… Intelligence, or the light of truth, was not created or made, neither indeed can be. All truth is independent in that sphere in which God has placed it, to act for itself, as all intelligence also; otherwise there is no existence.
(D&C 93:29-30)
1
NEUTRON STAR
Space. Infinite, black, and cold expanse. In perfect synchronicity, the stars remained in their orbits and, over billions of years, many worlds came into existence and many others ceased to exist. In the countless universes the predominant thinking element, intelligences, spread through the eternities in search of progress.
Chosen for the union of the intelligences, the small, super-dense neutron star, also known as a pulsar, stood out among others. For billions of years it had sent pulses through the infinite vastness of dimensional spaces, but an internal crisis now shook its structure. This pulsar was made up of fifteen individual Oliblish-level incorporeal intelligences seeking eternal progress. But a moment of stagnation arose on the way to perfection. A break in the flashing of the star’s pulses occurred as the discussion became heavy and during the sharing tempers shifted.
“That is out of the question,” Maj, supreme leader in the Raukeeyang, categorically interrupted. “Are you simply ignoring the fact that such an attitude could directly influence the space-time in some celestial sphere, alter the continuum or even eliminate countless material intelligences?
“We are not ignoring such thinking, but we claim that we need to take a position or it will be too late.” Korash transmitted their ideas more intensely through the collected mass of the star. “Besides, why should we care so much about such insignificant details, as opposed to our existential goal?”
“Existential goal? What are you trying to share?” asked Maj.
“What do you mean, ‘what am I trying to share’? Each member of the Raukeeyang must progress and evolve toward interdependent individuality. To accomplish this, we need to share our knowledge of Kolob through opening Enish-go-on-dosh. We are very close to being able to leave Oliblish and become the most recent in the timeline to accomplish that, just like Kli-flos-is-es and Hah-ko-kau-beam have. But if we don’t do it by Kolob’s seventh revolution, we will become material-corporeal intelligences within space-time, like those we know of on the surfaces of the smaller spheres that circle the celestial spheres. In other words, we will be inferior beings inhabiting the planets.”
The other thirteen intelligences did not share their thoughts. They just received the information shared while Maj and Korash argued. As individual, independent, and free intelligences, these fifteen used unorganized matter to coalesce and form a pulsating star. All communication was done directly through this matter, like electrical energy running through a wire.
“I know about all this very well, but I will not permit helping along our existential objective by opening Enish, which may or may not take us to the level of Kolob. Since our organization by former Raukeeyang members, we have been alert to the danger of such an opening and its consequences. The explosion that created the third space was caused by such an opening, and the appearance of material intelligences on its spheres gave us responsibilities under the Kae-e-vanrash code.”
“Pure speculation. All the agglomerated matter was saturated and in its terminal phase. Its explosion was merely a consequence of something we still don’t understand. Furthermore, I do not agree that we have any such responsibilities.”
“We are not in a position to agree or not with respect to such responsibilities, we can only accept them.”
“Alright Maj,” agreed Korash “but we must evolve now, or we will not have another opportunity. — Once again, I want to let everyone know that this space-time-continuum variant will affect us directly, and our progress will be permanently halted. That’s why we must make the opening.”
Feeling the great responsibility of leadership, Maj continued to oppose, “But the consequences! They could also impede us.”
Since the time that Maj had, by mutual agreement, become the great leader, this was the first time a problem of such magnitude had arisen. Maj felt inadequate, as their honor and leadership skills were being put to the test.
“Let me interrupt you.” Javibi’s gentle thoughts permeated warmly through all fourteen members. “I understand both points of view, and I believe we can reach an agreement. I will explain.” Everyone focused on Javibi’s explanations. “As everyone knows, we belong to an elevated level of the great expanse and firmament within the Raukeeyang, which our predecessors called Oliblish. Together we make up the penultimate superior sphere in the timeline. Each of us is trying to reach the next level of progress, where time will not exist as we know it. We will become omnipotent, or at least that’s what previous sharings claim. At this time, we have influence over the infinite lower levels, except over the third space. We do not know the reason for this exception, as it is also a lower level. Our unconfirmed thoughts are that only Kolob’s higher level controls it, as Kolob controls us as well.
“There are not any precedents on this last point, and I do not believe in such a submission to Kolob,” Korash interrupted.
“Please let me finish my reasoning.”
A pulse from the sphere echoed throughout the universe and Javibi thanked Korash.
“Regardless of the reason for the explosion of the great conglomeration of matter, whether or not it was caused by the opening of Enish-go-on-dosh, the fact is that the third space originated then.
“Since that moment, three other openings have randomly affected the entire expanse and, more directly, the existence and harmony of the third space. We could progress naturally without Enish’s opening but, as Korash has been warning us, a space-time-continuum variant will take our existence back to lower levels, impeding our progress.”
Maj became impatient. “So, what do we do?”
“One moment and I will come to the conclusion,” Javibi continued calmly. “Because the mysteries of Kolob are not known, in addition to affecting the third space the opening will result in penalties under the Kae-e-vanrash code, delaying our progress. At first thought, we might conclude that there is no solution, as the two facts mentioned seem to impede us. But regardless, I’m of the opinion that we should open Enish-go-on-dosh to complete our progress.”
“Negative, Javibi. We will not make the opening. I can’t risk it without having a second alternative.”
“Please, Maj, let me finish and you can agree with me or not.”
“Okay, go ahead.”
“Undoubtedly, the opening will directly affect the third space and consequently its material intelligences, delaying our progress, as we have responsibilities under the code. This is already known, but given our knowledge of previous openings, we can predict, through close study, what the consequences will be and where they will occur. In this way, we will demonstrate that we accept our responsibilities, avoid breaking the code and achieve full progress. Before you ask any more questions, I want to seek agreement that the Kae-e-vanrash code exists to help us make progress, and we can make the opening without violating it.”
Maj remained irresolute. “I have my doubts about that.”
“How can we make such a prediction?” asked Korash anxiously, ignoring Maj.
The fifteen members that formed the pulsating sphere became more compact as they anxiously awaited Javibi’s conclusion. Such a contraction is often due to the different periods of microwave irradiation of the star’s electrolytic fluid.
