l_english:

####################
# The Crystal Rift #
####################
 astral_rift_crystal: "The Crystal Rift"

 astral_rift.1000.name: "Understanding"
 astral_rift.1000.desc: "Something on the far side of the Rift has taken hold of the Sphere and disabled our retraction device.\n\nThe first parcels of data we received were unintelligible, but subsequent transfers are slowly piecing these messages together. We speculate the flow of time is much faster on the other side of this rift, and we are in fact receiving communication in real-time from across the breach.\n\nThe result is the processing of approximately one word per day. The following report is what we have received so far.\n\n§E"we observe..."§!\n\n§E"apology... method... unkind..."§!\n\n§E"emergency..."§!\n\n§E"understand..."§!\n\nThese brief messages are hidden amongst heavy noise and incomprehensible data.\n\nWho knows what danger the [Explorer.GetCrew] of the §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! is in.\n\nIt may be possible to re-establish contact and regain control by sending an electromagnetic pulse through the anchor cord in an effort to reset our control systems."
 astral_rift.1000.desc.gestalt: "$astral_rift.1000.desc$"
 astral_rift.1000.desc.default: "The report received from our §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! contains no record of our [Explorer.GetScientistPlural]'s [Leader.GetMechanicalBiological] signature.\n\n$astral_rift.1000.desc$"
 astral_rift.1000.a: "Utilize A.I. to check for hidden patterns."
 astral_rift.1000.b: "E.M.P. the anchor cord."

 astral_rift.1005.name: "Home"
 astral_rift.1005.desc.common: "A projection of our galaxy could be pieced together from the images, along with a second image of a much smaller, yet unusually dense system. Between the two, there stretched a series of Astral Rifts. We understood that this was a roadmap from our dimension to somewhere else.\n\nA small point of light was abnormally highlighted inside the image of our galaxy. Later analysis confirmed this was our Homeworld, [Explorer.GetHomeWorldName], shining brightly. A similar light was discovered to be marked in the neighboring universe.\n\nThey are showing us where to go.\n\nWe're receiving more data than our computers can reasonably handle before it becomes corrupted or lost. We should prioritize the type of information we'd like to preserve."
 astral_rift.1005.desc: "The next two words we were able to decode were §E"home"§! and §E"witness"§!. Amazingly, as our understanding of the alien data improves, we also discovered the existence of visual data embedded within the noise.\n\n$astral_rift.1005.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1005.a: "Preserve the particles."
 astral_rift.1005.b: "Preserve the field manipulation data."

 astral_rift.1006.name: "$astral_rift.1005.name$"
 astral_rift.1006.desc: "With the extra computational support, we have processed the data they are streaming to us. It is in fact a communication; it was not an attack of any kind. The data we are receiving tells us a story in a sequence of moving images.\n\n$astral_rift.1005.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1006.a: "$astral_rift.1005.a$"
 astral_rift.1006.b: "$astral_rift.1005.b$"

 astral_rift.1010.name: "Taking Control"
 astral_rift.1010.desc.common.1: "The E.M.P. we delivered through the anchor cord successfully jolted the Sphere free of whatever had taken control over it."
 astral_rift.1010.desc.common.2: "With sensors fully operational, the crew observed a gaseous entity directly nearby their location; presumably this is what had been controlling the vessel. It seemed that the jolt of energy has incapacitated it, at least for the time being.\n\nThe Sphere is being held in some sort of pocket dimension. We are surrounded on all sides by the swirling clouds of a dense nebula. The only other entity detected is the creature nearby.\n\nAfter recovering from the shock, it has begun to bombard the Sphere with a series of rapid communications and signals.\n\nOur computers and sensors have become overloaded with information, making navigation difficult. We will need some computational support to understand what we are receiving.\n\nIt is not clear that we are welcome here."
 astral_rift.1010.desc.gestalt: "$astral_rift.1010.desc.common.1$\n\n$astral_rift.1010.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1010.desc.default: "$astral_rift.1010.desc.common.1$\n\nThe crew is alive and well. However, none of them have any memory of losing control of the Sphere.\n\n$astral_rift.1010.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1010.a: "Provide A.I. assistance."
 astral_rift.1010.b: "Get out! We've only stunned it."

 astral_rift.1015.name: "Ascendance"
 astral_rift.1015.desc: "More images.\n\nA chronicle of this alien homeworld was shown to us in great detail.\n\nThese beings formed millennia ago by a chance combination of gasses and energy that accumulated nearby a massive Astral Rift. They flow freely in and out of their planet as if they were part of its atmosphere.\n\nAt the end of each life cycle, their essence disperses back into the planet and gets born anew. Cities in the sky rose, fell, and rose again. Civilizations formed on top of previous civilizations with the knowledge physically maintained by these ancestral particles. The degree of the time passing was safely estimated to be magnitudes greater than the history of our known universe.\n\nIn the end, we behold a civilization of awakened higher beings. Their physiology alone is more advanced than any technology we could conceive.\n\nWe have logged this new species in our databases as the Formless.\n\n§E"flourishing..."§!\n\nOnce again, we're receiving more data than our computers can reasonably handle before it becomes corrupted or lost. We should prioritize the type of information we'd like to preserve."
 astral_rift.1015.a: "Preserve the physics data."
 astral_rift.1015.b: "Preserve the society data."

 astral_rift.1020.name: "Shatter"
 astral_rift.1020.desc: "Their gaseous homeworld was revealed to us in more and more detail. This time, we see its individual inhabitants. Beings of light, gas, and astral material leaked from the nearby rift are living in what could easily be described as a utopia.\n\nEventually, a great structure was raised. An incredible piece of engineering, it stretched directly from their planet into the rift, allowing them to easily travel between this dimension and countless others. With such an astral conduit existing for so long between the planes, they have shaped many rifts to fit their specific needs. Their society stretched between a multitude of dimensions, colonizing entire universes as we would new planets.\n\nHowever, their greatest achievement was also their greatest disaster. Their empire spread further than the astral conduit could maintain. Brighter and brighter the megastructure grew until the sight of it was difficult to look upon without shielding one's eyes, until it finally burst violently in a dimension-spanning explosion that fractured their civilization.\n\n§E"shattered kin..."§!\n\n§E"war..."§!\n\n§E"help us..."§!\n\nOur §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! has been forcibly ejected from the Rift. A dimensional portal is now opening in the [solar_system.GetName] System."
 astral_rift.1020.a: "We've opened a doorway..."
 astral_rift.1020.b: "Seal it! Quickly!"

 astral_rift.1025.name: "Escape"
 astral_rift.1025.desc: "With our systems re-enabled, we've retracted the anchor cable and escaped from the creature inside of the Crystal Rift.\n\nIt is unknown what further powers of manipulation they would have deployed on us, and it is best not to find out.\n\nOn a fortunate note, the residue it left on the hull of our vessel is extremely dense with astral material."

 astral_rift.1030.name: "The Seal"
 astral_rift.1030.desc: "A gateway was nearly established in our capital system that placed our people in great danger.\n\nLuckily, with technology we have gained from studying Astral Rifts, we were able to successfully seal this danger permanently.\n\nWhatever was seeking to come through will remain a mystery.\n\nOur people consider this a great victory over an unfathomably powerful enemy."

###################
# Hatching Ground #
###################
 lonely_planet_propulsion_modifier: "Solar Sailing Insight"

 astral_rift_lonely_planet: "Hatching Ground"

 astral_rift.1100.name: "Giant Eggs"
 astral_rift.1100.desc: "Our probe has discovered a clutch of giant eggs, each as big as the §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§!. They are expected to hatch imminently, and when they do the planet will be crawling with creatures we know next to nothing about. We can detect no other living specimens on the planet, so the growth cycle of this species is unknown to us.\n\nMostly barren, this planet's ecosystem does not seem capable of supporting a thriving population. Our leading theory is that this species follows an interstellar migration pattern. The adults of the species must therefore currently be off-world."

 astral_rift.1105.name: "Star Drinkers"
 astral_rift.1105.desc: "The eggs are hatching.\n\nMassive, winged creatures are emerging from the shells. They are born with the ability to fly, swarming the skies in huge flocks, their enormous wings casting shadows across the landscape. They climb high into the atmosphere, seemingly attracted to the starlight.\n\nWe have yet to observe them feed, which could indicate that they draw energy via some form of photosynthesis. Their physiology raises many questions."
 astral_rift.1105.a: "Get closer."
 astral_rift.1105.b: "Maintain a safe distance."

 astral_rift.1110.name: "Friendly Hatchlings"
 astral_rift.1110.desc: "The creatures showed no fear as we approached them, probably due to a lack of predators within their isolated habitat.\n\nWe were able to easily take samples from the beings and the remains of their eggs as they flew curiously around us. They have photovoltaic scales, allowing them to gain all necessary sustenance from their star. Their bodies are also highly resistant to pressure, indicating an ability to withstand the vacuum of space for long periods of time. It is highly likely that these creatures have evolved to be capable of prolonged space flight."
 astral_rift.1110.a: "Remarkable."
 astral_rift.1110.b.evopred: "Neither Avian or Arthropoid. Very peculiar."
 astral_rift.1110.c.bio: "They are comparable to our ships!"

 astral_rift.1115.name: "Solar Sailing"
 astral_rift.1115.desc: "Observing the first flight of these infant creatures is illuminating.\n\nThey flap their wings like solar sails, masterfully accelerating to great speeds, gliding and swooping as they play together in the upper atmosphere.\n\nThey are unbound by gravity, capable of traversing space in the same way they effortlessly climb through the atmosphere."
 astral_rift.1115.a: "Impressive."

 astral_rift.1120.name: "Astral Migration"
 astral_rift.1120.desc: "While conducting further research into the behavioral patterns of the hatchlings, a being larger than a battleship suddenly phased into existence. The creatures flocked around it, tussling among themselves to get closer to the giant. It appears to be a mature member of the same species.\n\nThis secluded planet must therefore serve as a safe nesting area for these trans-dimensional beings. As we watched, the adult herded the young toward a newly formed rift in the upper atmosphere.\n\nTheir passage left a rippling wake of spatial disruption, as well as a large concentration of $astral_threads$."
 astral_rift.1120.a: "A remarkable lifeform."

 astral_rift.1125.name: "Astral Spawning"
 astral_rift.1125.desc: "$astral_rift.1120.desc$"
 astral_rift.1125.a: "$astral_rift.1120.a$"

