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{{quote|The Xel'Naga created both the [[protoss]] and the [[zerg]], [[Jim Raynor|Commander]]. They were the gods of their time.|[[Emil Narud]]|The Moebius Factor}}
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{{quote|The Xel'Naga created both the [[protoss]] and the [[zerg]], [[Jim Raynor|Commander]]. They were the gods of their time.|Doctor [[Emil Narud]]|The Moebius Factor}}
 
{{RaceBox
 
{{RaceBox
 
|name=Xel'Naga
 
|name=Xel'Naga
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|image=DarkVoice SC2 Head3.jpg
 
|image=DarkVoice SC2 Head3.jpg
 
|imgsize=200px
 
|imgsize=200px
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|biological=Purity of [[Purity of form|form]] and [[purity of essence|essence]]. Metaphysical reproduction that culminates in the species cyclically re-emerging in the Cosmos through new iterations. Near immortal.
|biological=Cyclical life cycle, purity of essence, long lifespans
 
|mental=Purity of form, [[psionic powers|psionic]]
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|mental=[[Psionic powers|Psionic]] potential and intelligence of undefinable scale.
|species=Incarnations derived from one species with purity of form and another with purity of essence
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|species=Symbiotic coalescence of dual species embodying purity of form and essence. |homeworld=Unknown. Extra-galactic.
|homeworld=Extra-galactic
 
 
}}
 
}}
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The '''xel'naga''' are a highly advanced race.<ref name="SC1Man">Underwood, Peter, [[Bill Roper]], [[Chris Metzen]] and Jeffrey Vaughn. ''StarCraft (Manual)''. Irvine, Calif.: [[Blizzard Entertainment]], 1998.</ref>
The '''xel'naga''' are a [[psionic powers|psionically-attuned]], ancient, cosmic race.<ref name="SC1Man"/> They were occasionally referred to as the most powerful species known in the universe.<ref name = "SXN"/> While there are vague references of the xel'naga conquering worlds and uplifting species, their most notable involvement was with the [[protoss]] and [[zerg]].<ref name="SC1Man">Underwood, Peter, Bill Roper, Chris Metzen and Jeffrey Vaughn. ''StarCraft (Manual)''. Irvine, Calif.: Blizzard Entertainment, 1998.</ref> Their interest in these two species was due to the xel'naga's cyclical life cycle. When the incredibly long-lived xel'naga were due to come to an end, the xel'naga would use these two species to be reborn.<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga3">Golden, Christie (June 30, 2009). ''[[StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga: Twilight|StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga #3: Twilight]].'' Simon & Schuster (Pocket Star). ISBN 978-0-7434-7129-9.</ref> Ironically their survival was severely jeopardized when the zerg turned on them.<ref name="SC1Man"/>
 
   
The etymology of the word "xel'naga" has been described as a [[Khalani|protoss language]] term meaning "Wanderers from Afar"<ref name="SC1Man"/> but has also been described as their true name. The protoss referred to the xel'naga as the ''Ihan-rii'', the "Great Teachers", the "Makers", and the "Guardians",<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga1"/> as well as "gods".<ref name ="SC2_CineProphecy">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Cinematic: [[The Prophecy (cinematic)|The Prophecy]]. (in English). 2010.</ref>
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Described as "the most powerful species the universe has ever known,"<ref name="SC:ShadXel">Mesta, Gabriel (July 1, 2001). ''[[StarCraft: Shadow of the Xel'Naga]]''. [[Simon & Schuster]] (Pocket Star). ISBN 978-0671-04149-6.</ref> the xel'naga have been referred to as "wanderers from afar,"<ref name="SC1Man"/> but it has also been described as being their true name. The protoss referred to the xel'naga as the "Ihan-rii", the "Great Teachers", the "Makers", and the "Guardians", during the [[Aeon of Strife]],<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga1">Golden, Christie (May 22, 2007). ''[[StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga: Firstborn|StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga #1: Firstborn]]''. Simon & Schuster (Pocket Star). ISBN 978-0-7434-7125-1.</ref> and prior to it, worshiped them as gods.<ref name="SC1Man"/> Some protoss still refer to them as such.<ref name="SC2_CineProphecy">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. ([[Activision Blizzard]]). PC. Cinematic: [[The Prophecy (cinematic)|The Prophecy]]. (in [[English]]). 2010.</ref><ref name="WoL_TheDig">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[The Dig]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref>
   
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According to [[protoss]] tradition, the xel'naga were peaceful, benevolent and utterly consumed with studying and propagating sentient evolution within the universe.<ref name="SC1Man"/>
==Biology==
 
The xel'naga were incredibly long-lived even by protoss standards, but not immortal; eventually their species would come to an end. In the interest of survival they planned to create new xel'naga by uplifting two species. A pair of qualities was required and these were defined by the xel'naga as the ''[[purity of essence]]'' and the ''[[purity of form]]'', and each uplifted species would be targeted for one of them. Over an extraordinarily long period of time, the two species would naturally come together and merge.<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga3"/>
 
   
 
==History==
 
==History==
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The xel'naga life cycle had manifested many times.<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga3"/>
 
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===Origins===
 
The xel'naga were incredibly long-lived even by protoss standards, but not immortal; eventually their species would come to an end. In the interest of survival they planned to create new xel'naga by uplifting two species. A pair of qualities was required and these were defined by the xel'naga as the [[purity of essence]] and the [[purity of form]], and each uplifted species would be targeted for one of them. Over an extraordinarily long period of time, the two species would naturally come together and merge, forming the next generation of xel'naga and beginning the cycle anew. The xel'naga life cycle has manifested many times,<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga3">Golden, Christie (June 30, 2009). ''[[StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga: Twilight|StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga #3: Twilight]]''. Simon & Schuster (Pocket Star). ISBN 978-0-7434-7129-9.</ref> so often that [[time]] itself was affected by it.<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga1"/>
   
 
===Arrival in the Milky Way===
 
===Arrival in the Milky Way===
The xel'naga arrived in the [[Milky Way]] galaxy from outside. Tens of millions of years before the [[Great War]], the xel'naga seeded thousands of new species in the worlds within their domain. They experimented on and uplifted suitable candidate species. For millennia they met only with failure.<ref name="SC1Man"/>
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The xel'naga were not indigenous to the [[Milky Way]] galaxy, but ruled over thousands of worlds within it, tens of millions of years before the [[Great War]]. It was rumored that they seeded and cultivated thousands of various species on these worlds. They became obsessed with fashioning the perfect life-form and labored to create a creature that would be defined by what they termed 'a distinct [[purity of form]]'. Using [[khaydarin crystal]]s, they carefully steered the delicate evolutionary processes of their budding species for millennia, keeping a detailed genetic history of each race. Their protracted experiments produced many intriguing deviants and mutations, but the races that they cultivated always fell short of their enormous expectations.<ref name="SC1Man"/>
 
{{AmbigTime}}
 
{{AmbigTime}}
During their journeys, they learned of the [[Voice in the Darkness (entity)|Voice in the Darkness]], a [[Void]]-based entity which consumed entire civilizations. The xel'naga, who cherished life, imprisoned it with an [[Argus crystal]] beneath a barren world at [[KL-2]].<ref name="SC:FrntLn_V4_Voice">Elder, Josh (w), Ramanda Kamarga (p), Faisalz ''et al'' (i). "[[StarCraft: Frontline: Voice in the Darkness|Voice in the Darkness]]." In ''[[StarCraft: Frontline: Volume 4]]'' (paperback binding), pp. 72-113. Tokyopop, October 1, 2009. ISBN 978-1427-81698-6.</ref>
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During their journeys, they learned of the [[Voice in the Darkness (entity)|Voice in the Darkness]], a [[Void]]-based entity which consumed entire civilizations. The xel'naga, who cherished life, imprisoned it with an [[Argus crystal]] beneath a barren world at [[KL-2]].<ref name="SC:FrntLn_V4_Voice">Elder, Josh (w), Ramanda Kamarga (p), Faisalz ''et al'' (i). "[[StarCraft: Frontline: Voice in the Darkness|Voice in the Darkness]]." In ''[[StarCraft: Frontline: Volume 4]]'' (paperback binding), pp. 72-113. [[Tokyopop]], October 1, 2009. ISBN 978-1427-81698-6.</ref>
   
The xel'naga found or created a powerful relic, the [[Argus Stone]], which they valued over other artifacts, but left it on the world of [[Aridas]].<ref name = "RetP1">StarCraft: Retribution. WizardWorks Software. Protoss campaign: “The Legacy of Kharadun”, mission 1: [[StarCraft: Retribution#The gateway to Taledon|The gateway to Taledon]] (in English). 1998.</ref> The [[zerg]] believe it had been used to create entire races.<ref name = "RetZ1">StarCraft: Retribution. WizardWorks Software. Zerg campaign: “Dynamic Evolution”, mission 1: “[[StarCraft: Retribution#Cutting off the exits|Cutting off the exits]]” (in English). 1998.</ref>
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The xel'naga found or created a powerful relic, the [[Argus Stone]], which they valued over other artifacts, but left it on the world of [[Aridas]].<ref name="RetP1">StarCraft: Retribution. WizardWorks Software. Protoss campaign: "The Legacy of Kharadun", mission 1: "[[StarCraft: Retribution#The gateway to Taledon|The gateway to Taledon]]" (in English). 1998.</ref> The [[zerg]] believe it had been used to create entire races.<ref name="RetZ1">StarCraft: Retribution. WizardWorks Software. Zerg campaign: “Dynamic Evolution”, mission 1: “[[StarCraft: Retribution#Cutting off the exits|Cutting off the exits]]” (in English). 1998.</ref>
   
 
===The Firstborn===
 
===The Firstborn===
 
{{main|Protoss history}}
 
{{main|Protoss history}}
 
{{Quote|You worship false gods, little protoss, but now the truth stands revealed. You were never master of your own destiny...never more than a pawn in the xel'naga's cosmic game.|The [[Voice in the Darkness (entity)|Voice in the Darkness]]|StarCraft: Frontline: Voice in the Darkness}}
 
