Ultronomicon - User contributions [en]

Orz

2006-05-31T17:44:27Z

Peejaybee: /* The Orz killed the Androsynth */

{{RaceBox|name=Orz|image=OrzComm.png|caption=*Happy Campers*|homeworld=[[Gamma Vulpeculae I]]|coordinates=371.3 : 253.7|organizations=[[New Alliance of Free Stars]] (optional)|ship=[[Nemesis]]}}
The '''Orz''' are — or perhaps "is" — an alien species first encountered by [[The Captain]] in the space near where the [[Androsynth]] had been known to reside. Despite a notable distaste for the human-derived Androsynth and for the mysterious [[Arilou]], the Orz happily joined with the [[New Alliance of Free Stars]] and provided its powerful [[Nemesis]] starship designs to aid in the Second War.

==Description==

Orz appear as gill-breathers who resemble yellow parrotfishes with eyestalks, though it is not known if this is their actual true form. It is likely that Orz come from another dimension, and when asked about their origins, Orz explain that the [[Arilou]] are from *above* and that Orz is from *below*. The precise meaning of this explanation is still up to debate, although the Arilou make it clear that the Orz are not from [[QuasiSpace]].

There has been some discussion that the Orz as they are seen in normal space are actually a projection of some higher-dimensional being studying our reality. The Orz-entity refers to what is seen of itself in the known dimensions as its *fingers* and explains that it is not like other races who are *many bubbles*. The Orz sometimes refer to themselves in the singular third person, although whether this is another quirk of the Orz's odd speech pattern or a reference to their true essence is unclear.

==Origin==

The Orz are a newcomer to [[TrueSpace]] that appeared suddenly in the vicinity of the [[Vulpeculae]] constellation, the adopted homeworlds of the [[Androsynth]]. As the Androsynth vanished about the same time the Orz arrived, it is reasonable to think that the Orz did something to them, but asking the Orz about the subject infuriates them. It is possible that the [[Dimensional Fatigue]] experiments that were being performed by the Androsynth (and perhaps the [[Taalo]] before them) brought the Vulpeculae constellation to the Orz's attention.

Just where the Orz resided before arriving in the area of Vulpeculae is unknown. The Orz indicate that they like TrueSpace and even prefer it over their origin dimension and are now in the process of fully moving into TrueSpace.

==Relations with other races==
Only a few of the races in Star Control II mention the Orz at all. This is not surprising as they appear to be new in TrueSpace. The relations that they do have are as mysterious as the Orz themselves.

===Androsynth===
The appearance of the Orz coincided with the disappearance of the Androsynth from the same location. In fact, both the Arilou and the Orz themselves suggest that it was the [[Dimensional Fatigue|IDF]] research of the Androsynth which enabled the Orz to come to TrueSpace.

Whether the Orz themselves were the cause for the disappearance of the Androsynth is the subject of a lot of speculation. Evidence for it exists, but is very circumstantial. Whatever their involvement, asking enough about the Androsynth is enough reason for the Orz to attack you.

===Arilou LaLee'lay===
Dialogs with both the Arilou and Orz suggest that they have had contact outside of TrueSpace. The Orz do not like the Arilou very much, and complain that the Arilou always "*jumping in front*". Conversely, the Arilou warn not to trust the Orz, as they are dangerous.

===Melnorme===
The Melnorme know of the existence of the Orz, and that they appeared when the Androsynth disappeared. Whether they've met them in person is unclear. While there is a Melnorme trader in Orz space, the Orz never mention Melnorme.

===Spathi===
The Spathi also mention that the Orz entered this space when the Androsynth disappeared. They think that they are creepy and warn against an alliance. This is all based on their own speculation though and arguably the Spathi would object to an alliance with almost any race on this basis. Whether they have met the Orz in person or only heard about them from description is unclear.

===Taalo===
The Orz mention the Taalo on several occasions. They seem to have been in contact over a longer period of time. According to the Orz, the Taalo have fled Truespace to some space where they can go to themselves. The Orz refer to Delta Vulpeculae as the Taalo playground, where the Taalo "are making *Time jokes*". As the Orz's language isn't very clear, it may be that this is all in the past though.

===VUX===
The Orz briefly mention the VUX, as being "*silly cows*" for asking too many questions about the Androsynth, which prompted the Orz to attack the VUX.

==Theories==
There are various theories to explain the various mysteries surrounding the Orz.

===The Orz are [[They|Them]]===
There are theories that the Orz are in fact the ghost-like creatures that the Androsyth IDF researchers ran into. They are mostly based on the fact that ''They'' were coming into this world just before the Androsynth disappeared, which was when the Orz appeared.

Even when accepting that the timing of the appearance of the Orz is not a coincidence, they do not have to be ''Them''. They could have detected the Androsynth in the same way as ''They'' did.

===The Orz killed the Androsynth===
This is based again on the timing of the appearance of the Orz and the disappearance of the Androsynth, combined with the fact that the Orz refuse to talk about the Androsynth. If this is true, then the Orz would be responsible for the violent land war that wiped out the Androsynth civilization. This is suggested by both the Melnorme and the Spathi. In the same dialogs however, it is been made clear that they don't actually know that. However, a reliable source explicitly asserts that the Androsynth were indeed "snagged" by the Orz entity{{ref|1}}.