##################
# The Microverse #
##################
 microverse_knownledge_modifier: "A Star is Born"

 astral_rift_microverse: "The Microverse"

 astral_rift.1200.name: "Acceleration"
 astral_rift.1200.desc: "As our Sphere passed through the rift, we experienced a wild burst of acceleration.\n\nThe tremendous gravity of this universe was pulling us in. After an uncomfortable and dangerous ride, we found ourselves floating within a dense cluster of star systems, every one of which was within range of our Sphere's limited sensors. As far as we can tell, these comprise the totality of this universe.\n\nInitial reports also indicate high levels of dark matter; what's more, this mass is constantly increasing. As a direct consequence, the forces of gravity are intensifying over time."

 astral_rift.1205.name: "Shrinking Space"
 astral_rift.1205.desc: "This universe is shrinking in size. In due time, we predict it will completely collapse into itself.\n\nThe problem is that we cannot accurately calculate when this will occur. The Sphere's systems have been acting strangely since we arrived, and various data points have disappeared from the computer core. It is as if the data itself has been unwritten.\n\nElsewhere, a potted plant was observed lifting its roots and returning to a seed. The flow of time is clearly unstable here."

 astral_rift.1210.name: "Temporal Leak"
 astral_rift.1210.desc.common: "Outside of the Sphere the consequences are even more dramatic: the trajectory of asteroids have completely reversed, planets are dispersing into dust and gas, entire systems are condensing into balls of volatile material. Time is clearly flowing backward, and we are caught somewhere in between.\n\nEventually, the time will reach "zero" and this universe will be reduced to the size of a pin.\n\nAlthough we appear to be somewhat isolated from the time effects, the Sphere is obviously permeable. By synchronizing our computer with the [Fleet.GetName] outside the rift, we should be able to preserve the rapidly disappearing data. As a more drastic measure, we could use the unique properties of astral thread to repolarize the hull and seal the temporal leak."
 astral_rift.1210.desc.default: "Shrinking plants and lost data were only the start of our issues. The trouble has spread to the memory of the crew, with many appearing confused, forgetting what they were working on, or even that they entered the rift at all.\n\n$astral_rift.1210.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1210.desc.gestalt: "Shrinking plants and lost data were only the start of our issues. The [explorer.GetIndividualNamePlural] on the far side of the rift are experiencing something unusual. Our collective experience is growing confused, and we are finding it increasingly difficult to synchronize.\n\n$astral_rift.1210.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1210.a: "Synchronize with the [Fleet.GetName]."
 astral_rift.1210.b: "Repolarize the hull."

 astral_rift.1215.name: "Emergency"
 astral_rift.1215.desc: "The [fleet.ship.GetName] was prompt to respond; we are now sending updates at regular intervals. This has successfully preserved the data we've collected thus far.\n\nUnfortunately, we're still exposed to the anomalous temporal flow, and the effects are getting stronger...\n\nWith significant and accelerating signs of de-aging in our crew, we are tactically retreating from this universe before it is too late."

 astral_rift.1220.name: "Unbirthing"
 astral_rift.1220.desc: "The §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§!'s hull has been successfully repolarized. We are now well isolated from the most extreme effects of the time dilation. Our thought patterns have returned to normal and we are able to continue the mission.\n\nWe are now prepared to study the unique physics of this universe more fully.\n\nWe could navigate closer toward one of the stars for direct observation of its 'unbirthing.' On the other hand, the very edge of existence would be a perfect vantage point to watch the end of time."
 astral_rift.1220.a: "Approach the closest star system."
 astral_rift.1220.b: "Observe from the edge of the universe."

 astral_rift.1225.name: "Stardust"
 astral_rift.1225.desc.common: "We have approached a Class G star, which is slowly fading away. The gasses it normally emits have been retracting as its light weakens. It would take millions of years to observe this in our own universe. This is a unique opportunity to witness such an event within a reasonable span of time."
 astral_rift.1225.desc.default: "$astral_rift.1225.desc.common$\n\nThe crew's excitement at witnessing this wonderful phenomenon is palpable."
 astral_rift.1225.desc.gestalt: "$astral_rift.1225.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1225.a: "There may never be another chance."

 astral_rift.1230.name: "End of the Beginning"
 astral_rift.1230.desc: "We have traveled far beyond the cosmic horizon, a feat that would normally be impossible for us to achieve.\n\nAt the edge of the universe was an absolute nothingness that extended past all rationality.\n\nLooking towards the center, we witnessed everything coalesce toward a single point in space. The physics data we have collected as a result is literally astronomical.\n\nHowever, lingering any further might prove a fatal mistake, and we are returning immediately."
 astral_rift.1230.a: "Wondrous."

 astral_rift.1235.name: "End of the Beginning"
 astral_rift.1235.desc: "The star is no more.\n\nWe have managed to record almost every moment of its creation, from end to beginning. What once comprised a burning core is now a swirling mist of atoms. The physics knowledge we have gained is invaluable.\n\nHowever, lingering any further might prove a fatal mistake, and we are returning immediately."
 astral_rift.1235.a: "Wondrous."

#############
# The Fluid #
#############
 astral_rift_fluid: "The Fluid"

 astral_rift.1300.name: "The Fluid"
 astral_rift.1300.desc: "Our §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! has arrived submerged inside of a viscous, reddish fluid. All around us drift large disc-shaped blobs of more solid matter, but we have avoided collision with them thus far. A solid wall of a semi-gelatinous material surrounds us on all sides. We glide along easily.\n\nThe rhythmic pulsing we sensed from within this rift is in sync with the harmonic frequency of the liquid around us. Every three seconds, we are pushed forward with a rush of pressure driving us deeper into the tubular system. Resisting the flow is quite difficult on our engines.\n\nThis is a great opportunity for sample collection, but the appropriate apparatus may impede our navigation in these twisting tunnels."
 astral_rift.1300.a: "Deploy sample collection rig."
 astral_rift.1300.b: "Proceed forward at ease."

 astral_rift.1305.name: "Snagged"
 astral_rift.1305.desc.common: "Some time after arriving within the rift, we came to an abrupt halt as the sample apparatus trawling behind us became lodged in a narrowing of the tunnel system.\n\nWe attempted to free ourselves with intermittent bursts of propulsion, but the strength of the current prevented us from making any meaningful progress."
 astral_rift.1305.desc.no_gases: "$astral_rift.1305.desc.common$\n\nWe have no choice but to simply cut the sample apparatus free and continue onward."
 astral_rift.1305.desc.gases: "$astral_rift.1305.desc.common$\n\nThe safest option may be to simply cut the sample apparatus free and continue onward. However, it may still be possible to preserve the sample by supplementing our propulsion with a charge of exotic gasses."
 astral_rift.1305.a: "Cut it loose. The risk isn't worth it."
 astral_rift.1305.b: "Use emergency gasses."

 astral_rift.1310.name: "The Chamber"
 astral_rift.1310.desc.common: "The laminar flow along the tunnel walls has kept us well centered in our journey. Several days have passed without much incident. The disc-shaped foreign bodies surrounding us are also caught within the flow; they gently drift and tumble past the Sphere.\n\nWe have witnessed no evidence of sentient life. In fact, our strongest supposition at this point is that we are inside of some unknown, massive super organism. If our presence has been noticed by any natural defenses, we have not yet witnessed it.\n\nWe now find ourselves in an enormous chamber. The walls are lined with veiny protrusions. The chamber walls regularly expand and contract, forcing millions of liters of fluid through a single exit.\n\nAs we held our position, we discovered a second entryway into the chamber. Trace amounts of crystalline matter are suspended in the fluid coming from this tunnel. The pressure of its flow is low enough that with some skillful navigating this orifice could be explored."
 astral_rift.1310.desc: "We have cut loose the sampling rig. We noticed the surrounding area around the apparatus seemed to slowly darken and became swollen over time.\n\n$astral_rift.1310.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1310.a: "Follow the flow outward."
 astral_rift.1310.b: "Explore the crystalline orifice."

 astral_rift.1311.name: "$astral_rift.1310.name$"
 astral_rift.1311.desc: "By supplementing our propulsion with a charge of exotic gasses, we were able to rip the apparatus free from the tunnel wall. We have since been able to recover the valuable samples.\n\n$astral_rift.1310.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1311.a: "$astral_rift.1310.a$"
 astral_rift.1311.b: "$astral_rift.1310.b$"

 astral_rift.1315.name: "The Blob"
 astral_rift.1315.desc.common: "Suddenly, an amorphous blob the size of a starship was observed several hundred meters away. Attempting to observe it from a distance, we somehow managed to draw its attention.\n\nThe §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! was quickly absorbed through the entity's membrane. Its interior is composed mostly of a corrosive enzyme; the Sphere's hull is being digested as we speak."
 astral_rift.1315.desc_no_gestalt: "Our tactical officer recommends immediate evacuation, but our biologist theorizes its enzymes can be neutralized by combining the gasses and fluid we have at our disposal."
 astral_rift.1315.desc_gestalt: "Evacuation may be appropriate, but we theorize its enzymes can be neutralized with the right combination of gasses and fluid we have at our disposal."

 astral_rift.1315.desc.default: "On the far side of the orifice, we entered another cavity. This chamber dwarfed any other we had seen thus far. Here, thin and delicately branching tendrils stretch out in every direction. They are all so intricately woven together that it has become difficult to proceed. The fluid in this environment is saturated with gasses which have been easy for us to collect.\n\n$astral_rift.1315.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1315.desc.gases.default: "$astral_rift.1315.desc.default$\n\n$astral_rift.1315.desc_no_gestalt$"
 astral_rift.1315.desc.gases.gestalt: "$astral_rift.1315.desc.default$\n\n$astral_rift.1315.desc_gestalt$"
 astral_rift.1315.a: "Pull anchor. Return immediately."
 astral_rift.1315.b: "Pump exotic gasses. Neutralize the beast."

 astral_rift.1316.name: "$astral_rift.1315.name$"
 astral_rift.1316.desc.default: "Fighting through the current, we were able to squeeze into an off-shoot from the previous chamber. We emerged into a cavern of quivering crystals. The walls around us filtered fluid from every direction, causing a crystalline residue to be left behind.\n\n$astral_rift.1315.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1316.desc.gases.default: "$astral_rift.1316.desc.default$\n\n$astral_rift.1315.desc_no_gestalt$"
 astral_rift.1316.desc.gases.gestalt: "$astral_rift.1316.desc.default$\n\n$astral_rift.1315.desc_gestalt$"
 astral_rift.1316.a: "$astral_rift.1315.a$"
 astral_rift.1316.b: "$astral_rift.1315.b$"

 astral_rift.1320.name: "Extraction"
 astral_rift.1320.desc.common: "Though the creature's acidic enzymes were a danger to the hull, we had plenty of time to engage the emergency anchor and escape back through the other side of the rift."
 astral_rift.1320.desc.no_rig: "$astral_rift.1320.desc.common$\n\nOur voyage was not all in vain, however. A significant amount of material from the beast was found still attached to our hull. Our biologists are eager to investigate what secrets it may contain."
 astral_rift.1320.desc.rig: "$astral_rift.1320.desc.common$\n\nOur voyage was not all in vain, however. A significant amount of material from the beast was recovered by our sampling rig. Our biologists are eager to investigate what secrets it may contain."
 astral_rift.1320.b.evopred: "Neutralize the acid. Then we shall drink."