{{Quote|You worship false gods, little protoss, but now the truth stands revealed. You were never master of your own destiny...never more than a pawn in the xel'naga's cosmic game.|The [[Voice in the Darkness (entity)|Voice in the Darkness]]|StarCraft: Frontline: Voice in the Darkness}}
[[File:Zealot SC1 Art1.jpg|thumb|The [[protoss]]]]
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[[File:Aiur SC-R Art1.jpg|thumb|[[Aiur]]]]
On the galactic fringe the xel'naga returned to [[Aiur]], one of their engineered worlds. They discovered there a race of tribal hunters with a psionically-enhanced communal society. When coupled with excellent physical attributes the xel'naga recognized the natives as superior candidates for the ''purity of form'' and, impatient with the slow pace of their evolution, began uplifting them,<ref name="SC1Man"/> using devices such as a [[giant crystal]] beneath Aiur.<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga3"/> They even used devices such as the [[Kassia crystal]] to enhance their rate of reproduction.<ref name="SC:FrntLn_V3_TA">Zapotek, Ren (w), Noel Rodriguez (p, i), Mel Joy San Juan (i). "[[StarCraft: Frontline: Twilight Archon|Twilight Archon]]." In ''[[StarCraft: Frontline: Volume 3]]'' (paperback binding), pp. 132-177. Tokyopop, July 14, 2009. ISBN 978-1427-80832-5.</ref> The natives were the first experiments to progress beyond a feral stage. In recognition of this the xel'naga named their new scions ''[[protoss]]'', meaning ''first born''.<ref name="SC1Man"/>
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Still driven to perfect their science of proto-genetic evolution, the xel'naga focused their frustrated efforts on [[Aiur]], one of their engineered worlds. Pleased with the progress of its most advanced native life-forms, the xel'naga conceded that their latest creation was their first of all their experiments to evolve beyond the feral constraints of baser life-forms. They gave the new race the name of [[protoss]], or 'the firstborn'. Unsatisfied with their slow progress, the xel'naga accelerated their evolution and spent a millennium subtly guiding their steps.<ref name="SC1Man"/> They even used devices such as the [[Kassia crystal]] to enhance their rate of reproduction.<ref name="SC:FrntLn_V3_TA">Zapotek, Ren (w), Noel Rodriguez (p, i), Mel Joy San Juan (i). "[[StarCraft: Frontline: Twilight Archon|Twilight Archon]]." In ''[[StarCraft: Frontline: Volume 3]]'' (paperback binding), pp. 132-177. Tokyopop, July 14, 2009. ISBN 978-1427-80832-5.</ref> Eventually, the xel'naga succeeded in leading the protoss to the state of total sentience and awareness. When the protoss became highly intellectual and introspective, the xel'naga were exhilarated by their seeming success. Attempting to discern the full extent of protoss evolution, the xel'naga made themselves known to the protoss and integrated into their culture.<ref name="SC1Man"/>
 
Initially the xel'naga kept their presence and assistance secret, but once the protoss were deemed ready the xel'naga revealed themselves openly.<ref name="SC1Man"/> A [[xel'naga temple|"protoss" temple]] was built where the xel'naga first landed on [[Aiur]].<ref name = "Temp">'''Zerg [[Overmind]]:''' "Behold, there is a [[xel'naga temple|temple]], not far from here, that lies upon ground most hallowed. Though I have born witness to the passing of countless millennia, the temple which you must assault is older by far. For it was constructed by my creators, the Xel'Naga, and it marks the site where the Xel'Naga first set foot upon [[Aiur]]." ''StarCraft''. Vivendi Games. Level/area: [[Full Circle]] (in English). 1998.</ref> The xel'naga also constructed giant [[Aiur caverns|artificial caverns]] or a city beneath Aiur, and hid [[khaydarin crystal]]s around the planet.<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga1">Golden, Christie (May 22, 2007). ''[[StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga: Firstborn|StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga #1: Firstborn]].'' Simon & Schuster (Pocket Star). ISBN 978-0-7434-7125-1.</ref>
 
 
The protoss were united by their fascination with these new "gods." They called their new benefactors the ''Ihan-rii'', the "Great Teachers", the "Makers", and the "Guardians".<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga1"/> The [[Shelak Tribe]] grew closest to the xel'naga. The protoss progressed rapidly technologically but rifts began appearing between the tribes concerning their perception of the xel'naga.<ref name="SC1Man"/> At first, the xel'naga were intrigued by this ideological development, and conducted an experiment to see what effects the diverging tribes might have on [[khaydarin crystal]]s. They created twin crystals, the [[Khalis]] and [[Uraj]], from a monolithic crystal and gifted them to the [[Sargas Tribe|Sargas]] and [[Akilae Tribe]] respectively. The crystals' powers and appearance diverged with their tribes.<ref name = "InterviewMetzen">Chris Metzen, StarCraft Legacy staff. 2009-04-03. [http://sclegacy.com/interviews/10-blizzard/281-scl-metzen-interview-lore-exclusive SC:L Metzen Interview - Lore Exclusive]. ''StarCraft Legacy.'' Accessed 2009-05-18</ref>
 
   
 
The xel'naga constructed a [[xel'naga temple|temple]] to mark the site where they first set foot upon Aiur.<ref name="Temp">'''[[Overmind]]:''' "Behold, there is a [[xel'naga temple|temple]], not far from here, that lies upon ground most hallowed. Though I have born witness to the passing of countless millennia, the temple which [[Cerebrate (Episode II)|you]] must assault is older by far. For it was constructed by my creators, the Xel'Naga, and it marks the site where the Xel'Naga first set foot upon [[Aiur]]." ''[[StarCraft]]''. Vivendi Games. Level/area: [[Full Circle]] (in English). 1998.</ref> They also dug vast subterranean [[Aiur caverns|caverns]].<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. 2010-07-24. [http://us.battle.net/sc2/en/game/planet/aiur Koprulu Sector Systems: Aiur]. ''Blizzard Entertainment''. Accessed 2010-07-24.</ref>
The ideological split proved more severe than the xel'naga realized. The protoss fractured along tribal lines and caused the psionic communal link to break. The xel'naga were disappointed but realized having pushed the protoss too far too fast they were responsible. The xel'naga decided to leave this creation.<ref name = "SC1Man"/> The xel'naga were already done with the protoss, and needed to work on a new species.<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga3">Golden, Christie (June 30, 2009). ''[[StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga: Twilight|StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga #3: Twilight]].'' Simon & Schuster (Pocket Star). ISBN 978-0-7434-7129-9.</ref>
 
   
 
The protoss were united by their fascination with these new "gods." They called their new benefactors the ''Ihan-rii'', the "Great Teachers", the "Makers", and the "Guardians".<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga1"/> The xel'naga marveled at how driven the protoss were to plumb the mysteries of the universe around them. However, they reeled in frustration when the [[protoss tribes]] grew further and further apart.<ref name="SC1Man"/> At first, the xel'naga were intrigued by this ideological development, and conducted an experiment to see what effects the diverging tribes might have on [[khaydarin crystal]]s. They created twin crystals, the [[Khalis]] and [[Uraj]], from a monolithic crystal and gifted them to the [[Sargas Tribe|Sargas]] and [[Akilae Tribe]] respectively. The crystals' powers and appearance diverged with their tribes.<ref name="InterviewMetzen">Chris Metzen, StarCraft Legacy staff. 2009-04-03. [http://sclegacy.com/interviews/10-blizzard/281-scl-metzen-interview-lore-exclusive SC:L Metzen Interview - Lore Exclusive]. ''StarCraft Legacy''. Accessed 2009-05-18</ref>
Hundreds of xel'naga were killed in attacks by angered and confused protoss. While their fleet withdrew, the xel'naga left behind many artifacts such as the [[khaydarin crystal]]s.<ref name="SC1Man"/> At least one [[Dark Templar exile ship|ship]] was also left behind.<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga2">Golden, Christie (November 27, 2007). ''[[StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga: Shadow Hunters|StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga #2: Shadow Hunters]].'' Simon & Schuster (Pocket Star). ISBN 978-0-7434-7126-8.</ref>
 
   
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===The Departure===
The protoss degenerated into the [[Aeon of Strife]]. However the xel'naga's mark on the protoss endured, and their abandoned artifacts later aided the protoss to re-emerge from the chaos as a galactic power.<ref name="SC1Man"/>
 
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The xel'naga speculated that perhaps they had pushed protoss evolution too far. As individual egos arose to overpower the once primary communal link, many xel'naga believed that the protoss had lost their greatest strengths. With the loss of the primal psychic link, which the xel'naga considered the most fundamental element of their greatness, they deemed that the purity of form they sought to create had been sullied by a conflict of [[essence]] and thus decreed that the protoss were a failed creation as a result of their sentience being pushed too quickly.<ref name="SC1Man"/> The xel'naga were already done with the protoss, and needed to work on a new species.<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga3"/> Hundreds of xel'naga were killed in a protoss attack, but they were fended off long enough for the greater number of their [[worldship]]s to be launched into the [[void]]. They left behind khaydarin crystals and at least one [[Dark Templar exile ship|ship]].<ref name="SC1Man"/>
   
 
===Broken Cycle===
 
===Broken Cycle===
 
{{main|Zerg history}}
 
{{main|Zerg history}}
 
{{Quote|Would-be gods who defied the natural order at every turn. Though in the end, the xel'naga's hubris brought naught but ruin...upon themselves and all they touched.|The [[Voice in the Darkness (entity)|Voice in the Darkness]] on the xel'naga's downfall.|StarCraft: Frontline: Voice in the Darkness}}
 
{{Quote|Would-be gods who defied the natural order at every turn. Though in the end, the xel'naga's hubris brought naught but ruin...upon themselves and all they touched.|The [[Voice in the Darkness (entity)|Voice in the Darkness]] on the xel'naga's downfall.|StarCraft: Frontline: Voice in the Darkness}}
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The xel'naga traveled to [[Zerus]], where they dismissed their tenets of physical form and focused chiefly on the pursuit of a distinct [[purity of essence]]. They labored to advance the evolution of the [[zerg]], which was the most insignificant life form on Zerus until xel'naga proto-genetic manipulations enabled them to survive the torrential firestorms and thrive.
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The xel'naga were alarmed to discover that the original races assimilated by the zerg were almost unrecognizable after only a few generations of their inception.
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Remembering their failure with the protoss, the xel'naga attempted to waylay the potential hazards of differing egos by structuring the collective sentience of the zerg into a unified, amalgamated '[[Overmind]]'. They kept a constant watch on the Overmind via a psychic link.<ref name="SC1Man"/>
 
[[File:DarkVoice SC2 Head1.gif|thumb|[[Amon]]]]
 
[[File:DarkVoice SC2 Head1.gif|thumb|[[Amon]]]]
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[[Amon]] desired their ability to steal essence, but the zerg were independent, so he bound them to the hive mind.<ref name="HotS_StoryZurvan">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. [[Zurvan]] (in English). 2013-03-12.</ref><ref name="HotS_WakeAncientDialogue">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Conversations after [[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm campaign quotations/Zerus Missions#Waking the Ancient|Waking the Ancient]]. (in English). 2013-03-12.</ref>
While the protoss were regressing they had all the essential qualities of the ''purity of form''. The xel'naga set off to find a suitable companion embodying the ''purity of essence''. They found a suitable candidate on the coreward world of [[Zerus]]. There the xel'naga began genetically manipulating the [[zerg]], an insignificant life form of miniature insectoids. The initial experiment was a resounding success. The parasitic zerg quickly became the dominant lifeform on the planet, with other creatures being assimilated and evolved or simply eliminated. The xel'naga were shocked to discover how quickly assimilated species could be changed beyond recognition within the space of a few generations.<ref name="SC1Man"/>
 
   
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The xel'naga knew that they had achieved their goal when the zerg became conditioned to survive the harshness of space. However, they were horrified to discover that the Overmind had actually severed their psychic link, effectively severing itself from their view. When the Swarm was launched at the xel'naga fleet, they attempted to stem the tide of the ever-advancing onslaught. Despite this, the reinforced hulls of their worldships were battered by wave after wave of zerg swarms with no signs of abatement. The xel'naga defenses were overrun within a few hours and the greater whole of the xel'naga race was [[consume]]d,<ref name="SC1Man"/> an action which threw the xel'naga plan into turmoil.<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga3"/>
In the view of the xel'naga, the protoss had failed due to the independence of the individual and conflicts of ego that arose from that. To avoid the same with the zerg, the xel'naga consolidated control of the collective zerg sentience into a single entity, the [[Overmind]]. The xel'naga used a psionic link with the Overmind to monitor the zerg, but the xel'naga kept the link secret as to not reveal their presence.<ref name="SC1Man"/>
 
