Worldbuilding - The Mote

[glacius]

The third and final unlockable MP icon for Glacius in KI2013.

Most frequently, Motes are displayed rather than given, held in the palms to display the holder's strength and determination. This is usually done to show adherence to a cause, or to intimidate or discourage would-be opponents. Regardless of the situation in which the Mote is displayed, these strange lights cast sharp-looking rays as they pulse with the energy of their bearer, and the conveyed message is clear: Look how bright my spirit burns!

The Motes also have another deeper purpose. Once gifted to someone, the Mote is more than just a show of strength or power: it becomes a metaphysical representation of Glacius' state of being. It also establishes a two-faceted relationship between The Source (the one that gave the Mote) and The Bearer (the one who received the Mote), with the Mote functioning as an ever-present bridge between the two. Through observing and interacting with the Mote, The Bearer can learn much about The Source.

The pulsing light of the Mote relays The Source's current physical state; a gentle glow represents a healthy state of equilibrium; a flickering, dying light represents suffering, injury, distress; other emotions, like anger, joy, and so forth, are all expressed in unique patterns and pulses by the Mote. Physical interaction with The Mote by The Bearer is felt as a gentle tug at the back of The Source's subconscious mind. Physical interaction coupled with a clear intent on the part of The Bearer, with nothing else currently distracting the mind, can relay thoughts or feelings to The Source, though this level of communication takes practice.

... Unfortunately for The Bearer, it is traditional for The Source to not reveal any of this information. Instead, the Mote is presented as a small, mystifying puzzle; something to be tended to and learned over time. Like a deep friendship that grows naturally with attention and nurturing, so does understanding of the Mote develop.

Motes are usually (but not always) gifted once a pair of Glacius' species becomes Bonded (similar to two humans entering a romantic relationship), though there are exceptions if a relationship is considered unique or important enough. Motes being gifted to an outside species is almost entirely unheard of, and as such when it happens it is the highest wordless expression of loyalty and trust one can give. Regardless of the species or nature of the relationship, gifting the Mote is always seen as an affirmation of how critical and important a relationship is to The Source.

► Glacius' Bearer in The Box (box_mods) is Jolene Harris (hairsay).