===The Orz are protecting races by killing those who ask too many questions about the Androsynth===
This reflects the remarks made by the Arilou about parasites from beyond that can detect you when you show yourself. If you reject the theory that the Orz killed the Androsynth, this would provide an alternative explanation that connects 'Them', the disappearance of the Androsynth, and the Orz. In this case, the Orz, like the Arilou, would be attempting to keep TrueSpace races ignorant of and thus invisible to the extradimensional parasites.

===The Orz seek to take advantage of indigenous races in some undefined way===
The Orz say they dislike the Arilou because they are "jumping in front." The Arilou claim to have changed humans to protect them from the "parasites" that would like to find them. It may be that the Orz want space and races that the Arilou do not control as these would be easier to conquer or manipulate.

==Translating Orz Communications==
Translating Orz speech is problematic at best. The Orz sense of reality is likely completely different from ours. Even the most sophisticated and powerful translators can't fully process its bizarre alien language, having to use many lingual best-fits in conversation. These are marked in text by surrounding the word with asterisks (*). It is possible that all words that appear in (*) can have more than just one meaning.

* *above* — where the Arilou come from, [[QuasiSpace]]
* *below* — where Orz comes from
* *camper* — races in TrueSpace? starfaring or sentient races? an individual or species that is liked by Orz? — "Happy *campers* are the best." Could also be a non-immortal creature, as 'camper' tends to mean one who stays temporarily and moves on, thus signifying that the Orz are/is immortal, or close enough as to make no difference, which is why they're willing to hurl their own people into space in nothing but armed tin cans.
* *dance* — combat — "I am *frumple*. It is *dancing*."
* *dissolving* — destroying a ship, dying
* *fat* — important, serious "These are *fat* words."
* *fingers* — an "individual" Orz; see *many bubbles*
* *frumple* — to become, or the state of being angry or sad or violent — "Do not ask about [the Androsynth]. You make me *frumple*."
* *game* — the action being done presently
* *GO! GO!* — space marines
* *heavy space* — Adjective for [[TrueSpace]], *heavy* is also used. — "These are best for letting go near *heavy space* planet bodies." An example of universe/dimensional differences.
* *juice*/*squeezing the juice* — obscure. It is something relating to when the Orz are angry (or *frumple* as they call it) that they do to calm down: "It is always! Nnnnggaaahhhhh! There is *juice squeezing* and then we are not so *frumple*."
* *many bubbles* — the numerous distinct individuals of a species, or possibly organic cells or even atomic particles — "Orz is not *many bubbles*, Orz is *fingers*."
* *new town* — new/previously unknown universe
* *open* — advance your mind/understanding/technology
* *other* — the unknown enemy of the Orz
* *party* — alliance? conversation? opportunities for *dancing*? If *dance* means combat or battle, then *party* may mean war. Party may refer to something far more sinister/extreme that humans cannot understand yet. Orz refer to parties a lot, signifying its importance. It seems that it is somehow related to *campers* and may be the reason they are here in our dimension. They say, "We can not have *parties* when Arilou always *jumping in front*." Just as we cannot fully understand the Orz words/ideas, they may have misinterpreted our word "alliance" to mean something else. However, they allow you to build their ships, give you pilots and once explicitly speak of an "alliance".
* *playground* — Orz gives the coordinates of Delta Vulpeculae as the location of *playground*. The significance of this star system to Orz is unknown, although it is inside the general area that they occupy. Also, Delta Vulpeculae IIc is the location of the Taalo Shield and the former homeworld of the Taalo, possibly giving the Taalo some significance. The Taalo may have changed space there, making it a good space for *sliding*. Something with a significant amount of gravity.
* *quick time* — An example of differences between universes/dimensions. "We can have extra fun for future *parties* in *quick time*"
* *relatives* — allies
* *sad animal* — one who is disliked by the Orz — "The Kohr-Ah are *sad animals*."
* *sauce* — related to *juice*. *sauce* is apparently better than *juice* in some way, plus the Orz seem to aquire *sauce* through killing. "After the *dancing*, Orz think you will make good *special sauce*. Maybe even for other Orz *party*." It would seem this is likely to be something sinister.
* *silly cow* — one who annoys the Orz, *silly* is often used independently to mean annoying — "First the VUX, but they are such *silly cows* ... they ask so much about the Androsynth we must *dance* with them."
* *slide* — dimensional travel. Some interesting quotes using this: "*Happy campers* not going to *heavy space* *slide* near Chandrasekhar. Especially not ever! These are *fat* words." "Arilou can *slide*. Also Taalo." "Finally we find you, the *happy campers* and the Taalo *playground* for sliding through."
* *slippery places* — dimensional portals, usually formed with [[Dimensional Fatigue|IDF]]
* *slow time* — An example of differences between universes/dimensions. "It is not fun on the surface in *slow time*"
* *smell* — perceive in some unknown way/from another dimension. Also being used by the Arilou.
* *squishy* — good, goodness
* *sticky* — unable to move between dimensions.
* *suprising toys* — secret weapons. "Do you want to see our suprising toys? NO! Do not!" could also mean their true existance, i.e., the sight of an extra-dimensional being could very well destroy a creature's mind, thus you do not want to see their surprising toys.
* *the middle* — not *above* or *below*, between *above* and *below*?, this dimension (ie, [[TrueSpace]])?
* *wax* — possibly the same thing the Arilou call *easy places*.