   
The Overmind's free will was undermined by a overriding directive to ''destroy'' the protoss.<ref name="WoL_EchoesFuture">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[Echoes of the Future]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref> This was part of a greater plan by the fallen xel'naga [[Amon]] to remould creation in his own image.<ref name="WoL_UtterDarkness">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[In Utter Darkness]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref> The Overmind disagreed with its directive but could do little to resist.<ref name="WoL_EchoesFuture"/>
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The Overmind assimilated some of the xel'naga's knowledge as it processed thousands of xel'naga into itself.<ref name="SC1Man"/> Amon gave it a directive to destroy the protoss,<ref name="WoL_EchoesFuture">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[Echoes of the Future]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref> as part of a plan to remake the universe in his name.<ref name="WoL_UtterDarkness">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[In Utter Darkness]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref> The protoss became the zerg's ultimate target.<ref name="Count">'''Overmind:''' "Now shall the events set into motion so long ago be made complete. For the [[Protoss]], too, were created by the Xel'Naga. They were the first creation, gifted with a [[purity of form]]. And we were the second creation, blessed with a [[purity of essence]]. Indeed, our two species are but opposite facets of a greater whole. Soon shall our two races be made as one." ''[[StarCraft]]''. Vivendi Games. Level/area: [[Full Circle]] (in English). 1998.</ref><ref name="Hunt">'''[[Zeratul]]:''' "The [[Zerg]] were indeed created by the ancient Xel'Naga, the same beings that empowered us in our infancy. But the Overmind grew beyond their constraints, and has at last come to finish the experiments they began so long ago." ''[[StarCraft]]''. Vivendi Games. Level/area: [[Shadow Hunters (mission)|Shadow Hunters]] (in English). 1998.</ref>
   
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===Creation's Vacuum===
The Overmind realized that to continue growing the zerg would need to leave Zerus,<ref name="SC1Man"/> and assimilated the [[behemoth]]s,<ref name = "SXN">Mesta, Gabriel (July 1, 2001). ''[[StarCraft: Shadow of the Xel'Naga]]''. Simon & Schuster (Pocket Star). ISBN 0-671-04149-5.</ref> enabling its forces to travel into space. It had since detected the xel'naga [[worldship]]s in orbit and these made a logical first target for new material. The first sign that the xel'naga had that something was wrong was when the Overmind severed the psychic link.<ref name="SC1Man"/> The zerg launched an overwhelming attack on the worldships. The "greater whole" of the xel'naga were slain,<ref name = "SC1Man"/> an action which threw the xel'naga plan into turmoil.<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga3"/>
 
 
{{Quote|This [[Hybrid|creature]] is the completion of a cycle. Its role in the cosmic order was preordained when the stars were young. Behold the culmination of your history.|[[Samir Duran]]|Dark Origin}}
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After Amon died, the zerg continued to feel his influence<ref name="HotS_StoryZurvan"/><ref name="SC2:HotS_CrucibleDialogue"/> and his [[Emil Narud|servant]] tried to resurrect him for millennia.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Cutscenes: [[Skygeirr Station]] Missions (in English). 2013-03-12.</ref>
   
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During the [[Golden Age of Expansion]], [[Braxis|Khyrador]] became home to the [[Uraj]] crystal. However, it was later abandoned when a series of violent [[psionic storm]]s rocked Khyrador and drove away its protoss settlers.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. 2010-07-24. [http://us.battle.net/sc2/en/game/planet/braxis Koprulu Sector Systems: Braxis]. ''Blizzard Entertainment''. Accessed 2010-07-24.</ref>
The Overmind assimilated some of the xel'naga's knowledge as it processed thousands of xel'naga into itself. Amongst other things, the zerg learned of the protoss, the other great experiment;<ref name="SC1Man"/> they would become the zerg's ultimate target for assimilation.<ref name = "Count">'''[[Overmind]]:''' "Now shall the events set into motion so long ago be made complete. For the Protoss, too, were created by the Xel'Naga. They were the first creation, gifted with a purity of form. And we were the second creation, blessed with a purity of essence. Indeed, our two species are but opposite facets of a greater whole. Soon shall our two races be made as one." ''StarCraft''. Vivendi Games. Level/area: [[Full Circle]] (in English). 1998.</ref><ref name = "Hunt">'''[[Zeratul]]:'''
 
The Zerg were indeed created by the ancient Xel'Naga, the same beings that empowered us in our infancy. But the Overmind grew beyond their constraints, and has at last come to finish the experiments they began so long ago. ''StarCraft''. Vivendi Games. Level/area: [[Shadow Hunters (mission)|Shadow Hunters]] (in English). 1998.</ref><ref name="SC1_E3_M10">''[[StarCraft]].'' Vivendi Games. Mission: [[Eye of the Storm]] (in English). 1998.</ref>
 
   
 
Believing [[terrazine]] to be a gift from the xel'naga, [[Tal'darim]] mystics set up altars on [[Bel'Shir]] to collect what they called 'the Breath of Creation'.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[Welcome to the Jungle]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref> The Tal'darim also guarded pieces of a [[Xel'naga device|xel'naga artifact]] on [[Monlyth]],<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[Smash and Grab]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref> [[Xil]],<ref name="WoL_TheDig"/> [[Typhon XI]]<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[Supernova]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref> and a derelict xel'naga [[Worldship (Maw of the Void)|worldship]] in the [[Sigma Quadrant]].<ref name="WoL_MawVoid">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[Maw of the Void]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref>
===Perversion===
 
 
[[File:XelNagaTemple SC2 Art1.jpg|thumb|The [[xel'naga temple]] on [[Shakuras]]]]
{{Quote|This creature is the completion of a cycle. Its role in the cosmic order was preordained when the stars were young. Behold the culmination of your history.|[[Samir Duran]] on the [[hybrid]].|Dark Origin}}
 
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When the [[Dark Templar]] found a temple which the xel'naga had constructed above a nexus of powerful cosmic energies, they decided to remain on [[Shakuras]] to study it. During the [[Brood War (conflict)|Brood War]], the temple grounds were infested by two [[cerebrate]]s. The protoss scoured the infestation<ref name="SC:BW_E4_M3">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft: Brood War]]''. Vivendi Games. Mission: [[Legacy of the Xel'Naga]] (in English). 1998.</ref> then secured the Uraj.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft: Brood War]]''. Vivendi Games. Mission: [[The Quest for Uraj]] (in English). 1998.</ref> On [[Char]], several cerebrates locked onto the Khalis' energies and nested near it, but it too was retrieved by the protoss.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft: Brood War]]''. Vivendi Games. Mission: [[Return to Char]] (in English). 1998.</ref> The protoss used the crystals to channel the temple's energies.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft: Brood War]]''. Vivendi Games. Mission: [[Countdown]] (in English). 1998.</ref> The resulting explosion obliterated the zerg on Shakuras.<ref name="SC:BW_CineFury">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft: Brood War]]''. Vivendi Games. Cinematic: [[StarCraft Episode IV#Fury of the Xel'Naga|Fury of the Xel'Naga]] (in English). 1998.</ref>
[[File:HybridSomething SC2 Art1.jpg|thumb|[[Hybrid]] experiments]]
 
Shortly before the {{link|Brood War|conflict}}, the [[xel'naga temple]] on [[Bhekar Ro]] was unearthed. The temple housed a strange [[energy creature|"phoenix-like" energy creature]] which absorbed the [[essence]]s and genetics of both protoss and zerg.<ref name = "SXN">Mesta, Gabriel. ''[[StarCraft: Shadow of the Xel'Naga]]''. Pocket Books, 2001. ISBN 0-671-04149-5.</ref>
 
   
 
Shortly before the {{link|Brood War|conflict}}, the [[xel'naga temple]] on [[Bhekar Ro]] was unearthed. The temple housed a strange [[energy creature|"phoenix-like" energy creature]] which absorbed the [[essence]]s and genetics of both protoss and zerg.<ref name="SC:ShadXel"/>
At the end of the Brood War, [[Zeratul]] stumbled upon a protoss/zerg [[hybrid]]ization project overseen by [[Samir Duran]]; the project was for "a far greater power" to which Duran ultimately worked for. Thought not Kerrigan's project, her "rebirth into the Zerg Swarm" had expedited progress. Furthermore, Duran claimed the hybrid was the "completion of a cycle", and its existence was "preordained when the stars were young."<ref name = "DO">''[[StarCraft: Brood War]].'' Vivendi Games. Mission: [[Dark Origin]] (in English). 1998.</ref>
 
   
 
[[File:HybridSomething SC2 Art1.jpg|thumb|[[Hybrid]] experiments]]
Duran's pronouncements on the [[hybrid]]s being the "completion of a cycle"<ref name = "DO"/> led Zeratul to seek out information on this new threat.<ref name = "LoreVid">Metzen, Chris; Chambers, Andy; StarCraft Legacy staff. 2007-08-31. [http://www.sclegacy.com/content/editorials-8/blizzcon-2007-starcraft-lore-panel-editorial-44/ BlizzCon 2007 StarCraft Lore Panel Editorial]. ''StarCraft Legacy.'' Accessed 2007-12-02.</ref> However, he was suffering mentally for numerous reasons, such as the death of Matriarch [[Raszagal]] at his hand. Years after his discovery, Zeratul was located by a [[preserver]], [[Zamara]], and her [[terran]] "host", [[Jake Ramsey]]. They restored Zeratul's mood and exchanged information. According to Zamara, [[Samir Duran]]'s experiments are a "perversion", and if his attempts to "unify" the species become successful, "[[Hybrid|a monstrous and powerful perversion of both protoss and zerg]] will be set loose upon the universe, and all that [the protoss and terran] know and cherish will fall in [[Hybrid|their]] wake".<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga3"/>
+
[[Samir Duran]] used genetic manipulation to create protoss/zerg [[hybrid]]s on a thousand different worlds. At the end of the Brood War, [[Dark Templar|Dark]] [[Prelate]] [[Zeratul]] encountered Duran on a [[dark moon]].<ref name="SC:BW_Bonus">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft: Brood War]]''. Vivendi Games. Mission: [[Dark Origin]] (in English). 1998.</ref> He continued to seek answers for what manner of being Duran truly was, and what dark future he was working toward.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. 2010-07-24. [http://us.battle.net/sc2/en/game/hero/zeratul Cast of Characters: Zeratul]. ''Blizzard Entertainment''. Accessed 2010-07-24.</ref> However, he was suffering mentally for numerous reasons, such as the death of Matriarch [[Raszagal]] at his hand. Years after his discovery, Zeratul was located by a [[preserver]], [[Zamara]], and her [[terran]] "host", [[Jake Ramsey]]. They restored Zeratul's mood and exchanged information. According to Zamara, [[Samir Duran]]'s experiments are a "perversion", and if his attempts to "unify" the species become successful, "[[Hybrid|a monstrous and powerful perversion of both protoss and zerg]] will be set loose upon the universe, and all that [the protoss and terran] know and cherish will fall in [[Hybrid|their]] wake".
   
