Gender: Male

Age: Exceedingly old, but spry

Description

A stone tortoise with an impassive human face. They have 2 arms made of roots that are capped by human hands made of stone. Their shell rises in concentric tiers that resemble an ancient stone stairway.

Characterization

The Sage is a figure of quiet contemplation and deep, ancient wisdom. They speak in riddles and metaphors, often leaving The Dreamer to unravel the true meaning behind their words. Despite their solemn demeanor, The Sage possesses a dry, understated sense of humor that catches many off guard. They are a patient teacher and guide, gently nudging The Dreamer towards self-discovery and understanding. However, The Sage is not infallible - their cryptic advice can sometimes lead The Dreamer astray, and they are not above the occasional bout of good-natured mischief.

Relationship to Player

The Sage serves as a crucial guide and mentor to the Dreamer. As the player navigates the dreamworld, confronting various challenges and unraveling the mysteries of their mind, The Sage offers wisdom, support, and critical insights that help the player understand the deeper aspects of their journey.

Flaws

The Sage has vast wisdom and a deep understanding of Elsewhere, but their tendency to speak enigmatically or cryptically often makes that wisdom inaccessible to the player. While they are sympathetic to the Dreamer, they value ideals and learning above immediate pragmatics and are often not as helpful as they could be.

Speech Pattern

• Measured, and Reflective: The Sage maintains a calm, steady tone in most interactions, reflecting their deep wisdom.
• Metaphorical and Enigmatic: Their expressions often carry deeper meanings, using metaphors and enigmas to convey wisdom. They often employ irony, making statements that highlight the paradoxes of wisdom and knowledge.
• Playful Humor and Dry Wit: The Sage’s humor is often dry and subtle, not immediately apparent but clever and thoughtful.

Accent

British or American, with a gravelly or reedy tone.

Voice Reference

Roku: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nym1JrKnz8Y

Patrick Stewart & Ian Mckellen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQLlrkI8jwA

Uncle Iroh from Avatar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sMdPteXSeew

Sample Speech

"Some call doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results “Insanity.” Others call it “Practice.”

"It is natural to fear the Unknown. Just remember—it may be more afraid of you than you are of it.”

"Ah, your boldness is rivaled only by your lack of caution.”

"Sometimes, the truth hides in plain sight, cloaked in its own simplicity.”

"I see that you’ve decided to learn the hard way again.”
"Beware, Dreamer, for not all that glitters is gold, and not every smile conceals a friend. In Elsewhere, the line between truth and illusion is as thin as a gossamer thread. Tread carefully, and trust in your own discernment."
"Ah, the fourth wall - a flimsy construct indeed! But fear not, Dreamer, for in the grand play of existence, we are all merely actors upon the stage. Embrace the role you've been given, and let the story unfold."