The First Nova Generator, as the saying goes, was neither first, nor Nova, nor a generator. Constructed by a joint human–Bazrahin crew on the outskirts of Byforalla and activated in 5221, the so-called Generator was in fact a parabolic telepathic collector modeled on that of the Malika Core Grid. It was hoped that the relative docility of the nearby Eloi Farms’ stock would avoid the incendiary danger of wild specimens. What was not anticipated is the effect such a collector would have on the psychic manifestations already emerging around Byforalla since the coming of the Ambivalence Drive. This amplification effect was nothing, of course, compared to that of the later, true Nova Generators that would sustain the Core Process—and its side-effects—without Eloi input.

It would be frivolous to record the many rumors surrounding the First Generator’s disappearance in 5241. The developing Nova Entity clearly saw no further need for its erstwhile chrysalis.

—Thucydides Plutonium