 
Zeratul traveled to the world of [[Pegasus]], where a [[xel'naga temple]] hatched. He followed the [[energy creature]] through a wormhole to a mysterious planet on the other side.<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga3"/>
 
Zeratul traveled to the world of [[Pegasus]], where a [[xel'naga temple]] hatched. He followed the [[energy creature]] through a wormhole to a mysterious planet on the other side.<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga3"/>
   
===Wings of Liberty===
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===Return of the Xel'naga===
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[[File:Zeratul SC2 Game1.jpg|thumb|[[Dark Templar|Dark]] [[Prelate]] [[Zeratul]] and [[High Templar]] [[Karass]] at a [[xel'naga shrine]]]]
{{Quote|Do you hear them Zeratul? Whispering from the stars? The galaxy will burn with their coming.|[[Infested Kerrigan|Kerrigan]] to Zeratul, possibly referring to the xel'naga|The Prophecy (cinematic)}}
 
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After uncovering a revelation somehow related to the xel'naga, Zeratul sought additional clues to unravel the mystery.<ref>''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]: Quickstart Guide''. Irvine, Calif.: Blizzard Entertainment, 2010.</ref> Both he and [[Sarah Kerrigan]] were drawn to [[Ulaan]] to uncover a [[Prophecy (Ulaan)|prophecy]], rumored to foretell the return of the xel'naga, that was divided into three fragments, each kept at separate [[Xel'naga shrine|shrine]]s. Zeratul gathered the fragments<ref name="WoL_WhispersDoom">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[Whispers of Doom]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref> and had them deciphered by the [[preserver]]s of [[Zhakul]].<ref name="WoL_SinisterTurn">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[A Sinister Turn]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref>
[[File:InfestedKerrigan SC2 DevCine2.jpg|thumb|Kerrigan on [[Ulaan]]]]
 
On the lost world of [[Ulaan]] lay three [[Prophecy (Ulaan)|prophetic fragments]] contained within shrines. The [[Zerg|Zerg Swarm]] under the [[Infested Kerrigan|Queen of Blades]] had traveled there and occupied the area around them.<ref name="WoL_WhispersDoom">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[Whispers of Doom]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref> [[Zeratul]] himself arrived, only to encounter the Queen of Blades. They clashed over what the future beheld. Kerrigan had already given up, saying their conflict meant nothing. Zeratul left shortly after Kerrigan, believing there was still hope.<ref name ="SC2_CineProphecy">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Cinematic: [[The Prophecy (cinematic)|The Prophecy]]. (in English). 2010.</ref> Zeratul then located the prophecies with help from [[Praetor]] [[Karass]] and his [[Daelaam|forces]]. Kerrigan attacked the protoss, and at Karass's urging, Zeratul escaped from Ulaan vowing Karass's sacrifice would not be in vain.<ref name="WoL_WhispersDoom"/>
 
   
Zeratul traveled to the world of [[Zhakul]], hoping to make contact with a trio of "immortal" [[preserver]]s there to interpret the prophecy. However, a [[hybrid]], [[Maar]], had taken control of the [[Zhakul Guardians]] and was using the preservers as a source of energy. It stated "some SECRETS must remain HIDDEN" as it rallied the indoctrinated Zhakul Guardians to fight off Zeratul's enclave. However, Zeratul's forces defeated the Zhakul Guardians, killing Maar and freeing the preservers.<ref name="WoL_SinisterTurn">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[A Sinister Turn]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref>
+
Crown Prince [[Valerian Mengsk]] used the vast resources of the [[Terran Dominion]] to scour the [[Koprulu sector]] for xel'naga artifacts.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. 2010-07-24. [http://us.battle.net/sc2/en/game/hero/valerian-mengsk Cast of Characters: Valerian Mengsk]. ''Blizzard Entertainment''. Accessed 2010-07-24.</ref> His [[Moebius Foundation]] sought the artifact<ref name="SC2_CineHeirApparent">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Cinematic: [[Heir Apparent]]. (in English). 2010.</ref> which by this point was a few thousand years old.<ref name="SC2-WoL_StoryArtifact">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. [[Xel'naga device|Artifact]] (in English). 2010.</ref><ref name="SC2-WoL_StoryHanson">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. [[Ariel Hanson]] (in English). 2010.</ref>
   
After hearing the preservers' interpretation, Zeratul believed the prophecy referred to the [[Overmind]] and resolved to get information from it.<ref name="WoL_SinisterTurn"/> On [[Aiur]], at the site of the Overmind's demise, Zeratul encountered the [[spirit]] of [[Tassadar]]. The spirit revealed the Overmind had been corrupted and enslaved, given an overwhelming directive. However, it created [[Infested Kerrigan]] as a free-willed leader in an effort to escape its destiny.<ref name="WoL_SinisterTurn">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[A Sinister Turn]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref> Tassadar imparted a vision of a [[In Utter Darkness|possible future]], in which a mysterious being, the [[Amon|Dark Voice]] known to the Overmind as the "Fallen One", used the [[hybrid]]s to take control of the Zerg Swarm in order to destroy the [[protoss]]. It proclaimed "as I was your beginning - so shall I be...your end." The protoss came to realize that killing Kerrigan had allowed this to occur. The protoss were eventually exterminated at the hands of the zerg, and the zerg were also later eradicated. Zeratul wondered whether the "Fallen One" was a xel'naga.<ref name="WoL_UtterDarkness">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[In Utter Darkness]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref>
+
The Dominion went to [[Mar Sara]] to excavate a piece of the artifact.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Cinematic: [[The Outlaws#Old Times|Old Times]]. (in English). 2010.</ref> For months, Dominion engineers excavated it at [[White Rock Base]]. The Dominion forcibly shipped citizens there from [[Backwater Station]] to dig it up. As they were getting ready to move the artifact off-world, it was seized by [[Raynor's Raiders]].<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[The Outlaws]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref>
   
  +
[[File:XelnagaArtifact_SC2_CineFireFury1.jpg|thumb|The [[Xel'naga device|xel'naga artifact]]]]
Meanwhile, [[Jim Raynor]] and his friend [[Tychus Findlay]] had been hired by the [[Moebius Foundation]], led by Dr. [[Emil Narud]] and Prince [[Valerian Mengsk]], in order to acquire pieces of a [[xel'naga device]]<ref name="WoL_TheDig">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[The Dig]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref><ref name="WoL_MoebiusFactor">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[The Moebius Factor]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref><ref name ="SC2_CineHeirApparent">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Cinematic: Heir Apparent. (in English). 2010.</ref> which was much younger than most other such devices.<ref name ="SC2-WoL_StoryArtifact">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. [[Xel'naga device|Artifact]] (in English). 2010.</ref><ref name ="SC2-WoL_StoryHanson">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. [[Ariel Hanson]] (in English). 2010.</ref>
 
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Fearing the artifact's power, Kerrigan dispersed the zerg to search for the various pieces.<ref name="WoL_MoebiusFactor">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[The Moebius Factor]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref> After Raynor's Raiders had collected the other artifact fragments, it was assembled<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Cinematic: [[Fire and Fury]]. (in English). 2010.</ref> and the engineer corps moved it to the base of the [[Primary Hive Cluster|primary hive cluster]] on Char. The [[terran]]s protected the artifact while it charged.<ref name="WoL_AllIn">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[All In]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref> Commander [[Jim Raynor]] and General [[Horace Warfield]] used it to make Kerrigan human again.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Cinematic: [[The Showdown]]. (in English). 2010.</ref> Nearby hybrid gathered the [[psionic energy]] she wielded as the [[Queen of Blades]], giving [[Emil Narud]] enough energy to resurrect Amon.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. [[Alexei Stukov]] (in English). 2013-03-12.</ref><ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Conversations after [[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm campaign quotations/Skygeirr Missions#Hand of Darkness|Hand of Darkness]] (in English). 2013-03-12.</ref>
   
Raynor later made contact with [[Emil Narud]], the head of the Moebius Foundation, who revealed to him the artifact's xel'naga origin, explaining this was why [[Infested Kerrigan]] sought it as well.<ref name="WoL_MoebiusFactor">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[The Moebius Factor]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref> After collecting another piece, Raynor confronted Prince [[Valerian Mengsk]], the heir apparent of the [[Terran Dominion]]. Valerian was not hostile, however. He told Raynor he would use the artifact to restore Kerrigan's humanity. Raynor agreed to work with him.<ref name ="SC2_CineHeirApparent">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Cinematic: Heir Apparent. (in English). 2010.</ref>
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The xel'naga wished Kerrigan restored as leader of the Swarm, and had Zeratul (by this point serving their interests, or at least what he perceived as the greater good) guide her to Zerus,<ref name="SC2:HotS_StoryZeratul">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. [[Zeratul]] (in English). 2013-03-12.</ref><ref name="SC2:HotS_PreWakeAncientDialogue">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Conversations before [[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm campaign quotations/Zerus Missions#Waking the Ancient|Waking the Ancient]]. (in English). 2013-03-12.</ref> where she was reborn as the [[primal zerg|Primal]] Queen of Blades,<ref name="SC2:HotS_CineReborn">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Cinematic: [[Reborn]] (in English). 2013-03-12.</ref> free of Amon's influence.<ref name="SC2:HotS_CrucibleDialogue">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Conversations after [[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm campaign quotations/Zerus Missions#Crucible|Crucible]]. (in English). 2013-03-12.</ref> Xel'naga relics which housed genetic information were also collected by Kerrigan on Zerus.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Heart of the Swarm]], [[Supreme]] (in English). 2013-03-12.</ref>
   
  +
[[File:Xel'nagaTemple SC2-HotS Art1.jpg|thumb|The interior of [[Amon]]'s temple]]
Raynor and the Dominion, leading an invasion of [[Char]], used the [[xel'naga device]] to revert [[Sarah Kerrigan]]'s infestation as well as destroy massive numbers of zerg.<ref name="WoL_AllIn">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[All In]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref>
 
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Narud battled Kerrigan at Amon's temple, which he had built [[Skygeirr Station]] on top of. [[Alexei Stukov]] deactivated the five xel'naga temples that were amplifying Narud's power.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Heart of the Swarm]], [[Phantoms of the Void]] (in English). 2013-03-12.</ref> Kerrigan killed Narud in the heart of the temple, but by this point Amon was alive again.<ref name="HotS_CineShiftPerspect">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Cinematic: [[Shifting Perspectives]] (in English). 2013-03-12.</ref>
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{{Clear}}
   
==Legacies==
+
==Culture==
 
[[Image:Fibonacci Spiral Real1.jpg|The Golden Spiral|thumb]]
"The greater whole" of the xel'naga was annihilated by the zerg.<ref name="SC1Man"/> Only ruins and artifacts remained, some functional, of the ancient race in and around the [[Koprulu Sector]].
 