==Notes and references==
{{note|1}}''[[Fred Ford|Fred]] and [[Paul Reiche III|Paul]], when asked about the Androsynth's fate in a 1998 [[TFB chat protocols|chat]], stated that the human clones "were snagged by the entity who/which projected its fingers into our dimension (which looked to us as the Orz.)"''

[[Category:Races]]
[[Category:Orz| ]]

Orz

2006-04-25T03:22:36Z

Peejaybee: /* The Orz are Them */

{{RaceBox|name=Orz|image=OrzComm.png|caption=*Happy Campers*|homeworld=[[Gamma Vulpeculae I]]|coordinates=371.3 : 253.7|organizations=[[New Alliance of Free Stars]] (optional)|ship=[[Nemesis]]}}
The '''Orz''' are — or perhaps "is" — an alien species first encountered by [[The Captain]] in the space near where the [[Androsynth]] had been known to reside. Despite a notable distaste for the human-derived Androsynth and for the mysterious [[Arilou]], the Orz happily joined with the [[New Alliance of Free Stars]] and provided its powerful [[Nemesis]] starship designs to aid in the Second War.

==Description==

Orz appear as gill-breathers who resemble yellow parrotfishes with eyestalks, though it is not known if this is their actual true form. It is likely that Orz come from another dimension, and when asked about their origins, Orz explain that the [[Arilou]] are from *above* and that Orz is from *below*. The precise meaning of this explanation is still up to debate, although the Arilou make it clear that the Orz are not from [[QuasiSpace]].

There has been some discussion that the Orz as they are seen in normal space are actually a projection of some higher-dimensional being studying our reality. The Orz-entity refers to what is seen of itself in the known dimensions as its *fingers* and explains that it is not like other races who are *many bubbles*. The Orz sometimes refer to themselves in the singular third person, although whether this is another quirk of the Orz's odd speech pattern or a reference to their true essence is unclear.

==Origin==

The Orz are a newcomer to [[TrueSpace]] that appeared suddenly in the vicinity of the Vulpeculae constellation, the adopted homeworlds of the [[Androsynth]]. As the Androsynth vanished about the same time Orz arrived, it is reasonable to think that the Orz did something to them, but asking the Orz about the subject infuriates them. It is possible that the [[Dimensional Fatigue]] Experiments that were being performed by the Androsynth (and apparently the [[Taalo]] before them) may have been what brought the constellation to the Orz's attention.

Just where the Orz resided before arriving in the area of Vulpeculae is unknown. The Orz indicate that they like TrueSpace and even prefer TrueSpace over their origin dimension and are now engaged in the process of fully moving to TrueSpace.

==Relations with other races==
Only a few of the races in Star Control II mention the Orz at all. This is not surprising as they appear to be new in TrueSpace. The relations that they do have are as mysterious as the Orz themselves.

===Androsynth===
The appearance of the Orz coincided with the disappearance of the Androsynth from the same location. In fact, both the Arilou and the Orz themselves suggest that it was the [[Dimensional Fatigue|IDF]] research of the Androsynth which enabled the Orz to come to TrueSpace.

Whether the Orz themselves were the cause for the disappearance of the Androsynth is the subject of a lot of speculation. Evidence for it exists, but is very circumstantial. Whatever their involvement, asking enough about the Androsynth is enough reason for the Orz to attack you.

===Arilou LaLee'lay===
Dialogs with both the Arilou and Orz suggest that they have had contact outside of TrueSpace. The Orz do not like the Arilou very much, and complain that the Arilou always "*jumping in front*". Conversely, the Arilou warn not to trust the Orz, as they are dangerous.

===Melnorme===
The Melnorme know of the existence of the Orz, and that they appeared when the Androsynth disappeared. Whether they've met them in person is unclear. While there is a Melnorme trader in Orz space, the Orz never mention Melnorme.

===Spathi===
The Spathi also mention that the Orz entered this space when the Androsynth disappeared. They think that they are creepy and warn against an alliance. This is all based on their own speculation though and arguably the Spathi would object to an alliance with almost any race on this basis.Whether they have met the Orz in person or only heard about them from description is unclear.

===Taalo===
The Orz mention the Taalo on several occasions. They seem to have been in contact over a longer period of time. According to the Orz, the Taalo have fled Truespace to some space where they can go to themselves. The Orz refer to Delta Vulpeculae as the Taalo playground, where the Taalo "are making *Time jokes*". As the Orz's language isn't very clear, it may be that this is all in the past though.

===VUX===
The Orz briefly mention the VUX, as being "*silly cows*" for asking too many questions about the Androsynth, which prompted the Orz to attack the VUX.

==Theories==
There are various theories to explain the various mysteries surrounding the Orz.

===The Orz are [[They|Them]]===
There are theories that the Orz are in fact the ghost-like creatures that the Androsyth IDF researchers ran into. They are mostly based on the fact that ''They'' were coming into this world just before the Androsynth disappeared, which was when the Orz appeared.

The [[TFB chat protocols|October 1998 IRC chat]] lends weight to this sort of theory:

''<LordR-man> Fwiffo- What really happened to the Androsynth in sc2?'' 
''<Fwiffo> In regards to the Androsynth: They were snagged by the entity who/which projected its fingers into our dimension (which looked to us as the Orz.)''

