The Chee put the essence of the last Pemalites into wolves/early dogs

[Terenia]

But what's their 'basic essence,' Terenia? What the hell IS essence?

Well, they make it sound like it's the soul, or possibly a section of the genome.

I basically had it as a combination of the two. It's a "soul" that they discover has a physical embodiment in the makeup of Pemalites (genome, DNA, whatever). Of course, I am no scientist, so this is pure speculation and whatnot.

[Tim Bruening]

Er...what?

I don't get it. What did Erek mean by that? What exactly is the 'essence' and how could they insert it into those animals?

Since Pemalites were pacifist, how can wolves into which the essence of Permalites has been infused engage in violence (that of hunting animals for food)?

[Chad32]

I think the "essence" is meant to explain why dogs tend to be good natured. Not because they were bred for lower agressiveness, but because they have the essence of pacifists in them.

[Tim Bruening]

I think the "essence" is meant to explain why dogs tend to be good natured. Not because they were bred for lower agressiveness, but because they have the essence of pacifists in them.

But most dogs I encounter bark when I get close to their territories.

[Chad32]

Presumably because they don't know you? Or were improperly raised?

[Tim Bruening]

Presumably because they don't know you? Or were improperly raised?

Permalites were totally pacifist.  If their essence is in dogs, shouldn't the dogs also be totally pacifist?

[Chad32]

Apparently not. Maybe because Pamelites are sentient, and dogs aren't. So dogs don't really understand the complexities of pacifism, and what it means. Not that complete pacifism is really a good idea anyway, becaiuse inevitable you'll get stomped on by someone who isn't.

Then again, if thei're just barking and not attacking, is that really a violation of pacifism?