 
The xel'naga cherished all life and refused to kill anything, not even the [[Voice in the Darkness (entity)|entity at KL-2]].<ref name="SC:FrntLn_V4_Voice"/> The protoss eventually followed a version of this philosophy, called the "[[Dae'Uhl]]".<ref name="SC1Man"/>
  +
 
At least some xel'naga buried and/or entombed their dead.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). Map: [[Burial Grounds]] (in English). July 27, 2010</ref>
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The xel'naga used a "universal natural" code the protoss termed "''ara'dor''", which means "perfect ratio". Terrans call it the ''[[wikipedia:Golden ratio|Golden Mean]]'', symbolized by φ ("phi").<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga1"/>
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In mathematics and the arts, two quantities are in the golden ratio if the ratio between the sum of those quantities and the larger one is the same as the ratio between the larger one and the smaller. The golden ratio is approximately 1.6180339887. The golden ratio is related to the [[wikipedia:Fibonacci_number#Relation_to_the_golden_ratio|Fibonacci sequence]] and the [[wikipedia:Golden spiral|Golden Spiral]].
  +
  +
==Technology==
 
[[File:Xel'NagaCrystal SC-Com3 Comic1.jpg|thumb|Xel'naga artifact]]
 
[[File:Xel'NagaCrystal SC-Com3 Comic1.jpg|thumb|Xel'naga artifact]]
The xel'naga left numerous artifacts on [[Aiur]]<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga1">Golden, Christie (May 22, 2007). ''[[StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga: Firstborn|StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga #1: Firstborn]].'' Simon & Schuster (Pocket Star). ISBN 978-0-7434-7125-1.</ref><ref name="SC:FrntLn_V3_TA">Zapotek, Ren (w), Noel Rodriguez (p, i), Mel Joy San Juan (i). "[[StarCraft: Frontline: Twilight Archon|Twilight Archon]]." In ''[[StarCraft: Frontline: Volume 3]]'' (paperback binding), pp. 132-177. Tokyopop, July 14, 2009. ISBN 978-1427-80832-5.</ref> and other worlds, such as [[Ehlna]],<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga3">Golden, Christie (June 30, 2009). ''[[StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga: Twilight|StarCraft: The Dark Templar Saga #3: Twilight]].'' Simon & Schuster (Pocket Star). ISBN 978-0-7434-7129-9.</ref> [[Roxara]]<ref name="SC:FrntLn_V4_Reaper">Gerrold, David (w), Ruben de Vela (p), Dan Borgonos (i). "[[StarCraft: Frontline: Fear the Reaper|Fear the Reaper]]." In ''[[StarCraft: Frontline: Volume 4]]'' (paperback binding), pp. 28-71. Tokyopop, October 1, 2009. ISBN 978-1427-81698-6.</ref> and [[Aridas]].<ref name = "RetP8">StarCraft: Retribution. WizardWorks Software. Protoss campaign: “The Legacy of Kharadun”, mission 8: “[[StarCraft: Retribution#Taledon|Taledon]]” (in English). 1998.</ref><ref name = "RetZ1">StarCraft: Retribution. WizardWorks Software. Zerg campaign: “Dynamic Evolution”, mission 1: “[[StarCraft: Retribution#Cutting off the exits|Cutting off the exits]]” (in English). 1998.</ref>
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The xel'naga left numerous artifacts on [[Aiur]]<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga1"/><ref name="SC:FrntLn_V3_TA"/> and other worlds, such as [[Ehlna]],<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga3"/> [[Roxara]]<ref name="SC:FrntLn_V4_Reaper">Gerrold, David (w), Ruben de Vela (p), Dan Borgonos (i). "[[StarCraft: Frontline: Fear the Reaper|Fear the Reaper]]." In ''[[StarCraft: Frontline: Volume 4]]'' (paperback binding), pp. 28-71. Tokyopop, October 1, 2009. ISBN 978-1427-81698-6.</ref> and [[Aridas]].<ref name="RetP8">StarCraft: Retribution. WizardWorks Software. Protoss campaign: “The Legacy of Kharadun”, mission 8: “[[StarCraft: Retribution#Taledon|Taledon]]” (in English). 1998.</ref><ref name="RetZ1">StarCraft: Retribution. WizardWorks Software. Zerg campaign: “Dynamic Evolution”, mission 1: “[[StarCraft: Retribution#Cutting off the exits|Cutting off the exits]]” (in English). 1998.</ref>
   
 
Some artifacts can be considered dangerous, since they can manipulate the minds of [[terran]]s. At least some are alive in a sense (once being described as an "energy fossil").<ref name="SC:C:Issue3">Furman, Simon (w), Federico Dallocchio (p, i), Milen Parvanov (col). "[[StarCraft: Issue 3|StarCraft #3]]" ''[[StarCraft (comic)|StarCraft]]'' '''1''' (3) (August 19, 2009) DC Comics (Wildstorm).</ref>
 
Some artifacts can be considered dangerous, since they can manipulate the minds of [[terran]]s. At least some are alive in a sense (once being described as an "energy fossil").<ref name="SC:C:Issue3">Furman, Simon (w), Federico Dallocchio (p, i), Milen Parvanov (col). "[[StarCraft: Issue 3|StarCraft #3]]" ''[[StarCraft (comic)|StarCraft]]'' '''1''' (3) (August 19, 2009) DC Comics (Wildstorm).</ref>
   
These artifacts are sought by [[protoss]].<ref name = "SXN"/> The [[Dark Templar]] especially have made efforts to track these down.<ref name="SC:C:Issue3"/><ref name="SC:FrntLn_V4_Reaper"/><ref name = "SXN"/>
+
These artifacts are sought by [[protoss]].<ref name="SC:ShadXel"/> The [[Dark Templar]] especially have made efforts to track these down.<ref name="SC:ShadXel"/><ref name="SC:C:Issue3"/><ref name="SC:FrntLn_V4_Reaper"/>
   
 
The [[Terran Dominion]] made attempts to buy some from rival powers. Even the [[zerg]] have used spies in an effort to locate artifacts.<ref name="SC:FrntLn_V3_Call">Randolph, Grace (w), Seung-hui Kye (p, i). "[[StarCraft: Frontline: Last Call|Last Call]]." In ''[[StarCraft: Frontline: Volume 3]]'' (paperback binding), pp. 90-131. Tokyopop, July 14, 2009. ISBN 978-1427-80832-5.</ref>
 
The [[Terran Dominion]] made attempts to buy some from rival powers. Even the [[zerg]] have used spies in an effort to locate artifacts.<ref name="SC:FrntLn_V3_Call">Randolph, Grace (w), Seung-hui Kye (p, i). "[[StarCraft: Frontline: Last Call|Last Call]]." In ''[[StarCraft: Frontline: Volume 3]]'' (paperback binding), pp. 90-131. Tokyopop, July 14, 2009. ISBN 978-1427-80832-5.</ref>
   
 
Still more temples have appeared on worlds such as [[Nemaka]],<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga1"/> [[Aridas]] (where the powerful [[Argus Stone]] was stored)<ref name="RetP8"/> and [[Bhekar Ro]]; the latter disgorged a strange [[energy creature]] which collected [[protoss]] and [[zerg]] genetics for unknown purposes.<ref name="SC:ShadXel"/>
The xel'naga left [[khaydarin crystal]]s on [[Aiur]],<ref name="SC1Man">Underwood, Peter, Bill Roper, Chris Metzen and Jeffrey Vaughn. ''StarCraft (Manual)''. Irvine, Calif.: Blizzard Entertainment, 1998.</ref> including the [[Uraj]] and [[Khalis]].<ref name = "InterviewMetzen">Chris Metzen, StarCraft Legacy staff. 2009-04-03. [http://sclegacy.com/interviews/10-blizzard/281-scl-metzen-interview-lore-exclu05-1804-03.</ref>
 
 
[[Image:XelNagaTemple SC1 CineFuryXelNaga3.jpg|thumb|Close-up of the xel'naga temple's apex]]
 
The xel'naga left behind many [[xel'naga temple|temples]]. On [[Aiur]], they built a temple to mark the spot where they first set foot upon that world.<ref name = "Temp"/>
 
 
The xel'naga left a temple on [[Shakuras]], sitting on a nexus of cosmic energy,<ref name = "LoX">''[[StarCraft: Brood War]].'' Vivendi Games. Mission: [[Legacy of the Xel'Naga]] (in English). 1998.</ref> where their marks (such as darkening the planet and a temple capable of mass destruction) are more obvious.<ref name = "Fury">''[[StarCraft: Brood War]].'' Vivendi Games. Cinematic: [[StarCraft Episode IV#Fury of the Xel'Naga|Fury of the Xel'Naga]] (in English). 1998.</ref>
 
 
Still more temples have appeared on worlds such as [[Nemaka]],<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga1"/> [[Aridas]] (where the powerful [[Argus Stone]] was stored)<ref name = "RetP8">StarCraft: Retribution. WizardWorks Software. Protoss campaign: “The Legacy of Kharadun”, mission 8: “[[StarCraft: Retribution#Taledon|Taledon]]” (in English). 1998.</ref> and [[Bhekar Ro]]; the latter disgorged a strange [[energy creature]] which collected [[protoss]] and [[zerg]] genetics for unknown purposes.<ref name = "SXN"/>
 
   
 
[[Valerian Mengsk]], the Heir Apparent of the [[Terran Dominion]], has expressed interest in these temples,<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga1"/> and Dominion forces have engaged in combat in an attempt to secure such temples.<ref name="SC:FrntLn_V1_WWF">Elder, Josh and Ramanda Kamarga. "[[StarCraft: Frontline: Why We Fight|Why We Fight]]." In ''[[StarCraft: Frontline: Volume 1]],'' pp. 6–47. Tokyopop, August 1, 2008. ISBN 1427-80721-3.</ref>
 
[[Valerian Mengsk]], the Heir Apparent of the [[Terran Dominion]], has expressed interest in these temples,<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga1"/> and Dominion forces have engaged in combat in an attempt to secure such temples.<ref name="SC:FrntLn_V1_WWF">Elder, Josh and Ramanda Kamarga. "[[StarCraft: Frontline: Why We Fight|Why We Fight]]." In ''[[StarCraft: Frontline: Volume 1]],'' pp. 6–47. Tokyopop, August 1, 2008. ISBN 1427-80721-3.</ref>
   
