirts of Londinium, which leads me to suspect that all parties have reached an agreement. Neither Yan nor Sargon show interest in affairs beyond their borders. As long as Victoria stays stable and her internal powers' remain balanced, her mediation should prevent major conflicts.
This may buy Terran society enough time for humanity to refocus on the pressing issues at hand.
PH.D EE RIKSON
If you believe there is still something I can do for Terra, please let me know. Susanna and I are both ready.
Sincerely Yours, E. E. Erikson, Ph.D. F.R.V.A.S., &c, of Victoria
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Dear Edgar,
Allow me to set the pleasantries aside for now.
The city of Londinium is currently facing some challenges in public services, but basic security has already improved thanks to the efforts of the new government.
Your loved ones are all safe; they haven't been caught up in any incidents. Rhodes Island won't abandon our friends. If the situation requires, we will step in. Please do not worry.
Thank you for contacting us, and thanks for the gift.
I am glad to hear that you and your wife are doing well in Laterano.
Unfortunately, I can only reassure you of their safety. I can only offer little in the way of thoughtful advice regarding your relationship with your son. This is simply because I lack experience in handling such sensitive matters. However, I believe the care and concern you have for your family is mutual, and that will yield positive results in the near future.
I apologize if my attitude caused any misunderstanding. I assure you that was not my intent. I have never regarded you as an object of 'observation'.
Furthermore, please understand that I hold your career in the highest regard.
Terra: A Journey, The Debut Work of Dr. E.E. Erikson, Written for His Dear People and in Turn You the Reader, Following His Twenty-Three Years of Travel and Fifty-One-and-a-Half Years of Teaching, or 'A Survey of Terra' (Draft Twenty-Three, Possibly Twenty-Four, which from Hereon I Categorically Will Not Revise any Further, No, I Refuse (hereafter referred to simply as the 'Magnum Opus' — I have read it in its entirety.
I believe I have shared my opinions with you extensively throughout the writing process and feel they were given due consideration, for which I am deeply honored.
Also, I thank you for your kindness. Overall, I believe this great work has conveyed truthful and useful information to the fullest extent possible.
On that basis, I have no objections to your concerns. We, as readers, should always respect an authors choices.
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I have only one small suggestion for you: Even if you removed the last part of the title: Draft Twenty-Three, Possibly Twenty-Four, which from Hereon I Categorically Will Not Revise any Further, No, I Refuse)," you would still be left with 'Terra: A Journey, The Debut Work of Dr. E.E. Erikson, Written for His Dear People and in Turn You the Reader, Following His Twenty-Three Years of Travel and Fifty-One-and-a-Half Years of Teaching, or "A Survey of Terra," which, for a book title, still feels a bit too long. From my perspective, as a reader, I think "Terra: A Journey" is a fine title for your magnum opus, and I hope you consider it.
Below, I will address the concerns and questions you have raised, in your capacity as the Eighth Baron Hercato. I am the one who sent you those materials. But my actions were not driven by malice, a desire to educate or enlighten you, nor any intention to use you as my mouthpiece. As to the content of your magnum opus, I have always your independant judgement and have never doubted your stance, intentions, or conscience. I simply believe that, as your friend and patron, it is my duty to tell you certain truths, especially those that concern you. To put it plainly, if I did not trust you, I would not have told you all that I have already told you.
Your assessment of the situation in Victoria is accurate, and I'm afraid your concerns are likely to become reality. The new government is Londinium is diligent and responsible, but also has its limits. This land is currently facing a political power vacuum—much like it had countless times before. Therefore, while I believe avoiding a topic will not spare its consequences, your perspective on Originium and Oripathy holds far greater importance in my eyes: war causes immense harm and should be avoided whenever possible, but it pales in comparison to the challenges posed by Originium.
I need not explain further, as the truth lies with you.
At the end of your letter, you requested my advice. My answer is as follows: Hold fast to your own beliefs. Let go of Victoria, and choose to truly reside there, in all places, among all people.
We shall meet again. I wish you the best of luck with your magnum opus,
Sincerely,
[?]
P.S. I have instructed the Business Department to relay your suggestions and feedback on the product to the Pikas Co..
Ph.D EE RIKSON
Dear Dr. Kal'tsit,
It's the early morning of December 6th, 1099. Please forgive me, as my mind has not fully returned from the distant place it has wandered to. I am also, as you know, ninety years of age. Thus, I apologize in advance for any incoherent or awkward moments that may follow in this letter.