Javibi continued: “Since we were organized by our predecessors, every member has made existential progress, accumulating knowledge from throughout the expanse and the firmament. Separately, we acquired a limited amount of knowledge, which we shared whenever we formed a pulsating sphere or any other star or body together. In this way, our progress depends on each individual member. What I propose is that each of us research, analyze, sort out, and later share what we learn about any and all consequences that resulted from the three previous openings. This should be a thorough investigation at all levels of knowledge, in all dimensional and non-dimensional spaces, in all directions of linear time in the totality of space-time, where it exists, and in what is known of non-linear time.”
“Javibi, before you proceed,” Maj interrupted once more, “what guarantees do we have of success in such an attempt?”
“None, since there is no precedent for such an initiative. But logic suggests that we will succeed.”
Korash couldn’t stand Maj’s comments any longer and added, in a moment of anger, “None, but we’ll be trying something! … I’m sorry to share this thought Maj, but I think I should question your position as leader.”
“Really? Can I know why?”
“We have discovered that our progress is impeded. We’re looking at alternatives, including opening Enish, and the only thought I get from you is that we shouldn’t. Before Javibi concludes, can we know what your solution is?” Korash challenged.
No one shared any thought whatsoever. The great star’s pulses practically ceased as Maj tried to form some thought. Since reaching the Oliblish level, this was the first time that a crisis had shaken the relationship of the fifteen intelligences. Maj, Korash and Javibi were the ruling leaders; the twelve others lower in rank. At the beginning of Oliblish’s formation, when they were not yet a pulsating star, the fifteen members in their non-material individuality joined together with the specific purpose of achieving perfection through collective synergy. Since the beginning, with gradual stages of improvement, such progress had occurred normally. Then, this final stage came with an unexpected crisis.
The universe kept its course as the star pulsed and Maj’s sad thought was shared.
“I’m sorry to inform you that I don’t have any solution at the moment.” Maj’s sadness was fully expressed. “But I want to share that I have knowledge that, at the moment, I can’t transmit to the whole community due to superior instructions from Kolob. I only ask that you trust your leader.”
“Do you understand?” Korash was outraged “Now Maj is appealing to this stupid mysticism. We need to do something, and urgently.”
“We are getting away from the initial objective of our union.” Javibi calmly brought everyone back to the main focus of the discussion. “As I was sharing, after we have collected all the data we will come together again. All knowledge will be shared and, through comparative analyses, taking into account all possible variants, we will deduce what consequences will occur at the next opening.”
“Doesn’t this all seem too simple to be correct?” the intelligence Kepaki expressed with sincere doubt and continued. “We also need to remember that there are no guarantees of what will happen in the next level of progress. What we’ve shared so far is the logical deduction about progress within the Raukeeyang since we don’t know where our predecessors who have passed on to Kolob are. But it doesn’t matter because our goal is to progress. What I question is the following: ‘Can this simple act compensate for all the responsibility imposed by the code?’”
“It really is that simple, and I don’t understand how we didn’t reach this conclusion before,” agreed Javibi. “What matters in this research is that we can identify certain patterns in all the consequences that have occurred and, with these patterns identified, predict what will happen with our next opening, where it will happen and how it will happen.”
“It really does makes sense. With such patterns identified, we will be able to correlate them and define others.”
“What worries me is if we don’t find the patterns we expect,” transmitted the Intelligence Trivin with concern to the entire sphere.
“For everything there is a pattern; even in exceptions we can ascertain a pattern.” Javibi made these thoughts flow strongly through every intelligence of Oliblish.
“If that’s the case,” continued Trivin, “the variant that impedes our progress must also follow a pattern, right?”
“Without any doubt.”
“So why wasn’t a survey done previously to determine such patterns?”
“In my opinion, Trivin,” continued Javibi, “and I share this as a personal supposition, these patterns were undoubtedly identified earlier and the variant was even predicted, but, through unthinking negligence, previous members realized that these patterns would not affect their own existence, for such a variant would occur at a time when they had already moved on to the next level of progress. Conclusion: why care about something that might only interfere with other possible existences? Perhaps they thought that, at the time of such a variant, we would not exist, and because it only affects our level of intelligence, they would not be responsible under the code. Hence there wasn’t any need to worry about such details.”
“Javibi, are you finished?” asked Korash.
“Yes, I have shared all my reasoning. The only issue to be addressed now is whether everyone is in agreement and willing to do such research.”
“So, great leader Maj, how will we proceed from here?” There was irony and defiance in Korash’s thoughts.
In the vastness of all space, the Oliblish-level star shone brightly, pulsing harmoniously. It was a wonderful and imposing star. It had shone for billions of years and had now reached its final stage, where it would die just like every other star.
Maj spoke with authority:
“The union will be dissolved, and everyone will research this subject until the next revolution of Kolob.” Maj conveyed disgust but maintained a leader’s dignity. “I want to remind everyone that no decision has been made. Regardless of the authorization now granted, the final decision will be made by me after the vote.” There were a few moments of purely static sharing by the intelligences and then Maj continued:
“Before we separate, I want to share that I perceive dark thoughts. As this is the first time this has happened in our union, I want to make it known to all Oliblish intelligences that such an attitude will be accompanied by punishment if the darkness remains at our next union.”
The scene in space was magnificent. The star began to cool and spew matter in all directions.
Its brightness gradually dimmed as the fifteen intelligences slowly dissolved the union. Each member became an individual intelligence. The great sphere almost completely lost its luster, as each of them set off in search of what might come to be their final destination.
There was only a faint glow amidst the star’s remains as the last two intelligences remained together for a final questioning thought.
“The dark thought was yours, wasn’t it Korash?” Javibi shared with concern.
“Of course it was, my friend.”
“Now, may I know why? This is the first time there has been a dark thought in Oliblish. What are you hiding from us?”
“Good and esteemed intelligence Javibi,” Korash calmly began to explain, “since we joined together we have focused our strength on achieving perfection — and that’s what I really want. But in the last moments of our existence Maj has been apathetic. I can’t abide that.”
“Alright, Korash, but what are you hiding from us?”
“Do you really want to know?”
“Please.”
A small glow, pulseless and inert, was perceived among the matter left by the union of the fifteen members, as Korash and Javibi shared. Korash, with rising rage, responded:
“In order to achieve perfection, I will do everything I can to remove Maj from the position of supreme leader and put myself there instead. This is the only way, for Maj will not accept the opening, and without everyone’s consent nothing can be done. Maj needs to be expelled.”