In addition, [[xel'naga tower|watch tower]]s seemingly crafted by the xel'naga have appeared.<ref name = "DustinInterview">Dustin Browder, Ricardo Torres. 2008-03-12. [http://blizzplanet.com/news/2190/ Gamespot: Dustin Browder Starcraft 2 Interview]. ''Blizzplanet/Gamespot.'' Accessed 2008-03-13.</ref><ref name = "Spy3">Frank Pearce, Bob Colayco, Dave 'Fargo' Kosak. 2008-08-21. [http://pc.gamespy.com/pc/starcraft-2/901776p3.html Blizzard Talks StarCraft II at Leipzig (PC)]. ''Gamespy.'' Accessed 2008-08-23.</ref><ref name = "KaruneTower1"><font color = blue>The Xel'Naga Watch Towers do not grant 'detection' of cloaked units, nor does it move around like an Observer. Thus, if that pack of Dark Templars come storming into your base and you have all your probes gathered around that watch tower, it's not going to do you any good... </font> [[Karune]]. 2008-09-16. [http://www.battle.net/forums/thread.aspx?fn=sc2-general&t=1764070&p=1&#post1764070 Karune, i have a question about observers]. ''Battle.net StarCraft II General Discussion Forunm.'' Accessed 2008-09-16.</ref><ref name = "KaruneTower2"><font color = blue>The Xel'Naga Watch Towers have larger sight range than Observers, but do not offer detection. I definitely wouldn't say they are inferior, as they have crucial uses throughout the game, especially in the earlier tiers. With only a SCV/probe/drone, a player can activate a watch tower, letting you know when the enemy is coming to attack you and with that. This alone, could easily change the outcome of any early skirmish battle that happens.</font> [[Karune]]. 2008-09-16. [http://www.battle.net/forums/thread.aspx?fn=sc2-general&t=1764070&p=1&#post1764070 Karune, i have a question about observers]. ''Battle.net StarCraft II General Discussion Forunm.'' Accessed 2008-09-16.</ref>
+
[[Xel'naga tower|Watch tower]]s seemingly crafted by the xel'naga have appeared.<ref name="DustinInterview">[[Dustin Browder]], Ricardo Torres. 2008-03-12. [http://blizzplanet.com/news/2190/ Gamespot: Dustin Browder Starcraft 2 Interview]. ''Blizzplanet/Gamespot''. Accessed 2008-03-13.</ref><ref name="Spy3">[[Frank Pearce]], [[Bob Colayco]], Dave 'Fargo' Kosak. 2008-08-21. [http://pc.gamespy.com/pc/starcraft-2/901776p3.html Blizzard Talks StarCraft II at Leipzig (PC)]. ''Gamespy''. Accessed 2008-08-23.</ref><ref name="KaruneTower1"><font color="blue">The Xel'Naga Watch Towers do not grant 'detection' of cloaked units, nor does it move around like an Observer. Thus, if that pack of Dark Templars come storming into your base and you have all your probes gathered around that watch tower, it's not going to do you any good... </font> [[Karune]]. 2008-09-16. [http://www.battle.net/forums/thread.aspx?fn=sc2-general&t=1764070&p=1&#post1764070 Karune, i have a question about observers]. ''Battle.net StarCraft II General Discussion Forum''. Accessed 2008-09-16.</ref><ref name="KaruneTower2"><font color="blue">The Xel'Naga Watch Towers have larger sight range than Observers, but do not offer detection. I definitely wouldn't say they are inferior, as they have crucial uses throughout the game, especially in the earlier tiers. With only a SCV/probe/drone, a player can activate a watch tower, letting you know when the enemy is coming to attack you and with that. This alone, could easily change the outcome of any early skirmish battle that happens.</font> [[Karune]]. 2008-09-16. [http://www.battle.net/forums/thread.aspx?fn=sc2-general&t=1764070&p=1&#post1764070 Karune, i have a question about observers]. ''Battle.net StarCraft II General Discussion Forum''. Accessed 2008-09-16.</ref>
   
The xel'naga possessed the ability to create [[space platform]]s.<ref name = "Twitter">2010-04-30, [http://forums.battle.net/thread.html?topicId=24630604051&postId=246283178218&sid=3000#0 BlizzChat Developer Chat on Twitter 4/30]. ''[[Battle.net]]'' forums, accessed on 2010-05-06</ref>
+
The xel'naga possessed the ability to create [[space platform]]s.<ref name="Twitter">2010-04-30, [http://forums.battle.net/thread.html?topicId=24630604051&postId=246283178218&sid=3000#0 BlizzChat Developer Chat on Twitter 4/30]. ''[[Battle.net]]'' forums, accessed on 2010-05-06</ref>
 
Derelicts of [[Worldship (Maw of the Void)|one xel'naga worldship]] was found in the [[Sigma Quadrant]].<ref name="WoL_MawVoid">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Mission: [[Wings of Liberty]], [[Maw of the Void]] (in English). 2010-07-27.</ref>
 
 
==Culture==
 
[[Image:Fibonacci Spiral Real1.jpg|The Golden Spiral|thumb]]
 
The xel'naga cherished all life and refused to kill anything, not even the [[Voice in the Darkness (entity)|entity at KL-2]].<ref name="SC:FrntLn_V4_Voice">Elder, Josh (w), Ramanda Kamarga (p), Faisalz ''et al'' (i). "[[StarCraft: Frontline: Voice in the Darkness|Voice in the Darkness]]." In ''[[StarCraft: Frontline: Volume 4]]'' (paperback binding), pp. 72-113. Tokyopop, October 1, 2009. ISBN 978-1427-81698-6.</ref> The protoss eventually followed a version of this philosophy, called the "[[Dae'Uhl]]".<ref name="SC1Man"/>
 
 
At least some xel'naga buried and/or entombed their dead.<ref>Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). Map: Burial Grounds (in English). July 27, 2010</ref>
 
 
The xel'naga used a "universal natural" code the protoss termed "''ara'dor''", which means "perfect ratio". Terrans call it the ''[[wikipedia:Golden ratio|Golden Mean]]'', symbolized by φ ("phi").<ref name="SC:DkTempSaga1"/>
 
 
In mathematics and the arts, two quantities are in the golden ratio if the ratio between the sum of those quantities and the larger one is the same as the ratio between the larger one and the smaller. The golden ratio is approximately 1.6180339887. The golden ratio is related to the [[wikipedia:Fibonacci_number#Relation_to_the_golden_ratio|Fibonacci sequence]] and the [[wikipedia:Golden spiral|Golden Spiral]].
 
   
 
==Prophecies==
 
==Prophecies==
{{Quote|The Zerg Swarm came as was foretold. And the protoss, firstborn of the gods, rose to fight them. Now, the xel'naga that forged us all are returning. But do they come to save... or to destroy?|[[Zeratul]] on the xel'naga.|The Prophecy (cinematic)}}
+
{{Quote|Now, the Xel'Naga that forged us all, are returning. But do they come to save, or to destroy?|[[Dark Templar]] [[Prelate]] [[Zeratul]]|The Prophecy (cinematic)}}
   
 
===Braken Prophecies===
 
===Braken Prophecies===
There are prophecies relating to the planet [[Braken]], a [[protoss]] world with religious significance. These prophecies claim that "he who harnesses this world will someday wield a great power, sanctified by the ancient ones".<ref>1998-09-04. [http://www.battle.net/scc/OS/0998.shtml Legacy.] ''StarCraft Compendium Map Archives.''</ref>
+
There are prophecies relating to the planet [[Braken]], a [[protoss]] world with religious significance. These prophecies claim that "he who harnesses this world will someday wield a great power, sanctified by the ancient ones".<ref>1998-09-04. [http://www.battle.net/scc/OS/0998.shtml Legacy.] ''StarCraft Compendium Map Archives''.</ref>
   
 
===Kerrigan and Zeratul's Role===
 
===Kerrigan and Zeratul's Role===
[[Infested Kerrigan|Kerrigan]] bantered with [[Zeratul]] on [[Char]] as a prelude to combat, where Zeratul told her: "Your coming has been foretold... You are part of the culmination. But not the end of it. You shall show the way, the path that must be taken, the realigning of old truths no longer valid. Yours is not the hand, but your very existence provides necessary instruction." Kerrigan did not treat the pronouncement seriously at the time.<ref name = "QoB">Rosenberg, Aaron. ''[[StarCraft: Queen of Blades]]''. New York, London, Toronto and Sydney: Pocket Star Books, May 2006. ISBN 0-7434-7133-4.</ref>
+
[[Infested Kerrigan|Kerrigan]] bantered with [[Zeratul]] on [[Char]] as a prelude to combat, where Zeratul told her: "Your coming has been foretold... You are part of the culmination. But not the end of it. You shall show the way, the path that must be taken, the realigning of old truths no longer valid. Yours is not the hand, but your very existence provides necessary instruction." Kerrigan did not treat the pronouncement seriously at the time.<ref name="SC:QnBlades">Rosenberg, Aaron (May 23, 2006). ''[[StarCraft: Queen of Blades]]''. Simon & Schuster (Pocket Star). ISBN 978-0-7434-7133-6.</ref>
   
 
==Xel'naga Worlds==
 
==Xel'naga Worlds==
Line 145: Line 140:
 
*[[Helios]] ([[khaydarin crystal]])
 
*[[Helios]] ([[khaydarin crystal]])
 
*[[KL-2]] (xel'naga-crafted prison)
 
*[[KL-2]] (xel'naga-crafted prison)
  +
*[[Lerilak Crest]] (ruins)
 
*[[Mar Sara]] (alien artifact)
 
*[[Mar Sara]] (alien artifact)
 
*[[Monlyth]] (alien artifact and xel'naga temple)
 
*[[Monlyth]] (alien artifact and xel'naga temple)
Line 162: Line 158:
 
==Notes==
 
==Notes==
 
[[File:Xel'Naga SC2 Cine1.jpg|thumb|A carving on [[Ulaan]]&mdash;neither protoss nor zerg]]
 
[[File:Xel'Naga SC2 Cine1.jpg|thumb|A carving on [[Ulaan]]&mdash;neither protoss nor zerg]]
The xel'naga will not be a playable race in'' [[StarCraft II]]'', as only the original three races can be played.<ref name = "QAS">Park, Andrew (2007-05-19). [http://www.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/starcraft2/news.html?sid=6171172 Q&A session details Starcraft II]. GameSpot. Retrieved on 2007-05-19.</ref><ref name = "QAD">Rausch, Allen (2007-05-19). [http://pc.gamespy.com/pc/starcraft-2/790164p1.html StarCraft II Q&A Sessions]. GameSpy. Retrieved on 2007-05-19.</ref><ref name = "YuInterview">Schleicher, Keith. [http://www.gamingtrend.com/Articles/articles.php?artID=304 Interview with Blizzard's Kevin Yu on StarCraft II] ''Gaming Trend.'' Accessed 2007-10-01.</ref> Storywise, they form the backbone of the trilogy.<ref name = "JoyLore">Mike Schramm, Chris Metzen, Andy Chambers. 2008-10-12. [http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/12/blizzcon-2008-starcraft-ii-lore-panel/ BlizzCon 2008: Starcraft II lore panel]. ''Joystiq.'' Accessed 2008-10-12.</ref>
+
The xel'naga will not be a playable race in'' [[StarCraft II]]'', as only the original three races can be played.<ref name="QAS">Park, Andrew (2007-05-19). [http://www.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/starcraft2/news.html?sid=6171172 Q&A session details Starcraft II]. GameSpot. Retrieved on 2007-05-19.</ref><ref name="QAD">Rausch, Allen (2007-05-19). [http://pc.gamespy.com/pc/starcraft-2/790164p1.html StarCraft II Q&A Sessions]. GameSpy. Retrieved on 2007-05-19.</ref><ref name="YuInterview">Schleicher, Keith. [http://www.gamingtrend.com/Articles/articles.php?artID=304 Interview with Blizzard's Kevin Yu on StarCraft II] ''Gaming Trend''. Accessed 2007-10-01.</ref> Storywise, they form the backbone of the trilogy.<ref name="JoyLore">Mike Schramm, Chris Metzen, Andy Chambers. 2008-10-12. [http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/12/blizzcon-2008-starcraft-ii-lore-panel/ BlizzCon 2008: Starcraft II lore panel]. ''Joystiq''. Accessed 2008-10-12.</ref>
   
The xel'naga may have played a different role in the trilogy originally. An early cinematic depicted [[Zeratul]] warning [[Jim Raynor]] of the xel'naga's linkage with [[alien artifact]]s, that they were the key to their return.<ref>[http://au.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/starcraft2/video/6176222/starcraft-ii-single-player-campaign-blizzcon-preview?nonRedirectElement=1 StarCraft II Single-Player Campaign BlizzCon Preview], ''Gamespot''. Accessed on 2010-10-30</ref> For the release of ''[[Wings of Liberty]]'', this content was replaced with Zeratul giving Raynor information about Kerrigan.<ref name ="SC2_CineZeratulWarn">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]].'' (Activision Blizzard). PC. Cinematic: [[Zeratul's Warning]]. (in English). 2010.</ref>
+
The xel'naga may have played a different role in the trilogy originally. An early cinematic depicted [[Zeratul]] warning [[Jim Raynor]] of the xel'naga's linkage with [[alien artifact]]s, that they were the key to their return.<ref>[http://au.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/starcraft2/video/6176222/starcraft-ii-single-player-campaign-blizzcon-preview?nonRedirectElement=1 StarCraft II Single-Player Campaign BlizzCon Preview], ''Gamespot''. Accessed on 2010-10-30</ref> For the release of ''[[Wings of Liberty]]'', this content was replaced with Zeratul giving Raynor information about Kerrigan.<ref name="SC2_CineZeratulWarn">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty]]''. (Activision Blizzard). PC. Cinematic: [[Zeratul's Warning]]. (in English). 2010.</ref>
   
