In Search of Value

What is value? This is the question I was permitted to ask Kylthean, the Judge of Value during a pleasant and insightful audience. Many people of many alignments and backgrounds define value as different things; the gnomes of Tarandue find value in wisdom of tinkered objects while the Ogre ilk find value in power of body. I respectfully pointed this out to the visiting deity, and the following was his reply:

Kylthean: 'Ah, it is true that there are relative values, but there is a universal value that underlies all. It is this that I know, and that you must discover. For simple objects, there are powerful spells to know it, for you, it will be a life-long journey, which only rare mortals complete. '

What is this underlying virtue? I haven't the slightest idea - but then, it was said it would be a life-long journey. I then inquired of the being whether or not he'd like something known to the masses of Aabahran. Again I quote:

Kylthean: 'If I were to have one, it would be to give all the knowledge that greed is not undesirable. It is not dark, nor light. It is simply wishing the best for yourself. You may aid others in your greed, or thwart them. It matters not. '

Daemian: 'Sire.... Erm, I'm terribly sorry to contradict, but might I say something? '

Kylthean: '<chuckle> You may. '

Daemian: 'Please realize that this is simply my own creed in these words... But greed is defined as an overzealous desire to augment ones self. You speak of simply the desire, which would be better denoted as survival - that is, if I am interpreting correctly. '

Kylthean: 'Correct. Greed IS survival. '

Daemian: 'So you do not believe in going too far for one's betterment? '

Kylthean: 'What is too far? '

Daemian: 'Well, then again, too far is relative, yes. '

Kylthean: 'Although I judge all in the end, followers of mine or not, I allow each to find their limits. Remember, the increase of oneself is Greed. But there is no wrong in increasing others at the same time. Also, there is no wrong in decreasing others. You understand clearly? '

Daemian: 'Yes, but what of decreasing oneself? '

Kylthean: 'Decreasing on the short term so that you may increase later is wise. For example, an investment. '

And so it ended, after a few words of thanks between he and I. The judge left in a plume of swirling mist, leaving me to ponder this ever present value. How is it to be discovered, I'd need more than this brief discourse. But then, the discover of such a truth lifted him to godhood, it can't be expected that all shall "pierce the veil" of mortality. However, one can hope.