Scroll to uncover the echoes...
1478 AE (After Emergence)
The initial tremors began subtly, manifesting as harmonic distortions within the crystalline plains of Xylos. These weren’t seismic events in the conventional sense; rather, they were shifts in the very fabric of resonance. The Vorlani, a nomadic species of bio-luminescent sentients, reported experiencing vivid, overlapping memories – fragments of histories that weren't their own. Analysis, conducted by the Chronometric Guild of Cygnus VII, suggested a localized breach in the Temporal Stream, specifically impacting the frequency bands associated with the 'Echo' phenomenon. The Vorlani, initially interpreting this as a divine visitation, began constructing elaborate sonic sculptures designed to 'harmonize' with the intrusion, a practice that proved surprisingly effective, albeit temporary. There are whispers – unsubstantiated, of course – that the resonance was unintentionally amplified by the Vorlani’s inherent bioluminescence, creating a feedback loop. The core signature identified was a complex polyrhythm, dubbed "The Crimson Resonance," which continues to subtly influence the temporal flow in the region.
Note: The Crimson Resonance is theorized to be linked to the emergence of the Echo phenomenon.
1522 AE
A collective of human cartographers, operating under the auspices of the Obsidian Order, embarked on a daring expedition to the Silent Zones – regions where the Temporal Stream had become exceptionally unstable, leading to widespread 'nullification' – areas where time effectively ceased to exist. Their primary objective was to create a 'Temporal Compass,' a device capable of navigating these zones. The methodology involved meticulously mapping the decay patterns of chronometric energy, using specialized instruments known as 'Resonance Siphons'. The Cartographers hypothesized that these zones weren't entirely devoid of temporal activity; instead, they were trapped in a state of 'stasis,' existing outside the linear flow. The Obsidian Order's reports were heavily redacted, fueling speculation about the true nature of the Silent Zones. It's believed they discovered a subterranean city, constructed from solidified chronometric energy, a place referred to only as “The Citadel of Echoes.” Their disappearance remains one of the Order’s greatest mysteries.
Hypothesis: The Citadel of Echoes exists within a localized, self-contained temporal anomaly.
1689 AE
The phenomenon known as the ‘Echo Bloom’ reached its zenith. Across the known galaxy, individuals began experiencing increasingly intense and uncontrollable Echoes. The Chronometric Guild identified a surge in chronometric energy originating from a previously uncharted sector of the Andromeda Galaxy – designated Sector 7-Delta. This surge was accompanied by a dramatic increase in the frequency and complexity of the Echoes. The Vorlani, experiencing a particularly severe Bloom, began exhibiting signs of temporal displacement, momentarily shifting to alternate timelines. The Guild implemented a series of ‘Chronometric Dampeners’ – massive devices designed to mitigate the spread of the Echoes – but with limited success. The Crimson Resonance, now amplified, seemed to be driving the Bloom, creating a cascading effect across the temporal stream. Some researchers suggested a deliberate act, a targeted manipulation of the Echo phenomenon by an unknown entity.
The Echo Bloom is considered to be a potentially catastrophic event, threatening the stability of the entire temporal stream.