Others object that even when accepting that the timing of the appearance of the Orz is not a coincidence, they do not have to be ''Them''; they could have detected the Androsynth in the same way as ''They'' did.

===The Orz killed the Androsynth===
This is based again on the timing of the appearance of the Orz and the disappearance of the Androsynth, combined with the fact that the Orz refuse to talk about the Androsynth.

This is suggested by both the Melnorme and the Spathi. In the same dialogs however, it has been made clear that they don't actually know that. This may suggest that this theory is what the creators of the game '''want''' the player to think, in which case it's probably not what has "actually" happened.

===The Orz are protecting races by killing those that ask too much questions about the Androsynth===
This reflects the remarks made by the Arilou about parasites from beyond that can detect you when you show yourself. If you reject the theory that the Orz killed the Androsynth, this would provide an alternative explanation that connects 'Them', the disappearance of the Androsynth, and the Orz.

===The Orz seek to take advantage of indigenous races in some undefined way=== The Orz say they dislike the Arilou because they are "jumping in front." The Arilou claim to have changed humans to protect them from the "parasites" that would like to find them. Perhaps the Orz want space the Arilou did not get to first as this would be easier to conquer?

==Translating Orz Communications==

Translating Orz speech is problematic at best. The Orz sense of reality is likely completely different from ours. Even the most sophisticated and powerful translators can't fully process its bizarre alien language, having to use many lingual best-fits in conversation. These are marked in text by surrounding the word with asterisks (*). It is possible that all words that appear in (*) can have more than just one meaning.

* *above* — where the Arilou come from, [[QuasiSpace]]
* *below* — where Orz comes from
* *camper* — starfaring or sentient races? an individual or species that is liked by Orz? — "Happy *campers* are the best."
* *dance* — combat — "I am *frumple*. It is *dancing*."
* *dissolving* — destroying a ship, dying
* *fingers* — an "individual" Orz; see *many bubbles*
* *frumple* — to become, or the state of being angry or sad or violent — "Do not ask about [the Androsynth]. You make me *frumple*."
* *game* — the action being done presently
* *GO! GO!* — space marines
* *heavy space* — Adjective for [[TrueSpace]], *heavy* is also used. — "These are best for letting go near *heavy space* planet bodies." An example of universe/dimensional differences.
* *many bubbles* — the numerous distinct individuals of a species, or possibly organic cells or even atomic particles — "Orz is not *many bubbles*, Orz is *fingers*."
* *new town* — new/previously unknown universe
* *open* — advance your mind/understanding/technology
* *other* — the unknown enemy of the Orz
* *party* — alliance? conversation? opportunities for *dancing*? If *dance* means combat or battle, then *party* may mean war. Party may refer to something far more sinister/extreme that humans cannot understand yet. Orz refer to parties a lot, signifying its importance. It seems that it is somehow related to *campers* and may be the reason they are here in our dimension. They say, "We can not have *parties* when Arilou always *jumping in front*." Just as we cannot fully understand the Orz words/ideas, they may have misinterpreted our word "alliance" to mean something else. (might simply mean "contact")
* *playground* — Orz gives the coordinates of Delta Vulpeculae as the location of *playground*. The significance of this star system to Orz is unknown, although it is inside the general area that they occupy. Also, Delta Vulpeculae IIc is the location of the Taalo Shield and the former homeworld of the Taalo, possibly giving the Taalo some significance. Possibly a good place for them to *slide*. A planet or star itself. Something with a significant amount of gravity.
* *relatives* — allies
* *sad animal* — one who is disliked by the Orz — "The Kohr-Ah are *sad animals*."
* *silly cow* — one who annoys the Orz, *silly* is often used independently to mean annoying — "First the VUX, but they are such *silly cows* ... they ask so much about the Androsynth we must *dance* with them."
* *slide* — dimensional travel. Some interesting quotes using this: "*Happy campers* not going to *heavy space* *slide* near Chandrasekhar. Especially not ever! These are *fat* words." "Arilou can *slide*. Also Taalo." "Finally we find you, the *happy campers* and the Taalo *playground* for sliding through."
* *slippery places* — dimensional portals, usually formed with [[Dimensional Fatigue|IDF]]
* *slow time* — An example of universe/dimensional differences.
* *squishy* — good, goodness
* *sticky* — unable to move between dimensions.
* *the middle* — not *above* or *below*, between *above* and *below*?, this dimension (ie, [[TrueSpace]])?
* *fat* — important, serious "These are *fat* words."
* *juice*/*squeezing the juice* — obscure. It is something relating to when the Orz are angry (or *frumple* as they call it) that they do to calm down: "It is always! Nnnnggaaahhhhh! There is *juice squeezing* and then we are not so *frumple*."
* *sauce* — related to *juice*. *sauce* is apparently better than *juice* in some way, plus the Orz seem to aquire *sauce* through killing. "After the *dancing*, Orz think you will make good *special sauce*. Maybe even for other Orz *party*." It would seem this is likely to be something sinister.
* *wax* — possibly the same thing the Arilou call *easy places*.
* *suprising toys* — secret weapons. "Do you want to see our suprising toys? NO! Do not!"