“Korash, you can’t be sharing seriously.”
“Wait, Javibi. Just wait.”
The two separated and the sphere completely dissolved, leaving dead and unorganized matter to float through space, after a union of billions of years.
2
COMET
“What?” Krad exclaimed upon receiving Korash’s thoughts. “You must be completely confused. That was the most absurd thought ever shared with me. Are you really serious?” Krad asked sincerely.
Krad was a wandering intelligence who roamed the expanse of the sidereal void in a double bond. All intelligences are eternal, meaning they have no beginning or end. Each intelligence is free to act, and combined with elements of unorganized matter, they become active intelligences. Two of these intelligences, Korash and Krad, by mutual agreement, acted on non-active elements and formed what is known as a comet.
“My dear fellow, Krad, …” With patience and determination Korash continued to share ideas through the small mass of organized matter. “I have a problem and I need your help. We have known each other for many periods and revolutions, and I would not have submitted to this union if it had not been to ask for your help.”
Having evolved through countless eternities, like the other fourteen intelligences of the Oliblish level, Korash was close to the next level of progress. Their goal was absolute power. Since their decision to attempt to take Maj’s position, they had desperately searched for the most effective and fastest way to do so.
Krad took offense. “What? That’s why you submitted to this union?”
“Sorry, I didn’t mean to offend you. It’s just that normally I don’t unite to form small wandering stars, but instead large celestial bodies,” Korash tried to apologize, but realized right away that they were starting to make things worse.
“So, friend Korash, why don’t you leave and go join your friendly intelligences and let me enjoy the universe alone?”
“Once again, I’m sorry. I didn’t want to share in a way that would irritate you, but I think I’m in a bit of a rush and I must have shared something without thinking. That was not my intention. I really want you to help me.”
“Alright,” Krad agreed, “but if you use your seeming superiority to humiliate me, I’ll make us enter the atmosphere of some planet and our union will be permanently broken. Understood?”
“I promise I’ll control myself.”
“Better that way.”
Krad was an intelligence who didn’t care about achieving the existential goal. They opted for simple unions, those that took them to the ends of the universe, without worrying about rules and codes to be followed. After controlling their anger at Korash’s unhappy comments, they asked:
“Let’s start from the beginning. Please explain it to me in detail so that I can understand your whole situation and,” they paused for a long time, “maybe I can help you.”
“I’m sure you can,” added Korash.
“Then please start,” asked Krad impatiently. “Why does this Maj not want to open Enish, if it’s for the good of all?”
“Before that, let’s understand some concepts. I think that in my haste I omitted important details. I promise to be clearer this time.” Korash liked to share about this subject.
“The first thing to know is that the Kolob star, the biggest of them all, is the final one in the levels of progress,” Korash began. “I, along with fourteen other intelligences, are at the level called Oliblish, one level before Kolob.
“I already knew about Kolob,” Krad shared, “but let me take a look at the details. You achieved it normally, that is, in a natural way, without resorting to anything extreme to reach your current level, right?”
“Right,” Korash agreed.
“Can you continue to progress normally until you reach Kolob?” inquired Krad.
“Theoretically we can.”
“Then why all this despair?”
“I shared the word theoretically. Let me continue and you will understand.”
The comet approached a star and particles detached themselves from its body, forming a long, luminous tail behind it. Korash continued:
“The Raukeeyang, which is the expanse or the firmament…”
“The universe, you mean?” interrupted Krad.
“Exactly. This Raukeeyang is divided into progress levels, and we are on the penultimate one. As I shared before, theoretically we could reach the next level in the normal way, as you mentioned, without resorting to anything extra. But the problem lies in the existence of an anomaly, a variant space-time continuum.”
“What is that?” asked Krad.
“It is a cosmic event that will merge, interrupt, or limit the normal course of linear time. For each level of progress, we have a limited range in linear time to be ready for the next level. If we don’t, we will be regressing on the scale of progress, because in the Raukeeyang there are no static conditions; we are either progressing or regressing. This anomaly that I mentioned will cause our linear time to be altered, making it impossible to get what we need to pass to the Kolob level.”
“Korash, wait a moment,” shared Krad. “You mean time will be shortened? But isn’t there also the possibility of an increase, with more leeway to get what you need for the next level?”
“Yes, it could increase or decrease. But don’t you think that is a very big risk?”
“On second thought, yes,” agreed Korash. “But if you do not reach the level of Kolob now, don’t you get another chance?”
“As I shared before, Krad, there is no static in the universe, especially between intelligences. Either we progress or we regress.”
“I understand.” Krad’s thoughts seemed to dissipate as Korash returned to the explanation.
“So, due to this variant there is only one way to go to the next level, and that is through opening Enish-go-on-dosh.”
“And what is Enish-I-don’t-know-what?”
“I can’t believe you don’t know what Enish-go-on-dosh is!” Korash’s thoughts were shared accusingly.
“Did you forget our deal, Korash?” Krad shared as the comet’s orbit swerved onto a collision course for the nearest planet.
“Sorry. Enish-go-on-dosh is a planet with ruling characteristics.” Korash quickly got back to the subject and made a mental note to not make unnecessary comments anymore.
“I’m glad you went back to the explanation and put aside what you believe or don’t believe.” At this instant, the comet’s orbit was corrected.
Korash added: “Such a planet receives light from Kolob; in other words, intelligence and truth. Through it we can acquire all the knowledge that we lack to be ready for the next level.”
“Excuse my ignorance, but why haven’t you shared such knowledge yet?” asked Krad.
“It’s not that simple, Krad.”
“Why not?”
“Because there’s Kae-e-vanrash.”
“That’s already been shared with me,” Krad commented. “It’s about some laws.”
“It’s not just about laws, but a set of codes to which we are subject. It is the ultimate key or ruling power. We must obey or we will be subject to the penalties imposed by the code, and each penalty sets us back in eternal development.”
“From what I understand there aren’t many choices, Korash. If you resort to Enish-go-on-dosh you will not be able to progress due to the penalties. If you fail to resort to Enish, the variant could use up the time needed for progress. If I were you, I would choose to not resort to Enish, because with the variant there is the possibility that time will be increased.”