 
As of [[BlizzCon 2009]], [[Blizzard Entertainment]] has devised no artwork for the xel'naga, as they wanted to keep their options open.<ref name="BC09ArtPanel">Q: How much different are the Protoss from the Xel'Naga?<br><br>{{ColorText|#ADDFFF|A: They're different because they don't have any art. We haven't really gone too far into defining Xel'Naga other than defining a few temples and things. We on purpose don't really want to showcase what exactly a Xel'Naga is, because who knows what the future brings and we may decide we want to do something more with them. The Xel'Naga, artwise, they don't have lots of art. Now, Dark Templar and Protoss, their schemes are sort of the same i.e. curving and arcing armor, but dark templar are a little more archaic. Their metals are platinum, silver and blue hue where the Protoss are more warmful, bronze even some ivories and things like that.|u=}} [[Samwise Didier]], [[Brian Sousa]], Alan Dilling, StarCraft Legacy staff. 2009-08-23. [http://sclegacy.com/feature/102-bc-09/488-blizzcon-2009-starcraft-ii-art-panel BlizzCon 2009 StarCraft II Art Panel]. ''StarCraft Legacy''. Accessed 2009-11-19.</ref><ref>Samwise Didier, Brian Sousa, Alan Dilling, phdfour. 2009-08-21. [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGjTKRubGIw Blizzcon 09: Starcraft 2 Art Q&A Panel (Part 2 of 3) (approximately 1:30)]. ''Youtube''. Accessed 2009-11-19.</ref>
As of [[BlizzCon 2009]], [[Blizzard Entertainment]] has devised no artwork for the xel'naga, as they wanted to keep their options open.<ref name = "BC09ArtPanel">Q: How much different are the Protoss from the Xel'Naga?<br/><br/>
 
 
{{ColorText|#ADDFFF|A: They're different because they don't have any art. We haven't really gone too far into defining Xel'Naga other than defining a few temples and things. We on purpose don't really want to showcase what exactly a Xel'Naga is, because who knows what the future brings and we may decide we want to do something more with them. The Xel'Naga, artwise, they don't have lots of art. Now, Dark Templar and Protoss, their schemes are sort of the same i.e. curving and arcing armor, but dark templar are a little more archaic. Their metals are platinum, silver and blue hue where the Protoss are more warmful, bronze even some ivories and things like that.|u=}} Samwise Didier, Brian Sousa, Alan Dilling, StarCraft Legacy staff. 2009-08-23. [http://sclegacy.com/feature/102-bc-09/488-blizzcon-2009-starcraft-ii-art-panel BlizzCon 2009 StarCraft II Art Panel]. ''StarCraft Legacy.'' Accessed 2009-11-19.</ref><ref>Samwise Didier, Brian Sousa, Alan Dilling, phdfour. 2009-08-21. [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGjTKRubGIw Blizzcon 09: Starcraft 2 Art Q&A Panel (Part 2 of 3) (approximately 1:30)]. ''Youtube.'' Accessed 2009-11-19.</ref>
 
   
 
===Development===
 
===Development===
Line 174: Line 168:
 
During development the [[hybrid destroyer]] was known as a xel'naga destroyer.<ref>2010-02-28, [http://sclegacy.com/editorials/103-starcraft-ii-beta/613-starcraft-ii-beta-game-images StarCraft II Beta Game Images]. ''StarCraft Legacy'', accessed on 2011-02-12</ref>
 
During development the [[hybrid destroyer]] was known as a xel'naga destroyer.<ref>2010-02-28, [http://sclegacy.com/editorials/103-starcraft-ii-beta/613-starcraft-ii-beta-game-images StarCraft II Beta Game Images]. ''StarCraft Legacy'', accessed on 2011-02-12</ref>
   
A development version of the map [[Echoes of the Future]] identifies the xel'naga as the ones who manipulated the [[Overmind]] to destroy the protoss: ''Overmind: The Xel'Naga had created me to eradicate their failed children - the protoss - in a battle neither species would survive.'' The Overmind also created Kerrigan to stop the return of the Xel'naga: ''Overmind: Yet my...daughter...remained. She alone would break the cycle. She alone would forge a future devoid of the hated Xel'Naga.''<ref name = "SCIIEditor">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II]] [[Galaxy|Map Editor]].'' (Activision Blizzard) (in English). July 27, 2010</ref>
+
A development version of the map [[Echoes of the Future]] identifies the xel'naga as the ones who manipulated the [[Overmind]] to destroy the protoss: ''Overmind: The Xel'Naga had created me to eradicate their failed children - the protoss - in a battle neither species would survive.'' The Overmind also created Kerrigan to stop the return of the Xel'naga: ''Overmind: Yet my...daughter...remained. She alone would break the cycle. She alone would forge a future devoid of the hated Xel'Naga.''<ref name="SCIIEditor">Blizzard Entertainment. ''[[StarCraft II]] [[Galaxy|Map Editor]].'' (Activision Blizzard) (in English). July 27, 2010</ref>
   
 
==References==
 
==References==
 
{{ref|scroll=x|col=2}}
 
{{ref|scroll=x|col=2}}
 
[[Category:Xel'naga| ]]
 
[[Category:Xel'naga| ]]
 
[[Category:Races]]
 
[[Category:Ideology]]
 
[[Category:Ideology]]
[[Category:Races]]
 

Revision as of 08:21, 21 March 2015

"The Xel'Naga created both the protoss and the zerg, Commander. They were the gods of their time."

- Doctor Emil Narud(src)

The xel'naga are a highly advanced race.[1]

Described as "the most powerful species the universe has ever known,"[2] the xel'naga have been referred to as "wanderers from afar,"[1] but it has also been described as being their true name. The protoss referred to the xel'naga as the "Ihan-rii", the "Great Teachers", the "Makers", and the "Guardians", during the Aeon of Strife,[3] and prior to it, worshiped them as gods.[1] Some protoss still refer to them as such.[4][5]

According to protoss tradition, the xel'naga were peaceful, benevolent and utterly consumed with studying and propagating sentient evolution within the universe.[1]

History

Origins

The xel'naga were incredibly long-lived even by protoss standards, but not immortal; eventually their species would come to an end. In the interest of survival they planned to create new xel'naga by uplifting two species. A pair of qualities was required and these were defined by the xel'naga as the purity of essence and the purity of form, and each uplifted species would be targeted for one of them. Over an extraordinarily long period of time, the two species would naturally come together and merge, forming the next generation of xel'naga and beginning the cycle anew. The xel'naga life cycle has manifested many times,[6] so often that time itself was affected by it.[3]

Arrival in the Milky Way

The xel'naga were not indigenous to the Milky Way galaxy, but ruled over thousands of worlds within it, tens of millions of years before the Great War. It was rumored that they seeded and cultivated thousands of various species on these worlds. They became obsessed with fashioning the perfect life-form and labored to create a creature that would be defined by what they termed 'a distinct purity of form'. Using khaydarin crystals, they carefully steered the delicate evolutionary processes of their budding species for millennia, keeping a detailed genetic history of each race. Their protracted experiments produced many intriguing deviants and mutations, but the races that they cultivated always fell short of their enormous expectations.[1]

The following section contains timeline information which isn't necessarily in chronological order.

During their journeys, they learned of the Voice in the Darkness, a Void-based entity which consumed entire civilizations. The xel'naga, who cherished life, imprisoned it with an Argus crystal beneath a barren world at KL-2.[7]

The xel'naga found or created a powerful relic, the Argus Stone, which they valued over other artifacts, but left it on the world of Aridas.[8] The zerg believe it had been used to create entire races.[9]

The Firstborn

Main article: Protoss history
"You worship false gods, little protoss, but now the truth stands revealed. You were never master of your own destiny...never more than a pawn in the xel'naga's cosmic game."
Aiur SC-R Art1

Aiur

Still driven to perfect their science of proto-genetic evolution, the xel'naga focused their frustrated efforts on Aiur, one of their engineered worlds. Pleased with the progress of its most advanced native life-forms, the xel'naga conceded that their latest creation was their first of all their experiments to evolve beyond the feral constraints of baser life-forms. They gave the new race the name of protoss, or 'the firstborn'. Unsatisfied with their slow progress, the xel'naga accelerated their evolution and spent a millennium subtly guiding their steps.[1] They even used devices such as the Kassia crystal to enhance their rate of reproduction.[10] Eventually, the xel'naga succeeded in leading the protoss to the state of total sentience and awareness. When the protoss became highly intellectual and introspective, the xel'naga were exhilarated by their seeming success. Attempting to discern the full extent of protoss evolution, the xel'naga made themselves known to the protoss and integrated into their culture.[1]

The xel'naga constructed a temple to mark the site where they first set foot upon Aiur.[11] They also dug vast subterranean caverns.[12]

The protoss were united by their fascination with these new "gods." They called their new benefactors the Ihan-rii, the "Great Teachers", the "Makers", and the "Guardians".[3] The xel'naga marveled at how driven the protoss were to plumb the mysteries of the universe around them. However, they reeled in frustration when the protoss tribes grew further and further apart.[1] At first, the xel'naga were intrigued by this ideological development, and conducted an experiment to see what effects the diverging tribes might have on khaydarin crystals. They created twin crystals, the Khalis and Uraj, from a monolithic crystal and gifted them to the Sargas and Akilae Tribe respectively. The crystals' powers and appearance diverged with their tribes.[13]

The Departure

The xel'naga speculated that perhaps they had pushed protoss evolution too far. As individual egos arose to overpower the once primary communal link, many xel'naga believed that the protoss had lost their greatest strengths. With the loss of the primal psychic link, which the xel'naga considered the most fundamental element of their greatness, they deemed that the purity of form they sought to create had been sullied by a conflict of essence and thus decreed that the protoss were a failed creation as a result of their sentience being pushed too quickly.[1] The xel'naga were already done with the protoss, and needed to work on a new species.[6] Hundreds of xel'naga were killed in a protoss attack, but they were fended off long enough for the greater number of their worldships to be launched into the void. They left behind khaydarin crystals and at least one ship.[1]

Broken Cycle

Main article: Zerg history
"Would-be gods who defied the natural order at every turn. Though in the end, the xel'naga's hubris brought naught but ruin...upon themselves and all they touched."

- The Voice in the Darkness on the xel'naga's downfall.(src)

The xel'naga traveled to Zerus, where they dismissed their tenets of physical form and focused chiefly on the pursuit of a distinct purity of essence. They labored to advance the evolution of the zerg, which was the most insignificant life form on Zerus until xel'naga proto-genetic manipulations enabled them to survive the torrential firestorms and thrive.