 astral_rift.1325.name: "Dissolution"
 astral_rift.1325.desc.common.1: "While significant in size, the creature turned out to be remarkably primitive in its biology.\n\nVery soon after releasing our unique concoction of gasses, its membrane dissolved. No longer able to maintain cellular integrity, its internals were carried away into the surrounding currents until only the massive core remained.\n\nWe are pleased to report that we have successfully recovered the object, which is not wholly unlike the nucleus of many single-celled organisms from our own dimension."
 astral_rift.1325.desc.common.2: "Our speculation is that this creature was some sort of antibody in this colossal network of tubes and fluid, and identified us as a foreign threat. Damaged by the encounter, we have returned with our trophy."
 astral_rift.1325.desc.no_rig: "$astral_rift.1325.desc.common.1$\n\n$astral_rift.1325.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1325.desc.rig: "$astral_rift.1325.desc.common.1$\n\nIn addition, the sampling rig we managed to save previously has been able to recover a significant amount of material from the beast. Our biologists are eager to investigate what secrets it may contain.\n\n$astral_rift.1325.desc.common.2$"

 astral_rift.1330.name: "Dissolved"
 astral_rift.1330.desc.gestalt: "We have lost contact with our [explorer.GetTeamMemberPlural].\n\nAs is standard procedure, we have retracted the anchor and recovered what was left of the §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§!.\n\nWhile it is mostly dissolved, there is a highly concentrated biomass coating all remaining pieces. We are certain this will lead to new breakthroughs."
 astral_rift.1330.desc.default: "We have lost contact with the Science team.\n\nAs is standard procedure, we have retracted the anchor and recovered what was left of the §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§!.\n\nWhile it is mostly dissolved, there is a highly concentrated biomass coating all remaining pieces. Our biologists are certain this will lead to new breakthroughs.\n\nWe commend the crew for its bravery. Their names will be remembered."

##############
# The Garden #
##############
 infinity_root_leader_desc: "§Y[Root.GetName]§! was born from the seeds of the $r_infinity_root$. [Root.GetSheHeCap] is new to this world, but possesses a remarkable intelligence."
 garden_astral_rift_resurrected_leader_desc: "§Y[Root.GetName]§! somehow returned to us from a failed expedition into an Astral Rift abundant with vegetation. While [Root.GetHeShe] no longer resemble[Root.GetSXX] [Root.GetHisHer] former self, [Root.GetHeShe] seem[Root.GetSXX] to possess similar qualities."

 astral_rift_garden: "The Garden"

 astral_rift.1400.name: "Thorns"
 astral_rift.1400.desc: "We arrived in a chamber of writhing green vines.\n\nBarbed thorns bite outward from nearly every bend and twist in their coils.\n\nWe quickly became aware that these organisms have some sort of intent about them, or at least a defensive instinct.\n\nWe have noted an abnormally high oxygen content in the atmosphere. We speculate that burning away these nuisances would prove to be an easy task.\n\nOn the other hand, this would certainly destroy any samples we would otherwise be able to collect. We've observed a large quantity of hairy fruit hanging from the stalks that could provide a generous amount of insight into this flora."
 astral_rift.1400.a: "Burn the weeds."
 astral_rift.1400.b: "Extract the fruit."

 astral_rift.1405.name: "Entangled"
 astral_rift.1405.desc: "We have become entangled.\n\nWhile the §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§!'s smooth surface provides little purchase for the plants, our anchor cable has become wrapped from all directions in fibrous vines.\n\nDespite these obstructions, no plant matter could overcome our retraction if we want to return to safety and leave the rift. The biological matter we pull with us could likely be of some use.\n\nHowever, if we want to continue exploring forward, our only practical option will be to burn through the foliage. The resulting blaze will be highly intense. At such close proximity, we risk damaging our vessel."
 astral_rift.1405.a: "Burn the entangling vines."
 astral_rift.1405.b: "Pull anchor. Escape."

 astral_rift.1410.name: "The Hollow"
 astral_rift.1410.desc.common: "Having dealt with the immediate danger, we explored our surroundings more thoroughly.\n\nWe are deep within a series of caverns.\n\nScouting our way through a nearby tunnel led us into a more expansive hollow. Systems of root-like clusters dangle from the ceiling, dripping a viscous fluid onto the foliage below - which then becomes absorbed by even more vegetation. It is its own thriving ecosystem. To develop such an established environment must have taken several millennia.\n\nThe tendrils in this area are even more densely packed than where we arrived."
 astral_rift.1410.desc.burn: "As expected, the high oxygen concentrations in the air produced a burst of flame that quickly consumed the prickly plants.\n\nUnencumbered, we continued exploring. We were able to recover much of the ash that had become mixed with astral material from the rift's edge.\n\n$astral_rift.1410.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1410.desc.extract: "As we weaved our way through the vines, we were able to shear some of the fruit from their stems using our sample collection tools. Each time we removed one, the rest of the plant fell limply to the side. Eventually we gathered enough to establish a wide area of safety.\n\nThe "fruit" of these plants are actually more of a symbiotic fungal growth that seems present throughout the entire root system. We have taken some samples aboard for further study.\n\nWe speculate this fungus serves as a kind of neural cluster for the plants they occupy.\n\n$astral_rift.1410.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1410.a: "Burn it all."
 astral_rift.1410.b: "Study this place."

 astral_rift.1415.name: "Conflagration"
 astral_rift.1415.desc: "Unfortunately, we lost contact with the science team aboard the §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§!.\n\nUpon recovery, half of the vessel had completely melted into slag. All aboard have perished.\n\nWe have refitted a new §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! to the science ship for further explorations into the astral planes."

 astral_rift.1420.name: "Escape"
 astral_rift.1420.desc: "The inherent danger of this place was not worth the risk.\n\nWe have pulled the retrievable anchor and returned our [explorer.GetTeamMemberPlural] to safety.\n\nThe samples we have recovered have some uniquely interesting properties."
 astral_rift.1420.b.evopred: "Catalog our findings."

 astral_rift.1425.name: "A Creature"
 astral_rift.1425.desc.common.1: "We have cleared out most of this chamber with flame."
 astral_rift.1425.desc.common.2: "With no exposure to thunderstorms in this habitat, these organisms have likely completely adapted to an environment where there is never a threat of ignition.\n\nShortly after the last of the flames died away, a strange creature emerged from the ashes. With its hundreds of limbs, it crawled among the embers in confusion. Claw-like appendages sifted through the ashes diligently. A soft, low sound shot forth from several of the membranes coating the segments of its body.\n\nIt then turned its attention toward us. Head tilted to the side, an arrangement of scaled spines lifted outward from its neck. With quick, rhythmic pulses, the shimmering beast sent audible sounds in our direction."
 astral_rift.1425.desc.previousburn: "$astral_rift.1425.desc.common.1$\n\nAs before, the plants disintegrated in a massive conflagration. We have additionally observed that the fluid coating these plants serves as an accelerant.\n\n$astral_rift.1425.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1425.desc.nopreviousburn: "$astral_rift.1425.desc.common.1$\n\nAs expected, the high oxygen concentration in the air produced a burst of flame that quickly consumed the prickly plants.\n\n$astral_rift.1425.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1425.a: "Escape."
 astral_rift.1425.b: "Do nothing."
 astral_rift.1425.c: "Burn the Creature."

 astral_rift.1430.name: "A Creature"
 astral_rift.1430.desc: "Despite our most careful efforts to study the chamber, we have been discovered by a potentially dangerous creature.\n\nWe first spotted it crawling among the thorns with delicate precision using its hundreds of limbs. A soft, shrill sound shot forth from several of the membranes coating the segments of its body as it tended to the fruit it found in every plant, cultivating them.\n\nUnfortunately, our hull brushed harshly against a clump of crisp, broad leaves. Alerted by the noise, it quickly turned its attention toward us. Head tilted to the side, an arrangement of scaled spines lifted outward from its neck. With quick, rhythmic pulses, the shimmering beast sent audible sounds in our direction."
 astral_rift.1430.a: "Escape."
 astral_rift.1430.b: "Burn the Creature."

 astral_rift.1435.name: "Noticed"
 astral_rift.1435.desc: "Unfortunately, we have drawn the attention of the creature. Head tilted to the side, an arrangement of scaled spines lifted outward from its neck. With quick, rhythmic pulses, the shimmering beast sent audible sounds in our direction.\n\nWe'll be unable to study it any further.\n\nWe predict it would be quite vulnerable if exposed to intense flame, as most of the other life around here tends to be. However, it may be best to escape now and cut our losses."
 astral_rift.1435.a: "Escape."
 astral_rift.1435.b: "Burn the Creature."

 astral_rift.1440.name: "A Creature"
 astral_rift.1440.desc: "There is something lurking among the leaves.\n\nAs we assumed a surreptitious position to study this chamber, a strange creature soon emerged from the foliage. We first spotted it crawling among the thorns with delicate precision using its hundreds of limbs. A soft, shrill sound shot forth from several of the membranes coating the segments of its body as it tended to the fruit it found in every plant, cultivating them.\n\nWe have been observing it for some time now, and believe further study would warrant valuable research opportunities.\n\nOn the other hand, we predict it would be quite vulnerable if exposed to intense flame, as most of the other life around here tends to be. It may be best to exterminate it while we have the opportunity."
 astral_rift.1440.a: "Burn the Creature."
 astral_rift.1440.b: "Continue Studies."

 astral_rift.1445.name: "Plant Material"
 astral_rift.1445.desc: "We have lost contact with the §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§!.\n\nAs is standard procedure, we have retracted the anchor and recovered the vessel.\n\nThere is no evidence of any of our [explorer.GetTeamMemberPlural] remaining. However, their signature components can be detected among the massive root system that now occupies the entire inside of the cabin.\n\nThe sphere itself has been transported elsewhere for further study. Perhaps we could plant it somewhere."
 astral_rift.1445.b.evopred: "Their sacrifice was not in vain. Now for the dissection."