[[Category:Races]]
[[Category:Orz| ]]

Orz

2006-04-25T03:21:08Z

Peejaybee: /* The Orz are Them */

{{RaceBox|name=Orz|image=OrzComm.png|caption=*Happy Campers*|homeworld=[[Gamma Vulpeculae I]]|coordinates=371.3 : 253.7|organizations=[[New Alliance of Free Stars]] (optional)|ship=[[Nemesis]]}}
The '''Orz''' are — or perhaps "is" — an alien species first encountered by [[The Captain]] in the space near where the [[Androsynth]] had been known to reside. Despite a notable distaste for the human-derived Androsynth and for the mysterious [[Arilou]], the Orz happily joined with the [[New Alliance of Free Stars]] and provided its powerful [[Nemesis]] starship designs to aid in the Second War.

==Description==

Orz appear as gill-breathers who resemble yellow parrotfishes with eyestalks, though it is not known if this is their actual true form. It is likely that Orz come from another dimension, and when asked about their origins, Orz explain that the [[Arilou]] are from *above* and that Orz is from *below*. The precise meaning of this explanation is still up to debate, although the Arilou make it clear that the Orz are not from [[QuasiSpace]].

There has been some discussion that the Orz as they are seen in normal space are actually a projection of some higher-dimensional being studying our reality. The Orz-entity refers to what is seen of itself in the known dimensions as its *fingers* and explains that it is not like other races who are *many bubbles*. The Orz sometimes refer to themselves in the singular third person, although whether this is another quirk of the Orz's odd speech pattern or a reference to their true essence is unclear.

==Origin==

The Orz are a newcomer to [[TrueSpace]] that appeared suddenly in the vicinity of the Vulpeculae constellation, the adopted homeworlds of the [[Androsynth]]. As the Androsynth vanished about the same time Orz arrived, it is reasonable to think that the Orz did something to them, but asking the Orz about the subject infuriates them. It is possible that the [[Dimensional Fatigue]] Experiments that were being performed by the Androsynth (and apparently the [[Taalo]] before them) may have been what brought the constellation to the Orz's attention.

Just where the Orz resided before arriving in the area of Vulpeculae is unknown. The Orz indicate that they like TrueSpace and even prefer TrueSpace over their origin dimension and are now engaged in the process of fully moving to TrueSpace.

==Relations with other races==
Only a few of the races in Star Control II mention the Orz at all. This is not surprising as they appear to be new in TrueSpace. The relations that they do have are as mysterious as the Orz themselves.

===Androsynth===
The appearance of the Orz coincided with the disappearance of the Androsynth from the same location. In fact, both the Arilou and the Orz themselves suggest that it was the [[Dimensional Fatigue|IDF]] research of the Androsynth which enabled the Orz to come to TrueSpace.

Whether the Orz themselves were the cause for the disappearance of the Androsynth is the subject of a lot of speculation. Evidence for it exists, but is very circumstantial. Whatever their involvement, asking enough about the Androsynth is enough reason for the Orz to attack you.

===Arilou LaLee'lay===
Dialogs with both the Arilou and Orz suggest that they have had contact outside of TrueSpace. The Orz do not like the Arilou very much, and complain that the Arilou always "*jumping in front*". Conversely, the Arilou warn not to trust the Orz, as they are dangerous.

===Melnorme===
The Melnorme know of the existence of the Orz, and that they appeared when the Androsynth disappeared. Whether they've met them in person is unclear. While there is a Melnorme trader in Orz space, the Orz never mention Melnorme.

===Spathi===
The Spathi also mention that the Orz entered this space when the Androsynth disappeared. They think that they are creepy and warn against an alliance. This is all based on their own speculation though and arguably the Spathi would object to an alliance with almost any race on this basis.Whether they have met the Orz in person or only heard about them from description is unclear.

===Taalo===
The Orz mention the Taalo on several occasions. They seem to have been in contact over a longer period of time. According to the Orz, the Taalo have fled Truespace to some space where they can go to themselves. The Orz refer to Delta Vulpeculae as the Taalo playground, where the Taalo "are making *Time jokes*". As the Orz's language isn't very clear, it may be that this is all in the past though.

===VUX===
The Orz briefly mention the VUX, as being "*silly cows*" for asking too many questions about the Androsynth, which prompted the Orz to attack the VUX.

==Theories==
There are various theories to explain the various mysteries surrounding the Orz.

===The Orz are [[They|Them]]===
There are theories that the Orz are in fact the ghost-like creatures that the Androsyth IDF researchers ran into. They are mostly based on the fact that ''They'' were coming into this world just before the Androsynth disappeared, which was when the Orz appeared.

The [[TFB chat protocols|October 1998 IRC chat]] lends weight to this sort of theory:

''<LordR-man> Fwiffo- What really happened to the Androsynth in sc2?'' 
''<Fwiffo> In regards to the Androsynth: They were snagged by the entity who/which projected its fingers into our dimension (which looked to us as the Orz.)''

Others object that even when accepting that the timing of the appearance of the Orz is not a coincidence, they do not have to be ''Them''; they could have detected the Androsynth in the same way as ''They'' did.

===The Orz killed the Androsynth===
This is based again on the timing of the appearance of the Orz and the disappearance of the Androsynth, combined with the fact that the Orz refuse to talk about the Androsynth.

