talian

Talian is a fictional language presented in the role-playing game Planescape. It is spoken by the planar travelers and denizens of the multiverse, serving as a common tongue that facilitates communication across disparate planes of existence. While not a fully developed conlang with extensive grammar and vocabulary, Talian is depicted as a fluid and adaptable language that has absorbed elements from countless other tongues encountered by those who travel the planes. Its origins are not tied to a single culture or world, but rather to the inherent need for understanding in a setting where diverse beings interact.

The practical function of Talian within the Planescape setting is to act as a lingua franca. Characters who are proficient in Talian can converse with individuals from virtually any plane, regardless of their native language. This linguistic universality is crucial for trade, diplomacy, and the general exchange of information in the chaotic and varied planes. The language's flexibility allows it to adapt and incorporate new words and phrases as needed, reflecting the ever-expanding nature of the Planescape multiverse. While specific Talian phrases and vocabulary are rarely detailed, its presence is a constant reminder of the interconnectedness and communicative challenges inherent in planar travel.