“That’s what I’m getting at, Krad. The code exists to help us make progress. Follow my reasoning: We have our existential goal, which is to progress. Since the code exists to help us, and our goal is to make progress, it follows that the code will help us make progress. Due to the variant, our progress is practically stopped. Based on the conclusion that the code exists to help us towards our goal of progress and that there is no other option but to resort to Enish, we come to the final conclusion that we will not be punished, since the code exists to help us.”
“Is there really no other option?” asked Krad.
“Of course there isn’t. Or do you think I’m here just making all this up?” It was Korash’s turn to feel offended.
“I don’t think anything, I just want you to share everything so I can help you. Isn’t this what you want from me? Help?”
“Yes. I want your help.” Korash agreed.
“Before I go any further, and share with you that I already have a good idea about your problem, can I ask you a few questions?”
“Please, Krad, go ahead.”
“Is there any indication that any intelligence has reached the level of Kolob? I mean, not just intelligences sharing about this, but something more reliable?” Krad shared this last word with some trepidation and waited for Korash’s reaction.
“I know what you want. A test, some kind of contact with them. Right?”
“Right.”
“Unfortunately, there is nothing but shares that transcend all known linear time limits. But it’s totally logical, it’s part of eternal progress.”
“They say that everything submits to the level of Kolob,” Krad proposed. “Is that true?”
“The vast majority of intelligences say this, but I don’t particularly believe it and I have never submitted.”
“In my journeys through space I have received incredible knowledge, and among all I have received, one thing in particular catches my attention. It concerns the Kolob level. I don’t know if it’s really true, but it’s very interesting.”
“Please share with me.” Korash’s interest peaked a little.
“Well,” began Krad, “they say that on the Kolob level there is an intelligence superior to all known ones, and that at that level all these intelligences have permanent definite forms.”
Korash was fascinated. “That’s not possible!”
“And there’s more,” Krad continued. “They say that on the Kolob level there are three more sub-levels, and that the second sub-level is on the planets.”
“Are you trying to say that it is the material intelligences of space-time that inhabit the planets in general?”
“Not the planets in general, but the ones in the third space.”
“That is totally illogical. How can we think that these inferior beings might be a few levels up the scale of progress?” Korash had completely lost interest in the subject.
“I can’t imagine anything Korash, I’m just sharing what I have received. Even so, it makes some logic. Answer me the following, why can’t you influence the third space?”
“I have no idea and I’m not interested right now. Can I finish and say clearly what I want from you?”
“Go ahead,” Krad agreed.
“As I shared at the beginning, the only solution is to take Maj’s place.”
“Something I consider totally illogical and revolutionary,” Krad shared.
“Revolutionary, yes. Illogical, no. I can’t do anything alone, so I want you to take me to Elkenah, Libnah and Mahmackrah.”
“What?” Krad asked. “What do you want with those fallen and impure intelligences?”
“I want to make an alliance with them to remove Maj from the position of supreme leader.”
“What makes you think you’ll be able to remove Maj that way? And even more, do you have any idea who these three intelligences are? Do you really think they will join you?”
“Can I answer one question at a time?” Korash shared ironically. “I know very well who they are. How I will convince them to join me, and how I will remove Maj, is something I will keep to myself. The only thing I want your help with is for you to take me to them, because I know you know where they are. Can I count on you?”
There was an interruption in the sharing. The comet made its closest approach to the star it orbited. Its tail extended for thousands of miles.
“I appreciate your company, Korash, very much. But I am very afraid for your request.”
“Leave your feelings out of the decision and tell me: are you going to take me to them or not?”
After a moment’s hesitation Krad agreed, “Okay. But on one condition.”
“Which is?” asked Korash.
“That you do not share with anyone about my involvement in this irrational decision of yours.”
“I promise, my friend.”
“One more thing, Korash. We will have to undo our union, as the three intelligences are in a non-linear sector of space.”
“You’re in charge, Krad.” Korash radiated a great, excited happiness, but that only left Krad with sadness.
The comet, after circling the star, changed its orbit and headed towards the second planet. It entered the planet’s atmosphere, incinerated, and crashed violently into the surface.
Korash and Krad traveled to a place little liked by their fellow intelligences: The vicinity of Outer Darkness.
3
SUPERNOVA
For the first time Maj and Javibi communicated in a double union rather than a multiple union. This brought some privacy, thought Javibi, making it possible to share with the leader a little more deeply. Javibi had held the second position in the hierarchy since the beginning, when Maj organized the union of the fifteen intelligences currently at the Oliblish level. Javibi was a thoughtful intelligence who often questioned the supreme leader’s decisions, but the supreme leader always took these observations into consideration. Their friendship started the moment they learned of each other’s existence.
“What is happening to us, Javibi?” Maj’s sharing conveyed a certain distaste.
“Nothing is happening to us, Maj.” Javibi had no intention of comforting him, but that thought was itself nothing but a comfort. “Certain intelligences are acting in a revolutionary way. Remember that intelligences are free to choose according to their own dictates.”
“I know that, Javibi, but none of this was happening when we, the fifteen intelligences who, trusting each other, decided to dedicate ourselves to reaching the next level. I think Korash is right; maybe I’m failing as a leader.”
Javibi quickly interrupted the sadness of the shared thoughts. “Not at all, Maj. You are in this position because we all wanted it. You are honorable and cannot be shaken by a crisis caused by an impatient and revolutionary intelligence. Let’s wait until the research is done.”
“Thank you… thank you very much for your encouraging thoughts. But let’s get down to business; I didn’t request this union to complain.
The two chose a star, which then gradually began to enter a state of transformation. Its immense mass made its temperature extremely high, and in this way it began to produce large quantities of neutrinos, which quickly escaped the star. Maj continued:
“Javibi, you have been a source of great pride for me, so I would like to share some of my thoughts—knowledge that I cannot, at the moment, share with all the intelligences in our union, because I do not know if I trust its veracity. As supreme leader, I have certain rights which my position gives me, and one of them is to keep certain thoughts confidential, to be shared at the time I deem most appropriate for everyone’s progress. So, these are not dark thoughts, like Korash’s, that impede collective progress.”
The star’s emission of neutrinos, which carried energy away with them, began to deplete its core, where the energy needed to maintain the star’s expanded size reached very low levels. With increasing curiosity, Javibi completely received the thoughts Maj started to share.
