Tales of the Passersby

Everything in the verse is bound to Time. Be it the primary Line that flows through the universe, a naturally or otherwise occurring loop, or their own Line isolated from others. Every entity and atom are subject to Time. The majority are bound to the primary collective Line all entities create subconsciously, however there are few who roam the verse out of the order the many experience. These few are the Passerby.   On any given day there are countless individuals that cross your path. Some are common occurrences, a neighbor, fellow shopper, regular worker, or even those who pass you on your regular commute. You may even converse with these individuals who you regularly see. Learning more of their rich story and sharing some of yours with each interaction. Although, many of those that cross your path go unnoticed. Few however leave a lasting impression. That guy who took the time from what they were doing to help you bring in crates of supplies before continuing on. The lady who stopped you on the street just to say words of kindness on a bad day before disappearing around a street corner. The fella who just happened to be in the right place at the right time to talk you down from making a bad decision. The stranger who stands off in the distance but intently observing the performance you tirelessly practiced. These are the passersby. Strangers or acquaintances who abruptly enter and affect your life and leaving just as quickly. Unlikely ever to be seen again.   Rarely does a passerby's path cross an given entity's path more than once. But when they do, it rarely follows the same order as the entity's Line. It may be the entity's second interaction with the passerby, however to the passerby it could be their first. This disalignment leads to many a chance encounter. Time usually can heal minor disruptions through variance and flux, but larger disturbances can sanction a moment to timeloss. The uncertainty of the passerby life does not warrant the need for money or precious materials that are the common goods of trade, yet some still naturally amass wealth. Instead passersby trade in stories. For each moment they witness is a story they can share to another. Providing wisdom in moments of ambiguity, reassurance in moments of doubt, guidance in moments of madness. Passersby are not just present to the events they witness, they leave a lasting impact to those whose paths they cross. Before leaving, moving on to the next moment. Seldom realizing the impact their actions had on the stories of those they meet.   If your path crosses another, be not dismissive of what they offer. Consider the counsel they have to share, and return some of yours. It's only fair. That which you seek is often not what you need. For what's in the chance is what you should heed. Tales of the Passersby may confuse and confound. Naturally, that's what's been found. However with each moment there is a decision. One that may not get its proper recognition. It is the passersby who bear witness, to moments of triumphs and seekings of forgiveness. You never know which paths you'll cross. But if you ignore them you've suffered a loss. An unheard story is full of strife. But what are stories if not a life? So listen to their stories and take them in. You never know when you'll hear them again.

Summary

Tales of passersby have spread throughout the universe. Shared from gods attempting to lay warning, and mortals in joyful reverence alike. The many tales that are told depict a wide array of incidents and individuals. However a common theme found throughout the tales is one of listening. Listening to those you come across and the potential wisdom they bring.
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Comments

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Jan 17, 2025 16:19 by Kaleidechse

Oh, I love this spin on random acts of kindness. ^^ I have a weak spot for all things time travel anyway, and it's really charming how you combine it with something as simple as brightening someone's bad day. I agree, those seemingly small connections can make a huge difference in a person's life.


Creator of the Kaleidoscope System and the planet Miragia.
Jan 21, 2025 03:15

Thank you! I never thought I'd get comments on my worldbuilding stuff but it served as a nice reminder to get back to work on my projects. It's crazy how one small action can have a huge impact on someone's direction and I want to highlight/honor those moments with these tales.