 astral_rift.1450.name: "Infinity Root"
 astral_rift.1450.desc: "The creature was no stranger to fire.\n\nAs soon as we sparked the first flame, it skittered away in alarm - a behavior so quick it must be some sort of instinct.\n\nPerhaps it was aware of the flammable properties of this environment. Whatever the reason, it has retreated so far into the cracks and crevices of this place that we no longer detect any sign of it within any range of sensors.\n\nAfter it departed, we recovered an object it dropped during its retreat. It must have been too much of a burden to carry along.\n\nOur brief experiments have shown that wherever this object is placed, it immediately begins sending out microscopic tendrils to scout out new areas to settle and flourish. At the merest detection of moisture, those tendrils congregate and thrive.\n\nShockingly, the resulting plant exhibits unique signs of intelligence, even as a young sprout.\n\nWe suspect it could even be raised as a valuable asset to our empire."
 astral_rift.1450.b.evopred: "Perfect. No matter how much we sample, it regenerates."

 astral_rift.1455.name: "Continued Studies"
 astral_rift.1455.desc.common: "We have been stealthily observing the creature as it goes about its duties in this secluded garden. It is uncertain how long we can remain here undetected."
 astral_rift.1455.desc: "$astral_rift.1455.desc.common$\n\nEach segment of the creature contains a pair of antennae. These assist it in detecting and removing pests from the minute hairs of the fruit it cultivates. The anatomical structure of these has furthered our understanding of what biological organisms are capable of."
 astral_rift.1455.a: "Continued Studies."

 astral_rift.1456.name: "Continued Studies"
 astral_rift.1456.desc: "$astral_rift.1455.desc.common$\n\nWe've noticed an organic mass resembling the "fruit" clutched tightly to the creature's chest, held in its massive pair of forelimbs. Several times, we have observed its mandibles dig into this object and graft small parts of it onto the nearby vegetation. It is propagating these plants artificially. This explains the lack of pollinators or identifiable method of reproduction."

 astral_rift.1457.name: "Infinity Root"
 astral_rift.1457.desc: "$astral_rift.1455.desc.common$\n\nThe creature has dug a small burrow, placing the object it was holding inside. As it skittered away, its hundreds of legs buried it in a shallow lump of soil.\n\nAfter making sure the creature would not be returning soon, we were able to recover it entirely.\n\nOur brief experiments have shown that wherever it is placed, the material immediately begins sending out microscopic tendrils to scout out new areas to settle and flourish. At the merest detection of moisture, those tendrils congregate and thrive.\n\nShockingly, the resulting plant exhibits unique signs of intelligence, even as a young sprout.\n\nWe suspect it could even be raised as a valuable asset to our empire."

 astral_rift.1465.name: "Seeds Sown"
 astral_rift.1465.desc: "Several years ago, §Y[from.GetName]§! was botanomorphed into a mass of roots and leaves during a failed expedition into an Astral Rift abundant with vegetation. Today their colleagues announced a marvelous breakthrough, they have restored §Y[from.GetName]'s§! mind!\n\nWhile [From.GetHeShe] no longer resemble[From.GetSXX] [From.GetHisHer] former self, [From.GetHeShe] seem[From.GetSXX] to possess similar qualities. A whole new life lies ahead of [From.GetHimHer]."
 astral_rift.1465.tt: "§Y[from.GetName]§! has returned to our service!"

################
# Desert Ruins #
################
 astral_rift_desert_ruins: "Desert Ruins"

 astral_rift.1500.name: "Strange Console"
 astral_rift.1500.desc: "Abandoned buildings are scattered haphazardly across the sands.\n\nFrom inside the largest of these, a massive dome, came a faint yellow light. From floor to ceiling, the interior's curving walls were covered in an unknown script.\n\nAt the center of the main chamber is a console with two large buttons: one deep blue, the other a vibrant green. We are in the process of deciphering the text on the walls, to see if it gives us an indication of what this console might be for."

 astral_rift.1505.name: "Trapped in Time"
 astral_rift.1505.desc: "Too much time has passed since we last heard from [Leader.GetName]. There is no point in continuing to wait for their return.\n\nWe retracted the anchor cable and pulled the empty Sphere back into our dimension."
 astral_rift.1505.a: "What were the odds?"

 astral_rift.1510.name: "Outer Ruins"
 astral_rift.1510.desc.common: "...The surfaces inside the dome glow with a faint yellow light. An unknown script covers the walls from top to bottom.\n\nAt the center of the main chamber is a console with two large buttons: one deep blue, the other a vibrant green. We are in the process of deciphering the text on the walls, to see if it gives us an indication of what this console might be for."
 astral_rift.1510.desc.default: "$astral_rift.1510.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1510.desc.psionic_or_latent: "$astral_rift.1510.desc.common$\n\n[Leader.GetName] has reported uneasiness since stepping into the dome. Something is wrong here."
 astral_rift.1510.desc.psionic_or_latent_robot: "$astral_rift.1510.desc.common$\n\n[Leader.GetName] has reported sensor abnormalities since entering the dome. Caution is advised."
 astral_rift.1510.b.default: "What on [Explorer.GetHomeWorldName] is going on? Weren't they lost?"
 astral_rift.1510.b.hive: "This defies logic, were they not lost to us?"
 astral_rift.1510.b.robot: "Does not compute. They were lost. Nonetheless, acknowledged."

 astral_rift.1515.name: "Lost Contact"
 astral_rift.1515.desc.default: "We regret to report that we have lost contact with the away team.\n\nThe last report received was an audio log of indecipherable screaming followed by an unbroken silence.\n\nAttempts to reestablish communications have been unsuccessful.\n\nWe have not yet pulled the emergency anchor in the hopes that the team might yet return, but the outlook seems grim."
 astral_rift.1515.desc.gestalt: "We have suddenly lost contact with our [explorer.GetIndividualNamePlural]. We have not yet pulled the emergency anchor in the hopes that this disconnect is temporary. With no way to enter the rift, this is all we can do."
 astral_rift.1515.a: "Let's hope for the best."

 astral_rift.1520.name: "A Choice"
 astral_rift.1520.desc.default: "We have synchronized with our very confused science team.\n\nThey have no memory of sending the report twice, or of any disaster. Timestamps for the duplicate reports are identical. There must be some disruptions in the flow of time here.\n\nOur scientists are trapped. The dome has sealed shut, and access to the §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! is limited to radio contact only.\n\nCalculating the times between this report and the last, the away team has 3 hours of relative time before the screaming will be repeated. Translating the walls within this timeframe is impractical. The only course of action is for the science team to press one of the buttons on the console and hope it improves their situation.\n\nThere is no indication of the function for either the §Bblue§! or §Ggreen§! button.\n\nWe'll have to trust to luck."
 astral_rift.1520.desc.gestalt: "We have re-synchronized with our lost [explorer.GetIndividualNamePlural].\n\nThere is a discrepancy: they do not have any recollection of sending two reports, nor can they remember the events that caused their sudden silence.\n\nCalculating the timestamps between this report and the last, our [explorer.GetIndividualNamePlural] have 3 hours of relative time before the disconnect is repeated. Translating the walls within this timeframe is impractical. Although there is no indication of the function of either the §Bblue§! or §Ggreen§! Buttons, the only course of action is to choose one in the hope that it improves the situation."
 astral_rift.1520.a: "Press the §Bblue§! button."
 astral_rift.1520.b: "Press the §Ggreen§! button."

 astral_rift.1525.name: "The Blue Button"
 astral_rift.1525.desc.common: "Our science team is back, and we have reestablished communications. According to their local time, there are 2 hours left to save them.\n\nHaving tried the §Ggreen§! button last time, all that remains is to try the §Bblue§!."
 astral_rift.1525.desc.default: "$astral_rift.1525.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1525.desc.psionic_or_latent: "$astral_rift.1525.desc.common$\n\nBefore we could issue this order, we were told by [Leader.GetName] that [Leader.GetHeShe] [Leader.GetIsAre] overwhelmed with a strong feeling of dread when [Leader.GetHeShe] glance[Leader.GetSXX] at the §Ggreen§! button. [Leader.GetHeSheCap] strongly recommend[Leader.GetSXX] trying the §Bblue§!."
 astral_rift.1525.desc.psionic_or_latent_robot: "$astral_rift.1525.desc.common$\n\nThe psionic processors of [Leader.GetName] have calculated that the optimal approach is to press the §Bblue§! button."
 astral_rift.1525.a: "$astral_rift.1520.a$"

 astral_rift.1530.name: "The Second Chamber"
 astral_rift.1530.desc: "Our science team reports that when they pressed the §Bblue§! button, the chamber resonated with a great grinding sound. A hidden door swung open, revealing a second chamber.\n\nThe walls of that chamber glowed a faint purple, lighting up a multitude of pictograms that cover every visible surface.\n\nThere is a second console. As with the last, it features exactly two buttons. This time, one has an engraving of an isosceles triangle, and the other a regular pentagon.\n\nIt is time to make another choice."
 astral_rift.1530.a: "Press the triangle button."
 astral_rift.1530.b: "Press the pentagon button."

 astral_rift.1535.name: "The Wrong Button"
 astral_rift.1535.desc.common: "Must have been the wrong button.\n\nHowever, it is conceivable that time might loop again, allowing the away team to make a different choice."
 astral_rift.1535.desc.default: "Once again, we have lost contact with the away team. Their last recorded audio is more screaming and the crackle of flame.\n\n$astral_rift.1535.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1535.desc.gestalt: "Our [explorer.GetIndividualNamePlural] have been incinerated.\n\n$astral_rift.1535.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1535.a: "§GGreen§! was the wrong choice..."

 astral_rift.1540.name: "The Second Chamber"
 astral_rift.1540.desc.common: "Our science team is back, and we have reestablished communications. According to their local time, there are [This.freeze_time_left_1540] hours left to save them.\n\nFollowing the lessons learned from the previous loops, the science team passed safely through the first chamber into the second. They are now prepared to make a different choice."
 astral_rift.1540.desc.default: "$astral_rift.1540.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1540.desc.psionic_or_latent: "$astral_rift.1540.desc.common$\n\n[Leader.GetName] says that we should have known to try the pentagon from the start. The triangle has always been an ill omen."
 astral_rift.1540.desc.psionic_or_latent_robot: "$astral_rift.1540.desc.common$\n\nThe psionic processors of [Leader.GetName] indicate that the best course of action when presented with such a choice has always been the pentagon. The triangle is a comparatively less interesting pattern."
 astral_rift.1540.b: "$astral_rift.1530.b$"

 astral_rift.1545.name: "Wrong Button"
 astral_rift.1545.desc.default: "Wrong button.\n\nThe team barely had time to send a short report before their communication was cut. Pressing the triangle button caused the chamber to fill with a corrosive gas.\n\nIf they loop back to their past once more, we will have an opportunity to try the other button."
 astral_rift.1545.desc.gestalt: "Choosing the triangle caused the chamber to fill with a corrosive gas that swiftly dissolved our [explorer.GetIndividualNamePlural].\n\nIf they loop back to their past once more, we will have an opportunity to try the other button."
 astral_rift.1545.desc.toxoid: "Choosing the triangle caused the chamber to fill with a corrosive gas. While much of our equipment was damaged, the sturdy constitution of the science team allowed them to survive unimpaired. After confirming their safety, they sent us a message saying they will try the pentagon button and report back."
 astral_rift.1545.desc.toxoid_gestalt: "Choosing the triangle caused the chamber to fill with a corrosive gas. While much of our equipment was damaged, the sturdy constitution of the [explorer.GetScientistPlural] allowed them to survive unimpaired. Once the gas has cleared, they will try the other button."
 astral_rift.1545.b: "Fortunate."