“Before I continue, what do you know about the steps we need to progress through?”
“Well, as I shared in our last union as Oliblish, we are on the penultimate level. In the next we will become perfect.”
“Are we absolutely sure about this, Javibi?”
“I can’t say that I’m absolutely sure about this, but the countless unions before our existence together all sought the next level, and many succeeded,” Javibi maintained.
“Do we have any news about any intelligences that have moved to the next level?”
“No, Maj, but they are no longer intelligences the way we are, and we can no longer make contact with them.”
“Have you ever wondered why?”
The star’s center cooled rapidly and, condensing, began to collapse in on itself. Javibi, after some consideration, replied:
“I think a lot about our progress and, despite the logic that says there is a next level in the scale of progress, I think we don’t have contact with them because of the mere question of non-interaction. What I think is that, when we reach a level of perfection, it can be one of the most difficult changes in our existence. And because of this, we need to be alone, without contact with intelligences that are ahead of us in progress, so that they do not interfere with the fairness of the process.
“Have you ever thought that maybe the next level won’t be the last one?”
Javibi disagreed. “Sorry, Maj, but that thought seems very unlikely to be true.”
“That is the purpose of our union, Javibi. I have something to share with you that has made me ponder a lot about everything we know so far. I do not want you to share these thoughts with any other intelligence until such time as I see fit.”
“Of course. I will keep such thoughts confidential, Maj.”
“Javibi,” Maj paused before continuing, “the next level is not the last. It’s just a passage, a transformation from our current state to something higher than we imagined.”
The star violently collapsed into its own core. The overall temperature rose to colossal levels due to the conversion of gravitational energy into heat. All the star’s fuel began nuclear fusion.
“How can you make such a claim, Maj?” Javibi naturally objected. “It goes against everything we’ve done to progress so far. Where did you get such thoughts?”
“Many revolutions ago I had contact with a being. An extraordinary entity.”
“You mean a union?”
“No, Javibi, it was not a union, but, as I shared, a contact.”
“But if it wasn’t a union, how did you manage to communicate?”
“I don’t know. But I did make contact with such a being, and I had the opportunity to glimpse things that are far beyond my current understanding.”
“You refer to a being. Wasn’t it an intelligence?”
“No. It was not an intelligence like us, but a different being. And because it was different, we couldn’t enter into a union the same way we do. I think it was something material because I felt its presence in a strange way. Something similar to what we feel when we unite in the midst of unorganized matter and form stars in the sky. I’m not quite sure, as it was something new for me and I can’t describe it clearly.”
“Please, Maj, continue. This is very interesting, even though it seems very unlikely.”
“This is just the beginning,” shared Maj. “You will be dazzled by all I have to share.”
With the implosion of the star there was a huge explosion. The star turned into a supernova.
“What I learned in this contact made my thoughts diverge a little. Perhaps this explains my attitude during the last few unions and what made Korash upset. Regardless, I’m doing very well, despite this crisis.”
“And what exactly did this being share?” Javibi asked anxiously, until Maj began to share again.
“As I shared earlier, it is very difficult to describe in thoughts in such a way that I can share it clearly and specifically with anyone. What I do know, or what I’ve understood from this contact, is that our next level will not be our last. If I remember correctly, it will be some kind of transformation in our existence and it will be known as the first state. And this being offers us this new stage only through trust.”
“First state? How is it a first state? Haven’t we already gone through several levels?”
“Pay attention, Javibi, I shared first state. Something new in our existence that will be called the first. I’m not quite sure, but I believe that we will exist in some other form that we are not aware of right now.”
“Sorry for my doubt, but it’s a little hard to believe all of this.”
“Nor am I expecting that of you, Javibi. I’m just transmitting something I have learned. Maybe even I, myself, won’t believe all of this, especially when I see that, after this first state, there will be a second one, where there will be something that goes against the logic we accept.”
“And that is?”
“Our transformation will continue and, in that state, we will become materially corporeal beings.”
“You mean the creatures that inhabit the surface of the planets? That is completely ludicrous.” Javibi transmitted obstinacy, “Maj, may I know your opinion about all this?”
“Using only logic, it might be ludicrous, but from what I felt it’s something very likely. I’m sharing with you that this being has my trust and that this proposal solves our problems and clarifies many doubts.”
“I’m sorry if I’m not giving real value to all that you have shared with me, but honestly there’s no logic in all this.”
“No need to apologize, I just wanted you to know something more, in case everything goes wrong and we have to…” Maj stopped and their thoughts returned to focus on the moment where the crisis could be shared to have started.
“Going back to our original problem, Javibi, don’t you think Korash will act inappropriately and maybe even violently?”
“I have something to share about that, Maj. Before our last union was undone, Korash and I remained together for a few moments and Korash expressed anger at you, or rather at your decision not to open Onish. Korash is completely determined to depose you and take your place.”
“I already suspected that. Poor Korash.”
“We have to be prepared for the worst.”
“You can be sure we really need to. I believe Korash will try to ally with other intelligences to bring us down.”
“What can we do?”
“Be completely united. Unity will be our greatest strength against the attacks from Korash that are sure to come.”
“Count on my full support, Maj.”
“Before we undo our union, I want you to remember something.”
“You can share, Maj.”
“This being, about whom I commented, will be present at our next union. I want everyone to feel what I felt. I have the impression that after this next meeting, everything will change.”
“I hope so, Maj. I hope so.”
With the union undone, the star expelled most of its mass into space following the explosion and the remainder was doomed to become dark and dead.
4
SPACE ANOMALY
Contrary to what Korash imagined, negotiations with the trio of revolutionary intelligences, Elkenah, Libnah and Mahmackrah, were not progressing. Korash also found that union strange. The unions of the Oblish were always complete, so that all the members who participated knew each other. Sharing was complete, except for dark thoughts. But this time the bonds were constantly breaking, and only rarely did the four unite in a single thought. For the first time Korash felt afraid. Korash wasn’t quite sure why, but the three intelligences were devoid of honor and that made them lack confidence, so that, on the other hand, they didn’t trust anyone. The entire cluster that formed the spatial anomaly was devoid of order. It consisted of six elements mixed together in chaos: matter, anti-matter, space, anti-space, time and anti-time.
