There are three languages spoken in the world of Osterin, some more common than others. The first is the one that’s spoken pretty much everywhere, particularly in the west. The main reason for its widespread use is the Illusionist network, which has been around since the language was developed. Because messages could be sent relatively easily and inexpensively between remote locations, different regions didn’t really have a chance to develop their own language.
There are slightly different dialects, particularly in Lianti, where the Illusionist network is banned from operation. They still speak the same language, but have an accent different from those in Attarnon. You’ll see this when Isem arrives in Lianti.
The second language is the original language of the Western people. It is primarily based on symbols, where each symbol represents a word – usually a noun. The reason this language fell out of use is its difficulty in representing complex thoughts. In ancient western civilization – wild as it was – there was no need for such abstract things, but as they developed into a more peaceful nation, they needed a better language, and adopted one based on the Eastern language. There are very few who still speak the old Western language, other than the Northmen.
The old Eastern language is spoken more commonly in the East, particularly in Aridia, where they have had less contact with the West. However, it is so similar to the common language in the West that the two can almost be used interchangeably – think American English vs. British English. There were never any regional dialects in the East – the culture is far too organized to allow such a degradation of their language.
Editing progress: slow, but moving. Current scene I’m working on is a new one – Isem is summoned to see the leader of the Asylum, who tells him some important things.
editing always takes longer than you think it will. But I’m glad to see you’re still working on it. I’m looking forward to reading all of Isem’s story.
any updates?
Very little progress, and for that I apologize. I’ve been too busy to do much editing, though I do have a few ideas that will improve the plot once I can get back to it.
Some things that have been keeping me from editing:
I plan on getting back into the editing, hopefully soon when this house project is complete. Part of the project involves a workspace area where I plan on setting up a nice little spot for writing. I will finish editing at some point, I’m just not sure when at the moment.