 astral_rift.1550.name: "The Third Chamber"
 astral_rift.1550.desc: "Pressing the pentagon caused the floor to rupture, revealing a spiraling staircase that descends deep underground.\n\nAt the bottom was a third chamber. Illuminated in a soft blue glow, the walls are completely bare. As before, this room is dominated by a solitary console with two buttons. One depicts four dots, while the other shows six.\n\nIt's time to make another choice."
 astral_rift.1550.a: "Press button with four dots."
 astral_rift.1550.b: "Press button with six dots."

 astral_rift.1555.name: "The Third Chamber"
 astral_rift.1555.desc.time_singular: "Our science team is back, and we have reestablished communications. According to their local time, there is one hour left to save them."
 astral_rift.1555.desc.time_plural: "Our science team is back, and we have reestablished communications. According to their local time, there are [This.freeze_time_left_1555] hours left to save them."
 astral_rift.1555.desc.default: "...Following the directions of our previous loops we passed through the first and second chamber without issue. Hopefully the hexa-dotted button is less deadly than its counterpart."
 astral_rift.1555.desc.robot: "...Following the directions of our previous loops we passed through the first and second chamber without issue. Based on predictive data, the hexa-dotted button may be statistically less dangerous than its counterpart."
 astral_rift.1555.desc.psionic_or_latent: "[Leader.GetName] has led the team confidently back through the first and second chambers. They have chosen the correct buttons without needing our commands."
 astral_rift.1555.desc.psionic_or_latent_robot: "[Leader.GetName] has efficiently led the team back through the first and second chambers, their psionic processors guiding them to the correct outcome independent of our commands."
 astral_rift.1555.desc.default_end: "Entering the third chamber they move to press the hexa-dotted button. Hopefully their confidence is well placed."
 astral_rift.1555.desc.robot_end: "Entering the third chamber they move to press the hexa-dotted button."
 astral_rift.1555.desc.default_singular: "$astral_rift.1555.desc.time_singular$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.default$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.default_end$"
 astral_rift.1555.desc.default_plural: "$astral_rift.1555.desc.time_plural$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.default$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.default_end$"
 astral_rift.1555.desc.robot_singular: "$astral_rift.1555.desc.time_singular$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.robot$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.robot_end$"
 astral_rift.1555.desc.robot_plural: "$astral_rift.1555.desc.time_plural$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.robot$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.robot_end$"
 astral_rift.1555.desc.psionic_or_latent_singular: "$astral_rift.1555.desc.time_singular$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.psionic_or_latent$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.default_end$"
 astral_rift.1555.desc.psionic_or_latent_plural: "$astral_rift.1555.desc.time_plural$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.psionic_or_latent$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.default_end$"
 astral_rift.1555.desc.psionic_or_latent_robot_singular: "$astral_rift.1555.desc.time_singular$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.psionic_or_latent_robot$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.robot_end$"
 astral_rift.1555.desc.psionic_or_latent_robot_plural: "$astral_rift.1555.desc.time_plural$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.psionic_or_latent_robot$\n\n$astral_rift.1555.desc.robot_end$"
 astral_rift.1555.b: "$astral_rift.1550.b$"

 astral_rift.1560.name: "Flood"
 astral_rift.1560.desc.default: "Wrong button.\n\nThe audio recording of [Leader.GetName]'s final words indicated that the button with four dots filled the chamber with a deluge of water.\n\nIf they loop back to their past once more, we will have an opportunity to try the other button."
 astral_rift.1560.desc.gestalt: "Wrong button.\n\nThe button with four dots filled the chamber with a deluge of water. Our [explorer.GetIndividualNamePlural] are no more.\n\nIf they loop back to their past once more, we will have an opportunity to try the other button."
 astral_rift.1560.desc.aquatic: "Pressing the button with four dots filled the chamber with a great swell of water. Fortunately, due to the aquatic nature of [Leader.GetName], this was barely an inconvenience. They intend to press the other button once the water has been fully drained."
 astral_rift.1560.desc.aquatic_gestalt: "$astral_rift.1560.desc.aquatic$"
 astral_rift.1560.b: "$astral_rift.1545.b$"

 astral_rift.1565.name: "Time Crystal"
 astral_rift.1565.desc.common: "A pedestal with a giant crystal has risen from the ground. All the doors in the complex have opened.\n\nChronometers oscillate wildly between extreme values when in close proximity to the crystal. This must be the source of the time loops, and a key part of this building's purpose."
 astral_rift.1565.desc.default: "$astral_rift.1565.desc.common$\n\nThe choices within this gauntlet of chambers seemed entirely arbitrary. Perhaps they were meant to test the ability to pass information between loops?\n\nEither way, surviving it allows us to leave with the crystal. Its ability to affect the flow of time could prove extremely useful."
 astral_rift.1565.desc.latent_psionic: "$astral_rift.1555.desc.common$\n\nThis experience has changed [Leader.GetName]. It seems that [Leader.GetHisHer] experience during the time loops has awakened [Leader.GetHisHer] latent psionic potential!\n\nPerhaps this was the ultimate purpose of the ruin, a set of arbitrary choices that can only be navigated with a power that transcends time, such as psionic intuition.\n\nEither way, we can now safely leave with the crystal. Its ability to affect the flow of time could prove to be very useful."
 astral_rift.1565.desc.latent_psionic_robot: "$astral_rift.1555.desc.common$\n\nExposure to these time loops has awakened the dormant psionic processor units within [Leader.GetName], the environment providing a solid test bed to bring these powers online.\n\nIt is unclear if this was the original purpose of these ruins. Regardless, we are now able to safely leave with the crystal for further chronological analysis."
 astral_rift.1565.desc.psionic: "$astral_rift.1565.desc.common$\n\nThroughout these loops, [Leader.GetName]'s intuition helped [Leader.GetHimHer] to make the correct choice.\n\nPerhaps this was the point of these chambers, a set of arbitrary choices designed to uncover psionic potential.\n\nEither way, we can now safely leave with the crystal. Its ability to affect the flow of time could prove to be very useful."
 astral_rift.1565.desc.psionic_robot: "$astral_rift.1565.desc.common$\n\nThroughout these loops, [Leader.GetName]'s psionic processors helped lead them to the optimal outcome.\n\nPerhaps this was the point of these chambers, a set of arbitrary choices designed to uncover psionic potential.\n\nRegardless, we are now able to safely leave with the crystal for further chronological analysis."
 astral_rift.1565.a: "Well, that was easy."

###################
# Strange Station #
###################
 astral_rift_station: "Strange Station"
 mirrored_empire_diplomacy: "You have started a positive relationship with [final_mirrored_empire.GetName]. Trading across the boundaries of the rift will now be possible."

# Mirrored Empire setup modifier don't need names
 copy_energy_income_modifier: ""
 copy_minerals_income_modifier: ""
 copy_food_income_modifier: ""
 copy_consumer_goods_income_modifier: ""
 copy_alloys_income_modifier: ""
 copy_volatile_motes_income_modifier: ""
 copy_exotic_gases_income_modifier: ""
 copy_rare_crystals_income_modifier: ""
 copy_sr_living_metal_income_modifier: ""
 copy_sr_zro_income_modifier: ""
 copy_sr_dark_matter_income_modifier: ""
 copy_nanites_income_modifier: ""

 station_friendship_modifier: "New Friendship"
 opinion_mirrored_empire: "Close cousins"
 personality_mirrored_empire_default: "Mirror Empire"
 personality_mirrored_empire_default_desc: "We encountered this civilization on the other side of an Astral Rift. Versions of ourselves from another dimension, they are an alarming example of what we might have become."
 personality_mirrored_empire_xenophobe: "$personality_mirrored_empire_default$"
 personality_mirrored_empire_xenophobe_desc: "$personality_mirrored_empire_default_desc$"
 personality_mirrored_empire_spiritualist: "$personality_mirrored_empire_default$"
 personality_mirrored_empire_spiritualist_desc: "$personality_mirrored_empire_default_desc$"

 fractured_ambassadors_modifier: "Fractured Ambassadors"
 fractured_ambassadors_modifier_desc: "Our mirror collective we encountered beyond the astral planes is of a fractured mind, but has offered to help us in our negotiations with other similar lifeforms."
 fractured_ambassadors_modifier_tt: "§G+20§! Diplomatic Opinion bonus for non-Gestalt empires"
 triggered_opinion_fractured_ambassadors: "$fractured_ambassadors_modifier$"
 triggered_opinion_fractured_ambassadors_desc: "$fractured_ambassadors_modifier_desc$"

 astral_rift.1600.name: "Through the Mirror"
 astral_rift.1600.desc.1: "Beyond the rift, we discovered a structure that resembled one of our own starbases. As soon as our §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! approached, we were hailed in a number of languages and on several frequencies. Surprisingly, one of those languages was our own.\n\nOur hosts were just as shocked as we were to encounter aliens speaking their own tongue. But after a brief exchange of courtesies, we learned that this sector is home to a space-faring civilization much like our own. They call it the [mirrored_empire.GetName]."
 astral_rift.1600.desc.2: "These people are a disturbing mix of the familiar and the strange. It might be possible to work with them, but can we trust these doppelgangers?"
 astral_rift.1600.desc.authoritarian: "$astral_rift.1600.desc.1$ They share many of our ideals, but where we understand that the needs of society outweigh the needs of an individual, they allow the selfish masses to follow a path of chaos.\n\n$astral_rift.1600.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1600.desc.egalitarian: "$astral_rift.1600.desc.1$ They share many of our ideals, but where we know that social equality is the foundation of a thriving society, they allow the state to control their people's lives.\n\n$astral_rift.1600.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1600.desc.materialist: "$astral_rift.1600.desc.1$ They share many of our ideals, but where we have cast off superstition, they still cling to their naive belief systems.\n\n$astral_rift.1600.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1600.desc.spiritualist: "$astral_rift.1600.desc.1$ They share many of our ideals, but where we see through this material world, they remain locked in illusion.\n\n$astral_rift.1600.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1600.desc.militarist: "$astral_rift.1600.desc.1$ They share many of our ideals, but where we understand the virtues of courage and discipline, they view martial valor as archaic.\n\n$astral_rift.1600.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1600.desc.pacifist: "$astral_rift.1600.desc.1$ They share many of our ideals, but where we have moved beyond war, they still cling to the destructive principles of military supremacy.\n\n$astral_rift.1600.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1600.desc.xenophile: "$astral_rift.1600.desc.1$ They share many of our ideals, but where we seek collaboration, they isolate themselves from the rest of the galaxy.\n\n$astral_rift.1600.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1600.desc.xenophobe: "$astral_rift.1600.desc.1$ They share many of our ideals, but where we put our people first, they embrace alien civilizations with a surprising naivety.\n\n$astral_rift.1600.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1600.desc.gestalt: "As soon as our §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! arrived at the starbase, we were hailed in a number of languages and on several frequencies.\n\nThe owners of the station successfully translated our language with remarkable speed and welcomed us aboard to exchange information.\n\nWe have since discovered that this sector is home to a civilization primarily composed of [mirrored_empire.GetSpeciesNamePlural] that calls itself the [mirrored_empire.GetName]."
 astral_rift.1600.a: "Study their people."
 astral_rift.1600.b: "Study their fleets."