“I know I have nothing to offer, but think about the growth possibilities you will have.” Korash’s thoughts dispersed in the hazy tangle of the anomaly, and it made them irritated.
“We have already shared our thoughts on this, Korash.” Elkenah’s thoughts focused squarely on Korash, but without the support and distribution offered by a common union. “We are not interested in any growth. And you should know that we are not satisfied with your presence here.”
“We don’t like common sharing.” Libnah was the one who shared the least, even within a union of only the three. “And your presence here forces us to have a complete union, which we don’t want, because we want to maintain our individuality, even within unions.”
“You contradict yourself, my friend,” continued Korash. “Either you are an individual or you lose your individuality in a union.”
“I disagree completely, intelligence Korash. We can be united and keep our individuality.
“You, yourself, have shared with us that you have your own specific desires with regard to the intelligences you unite with. Aren’t you the one who wants to be the new leader? And doesn’t that show your individuality?”
“Well, considering…”
“Do not share anything else, intelligence Korash.” interrupted Mahmackrah. “So far you have only transmitted your illogical thoughts and we are no longer willing to let you be here. What do you want?”
“As I shared before…”
“What you shared before we already know.” Mahmackrah interrupted him again. “This idea of yours, — this ideal of yours to reach Kolob, does not concern us at all. Your progress doesn’t interest us either. You will not have our help since you have nothing to offer. And also…”
It was Korash’s turn to interrupt Mahmackrah’s sharing… “And so far, you haven’t let me understand what you would really like in return.”
“What we want, you can’t give us.”
“How could I know that, Mahmackrah, if we don’t know each other and you haven’t shared it with me yet?”
Korash began to gain confidence and continued. “Let me know what you want and then you can draw your conclusions.”
“You really are quite stubborn, and to a certain extent that pleases us, because that’s how we are.” Libnah put aside a little repulsion and disinterest for the first time during the union.
The anomaly’s saturated gases mixed together with dead matter in a space-time vortex and the forces of gravity began to exert dominion over all unorganized matter.
“I don’t think I’d call it stubborn,” added Korash. “Let’s call it a determination of its own.”
“It doesn’t matter what you think it is. For us it’s just stubborn.”
“If that’s what intelligence Libnah thinks, you can consider me stubborn.” Korash never imagined having to use politics like this one day, but the situation required it.
“Let’s share the knowledge that we have kept for many existences.”
Mahmackrah began to be uncomfortable with the direction the union was going in. “Libnah, what are you intending to share with this intelligence?”
“Let’s share our story with him.”
“Why should we?” asked Mamackrah.
Elkenah, who had remained in partial union, re-entered the share abruptly, “And why not?”
Mahmackrah vented irritation. “For the simple fact that we don’t know the Korash intelligence, and I don’t want to think that we will share something just because we were persuaded.”
“I’ll share because I want to,” stated Libnah categorically, “and if you do not agree, I will not oblige you to stay with us and receive what I share.” Libnah focused their thoughts on Korash and, ignoring the objection, continued.
While only Korash and Libnah remained in a sharing union, the anomaly distorted and reactions at the atomic level began to alter the structure of the gases.
“Very well, Korash, I’m not quite sure why I’m doing this. I believe you are very similar to what I was in the past. Maybe that’s what it is.”
Libnah’s attention and focus wandered as if in a daydream.
“And what about Elkenah and Mahmackrah?”
“Don’t worry, we’re just like that. Here in the confines of expansion we find something that satisfies our desires, for we want to maintain a partial and unstable union. All this you are feeling is what makes us who we are.”
“For me it is a totally new experience and, I confess, a bit strange.”
“Not surprisingly. You live in your common unions.”
Korash dodged a subject they didn’t want to discuss. “Let’s leave this subject for the moment.”
“Since we formed this anomaly, this is the only time I’ve been interested in another intelligence. Even in my current union, I don’t usually communicate fully. I am the most incommunicable intelligence, and I tell you that this sharing has not been easy. Even though it’s very difficult, something compels me to do it.”
“Maybe you have a deeper interest in my proposal?” Korash’s thoughts were faster than usual and with a small dose of self-importance.
“Intelligence Korash, I want to make it clear in this union of ours that what I am about to share with you is not related to anything you communicated to us earlier. Your persuasion was useless and…”
“If it was useless, why are we here sharing?” Korash cut in.
“Just because I want to.”
“I will save myself effort and also please you by sharing that I believe.” Korash’s irony was explicit while the whole anomaly was, for an instant, immobilized in a lapse in linear time.
“Will you allow me to share, or are we going to separate?”
“Please continue.”
“As I was sharing earlier, your existence now reminds me of my own character of many and infinite cycles ago. In short, I was what you are today, or to share better, I almost had what you want now.”
“I’m afraid I don’t understand completely.”
“I’ll try to explain, and I think you’ll understand. I’m not even sure myself what really happened.” Libnah’s thoughts stopped for a moment as if searching memories for something long forgotten and continued. “Many, many cycles ago I received a proposal. A rather peculiar proposal that today I am sorry for not having accepted. Who knows if this chance will come back to me?”
“What are you sharing? What was this proposal?”
“I don’t really know how to share about it, because it was something totally unknown to me at the time in question. It was something like moving to the next state, something based on trust in a higher intelligence.”
“What do you mean higher intelligence?”
“I don’t know. It was something I felt in the entire essence of my individual intelligence. A different presence.”
“Different?”
“Yes, different. An imposing presence.”
“Something violent?”
“No. It was completely friendly. Something totally devoid of individual interests. Something different. I do not know how to explain.”
“Did you join a union for this proposal?”
“As incredible as it seems, no. I can’t explain how, but I just knew and felt. There was no sharing of thoughts like what we’re doing, I just knew.”
“You knew? I don’t understand.”
“Me neither.”
All these memories brought out a different intelligence, Libnah. Ever since they resolved to unite with the other intelligences, they had always transmitted in a reserved manner and without taking any credit. Libnah had become introspective and very angry. They realized that they missed a very special opportunity and sincerely regretted it, but their pride made them become a renegade.
“All right.” Korash was interested in the extreme. “But what did this intelligence propose to you?”
