Lives Apart

is a Quest in Final Fantasy XIV: Endwalker.
==Objectives==
* Speak with Hermes.
* Speak with Hermes again.
* Use the lightning converger to create ball lightning.
* Speak with Hermes.
* Speak with Hermes again.
==Script==
script 	script
 	
Emetselch 	It is held that all civil organizations should conduct their affairs with total transparency, and the Convocation is no exception.
Emetselch 	But that doesn't mean we are obligated to show our work to unknown entities such as you. Consider yourself privileged─and behave accordingly.
 	
Hythlodaeus 	Though I see new creations on a daily basis, here they look at them with a different eye. It will be interesting to observe Hermes at work.
 	
Meteion 	This time we all get to go for a walk! Isn't it exciting?
 	
Hermes 	If everyone is ready, there are a few creations I need to check on. First, we shall return to the spot where we found our wayward ambystoma.
Hermes 	Have care when you step outside a hub, for there may be more unruly creatures about.
 	
Emetselch 	All vim and vigor now. Hmph. When we were discussing his nomination, he was melancholy incarnate.
 	
Hythlodaeus 	Ah yes, the ianthine petalouda. One of the newest species of the ever-popular butterfly.
Hythlodaeus 	...Hm? You're still bothered about your robe? Don't be. The few specimens we repurposed won't be missed.
 	
Meteion 	So beautiful, petalouda! I hope they make it into the world!
 	
Hermes 	This here is a new species of petalouda we recently set loose.
Hermes 	It has been doing very well, managing to maintain a stable existence thus far. If it can see its observation period to the end without issue, we shall release it unto the world.
Hermes 	Tell me─do you know the difference between living beings and arcane entities?
Hermes 	It is the presence of a soul. Yet the soul isn't something you can choose to have at will.
Hermes 	No, it manifests only in those beings whose forms adhere to the laws of creation. That can endure on their own.
Hermes 	Beings that do not fulfill this requirement, such as those spontaneously born of magic or natural phenomena, do not have souls.
Hermes 	No matter how much it might resemble flora or fauna, if it lacks a soul, then it is considered an arcane entity.
Hermes 	So you see, it is not for mankind to decide what is living. That domain lies beyond our manipulation, and it is hubris to assume otherwise.
Hermes 	But come, let us head to the nearby beacon. I've received a report that arcane entities have gathered there.
 	
Emetselch 	We're meant to be observing Hermes, but instead we're stuck with Meteion...
Emetselch 	Well, I suppose she herself serves as proof of his prowess as a researcher and creator both.
 	
Hythlodaeus 	A fascinating creation─much like yourself, little one. Renowned as Hermes is for his flying life-forms, 'tis a rare privilege to be able to see one of his works in progress.
 	
Meteion 	Interesting! You're interesting too! Tell me, how did you find the ambystoma?
 	
Hermes 	Ah, yes. Lightning pneuma, just as the report said.
Hermes 	Although we call this structure a beacon due to its form, it's in fact a magical device. By manipulating the balance of elements, it keeps the isle airborne and maintains the climate thereupon.
Hermes 	In the course of its operation, it often sees an internal shift towards a given element.
Hermes 	Right now that element is lightning, which draws the pneuma here to replenish their aether.
Hermes 	...Hmm, it appears Meteion is busy.
Hermes 	Would you care to assist me in her stead, and feed the pneuma?
Hermes 	By using this lightning converger, you can harness ambient lightning and focus it into a ball. A veritable feast for our dazzling friends.
Hermes 	Go on, give it a try.
 	
Hermes 	Go on and use the lightning converger near the pneuma. It will harness ambient lightning and focus it into a ball. A veritable feast for our dazzling friends.
 	
Hermes 	Perfectly done, [Player Name]. Look...
Hermes 	See how they gather to feed. How they express themselves through their actions despite their lack of words.
Hermes 	Speech is not the sole defining characteristic of a thinking, feeling creature. Nor is silence an indication that they do not possess these qualities.
Hermes 	Be it a soulless arcane entity such as the pneuma, or an ephemeral life-form such as the petalouda, all seek to perpetuate their existence. To survive.
 	
Hermes 	A good question. I can answer it from a theoretical standpoint, but it ultimately falls to the Bureau of the Architect to pass judgment.
Hermes 	Those with exceptional vision such as Hythlodaeus may be able to ascertain her true nature...
Hermes 	But to me, it doesn't matter. She is herself, and that is all I need to know.
Meteion 	Oh... You've finished already? I-I'm sorry... I was in the way...
Hermes 	Not to worry, my dear. They missed nothing of note, and we still have plenty of work for them to observe.
Hermes 	Next, we will head east to the Mourning Dew. I need to speak with some observers there.
 	
Emetselch 	...Was there a guiding theme or any method to the madness that is this random assortment of features?
 	
Hythlodaeus 	Ah, this fellow has been the talk of the bureau! The combination of a carefree aspect and endless rows of fangs is strangely charming!
 	
Meteion 	It's adorable, but beware its sneeze! Hermes went flying once!
Quest complete.	Quest complete.
Category:Endwalker Main Scenario Quests in Final Fantasy XIV