The "things"

I was told that at some point in their past it had been possible for many animal species to cross-procreate. I didn’t have the opportunity to study the matter more but the gist was that hybrids, tri-brids, and other mixtures possible in a single generation. Some of these offspring, those that had a human contribution, were considered “things” a status between humans and animals. Although the genetic codes permitting such cross breeding were changed (extinguishing the practice) some creatures continued to breed among their own kind. I believe this is what Krismere discovered on the beach - a very old thing. His decision to take it to the Temple was critical. I was able to observe attempts to coax the mammal heritage of the creature at the expense of its repillian and avian traits. Strange to me, but a matter of course for them.

The Temple Work

The area of the Temple I visited was for healing. There were a number of curious basilicas clustered in this area, each performing a specific function. For instance, I entered one through a winding cave-like passage designed to minimize the senses. There was a soft blue illumination, cool fragrant air, and once I entered the main area, I could feel and hear musical tones. I had the impression this range of frequencies soothed and balanced certain glands. At that moment the thing Rhea and Krismere discovered was receiving treatment.

Other basilicas used color frequencies, aroma, and something like physical massage although it was done by nerve stimulating vibrations. Surgery was used. Although often busy, there was a relaxed atmosphere. These weren’t crisis centers, or emergency room situations - nothing acute. I gathered these treatments were long term and paired with the individuals thought process.

The Temple was more like a small town - it wasn’t just a place for healing. It was far more than what I’d consider a university. I didn’t have time to discern some kind of worship or religious purpose, although they were keen on discovery and knowledge of the universe.

Communication

I wouldn't describe it as mental telepathy, but there was some thought/concept exchange with most of the Temple people. They used a spoken language as well, which I could generally comprehend and they seemed to understand me. This understanding was a product of comprehending the thought idea contained in the speech. I believe that some of them, Arund-Du and Krismere especially, had the ability to "read minds" or at least assess signs, attributes, or other signals projected by me. Communication was never a struggle.

There was a time when Rhea and I were marooned and approached by lowland deputies. In that event I was able to comprehend the intent of the man without any speech. Perhaps my encounters with the Temple people exercised my own faculties. When I spoke to the deputy he understood me and I understood him.

All in all, it was less an issue than if I had been dropped in modern Peru and had to communicate.

Were the people, back then, like us?

Physically, sure. What struck me was the easy acceptance of those who worked and lived in the Temple complex. They seemed to be cheerful and very interested in their work and those around them. Although I was obviously an outsider, it wasn't a big deal, and I was able to move comfortably among them and, as the book chronicles, participate in significant events.

Now, the people who lived on the coast, in and around Carpella, were not as easy going as the Temple people. It's not that they were different - many people at the Temple were from the lowlands, as they were called - but more an attitude or expectation. Temple people were excited about life and discovery. Lowlanders seemed wrapped up in their struggles.

But, yes, the people I encountered were similar to us.

Where was this temple?

I am told that it was off of the eastern seaboard of the United States, on the continental shelf, which was above water at that time. I had no way to determine location when I was there. It was fairly high, maybe 5 or 6,000 feet, and was perhaps thirty miles from the ocean. There was a port city - they called it Carpella - although I didn't spend much time there..