“Something extremely good that I rejected. And that’s where I begin to compare the two of us. When I received the proposal, which I will explain shortly, my individual pride became the essence of my intelligence. Logic and reasoning were ignored, and I suffer for my failure.”
“And what does this have to do with me? How can we be similar?”
“In stubbornness.”
“I’ve already told you that I don’t agree that I am stubborn, I’m just looking for a higher ideal and I don’t hide in my flaws,” disagreed Korash.
“Neither do I. I am what I am because I am, and I am responsible for all my actions, intelligence Korash. Leave your ironic shares aside.”
“I’m sorry, but please continue. Share about the proposal you had.”
“I’ve never had a desire like yours to progress. I just existed in order to exist. But when I had this contact, I glimpsed something new. But, as I shared before, I didn’t want to show individual weakness by accepting something. I wanted to prove to myself that my individual existence was unique and independent. I acted illogically.” Libnah shared in an unfocused way and after a while started again. “As I was not very interested in the proposal, I will not be able to share it in detail, but I have a few somewhat disconnected ideas left, and I believe that I can convey the general idea.”
Korash started to get irritated. “Then please start.”
“Well, the proposal offered a higher level, but one in which I would have to submit to a defined corporeal form. And the proposal suggested that through trusting this being I could progress. But this was something I wasn’t looking for, nor even more was I looking to submit to such an obligation without any significant guarantees. I don’t quite understand what the process would be like, but I realize today that I missed something important.”
“And what makes you think you’ve lost something if you don’t even know what it’s about?”
“I think it’s simply an individual impulse. An intuition.”
“Did this also happen to Elkenah and Mahmackrah?”
“Yes, the three of us were together, but not in union.”
“Then, as I understand it, they also rejected the proposal.”
“Exactly.”
“Do you remember anything else?”
“No,” concluded Libnah sadly.
The sharing paused while the two worked out what they were going to share. The anomaly became much larger due to the reaction of the gases. All the unorganized matter became unevenly destabilized through space-time.
“One thing occurred to me,” Libnah continued. “I believe that this Kolob level that you so desire is the same one that this superior intelligence offered me. Oh! — “Libnah stopped for a moment and searched their memories. “Ahman!”
“Ahman!? What is that?”
“I’m not sure, but I believe it’s the name, or part of the name of this intelligence.”
“Alright, Libnah, but what makes you conclude that this proposal would be Kolob? It’s totally illogical. I and the other fourteen intelligences are progressing through countless evolutions to achieve it, and then you share that you were offered this for free? That is ridiculous.”
“Ridiculous or not, that is what I think, and I’m almost certain of it. And it is not free, since it requires submission to a corporeal entity.”
“Maybe so, but I honestly don’t believe it.” Korash stopped for a moment and continued. “May I know why you shared this with me? Knowing your rebellious nature and your introspective individuality, why are you sharing all this? When I arrived here to ask for help, I felt very uncomfortable with the partial union with the three of you. Honestly, I was scared. During our sharing, I even wanted to give up. But now I do not understand. What’s happening?”
The anomaly’s surroundings became partially unstable and occupied the same space as the anomaly, due to the inconstancy of the space-time continuum. As Libnah prepared to respond, Elkenah and Mahmackrah rejoined partially.
“How’s the sharing going?” Elkenah asked ironically and aggressively.
“Very well, and you arrived at a great time,” replied Libnah.
“Really?” asked Mahmackrah. “Do you have something new to share with us? And this friendly intelligence who came to disturb our relationship? Can we banish it from our midst?”
“I wish you could all focus on my sharing,” Libnah shared, ignoring the comments of the other two. “I was about to answer intelligence Korash’s question and now I realize that it will be even better with the union of you both. While the two of you were out of our union, I shared our story about the proposal we received. I am determined to change direction—if not our direction, at least my own.”
“What are you trying to share by that?” asked Mahmackrah.
“I want to share that from this moment on I will no longer be part of this triple partial union. I will be joining you, Korash, to achieve what you so much desire.”
“You have to be joking with us.” Elkenah was amazed. “Did you get carried away by the illogical shares of this unknown intelligence?”
“I didn’t get carried away at all, Elkenah. You know very well that I am not one to just satisfy any intelligence or entity, and now is not any different. I’m doing this for my very own existence. I know you suffer too, but you don’t want to admit that you missed an unquestionable opportunity.”
“Not an unquestionable opportunity at all. We just…”
“Please Elkenah, don’t share anything and let me finish. I will be joining you, Korash, not because of your ideal, but because I know that this goal of yours is what Ahman offered me through mutual trust. Let me be very clear. I’m doing this for me and not for you. And as for you, Elkenah and Mahmackrah, you can join us. But if you do not want to, you will have to leave the anomaly, because with only a double union it will collapse.”
“I don’t know about you three, but I’m totally satisfied.” Korash conveyed satisfaction with the victory over them, despite what Libnah shared.
“We are not interested in your satisfaction, intelligence Korash,” Mahmackrah shared aggressively.
“Are you sure about this?” asked Elkenah.
“I’ve never been so sure,” shared Libnah. “What we now need to know is this: Will you accompany us or not?”
“Sincerely, I do not know,” replied Mahmackrah.
“I myself am not very excited about the idea of following Korash,” shared Elkenah.
“I won’t wait any longer for your decisions. I am leaving our union and, as you already know, the anomaly that keeps us in a partial and unstable union will cease to exist. So, I take my leave of you both.”
Korash became isolated and could not fully receive what was shared by the three intelligences. They were happy to have an ally in the cause and didn’t care about the details of such a union, so long as it could make them leader in Oliblish and thus reach Kolob. They were already out of the anomaly when they realized that it had collapsed. The atomic reactions mixed with the non-temporal particles and gradually all matter dissipated. While contemplating the disintegration, a strong thought came to intelligence Korash.
“Come on, Korash. We have something to overcome.” The essence of the intelligence Libnah mingled with that of Korash amidst the radiation emitted by the anomaly’s collapse.
“Can I really count on your help?”
“If you couldn’t, why do you think I left the anomaly?”
“So, let’s go.” Korash agreed.
As they moved through the radiation and as they shared ideas on how to achieve their goal, a thought from two others was suddenly shared, astonishing Korash and Libnah.
“We are with you!” Elkenah and Mahmackrah’s thoughts spread through the radiation.