This is suggested by both the Melnorme and the Spathi. In the same dialogs however, it has been made clear that they don't actually know that. This may suggest that this theory is what the creators of the game '''want''' the player to think, in which case it's probably not what has "actually" happened.

===The Orz are protecting races by killing those that ask too much questions about the Androsynth===
This reflects the remarks made by the Arilou about parasites from beyond that can detect you when you show yourself. If you reject the theory that the Orz killed the Androsynth, this would provide an alternative explanation that connects 'Them', the disappearance of the Androsynth, and the Orz.

===The Orz seek to take advantage of indigenous races in some undefined way=== The Orz say they dislike the Arilou because they are "jumping in front." The Arilou claim to have changed humans to protect them from the "parasites" that would like to find them. Perhaps the Orz want space the Arilou did not get to first as this would be easier to conquer?

==Translating Orz Communications==

Translating Orz speech is problematic at best. The Orz sense of reality is likely completely different from ours. Even the most sophisticated and powerful translators can't fully process its bizarre alien language, having to use many lingual best-fits in conversation. These are marked in text by surrounding the word with asterisks (*). It is possible that all words that appear in (*) can have more than just one meaning.

* *above* — where the Arilou come from, [[QuasiSpace]]
* *below* — where Orz comes from
* *camper* — starfaring or sentient races? an individual or species that is liked by Orz? — "Happy *campers* are the best."
* *dance* — combat — "I am *frumple*. It is *dancing*."
* *dissolving* — destroying a ship, dying
* *fingers* — an "individual" Orz; see *many bubbles*
* *frumple* — to become, or the state of being angry or sad or violent — "Do not ask about [the Androsynth]. You make me *frumple*."
* *game* — the action being done presently
* *GO! GO!* — space marines
* *heavy space* — Adjective for [[TrueSpace]], *heavy* is also used. — "These are best for letting go near *heavy space* planet bodies." An example of universe/dimensional differences.
* *many bubbles* — the numerous distinct individuals of a species, or possibly organic cells or even atomic particles — "Orz is not *many bubbles*, Orz is *fingers*."
* *new town* — new/previously unknown universe
* *open* — advance your mind/understanding/technology
* *other* — the unknown enemy of the Orz
* *party* — alliance? conversation? opportunities for *dancing*? If *dance* means combat or battle, then *party* may mean war. Party may refer to something far more sinister/extreme that humans cannot understand yet. Orz refer to parties a lot, signifying its importance. It seems that it is somehow related to *campers* and may be the reason they are here in our dimension. They say, "We can not have *parties* when Arilou always *jumping in front*." Just as we cannot fully understand the Orz words/ideas, they may have misinterpreted our word "alliance" to mean something else. (might simply mean "contact")
* *playground* — Orz gives the coordinates of Delta Vulpeculae as the location of *playground*. The significance of this star system to Orz is unknown, although it is inside the general area that they occupy. Also, Delta Vulpeculae IIc is the location of the Taalo Shield and the former homeworld of the Taalo, possibly giving the Taalo some significance. Possibly a good place for them to *slide*. A planet or star itself. Something with a significant amount of gravity.
* *relatives* — allies
* *sad animal* — one who is disliked by the Orz — "The Kohr-Ah are *sad animals*."
* *silly cow* — one who annoys the Orz, *silly* is often used independently to mean annoying — "First the VUX, but they are such *silly cows* ... they ask so much about the Androsynth we must *dance* with them."
* *slide* — dimensional travel. Some interesting quotes using this: "*Happy campers* not going to *heavy space* *slide* near Chandrasekhar. Especially not ever! These are *fat* words." "Arilou can *slide*. Also Taalo." "Finally we find you, the *happy campers* and the Taalo *playground* for sliding through."
* *slippery places* — dimensional portals, usually formed with [[Dimensional Fatigue|IDF]]
* *slow time* — An example of universe/dimensional differences.
* *squishy* — good, goodness
* *sticky* — unable to move between dimensions.
* *the middle* — not *above* or *below*, between *above* and *below*?, this dimension (ie, [[TrueSpace]])?
* *fat* — important, serious "These are *fat* words."
* *juice*/*squeezing the juice* — obscure. It is something relating to when the Orz are angry (or *frumple* as they call it) that they do to calm down: "It is always! Nnnnggaaahhhhh! There is *juice squeezing* and then we are not so *frumple*."
* *sauce* — related to *juice*. *sauce* is apparently better than *juice* in some way, plus the Orz seem to aquire *sauce* through killing. "After the *dancing*, Orz think you will make good *special sauce*. Maybe even for other Orz *party*." It would seem this is likely to be something sinister.
* *wax* — possibly the same thing the Arilou call *easy places*.
* *suprising toys* — secret weapons. "Do you want to see our suprising toys? NO! Do not!"