The xel'naga were alarmed to discover that the original races assimilated by the zerg were almost unrecognizable after only a few generations of their inception.

Remembering their failure with the protoss, the xel'naga attempted to waylay the potential hazards of differing egos by structuring the collective sentience of the zerg into a unified, amalgamated 'Overmind'. They kept a constant watch on the Overmind via a psychic link.[1]

DarkVoice SC2 Head1

Amon

Amon desired their ability to steal essence, but the zerg were independent, so he bound them to the hive mind.[14][15]

The xel'naga knew that they had achieved their goal when the zerg became conditioned to survive the harshness of space. However, they were horrified to discover that the Overmind had actually severed their psychic link, effectively severing itself from their view. When the Swarm was launched at the xel'naga fleet, they attempted to stem the tide of the ever-advancing onslaught. Despite this, the reinforced hulls of their worldships were battered by wave after wave of zerg swarms with no signs of abatement. The xel'naga defenses were overrun within a few hours and the greater whole of the xel'naga race was consumed,[1] an action which threw the xel'naga plan into turmoil.[6]

The Overmind assimilated some of the xel'naga's knowledge as it processed thousands of xel'naga into itself.[1] Amon gave it a directive to destroy the protoss,[16] as part of a plan to remake the universe in his name.[17] The protoss became the zerg's ultimate target.[18][19]

Creation's Vacuum

"This creature is the completion of a cycle. Its role in the cosmic order was preordained when the stars were young. Behold the culmination of your history."

After Amon died, the zerg continued to feel his influence[14][20] and his servant tried to resurrect him for millennia.[21]

During the Golden Age of Expansion, Khyrador became home to the Uraj crystal. However, it was later abandoned when a series of violent psionic storms rocked Khyrador and drove away its protoss settlers.[22]

Believing terrazine to be a gift from the xel'naga, Tal'darim mystics set up altars on Bel'Shir to collect what they called 'the Breath of Creation'.[23] The Tal'darim also guarded pieces of a xel'naga artifact on Monlyth,[24] Xil,[5] Typhon XI[25] and a derelict xel'naga worldship in the Sigma Quadrant.[26]

XelNagaTemple SC2 Art1

The xel'naga temple on Shakuras

When the Dark Templar found a temple which the xel'naga had constructed above a nexus of powerful cosmic energies, they decided to remain on Shakuras to study it. During the Brood War, the temple grounds were infested by two cerebrates. The protoss scoured the infestation[27] then secured the Uraj.[28] On Char, several cerebrates locked onto the Khalis' energies and nested near it, but it too was retrieved by the protoss.[29] The protoss used the crystals to channel the temple's energies.[30] The resulting explosion obliterated the zerg on Shakuras.[31]

Shortly before the Brood War, the xel'naga temple on Bhekar Ro was unearthed. The temple housed a strange "phoenix-like" energy creature which absorbed the essences and genetics of both protoss and zerg.[2]

HybridSomething SC2 Art1

Hybrid experiments

Samir Duran used genetic manipulation to create protoss/zerg hybrids on a thousand different worlds. At the end of the Brood War, Dark Prelate Zeratul encountered Duran on a dark moon.[32] He continued to seek answers for what manner of being Duran truly was, and what dark future he was working toward.[33] However, he was suffering mentally for numerous reasons, such as the death of Matriarch Raszagal at his hand. Years after his discovery, Zeratul was located by a preserver, Zamara, and her terran "host", Jake Ramsey. They restored Zeratul's mood and exchanged information. According to Zamara, Samir Duran's experiments are a "perversion", and if his attempts to "unify" the species become successful, "a monstrous and powerful perversion of both protoss and zerg will be set loose upon the universe, and all that [the protoss and terran] know and cherish will fall in their wake".

Zeratul traveled to the world of Pegasus, where a xel'naga temple hatched. He followed the energy creature through a wormhole to a mysterious planet on the other side.[6]

Return of the Xel'naga

Zeratul SC2 Game1

Dark Prelate Zeratul and High Templar Karass at a xel'naga shrine

After uncovering a revelation somehow related to the xel'naga, Zeratul sought additional clues to unravel the mystery.[34] Both he and Sarah Kerrigan were drawn to Ulaan to uncover a prophecy, rumored to foretell the return of the xel'naga, that was divided into three fragments, each kept at separate shrines. Zeratul gathered the fragments[35] and had them deciphered by the preservers of Zhakul.[36]

Crown Prince Valerian Mengsk used the vast resources of the Terran Dominion to scour the Koprulu sector for xel'naga artifacts.[37] His Moebius Foundation sought the artifact[38] which by this point was a few thousand years old.[39][40]

The Dominion went to Mar Sara to excavate a piece of the artifact.[41] For months, Dominion engineers excavated it at White Rock Base. The Dominion forcibly shipped citizens there from Backwater Station to dig it up. As they were getting ready to move the artifact off-world, it was seized by Raynor's Raiders.[42]

XelnagaArtifact SC2 CineFireFury1

The xel'naga artifact

Fearing the artifact's power, Kerrigan dispersed the zerg to search for the various pieces.[43] After Raynor's Raiders had collected the other artifact fragments, it was assembled[44] and the engineer corps moved it to the base of the primary hive cluster on Char. The terrans protected the artifact while it charged.[45] Commander Jim Raynor and General Horace Warfield used it to make Kerrigan human again.[46] Nearby hybrid gathered the psionic energy she wielded as the Queen of Blades, giving Emil Narud enough energy to resurrect Amon.[47][48]

The xel'naga wished Kerrigan restored as leader of the Swarm, and had Zeratul (by this point serving their interests, or at least what he perceived as the greater good) guide her to Zerus,[49][50] where she was reborn as the Primal Queen of Blades,[51] free of Amon's influence.[20] Xel'naga relics which housed genetic information were also collected by Kerrigan on Zerus.[52]

Xel'nagaTemple SC2-HotS Art1

The interior of Amon's temple

Narud battled Kerrigan at Amon's temple, which he had built Skygeirr Station on top of. Alexei Stukov deactivated the five xel'naga temples that were amplifying Narud's power.[53] Kerrigan killed Narud in the heart of the temple, but by this point Amon was alive again.[54]

Culture

Fibonacci Spiral Real1

The Golden Spiral

The xel'naga cherished all life and refused to kill anything, not even the entity at KL-2.[7] The protoss eventually followed a version of this philosophy, called the "Dae'Uhl".[1]

At least some xel'naga buried and/or entombed their dead.[55]

The xel'naga used a "universal natural" code the protoss termed "ara'dor", which means "perfect ratio". Terrans call it the Golden Mean, symbolized by φ ("phi").[3]

In mathematics and the arts, two quantities are in the golden ratio if the ratio between the sum of those quantities and the larger one is the same as the ratio between the larger one and the smaller. The golden ratio is approximately 1.6180339887. The golden ratio is related to the Fibonacci sequence and the Golden Spiral.

Technology

Xel'NagaCrystal SC-Com3 Comic1

Xel'naga artifact

The xel'naga left numerous artifacts on Aiur[3][10] and other worlds, such as Ehlna,[6] Roxara[56] and Aridas.[57][9]

Some artifacts can be considered dangerous, since they can manipulate the minds of terrans. At least some are alive in a sense (once being described as an "energy fossil").[58]

These artifacts are sought by protoss.[2] The Dark Templar especially have made efforts to track these down.[2][58][56]

The Terran Dominion made attempts to buy some from rival powers. Even the zerg have used spies in an effort to locate artifacts.[59]

Still more temples have appeared on worlds such as Nemaka,[3] Aridas (where the powerful Argus Stone was stored)[57] and Bhekar Ro; the latter disgorged a strange energy creature which collected protoss and zerg genetics for unknown purposes.[2]

Valerian Mengsk, the Heir Apparent of the Terran Dominion, has expressed interest in these temples,[3] and Dominion forces have engaged in combat in an attempt to secure such temples.[60]

Watch towers seemingly crafted by the xel'naga have appeared.[61][62][63][64]

The xel'naga possessed the ability to create space platforms.[65]

Prophecies

"Now, the Xel'Naga that forged us all, are returning. But do they come to save, or to destroy?"

Braken Prophecies

There are prophecies relating to the planet Braken, a protoss world with religious significance. These prophecies claim that "he who harnesses this world will someday wield a great power, sanctified by the ancient ones".[66]

Kerrigan and Zeratul's Role

Kerrigan bantered with Zeratul on Char as a prelude to combat, where Zeratul told her: "Your coming has been foretold... You are part of the culmination. But not the end of it. You shall show the way, the path that must be taken, the realigning of old truths no longer valid. Yours is not the hand, but your very existence provides necessary instruction." Kerrigan did not treat the pronouncement seriously at the time.[67]

Xel'naga Worlds

The following are worlds known to have been visited by the xel'naga, many of them possessing relics of their presence:

Known Xel'naga

  • Amon (a 'fallen' xel'naga)

Notes

Xel'Naga SC2 Cine1

A carving on Ulaan—neither protoss nor zerg

The xel'naga will not be a playable race in StarCraft II, as only the original three races can be played.[68][69][70] Storywise, they form the backbone of the trilogy.[71]

The xel'naga may have played a different role in the trilogy originally. An early cinematic depicted Zeratul warning Jim Raynor of the xel'naga's linkage with alien artifacts, that they were the key to their return.[72] For the release of Wings of Liberty, this content was replaced with Zeratul giving Raynor information about Kerrigan.[73]

As of BlizzCon 2009, Blizzard Entertainment has devised no artwork for the xel'naga, as they wanted to keep their options open.[74][75]

Development

The following section contains information from a previous version of StarCraft II which is no longer valid.

During development the hybrid destroyer was known as a xel'naga destroyer.[76]

A development version of the map Echoes of the Future identifies the xel'naga as the ones who manipulated the Overmind to destroy the protoss: Overmind: The Xel'Naga had created me to eradicate their failed children - the protoss - in a battle neither species would survive. The Overmind also created Kerrigan to stop the return of the Xel'naga: Overmind: Yet my...daughter...remained. She alone would break the cycle. She alone would forge a future devoid of the hated Xel'Naga.[77]

References

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  64. The Xel'Naga Watch Towers have larger sight range than Observers, but do not offer detection. I definitely wouldn't say they are inferior, as they have crucial uses throughout the game, especially in the earlier tiers. With only a SCV/probe/drone, a player can activate a watch tower, letting you know when the enemy is coming to attack you and with that. This alone, could easily change the outcome of any early skirmish battle that happens. Karune. 2008-09-16. Karune, i have a question about observers. Battle.net StarCraft II General Discussion Forum. Accessed 2008-09-16.
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  74. Q: How much different are the Protoss from the Xel'Naga?

    A: They're different because they don't have any art. We haven't really gone too far into defining Xel'Naga other than defining a few temples and things. We on purpose don't really want to showcase what exactly a Xel'Naga is, because who knows what the future brings and we may decide we want to do something more with them. The Xel'Naga, artwise, they don't have lots of art. Now, Dark Templar and Protoss, their schemes are sort of the same i.e. curving and arcing armor, but dark templar are a little more archaic. Their metals are platinum, silver and blue hue where the Protoss are more warmful, bronze even some ivories and things like that. Samwise Didier, Brian Sousa, Alan Dilling, StarCraft Legacy staff. 2009-08-23. BlizzCon 2009 StarCraft II Art Panel. StarCraft Legacy. Accessed 2009-11-19.
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