First, I may have chosen a less-than-ideal time to publish my book. 1099 is destined to be an extraordinary year, with so many events in the past year challenging, or even overturning, some of my long-held beliefs about Terra. Admittedly, much of this land still appears as it always has, but no matter how calm the surface of the water may seem, a single stone can create hundreds of ripples. Speaking of ripples, have you looked up at the sky recently, particularly between November 21st and 22nd? Surely, you have seen it, just as I have.
Let me be frank with you—the ripples in the sky have convinced me that the so-called "Startide" is pure bunk. The "chaos" of the stars is an illusion. They, like everything on Terra, follow a hidden order and logic. Just look up, and you'll see the truth.
Why would the heavens ever conceal the truth?
This question has nearly driven me mad over the past two weeks. I haven't slept well, I can't enjoy my tea, and I've even lashed out at the neighborhood children over trivial matters.
During these days, I've come to realize that modern science is more focused on technological advancement than exploring fundamental principles. We know the uses of various minerals, but we neither understand nor care to understand how they form or why they exist in the first place. We take the land beneath our feet and the sky above our heads for granted, as if they are eternal and unchanging landscapes. The mountains, though shaped by industry, remain mountains, while the cities leave only waste and the scars of their machinery in their wake. Human effort was once powerless against what seemed eternal—but look at us now! Look at that sky!
We only know of our own land and our own sky, leaving us with no basis for comparison. However, in light of the discoveries two weeks ago, we must ask the question: Has Terra always been this way, from the beginning of history? Was it created this way? Why are Terra's earth and sky so firmly separated from observation and travel? Is this separation a natural force, which humans are now tearing apart—or is it a man-made construct? If it were built by human hands, are we tearing down a wall that protects us, or breaking free from shackles that bind us? Do beings like us—humans and beasts—live on the other side of the sky? Could we make that place, wherever it is, our new home? These are not questions I ask alone: I believe people across every corner of Terra are asking the same questions.
This is also why I've spent several days forcing myself to calm down.
Though speaking of the sky still stirs emotions in me—emotions unfit for a man in his nineties—I came to a realization one night:
I was hungry.
PH.D EE ERIKSON
Susanna quickly helped me resolve that issue, but you, Dr. Kal'tsit of Rhodes Island, being as perceptive as you are, surely understand why I am bringing this up now. To elaborate further would likely result in a narrative that feels almost anti-progress, but I trust you know exactly what I'm trying to convey.
I believe Rhodes Island will continue to aid the people of this land. People like you are still the best hope for our era.
Sincerely Yours, E. E. Erikson Ph.D. F.R.V.A.S., &c
Additionally, I should have explained the following matters at the beginning of the letter, but at the time, they didn't seem quite as important as the main points I was trying to get across. Therefore, I'm including this (somewhat lengthy) postscript.
Thank you for your help; I've returned to Laterano from Londinium, and I received all of your letters. I apologize for not replying earlier—I was busy gathering information on Nuova Volsinii and New Siesta and simply forgot. I apologize again and thank you once more for everything you and Rhodes Island have done for my family.
Recently, there's been a surge in cities with names beginning with some variant of "New", particularly in Columbia. This makes me wonder if we, as a species, are running out of ideas for city names.
I've already come to terms with Victoria's future, and while my relationship with William may still take some time to work through, I don't intend to change my original plans. I've purchased the house I had been renting in the Faber district. If you could, please inform William that I've left the house and everything in it to him, and he may do with it as he sees fit. I've enclosed the key and the detailed address with this letter. The deed has already been processed through a notary, so there's nothing he needs to handle on the matter.
Additionally, please tell him that as of January 1st, 1100, he will be the ninth Baron Mercato of Victoria. Under current law, he shall inherit County Mercato as his estate, along with some land that used to belong to the Hastings. Again, he can act on this information as he sees fit.
Susanna and I will set out before the end of this month. We'll likely visit Rhodes Island for a short while, and I'll bring you the first edited draft of Terra: A Journey (I've simplified the title as you suggested and made many revisions and additions). Afterward, we will proceed with the plans I mentioned to you earlier.
One last note: I've heard that those potato chips are finally being released to the market—thank you!
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Dear Edgar, Welcome! The Doctor and I have been looking forward to your visit. Let us meet and discuss this in person. The winters in Laterano are mild, but that does not mean Rhodes Islands route will be easy. We will arrange transportation for you and Mrs. Erikson - please discuss the details with the Messenger. Sincerest regards,
Robert
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