 astral_rift.1605.name: "History Lesson"
 astral_rift.1605.desc.1: "We have spent the last month in a cultural exchange with the [mirrored_empire.GetName].\nTheir society mirrored our own until briefly before FTL technology was discovered, when they encountered an unknown alien vessel of unimaginable power. The vessel moved on without its purpose ever being discovered, but the brief visit shocked their society to the core."
 astral_rift.1605.desc.2: "It is clear to us that they made the incorrect choice, but it does pose an interesting question. Would our society also have gone down the wrong path had the same thing happened to us so early on?\n\nIt is unfortunate for them that this event happened during the impressionable pre-FTL period of their history. Changing their foundational ethics undoubtedly slowed the progress of their empire."
 astral_rift.1605.desc.gestalt: "$astral_rift.1605.desc.1$\n\n$astral_rift.1605.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1605.desc.authoritarian: "$astral_rift.1605.desc.1$ Seeing how helpless they would have been against these technologically advanced visitors lead to an upheaval in their ideology and a shift towards egalitarianism.\n\n$astral_rift.1605.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1605.desc.egalitarian: "$astral_rift.1605.desc.1$ Seeing how helpless they would have been against this craft lead to an upheaval in their ideology and a shift towards authoritarianism as they sought to prepare against any further encounters.\n\n$astral_rift.1605.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1605.desc.materialist: "$astral_rift.1605.desc.1$ Seeing how helpless they would have been against this craft lead to an upheaval in their ideology and a shift towards spiritualism.\n\n$astral_rift.1605.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1605.desc.spiritualist: "$astral_rift.1605.desc.1$ Seeing how helpless they would have been against this craft lead to an upheaval in their ideology and a shift towards materialism.\n\n$astral_rift.1605.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1605.desc.militarist: "$astral_rift.1605.desc.1$ Seeing how helpless they would have been against this craft lead to an upheaval in their ideology and a shift towards pacifism as they sought a peaceful resolution to any further encounters.\n\n$astral_rift.1605.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1605.desc.pacifist: "$astral_rift.1605.desc.1$ Seeing how helpless they would have been against this craft lead to an upheaval in their ideology and a shift towards militarism as they sought to prepare for any further encounters.\n\n$astral_rift.1605.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1605.desc.xenophile: "$astral_rift.1605.desc.1$ Seeing how helpless they would have been against this craft lead to an upheaval in their ideology and a shift towards xenophobia as they sought to prepare for any further encounters.\n\n$astral_rift.1605.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1605.desc.xenophobe: "$astral_rift.1605.desc.1$ Seeing how helpless they would have been against this craft lead to an upheaval in their ideology and a shift towards xenophilia as they sought a peaceful resolution to any further encounters.\n\n$astral_rift.1605.desc.2$"
 astral_rift.1605.a: "Unfortunate for them."

 astral_rift.1610.name: "Studying Their Fleets"
 astral_rift.1610.desc.common: "While on the surface we engaged in a cultural exchange of information with the [mirrored_empire.GetName], behind the scenes we quietly investigated their military capabilities.\n\n[mirrored_empire.GetName]'s computers use a similar encryption to our own, which made accessing their databases extremely easy.\n\nThis civilization's military technology is similar to our own, but there are enough differences that the schemata of their vessels should prove interesting to our engineers."
 astral_rift.1610.desc.gestalt: "Despite our many similarities, it is hard to trust them. $astral_rift.1610.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1610.desc.authoritarian: "Despite our many similarities, it is hard to trust people who embrace equality so naively. $astral_rift.1610.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1610.desc.egalitarian: "Despite our many similarities, it is hard to trust people who embrace authoritarianism. $astral_rift.1610.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1610.desc.materialist: "Despite our many similarities, it is hard to trust people who embrace spiritualism. $astral_rift.1610.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1610.desc.spiritualist: "Despite our many similarities, it is hard to trust people who embrace materialism. $astral_rift.1610.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1610.desc.militarist: "Despite our many similarities, it is hard to trust people who embrace pacifism. $astral_rift.1610.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1610.desc.pacifist: "Despite our many similarities, it is hard to trust people who embrace militarism. $astral_rift.1610.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1610.desc.xenophile: "Despite our many similarities, it is hard to trust people who embrace xenophobia. $astral_rift.1610.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1610.desc.xenophobe: "Despite our many similarities, it is hard to trust people who embrace xenophilia. $astral_rift.1610.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1610.a: "Excellent."

 astral_rift.1611.name: "Fractured Mind"
 astral_rift.1611.desc: "We have spent the last week in a cultural exchange with the [mirrored_empire.GetName].\n\nOur interest quickly turned to alarm as we discovered that these beings are what remains of a broken collective consciousness. At some point in their civilization's development, their mind became poisoned with the concept of individuality. Purposefully segmenting itself over time, eventually each drone began to hear no thoughts but their own."
 astral_rift.1615.name: "Diplomatic Opportunity"
 astral_rift.1615.desc.common: "It seems knowledge of our presence on the station has escalated up their chain of command. An emissary of the [mirrored_empire.GetName] has been assigned to the starbase to discuss the future of our peoples."
 astral_rift.1615.desc.common.2: "How do we wish to respond?"
 astral_rift.1615.desc.xenophobe: "$astral_rift.1615.desc.common$\n\nWhile they do not like us, they do understand us. They argue that an arrangement between our people would benefit both sides.\n\n$astral_rift.1615.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1615.desc.common.gestalt: "$astral_rift.1615.desc.common$\n\nThey have made an impassioned case that our similarities far outweigh our differences. They argue that an arrangement between our people would benefit both sides."
 astral_rift.1615.desc.gestalt: "$astral_rift.1615.desc.common.gestalt$\n\nIt is true that we share a unique heritage together. $astral_rift.1615.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1615.desc.common.default: "$astral_rift.1615.desc.common$\n\nThey have made an impassioned case that we are one people in all but name."
 astral_rift.1615.desc.default: "$astral_rift.1615.desc.common.default$ Surely in a galaxy full of unknown powers, a friendship between us would serve to benefit both parties.\n\n$astral_rift.1615.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1615.a: "Welcome friendship between our empires."
 astral_rift.1615.b: "Spurn their offer."
 astral_rift.1615.c: "Accept this opportunity."
 astral_rift.1615.d: "This is of no interest to us."

 astral_rift.1616.name: "Enough"
 astral_rift.1616.desc.common: "This farce has proceeded long enough. We have taken what we can from them and hold no interest in further diplomacy across the dimensions."
 astral_rift.1616.desc.gestalt: "$astral_rift.1615.desc.common.gestalt$\n\n$astral_rift.1616.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1616.desc.default: "$astral_rift.1615.desc.common.default$\n\n$astral_rift.1616.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1616.a: "$astral_rift.1615.b$"

 astral_rift.1620.name: "New Friendship"
 astral_rift.1620.desc.common_1: "We have given the emissary a favorable response.\n\nWork is being done to facilitate a more permanent pathway between our two universes."
 astral_rift.1620.desc.common_2: "Although nothing is decided yet, the emissary has indicated that [final_mirrored_empire.GetName] would be interested in trade agreements."
 astral_rift.1620.desc.default: "$astral_rift.1620.desc.common_1$ $astral_rift.1620.desc.common_2$\n\nWe look forward to working with a people that we consider to be our close cousins."
 astral_rift.1620.desc.xeno: "$astral_rift.1620.desc.common_1$ $astral_rift.1620.desc.common_2$"
 astral_rift.1620.desc.gestalt: "$astral_rift.1620.desc.common_1$ Their disconnected minds, while inferior in their efficiency, will serve fittingly as liaisons between ourselves and other hordes of individuals."

 astral_rift.1625.name: "Enmity"
 astral_rift.1625.desc.common: "We have given the emissary a negative response."
 astral_rift.1625.desc.default: "$astral_rift.1625.desc.common$\n\nFor all their talk of similarities and a shared future, [final_mirrored_empire.GetName] turned their back on the fundamental ideals that make our people great.\n\nHaving said our piece, we swiftly returned to our §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! before they decided that our diplomatic immunity had reached its limits.\n\nAlthough we have no plans to maintain contact with these people, studying the differences between this civilization and our own has taught us a great deal about ourselves."
 astral_rift.1625.desc.gestalt: "$astral_rift.1625.desc.common$\n\nFor all their talk of similarities, we can think of nothing more abhorrent than abandoning the collective.\n\nHaving made our stance clear, our [explorer.GetIndividualNamePlural] swiftly returned to the §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! before the situation took a more dangerous turn."
 astral_rift.1625.desc.common.homicidal: "They are lucky their civilization is so far out of reach."
 astral_rift.1625.desc.gestalt.homicidal: "$astral_rift.1625.desc.gestalt$\n\n$astral_rift.1625.desc.common.homicidal$"
 astral_rift.1625.desc.default.homicidal: "$astral_rift.1625.desc.gestalt$\n\n$astral_rift.1625.desc.common.homicidal$"

###############
# Lone Object #
###############
 astral_rift_tomb: "Lone Object"

 lone_object_swarm_unleashed: "A swarm of Grave Guardians has been unleashed upon us. They have somehow followed us through the rift!"