As they came together, the intensity of the radiation increased, and an unshared dark thought was formed by Korash.
“Excellent!”
5
ATOM
The union, which was supposed to happen as normally as ever, started with violent arguments.
Everyone but Korash had completed all the research suggested by Javibi. The tiny Phosphorus atom, with its fifteen electrons orbiting the nucleus, became unstable.
“You simply didn’t do the research?” Maj was completely outraged.
Korash conveyed a dose of hate. “I have something much better to share than a simple analysis of previous openings.”
“Korash,” began Javibi, gentle and respectful as always. “We agreed to do the research so that together we could evaluate the patterns resulting from the previous openings, so that we can…”
“Enough, Javibi!” Korash exploded. “You are a good intelligence, but your biggest flaw is your submission to the incompetent Maj. I’m sick of so much inactivity! I want you to meet my three new colleagues.”
The structure of the atom was violently shaken. Elkenah, Libnah and Mamackra joined the fifteen intelligences of Oliblish. A bad feeling was felt. The interruption in thoughts made everyone uncomfortable.
“Maj, right now I want you to leave our union and never try to lead a group of intelligences again,” ordered Korash, with all the hatred of their existence.
“Korash, how disrespectful of you to not introduce your intrusive friends,” Maj commented with disdain.
“They’re not intruders. They are my guests.”
“Very good. It seems like this union will be an invite-only one,” Maj shared so firmly and confidently that it shook Korash deeply. “In fact, I believe that the results of the research alone will not be necessary, but will allow us to better understand the nature of each intelligence. Like you, Korash, I also have a very special guest.”
They all felt a remarkable presence. A feeling of well-being and affinity was felt by all the intelligences. And among all the new feelings was something new and pleasant, received from that being. This overall new feeling, they knew, was love.
Korash felt scared. “What is this?”
“This is my guest,” replied Maj.
“It’s him! Korash.” shared Libnah. “The Ahman entity! I shared with you about Him earlier.”
“I will not accept your tricks, Maj,” Korash, even feeling that pleasant presence, continued the challenge. “Please leave immediately or…”
“Stop sharing right now, Korash,” ordered Libnah. “Let us understand and feel Ahman.”
The sharing was different. All eighteen intelligences felt, in their very essence, all that Ahman offered. They understood that the next level was not the last, but was a transformation. Just one more step in eternal progression. Trust was the basis of everything and, through the love transmitted, they knew that all this was true. This whole feeling spread in such a way that everyone realized that Ahman was a perfect and glorified being, whose purpose was to provide countless intelligences with the opportunity to become just as He was.
This entire understanding and comprehension was acquired instantly by all intelligences.
They knew what they should do. But as soon as they knew, Korash angrily shared:
“I don’t know who or what you are, Ahman, but I’m not willing to submit to anything just to illogically accept this supposed pseudo-progress.” Even knowing, in its essence, the truth of everything, Korash’s pride prevailed.
“Do not be silly,” warned Libnah. “Don’t do what I did. A revolutionary existence does not make up for for a missed opportunity. I am grateful to have this opportunity again.”
“Yes, Korash,” Elkenah and Mamackra shared simultaneously, “leave your pride behind and come with us.”
“No,” was Korash’s last sad share.
The chemical structure of the phosphorus atom released electrons in combination with other elements, forming new phosphates.
Except for Korash, all the intelligences followed Maj, who in turn followed Ahman. A new and incredible journey had begun. Korash, in turn, chose the vicinity of Outer Darkness.
6
SPIRITUAL WORLD
“This is all incredible.” Maj, standing, looked tenderly into Javibi’s beautiful brown eyes.
She, in turn, asked, “What is incredible?”
“This, our existence. Who could have guessed?” Maj’s comment was delivered with a certain amount of reverie.
Since accepting Ahman’s proposal, Maj and Javibi had strengthened their bonds of affection and friendship. Maj was tall, with dark hair and deeply striking eyes. The beautiful Javibi, with her long, light brown hair, watched Maj affectionately. She wore a white robe, with a golden sash tied around her waist. Sitting down, she was admiring Maj’s beauty, whose gaze was lost on the horizon. She noticed the sway of his hair and of the beige robe in the gentle wind. She got up, took Maj by the hand, and said, pulling him gently, in order to start walking:
“Come on, my dear.” Javibi kissed him on the cheek. “I don’t want to be late for the Council of Heaven. I want to know everything about our second estate on planet Earth.”
They walked hand in hand towards the Mansion of Ahman.
Marcelo Bighetti
translation: Kent Larsen
➝ ◯ ➝
Notes on the translation of “The Intelligences”
At least two factors make translation difficult. First, languages include in them cultural ideas and associations that are not obvious in the words themselves—words and phrases like “home run” and “gaslighting” have cultural meaning that can easily be lost in translation, if not ignored completely. Second, languages have structural elements that are different from other languages which can make translation difficult. The second factor was a significant challenge in translating “The Intelligences.”
The relevant structural difference in this case arises because Portuguese and English gender their pronouns in opposite ways. In English, pronouns like his and hers tell us the gender of the subject—using his, for example, means that the owner of whatever his refers to is male. In contrast Portuguese, and most other Romance languages, gender pronouns based on the object of the pronoun—using sua, for example, tells us that whatever is owned is female. So if I say in English His ball is blue, I know that the owner of the ball is male. But in Portuguese if I say the nominal equivalent, Sua bola é azul, I only know that the ball is a female word, and I don’t know the gender of the ball’s owner (although it is clear that an owner does exist).
In my translation of “The Intelligences” this difference causes a problem. Throughout most of the story the gender of the characters is ambiguous—the author never says what their gender is, and while he uses the appropriate Portuguese pronouns, those pronouns never tell us the gender. But in English, using his or her implies a gender that isn’t in the Portuguese.
As a result, I have tried to avoid most pronouns that would translate to a particular gender, and I have used singular they or them where I couldn’t avoid it. Unfortunately, given the cultural context in the United States, if not other English-speaking countries, using singular they might have other implications that are also not in the Portuguese text—at least not in the way often used at the moment. For the bulk of the story, the gender of the characters is simply not known.
“The Intelligences” was previously published in Aquilo que nos move (Samuel Lamanita 2010), edited by Rex P. Nielson and Kent Larsen.