[[Category:Races]]
[[Category:Orz| ]]

Talk:Orz

2006-04-25T02:44:24Z

Peejaybee: /* The Orz are "them" (edit of April 21) */

==Singular Orz==
It may not be an accepted theory, but I remember (from some years ago) that Orz always refers to itself a single entity. Would anyone mind if I change all the self references here to singular forms?
:Seems like a good idea. It would make sense to elaborate on this fact in the article too. Also, it may be possible that there are other entities of its kind. - [[User:Svdb|SvdB]] 23:02, 5 Oct 2004 (CEST)

It is not true that Orz '''always''' refer to themselves/itself as a single entity: ''"Who are you? You are not Orz '''We are''' Orz! Orz '''are''' happy *people energy* from the outside."'' I don't object to referring to Orz in singular in the article, I'm just pointing out that they don't always refer to themselves singularly. Although I haven't seen them refer to themselves as "'''the''' Orz" (like a species), only "Orz" (like a name for a person).

I'd say that only one thing is really known about Orz: it's very difficult to understand them :) And this music is totally bonkers! --[[User:Jacius|Jacius]] 03:50, 25 Oct 2004 (CEST)

Looking again, it seems the Orz only occasionaly refer to themselves in the singular (ie, "Orz is go with you same place for *party*"), or at least not very often at all. Although, they refer to lots of other singular things in the plural... --[[User:Jacius|Jacius]] 04:45, 25 Oct 2004 (CEST)

Not wanting to throw a new spanner in all of this or anything, but one of the quotes made me a little curious; "Aha! I am told other Orz cousins you are connected for camping! I am so right!" I'm kind of intrigued by this. If the Orz are all one entity, who are the "cousins"? Other IDF races? [[User:Luminar|Luminar]] 3:02, 22 Feb 2006 (CEST)

----

Whoever 147.72.117.19 is, that last edit for Orz was awesome! Much clearer. It's they way I was going to make it if I had had the time.

[[User:Mmrnmhrm|Mmrnmhrm]] 17:04, 7 Oct 2004 (CEST)

==Evidence==
I moved the Evidence section to my own User page.

I added a bit about how Orz enjoy TrueSpace more than where they came from. My evidence for this is on my User page. (Conversations 1 and 2) --[[User:Jacius|Jacius]] 04:45, 25 Oct 2004 (CEST)

The Orz only occasionally refer to "Orz" in the third person singular. Moreover, the accepted usage in *all the rest* of the game is to call the Orz "the Orz" and refer to them in the plural. Since we're not writing the whole article in Orzese, there's no point in using an occasional Orzese usage exclusively for the Orz, and it's really a pretty annoying way to write. Even though I accept the "hivemind" theories tentatively, I still feel like the fact that the Orz *appear* as a race of separate life forms means we should do what the other characters in the game do and call them "the Orz". I also think that the most interesting explanations go beyond the naive idea of a hivemind -- that there's one individual Orz whose mind works the way an individual Human mind works, and that it manipulates the Orz bodies as puppets. I think it's more interesting to think that the individual Orz somehow *are* equivalent to individual Humans, only all jacked in to some higher-level being we Human individuals can't imagine (the way we're made of lots and lots of individual cells that all work together in a way an amoeba couldn't imagine, rather than really being one single cell that controls a lot of other cells.)

-----------------

Look, people. This is a wiki, not a discussion forum. If you want to add something, integrate it into the existing article or if necessary do a full rewrite of the article. But don't just drop in your own comments in a conversational style, as comments. We *don't have* threaded posting here; can you imagine what a royal mess each article would look like if everyone just posted all the comments they had on that topic there separately? If you must do that the proper place for it is these talk pages, but even here it should be at a minimum -- there are plenty of actual bulletin boards and forums and such for this kind of discussion.

This entire theories section is a mess. I'll try to clean it up a bit. Btw, judging by the IP number, this "people" is actually one person, on whom you commented in the Juffo-Wup article before. Yeah, I know, it can be annoying when people refuse to create an account. -- [[User:Svdb|SvdB]] 16:56, 31 Mar 2005 (CEST)

== The Orz are the Androsynth ==

By a conversation with the Arilou it's achieved that actually the Orz were Androsynth in the past:
"They have names, but you do not know them. They are blind to your presence, unless you show yourself. The Androsynth showed themselves, and something noticed them. There are no Androsynth now, only Orz." [[User:Zoltan|Zoltan]]

- I suppose assimilation could be one of the reasons for the Androsynth's disappearance, as opposed to consumption or disintegration. This could possibly apply to the Taalo too, if we knew how long a *piece* is to humans. But whereas the Androsynth brought the Orz to us, the Taalo might have accidentally brought themselves to the Orz. (As a friendly aside, an easy way to do a signature is to type four tilde(~) at the end of your post) [[User:Luminar|Luminar]] 16:57, 5 March 2006 (CET)

== The Orz are "them" (edit of April 21) ==

I was responsible for the edit claiming that the Orz were confirmed as "them," based on this bit from the October 18 chat:


<LordR-man> Fwiffo- What really happened to the Androsynth in sc2? 
<Fwiffo> In regards to the Androsynth: They were snagged by the entity who/which projected its fingers into our dimension (which looked to us as the Orz.)