 NAME_Grave_Guardian: "Grave Guardian"
 NAME_Grave_Guardians: "Grave Guardians"

 astral_rift.1700.name: "Floating Mystery"
 astral_rift.1700.desc: "There are no stars here, no planetary bodies. Only a diffuse light of mysterious origin reveals the massive object looming before us.\n\nRoughly rectangular in shape, it is completely inert - there are no detectable propulsion systems or power signatures of any kind. Comparable in size to a small starbase, it appears dead. For how long has it been floating in this secluded pocket dimension, and where did it come from?\n\nInnumerable decorative glyphs and symbols have been intricately carved into its surface. We have ruled out any possibility of this being a natural phenomenon."
 astral_rift.1700.a: "Attempt to translate the glyphs."
 astral_rift.1700.b: "Scan its entire perimeter."

 astral_rift.1705.name: "Millions of Glyphs"
 astral_rift.1705.desc: "The glyphs that cover this tremendous object are mostly pictorial representations.\n\nBased on the carbon dating, we have determined that some of the earliest carvings were made several millennia before the most recent. The glyphs are illustrated in such detail, that we were soon able to develop a rough translation.\n\nThis object is in fact a massive burial chamber. Whoever, or whatever, is entombed inside once ruled an entire galaxy. Some of the earliest pictographs reveal the origin of this powerful being.\n\nRaised by a space-born race of leviathans, the two species developed a unique symbiosis. Forming a potent psionic bond, they conquered countless systems together.\n\nThere are other symbols which refer to a "curse". Attempting to open the object - or even approaching it too closely - may be dangerous."
 astral_rift.1705.a: "Scan its entire perimeter."
 astral_rift.1705.b: "Blast it open."

 astral_rift.1710.name: "An Ancient Seal"
 astral_rift.1710.desc: "We have completed a full orbit around the object.\n\nIt is composed of two halves welded shut. The seal is heavily corroded in some locations - unexpected given the emptiness of the surrounding atmosphere. This indicates that the source of the corrosion must be coming from inside the object itself.\n\nThe corrosion is so severe that in some places cracks have appeared, large enough for one of our drones to enter.\n\nAlternatively, we are carrying enough explosives to crack the seal."
 astral_rift.1710.a: "Send a drone through the crack."
 astral_rift.1710.b: "Blast it open."

 astral_rift.1715.name: "Clouded Passageways"
 astral_rift.1715.desc: "Our drone has transmitted a report from inside the object.\n\nUnfortunately, most of the compartments within are obscured by a thick cloud of carbon dust and have proven difficult to maneuver around.\n\nInitial analysis has revealed a high amount of astral fabric interwoven with the carbon particles. It should be possible to harvest this material, should we take the time to do so.\n\nVisible through further cracks deep within the structure, we can see the signs of an inner chamber. Exploring further would require more destructive exploration."
 astral_rift.1715.a: "Take samples and return."
 astral_rift.1715.b: "Engage destructive exploration."

 astral_rift.1720.name: "Tomb Raiding"
 astral_rift.1720.desc.outside: "Using standard excavational charges, we have successfully blasted a sizable hole into the object."
 astral_rift.1720.desc.drones: "Using standard excavational charges, we have successfully blasted open the passageways inside of the object."
 astral_rift.1720.desc.common.1: "The interior is rich with valuable artifacts. Sophisticated statues made of rare alloys are arranged in ceremonial fashion. The center of the inner chamber is occupied by an enormous crystalline skeleton. Upon its brow lies a rich adornment of delicate gems."
 astral_rift.1720.desc.no_glyphs: "It is safe to assume that this entire structure was built as a kind of tomb."
 astral_rift.1720.desc.glyphs: "As recorded in the glyphs covering the outside of this monument, all of the objects surrounding the skeleton were placed here as tribute. Though a ruthless conqueror, the civilization they left behind clearly held this being in great esteem."
 astral_rift.1720.desc.psionic: "Each of the gemstones crowning their brow pulse with a latent psionic resonance. This must be how this titan communicated with its symbionts. We can learn much from these devices."
 astral_rift.1720.desc.common.2: "Though the skeleton is much too large to extract from the rift, we will be taking back the most valuable of the artifacts."
 astral_rift.1720.desc.outside.no_glyphs: "$astral_rift.1720.desc.outside$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.common.1$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.no_glyphs$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1720.desc.outside.glyphs: "$astral_rift.1720.desc.outside$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.common.1$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.glyphs$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1720.desc.outside.glyphs.psionic: "$astral_rift.1720.desc.outside$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.common.1$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.glyphs$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.psionic$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1720.desc.drones.no_glyphs: "$astral_rift.1720.desc.drones$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.common.1$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.no_glyphs$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1720.desc.drones.glyphs: "$astral_rift.1720.desc.drones$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.common.1$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.glyphs$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1720.desc.drones.glyphs.psionic: "$astral_rift.1720.desc.drones$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.common.1$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.glyphs$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.psionic$\n\n$astral_rift.1720.desc.common.2$"

 astral_rift.1725.name: "Grave Guardians"
 astral_rift.1725.desc: "Our controlled explosion has opened the way to a previously undetected cavity. Hidden behind the seal, this space was clearly designed to counter intrusion. It was filled to the brim with hostile entities.\n\nThe Sphere immediately retrieved the anchor, but many of the guardians have exited the rift with us and are following in our wake."
 astral_rift.1725.a: "We have a problem to deal with."

#############
# Rockworms #
#############
 astral_rift_rockworms: "Rockworms"

 decision_breed_rockworm_hive: "Rockworm Hive"
 decision_breed_rockworm_hive_desc: "The young Rockworms recovered from beyond the Astral Rift can be carefully trained to carve extensive mining tunnels. What could go wrong?"
 d_rockworm_hive: "$decision_breed_rockworm_hive$"
 d_rockworm_hive_desc: "$decision_breed_rockworm_hive_desc$"
 can_breed_rockworm_hives_tt: "Unlocks one Rockworm Hive §Yplanetary decision§!."

 astral_rift.1800.name: "Endless Rock"
 astral_rift.1800.desc: "A vast plane of loose rock and gravel stretches before us. Above it hangs a pale, empty sky.\n\nNo planets or stars can be seen here. This does not appear to be part of a galaxy or any known system. As far as our sensors can detect, this landscape continues infinitely in all directions. The surface is pockmarked with holes as large as some asteroids.\n\nAll across the horizon, dozens of massive, worm-like creatures are bursting from the ground. Pairs of powerful fins allow them to glide through the dense atmosphere. They must have some type of colony underground."
 astral_rift.1800.a: "Continue surface observations."
 astral_rift.1800.b: "Explore the tunnels."

 astral_rift.1805.name: "Sky Plankton"
 astral_rift.1805.desc: "There are more than the worms living here.\n\nSwarms of microscopic creatures form clouds in the lower atmosphere. Moving as one mass, they create complex patterns across the sky.\n\nAs the massive worms breach from their tunnels, they glide in the air, grazing among the living clouds. We have observed several worms working together to flush these swarms towards one another. The level of cooperation is fairly sophisticated."
 astral_rift.1805.a: "Sample the microorganisms."
 astral_rift.1805.b: "Explore the worms' tunnels."

 astral_rift.1810.name: "Tunnels"
 astral_rift.1810.desc: "Beneath the surface lies a vast network of chambers connected by a complex series of tunnels. Several of these were partially collapsed, and appeared not to be in use by the worms. We piloted the §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! into the quietest.\n\nThe walls are covered in a web-like substance which keeps the shale and loose gravel in place. We speculate that these are secretions from the worms.\n\nMost of the chambers are empty, but some contain murky pools of water. Within one, we encountered a clutch of large, mineralized cocoons half-submerged in the liquid."
 astral_rift.1810.a: "Harvest the eggs."
 astral_rift.1810.b: "Proceed onward."

 astral_rift.1815.name: "Swallowed"
 astral_rift.1815.desc.common.1: "Situation normal.\n\nHowever, we have been eaten."
 astral_rift.1815.desc.common.2: "Our §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! is currently encased in its digestive system. We don't know if this was an aggressive act, or if the worm was simply grazing.\n\nThe digestive juices secreted by the worm are mild, but we cannot remain indefinitely. By pulling anchor, we could force ourselves through the gap in the worm's mouth."
 astral_rift.1815.desc.common.gas: "Alternatively, the worm's insides appear relatively soft, and should be susceptible to an explosion."

 astral_rift.1815.desc: "$astral_rift.1815.desc.common.1$\n\nWhile we were engaged in collecting cloud samples, one of the grazing worms has engulfed us whole.\n\n$astral_rift.1815.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1815.desc.gas: "$astral_rift.1815.desc$\n\n$astral_rift.1815.desc.common.gas$"
 astral_rift.1815.a: "Set explosive charges."
 astral_rift.1815.b: "Pull emergency anchor."

 astral_rift.1816.name: "$astral_rift.1815.name$"
 astral_rift.1816.desc.harvest: "$astral_rift.1815.desc.common.1$\n\nWhile we were engaged in harvesting the eggs, one of the worms has engulfed us whole.\n\n$astral_rift.1815.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1816.desc.harvest.gas: "$astral_rift.1816.desc.harvest$\n\n$astral_rift.1815.desc.common.gas$"
 astral_rift.1816.desc.capture: "$astral_rift.1815.desc.common.1$\n\nWhile we were engaged in collecting their younglings, one of the worms has engulfed us whole.\n\n$astral_rift.1815.desc.common.2$"
 astral_rift.1816.desc.capture.gas: "$astral_rift.1816.desc.capture$\n\n$astral_rift.1815.desc.common.gas$"
 astral_rift.1816.a: "$astral_rift.1815.a$"
 astral_rift.1816.b: "$astral_rift.1815.b$"

 astral_rift.1820.name: "The Nursery"
 astral_rift.1820.desc: "We have discovered a shallow lake deep within the tunnel system.\n\nThe walls are writhing. Larvae as large as our §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! are busy gnawing at the petrified secretions that hold the chamber together. While much smaller in size, these are almost certainly juvenile versions of the worms we saw gliding on the surface.\n\nThis must be a nursery of sorts."
 astral_rift.1820.a: "Capture a live specimen."
 astral_rift.1820.b: "We've pushed our luck far enough. Return at once."
 astral_rift.1820.b.evopred: "Gather the samples and return."

 astral_rift.1825.name: "Pulled Free"
 astral_rift.1825.desc: "Our anchor cable has proved to be a lifeline.\n\nLike bait on a fishing line, we have been pulled free from the gullet of the rockworm."

 astral_rift.1830.name: "Digested"
 astral_rift.1830.desc: "We have lost contact with the [explorer.GetTeamMemberPlural] aboard the §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§!.\n\nUpon retrieval, we pulled back the wire and at its end was only a partially dissolved hunk of metal.\n\nWe are taking this opportunity to study the unique properties of the digestive fluids coating line."

 astral_rift.1835.name: "Rupture"
 astral_rift.1835.desc.common: "The explosion was a success.\n\nThe worm's carcass fell below us in a torn heap of rocky flesh and viscera."
 astral_rift.1835.desc.recover: "$astral_rift.1835.desc.common$\n\nWe found ourselves in a chamber containing a clutch of large, mineralized cocoons half-submerged in liquid. We were able to recover a significant amount of these egg clusters."
 astral_rift.1835.desc.capture: "$astral_rift.1835.desc.common$\n\nFree from all restrictions, we have been able to cage a few of the larvae for transport back through the rift.\n\nWe should be able to transport these durable spawn to a planet of our choosing. Perhaps the younglings can be trained to dig mining tunnels for us."
 astral_rift.1835.desc.harvest: "$astral_rift.1835.desc.common$\n\nFree from all restrictions, we have been able to recover a significant amount of egg clusters from the pools inside these chambers.\n\nEncased in crystalline shells, we should be able to transport these durable spawn to a planet of our choosing. Perhaps the younglings can be trained to dig mining tunnels for us."
 astral_rift.1835.a: "Sounds risky."
 astral_rift.1835.b.evopred: "First crack the shells. Then return."

 astral_rift.1890.name: "From the Belly of the Beast"
 astral_rift.1890.desc: "[From.GetName] [From.GetHasHave] returned from beyond the Astral Rift, but [From.GetHeShe] [From.GetIsAre] the worse for wear.\n\nHaving spent a year inside the belly of a Rockworm, [From.GetHisHer] physical capabilities [From.GetHasHave] become extremely limited. Nonetheless, we have taken [From.GetHimHer] back into our fold."
 astral_rift.1890.a: "How... fortunate?"

