The Loneliness Epidemic: A Crisis Among Seedlings

Seedlings seem to be in social crisis, even when they are not alone.

If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that the life of a Seedling is no walk in the park. Sure, there may eventually be parks in Avesta’s eight societies, but for now, it's mostly trees, rocks, and fledgling communities struggling to take root. However, the hardest part about starting life as a Seedling isn’t just the unfamiliar terrain, it’s getting your social needs met.

A massive epidemic of depression and social crisis is sweeping across Avesta, leaving many Seedlings struggling to connect. You might wonder, if they’re living in a colony together, why don’t they just talk to each other? The answer remains unclear, but one thing is certain: the effects are devastating.

“Looks like things are completely screwed for Einar,” said Dr. Curiosity. “In a social crisis that won't go away no matter who he talks to, can’t go to the hospital to treat a medical condition, doesn’t have any land anymore, can't even get a basic education.”

The issue isn’t isolated. “Mine are both in social crisis,” concurred zanokei. “Hope they don't die from loneliness.”

And if Seedlings are anything like the humans they were replicated after, loneliness is more than just an inconvenience, it’s a genuine threat to both mental and physical health. Without meaningful interaction, their well-being is at risk, and if this crisis continues unchecked, Avesta’s carefully cultivated future may be in jeopardy before it even begins.

For now, the cause of the social crisis remains a mystery, but one thing is certain: if Seedlings can’t find a way to connect, they may not survive long enough to see Avesta’s promise.