It's pretty clear to me that this is saying that the Orz are how we perceive the "fingers" of the entity that snagged the Androsynth, i.e. the Orz are "them." What do '''you''' think it means? [[User:Peejaybee|Peejaybee]] 04:44, 25 April 2006 (CEST)

Talk:Orz

2006-04-25T02:43:45Z

Peejaybee: /* My Edit of April 21 */

Talk:Orz

2006-04-25T02:42:38Z

Peejaybee: My Edit of April 21

==Singular Orz==
It may not be an accepted theory, but I remember (from some years ago) that Orz always refers to itself a single entity. Would anyone mind if I change all the self references here to singular forms?
:Seems like a good idea. It would make sense to elaborate on this fact in the article too. Also, it may be possible that there are other entities of its kind. - [[User:Svdb|SvdB]] 23:02, 5 Oct 2004 (CEST)

It is not true that Orz '''always''' refer to themselves/itself as a single entity: ''"Who are you? You are not Orz '''We are''' Orz! Orz '''are''' happy *people energy* from the outside."'' I don't object to referring to Orz in singular in the article, I'm just pointing out that they don't always refer to themselves singularly. Although I haven't seen them refer to themselves as "'''the''' Orz" (like a species), only "Orz" (like a name for a person).

I'd say that only one thing is really known about Orz: it's very difficult to understand them :) And this music is totally bonkers! --[[User:Jacius|Jacius]] 03:50, 25 Oct 2004 (CEST)

Looking again, it seems the Orz only occasionaly refer to themselves in the singular (ie, "Orz is go with you same place for *party*"), or at least not very often at all. Although, they refer to lots of other singular things in the plural... --[[User:Jacius|Jacius]] 04:45, 25 Oct 2004 (CEST)

Not wanting to throw a new spanner in all of this or anything, but one of the quotes made me a little curious; "Aha! I am told other Orz cousins you are connected for camping! I am so right!" I'm kind of intrigued by this. If the Orz are all one entity, who are the "cousins"? Other IDF races? [[User:Luminar|Luminar]] 3:02, 22 Feb 2006 (CEST)

----

Whoever 147.72.117.19 is, that last edit for Orz was awesome! Much clearer. It's they way I was going to make it if I had had the time.

[[User:Mmrnmhrm|Mmrnmhrm]] 17:04, 7 Oct 2004 (CEST)

==Evidence==
I moved the Evidence section to my own User page.

I added a bit about how Orz enjoy TrueSpace more than where they came from. My evidence for this is on my User page. (Conversations 1 and 2) --[[User:Jacius|Jacius]] 04:45, 25 Oct 2004 (CEST)

The Orz only occasionally refer to "Orz" in the third person singular. Moreover, the accepted usage in *all the rest* of the game is to call the Orz "the Orz" and refer to them in the plural. Since we're not writing the whole article in Orzese, there's no point in using an occasional Orzese usage exclusively for the Orz, and it's really a pretty annoying way to write. Even though I accept the "hivemind" theories tentatively, I still feel like the fact that the Orz *appear* as a race of separate life forms means we should do what the other characters in the game do and call them "the Orz". I also think that the most interesting explanations go beyond the naive idea of a hivemind -- that there's one individual Orz whose mind works the way an individual Human mind works, and that it manipulates the Orz bodies as puppets. I think it's more interesting to think that the individual Orz somehow *are* equivalent to individual Humans, only all jacked in to some higher-level being we Human individuals can't imagine (the way we're made of lots and lots of individual cells that all work together in a way an amoeba couldn't imagine, rather than really being one single cell that controls a lot of other cells.)

-----------------

Look, people. This is a wiki, not a discussion forum. If you want to add something, integrate it into the existing article or if necessary do a full rewrite of the article. But don't just drop in your own comments in a conversational style, as comments. We *don't have* threaded posting here; can you imagine what a royal mess each article would look like if everyone just posted all the comments they had on that topic there separately? If you must do that the proper place for it is these talk pages, but even here it should be at a minimum -- there are plenty of actual bulletin boards and forums and such for this kind of discussion.

This entire theories section is a mess. I'll try to clean it up a bit. Btw, judging by the IP number, this "people" is actually one person, on whom you commented in the Juffo-Wup article before. Yeah, I know, it can be annoying when people refuse to create an account. -- [[User:Svdb|SvdB]] 16:56, 31 Mar 2005 (CEST)

== The Orz are the Androsynth ==

By a conversation with the Arilou it's achieved that actually the Orz were Androsynth in the past:
"They have names, but you do not know them. They are blind to your presence, unless you show yourself. The Androsynth showed themselves, and something noticed them. There are no Androsynth now, only Orz." [[User:Zoltan|Zoltan]]

- I suppose assimilation could be one of the reasons for the Androsynth's disappearance, as opposed to consumption or disintegration. This could possibly apply to the Taalo too, if we knew how long a *piece* is to humans. But whereas the Androsynth brought the Orz to us, the Taalo might have accidentally brought themselves to the Orz. (As a friendly aside, an easy way to do a signature is to type four tilde(~) at the end of your post) [[User:Luminar|Luminar]] 16:57, 5 March 2006 (CET)

== My Edit of April 21 ==

I was responsible for the edit claiming that the Orz were confirmed as "them," based on this bit from the October 18 chat:


<LordR-man> Fwiffo- What really happened to the Androsynth in sc2? 
<Fwiffo> In regards to the Androsynth: They were snagged by the entity who/which projected its fingers into our dimension (which looked to us as the Orz.)


It's pretty clear to me that this is saying that the Orz are how we perceive the "fingers" of the entity that snagged the Androsynth, i.e. the Orz are "them." What do '''you''' think it means?