##################
# Volcanic Plane #
##################
 restoring_the_balance_modifier: "Restoring the Balance"
 restoring_the_balance_tt: "Population from one of our planets will been sent back into the $astral_rift_volcano$ Astral Rift, in an effort to restore the balance we have disrupted."
 obelisks_curse_modifier: "Obelisk's Curse"
 obelisks_curse_machine_modifier: "$obelisks_curse_modifier$"
 leader_trait_obelisk_curse: "$obelisks_curse_modifier$"
 leader_trait_obelisk_curse_tt: "As long as this leader is a councilor, they will sacrifice one population to the black obelisk every year."
 leader_trait_obelisk_curse_desc: "A servant of the black obelisk, this leader claims to seek to restore the balance we have disrupted."

 astral_rift_volcano: "Volcanic Plane"

 astral_rift.1900.name: "Fiery Landscape"
 astral_rift.1900.desc: "Temperatures here are incredibly high. If not for the precautionary heat shields we had applied beforehand, we'd already be incinerated.\n\nLooming in the distance is a black obelisk. A series of artificial channels converge on this vast monument, neatly carving up the rocky landscape.\n\nGlowing, orb-like creatures float quietly in the sky. Bioluminescent tendrils drape from their delicate forms. From this distance we cannot tell if they are hostile or not, but at least for the moment they do not seem to have noticed us.\n\nThe obelisk seems like the most pressing thing to investigate, but many of the floating organisms are flying uncomfortably close. Perhaps it would be safer to observe our surroundings before getting too close."
 astral_rift.1900.a: "Explore the surroundings."
 astral_rift.1900.b: "Fly toward the obelisk."

 astral_rift.1905.name: "Pursued"
 astral_rift.1905.desc: "There is more danger here than we initially thought.\n\nSmall chambers line the walls of this place. They are packed with a wide variety of living organisms. At the sight of us, they are rattling the bars that contain them and wailing in various unknown languages. From time to time, we witness the bulbous, floating creatures enter these cavities and subdue the prisoners with a bio-electric shock.\n\nUnfortunately, one of these floating orbs has taken interest in us and is approaching our §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§!. Even with our engines at their maximum, it is slowly gaining on us. Its long tendrils trail in its wake, aglow with a heavy electric charge.\n\nBelow us, a vast river of lava floods the obsidian landscape. The heat shielding we have prepared should allow us to survive for a short time under its surface."
 astral_rift.1905.a: "Pull the emergency anchor."
 astral_rift.1905.b: "Hide in the lava."

 astral_rift.1910.name: "Captured"
 astral_rift.1910.desc: "Our attempts to avoid detection were unsuccessful. As we flew toward the obelisk, a small flock of the strange floating creatures were quick to pursue us.\n\nBound now by their glowing tendrils, we are being towed along forcefully. Communications have proven fruitless.\n\nThey are steadily carrying us toward a cage embedded in the nearby wall. Chains and bars are being pulled aside, making way for our passage. Many diverse forms of sentient life occupy similar enclosures along the way.\n\nThe creatures' tendrils are grasped tightly around our vessel. However, by augmenting our engines with a dose of astral material, we can provide a burst of propulsion that should help us evade their grasp."
 astral_rift.1910.a: "Attempt to escape."
 astral_rift.1910.b: "This is dangerous. Pull the emergency anchor."

 astral_rift.1915.name: "The Black Obelisk"
 astral_rift.1915.desc.common: "Propelling ourselves quietly along, we have arrived in the close proximity of the massive obelisk.\n\nObsidian black, it stretches to the ceiling of this volcanic chamber. If it is ancient, it is unblemished. What first appeared as decoration has now been revealed itself as a pattern. Yet indecipherable, molten runes swirl along its surface in a deliberate arrangement. Translation would be possible, given enough time.\n\nOur target tracking computers have detected that the creatures patrolling this area move faster the closer they are to this object. We have extrapolated that whatever this structure is, these beings are tethered to it in some way. Destroying it with a charge of compressed gas should inhibit their abilities to function."
 astral_rift.1915.desc.lava_hide: "To evade notice, we have dipped ourselves into the river of molten lava below us.\n\nThe protective coating we had applied as a precaution allowed us to survive long enough to emerge some distance away, hidden from the attention of the floating creatures.\n\n$astral_rift.1915.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1915.desc.lava_escape: "The floating creatures were not prepared for our sudden maneuver.\n\nA burst of our engines pulled us free of their tendrils, propelling us quickly into the river of molten lava below. Clearly, they are not accustomed to their prey behaving in such a way.\n\nThe protective coating we had applied as a precaution allowed us to survive long enough to emerge some distance away, hidden from their attention.\n\n$astral_rift.1915.desc.common$"
 astral_rift.1915.a: "Decipher the runes."
 astral_rift.1915.b: "Destroy the obelisk."

 astral_rift.1920.name: "Retrieval"
 astral_rift.1920.desc: "We retrieved the anchor cable and escaped from this dangerous landscape.\n\nSeveral of the floating creatures latched on to our §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§! as we were pulled away. One of them even came back with us into our dimension, and promptly disintegrated into pure astral material.\n\nWe are harvesting its remains for further study."

 astral_rift.1925.name: "Names"
 astral_rift.1925.desc: "It is a list of names.\n\nTrillions and trillions of names cover this obelisk. Arranged in a complicated mathematical pattern, they shift and change as we observe them.\n\nThe facets of the obelisk are uniquely aligned, allowing each name to be precisely true to one of the alcoves along the wall.\n\nTouching any one name with a probe results in a corresponding chamber lighting up with dangerous amounts of energy and a pitiful wailing.\n\nUnfortunately, upon doing this we have attracted the attention of the floating creatures once more."
 astral_rift.1925.a: "Enough. Pull the emergency anchor."
 astral_rift.1925.b: "Destroy this infernal device."

 astral_rift.1930.name: "Shattered Obelisk"
 astral_rift.1930.desc: "The charges we strategically placed along the seams of the obsidian tower have sheared it completely in half.\n\nAs the upper portion of the obelisk slid away, a severe darkness filled the cavern. The floating creatures we noticed earlier lost their luminosity and fell to the ground with heavy, wet thumps.\n\nThe gates containing the chambers lining the walls swung open. Countless hordes of creatures poured forth from these holes into the closest tunnel systems. We have no idea where these tunnels lead, but at least they are now free.\n\nThe shattered material of the obelisk possesses unique and interesting properties. We have taken as much of it aboard as we can for further study."

 astral_rift.1935.name: "Failure"
 astral_rift.1935.desc: "We have lost contact with [Leader.GetName].\n\nUpon retrieval of the §Y$tech_rift_sphere$§!, we discovered it filled with smoke and ash. The bodies of the [Explorer.GetCrew] were not recovered.\n\nIt is likely they are lost forever beyond the rift."

 astral_rift.1940.name: "Ominous Visitor"
 astral_rift.1940.desc: "A molten being is requesting audience with us. They claim to be the owners of the black obelisk we destroyed exactly six years ago."

 astral_rift.1941.desc: "You know not what you have done.\n\nYou have mistakenly freed our wards. Balance must be restored, or there will be great consequences.\n\nEach year, for six years, you will offer us replacement prisoners from your planets. We shall offer a fair trade in return.\n\nShould you decline, we shall happily torment your people until the suffering is complete."
 astral_rift.1941.a: "Very well. Restore the Balance."
 astral_rift.1941.b: "Be gone."

 astral_rift.1950.name: "Return of our Scientist"
 astral_rift.1950.desc: "[from.GetName] [from.GetHasHave] returned from the $astral_rift_volcano$ Astral Rift... but not as we remember them.\n\nCarbon-samples indicate [from.GetHisHer] age is now over 600 years old."
 astral_rift.1950.a: "Monitor this individual closely."

 astral_rift.1955.name: "Sacrifice"
 astral_rift.1955.desc: "We have discovered a disturbing development.\n\n[from.GetName] has been secretly sending members of our population back through the $astral_rift_volcano$ Astral Rift.\n\nThey claim it is being done in an effort to "restore the balance.""
 astral_rift.1955.a: "Dispose of [from.GetHimHer]."
 astral_rift.1955.b: "Allow [from.GetHimHer] to continue."

 MESSAGE_RESTORING_THE_BALANCE_SACRIFICE_TITLE: "$restoring_the_balance_modifier$"
 MESSAGE_RESTORING_THE_BALANCE_SACRIFICE_DESC: "Population from [event_target:sacrificed_pop_planet.GetName] has been sent back into the $astral_rift_volcano$ Astral Rift, in an effort to restore the balance we have disrupted."
 MESSAGE_RESTORING_THE_BALANCE_SACRIFICE_DESC_LEADER: "Population from [event_target:sacrificed_pop_planet.GetName] has been sent back into the $astral_rift_volcano$ Astral Rift by $LEADER|Y$, in an effort to restore the balance."
# Building a Rockworm Hive on a Volcanic planet gives 5 Magma Conduits instead of Mining Districts
d_rockworm_hive_volcanic: "$decision_breed_rockworm_hive$"
d_rockworm_hive_volcanic_desc: "$decision_breed_rockworm_hive_desc$"