Chapter 582: Gathering Intelligence Gradually

Chapter 582: Gathering Intelligence Gradually

As Duncan listened with rapt attention to Morris, who was reciting a translation of words from an ancient elven epic, his expression gradually morphed into one of profound thought and reflection.

Morris added some context, We must remember that these lines originate from an era well before the establishment of modern city-states. Over centuries, the text may have undergone alterations through scholarly revisions and additions, possibly leading to deviations from its original intent. Despite this, I am convinced of the enduring significance of these verses. They offer insights not only into the ancient elves Dream of Creation but also relate to a more modern concept known as the Dream of the Nameless.'

Feeling intrigued, Duncan stroked his chin and mused aloud, One line in particular strikes me: Saslokha creates everything in a dream, yet he himself is unaware of what a dream is. How do we interpret this apparent contradiction?

Morris paused, carefully considering his response, To me, this line suggests a contrast between the divine and mortal perceptions of existence. It also uniquely positions Saslokha, the First Dreamer in elven lore, as being distinct. For a being who dwells in the realm of dreams, the line between dreaming and waking life might not exist. From his perspective, our reality could be just another mutable dream, and what we perceive as dreams might be as real as our waking world. Thus, for Saslokha, existing in this state, the concept of a dream might indeed be elusive.

Duncan nodded slowly, absorbing this, Thats an intriguing interpretation. What do the subsequent verses reveal?

Morris elaborated, The interpretations of the lines that follow have been the subject of debate among elven scholars. A widely accepted view is that the Great Demon God Saslokha eventually realized that the elves he created experienced dreams differently from him. This led to a pivotal moment of introspection, where he began to ponder, perhaps for the first time, the distinction between dream and reality. It was amidst this uncertainty that he brought forth the Dreamless elves.

Duncan considered this, Ah, the Dreamless. I recall that within elven lore, being unable to dream is viewed as a genetic anomaly.

Correct, Morris confirmed. The legend suggests that the Dreamless were born out of Saslokhas moment of emotional and existential crisis. They are depicted as imperfect beings because they lack access to the Heaven of Dreams, which is a core aspect of elven spiritual belief. However

Morris paused, seemingly immersed in thought for a brief moment, before continuing, Interestingly, there are a handful of obscure legends that depict Saslokha not as a figure of indifference but as the Protector God of the Dreamless. This interpretation is largely disregarded by mainstream elven society. In ancient times, voicing such a belief might have been outright blasphemous, though its somewhat more tolerated in modern discussions.

Vanna, intrigued by the conversation, added her thoughts, The notion of Saslokha serving as a guardian deity for the Dreamless is fascinating. It seems to me that this idea likely emerged among the Dreamless themselves, a group historically marginalized and ostracized. This belief could have provided them with a sense of solace and communal identity in the face of their isolation.

Youve hit the nail on the head, Morris responded, visibly impressed. This belief indeed surfaced during what historians refer to as the Elven Dark Ages. During this period, the elven city-states exiled the Dreamless to remote islands, branding them as cursed. Their inability to connect with the dream world was believed to attract malevolent forces and entities, leading to their societal banishment.

Morris went on to detail, In these isolated enclaves, far from the elven societal core, the concept of Saslokha as the protector of the Dreamless began to gain traction. For those exiled, embracing this belief provided a measure of comfort and resilience against the harrowing isolation and dangers they faced nightly. Over time, as societal norms shifted and the rigid practices of exile relaxed with the spread of the Four Deity Faith, the Dreamless started to reintegrate into broader society. Although they were no longer outcasts, the once deemed heretical beliefs about Saslokha remained largely unrecognized and unaccepted by the mainstream.

As Duncan listened to Morriss explanation, his mind raced, linking this historical narrative to the peculiar occurrences in Wind Harbor. The information seemed to piece together, hinting at a larger, more complex theory. However, Duncan felt he was still missing critical pieces of the puzzle, needing just a bit more information to fully connect the dots.

Upon hearing Duncans preamble, everyone in the gathering instinctively sat up straighter, their postures adjusting in anticipation. Shirley, who until that point had appeared somewhat detached and on the verge of dozing, snapped to full alertness. Duncans shift in tone had subtly communicated the importance of the information he was about to unveil.

Without delay, Duncan began sharing his findings, focusing particularly on his theories surrounding Goathead. He deliberately steered clear of the more troubling details related to the plight of the Vanished, reasoning that dwelling on such aspects would only heighten the existing tension in the room and do little to shed light on the peculiar occurrences in Wind Harbor.

The suggestion that Goathead might have connections to the elven mythos, specifically the Great Demon God Saslokha, cast a palpable chill over the room, enveloping everyone in a deep, contemplative silence.

For an extended period, no one uttered a word. The room was filled with exchanged glances of bewilderment as each person seemed to grapple with the implications of Duncans theory. It was Nina who eventually pierced the silence, her voice carrying a mix of skepticism and concern: Are you really suggesting that Goathead, this incessantly chattering sculpture, could have ties to Saslokha, the legendary Great Demon God from elven mythology? Doesnt that stretch credibility a bit?

Her voice trailed off, leaving her question hanging in the air, but her skepticism was evident. The atmosphere in the room became charged with a blend of disbelief and worry, reflecting the groups shared sense of uncertainty and apprehension.

Although it may seem like a stretch, the evidence weve pieced together points toward a potential connection, Duncan responded, his tone imbued with a sense of serious consideration. Lets look at the facts: Goathead, a mysterious entity with no known origin, emerges on the Vanished, a ship enshrouded in a peculiar mist and marked by an eerie presence. The timing of the ships appearance aligns with the heightened activity of the Dream of the Nameless One at midnight. Additionally, the phrase may he linger in dreams, inscribed on the captains quarters, clearly alludes to ancient elven traditions. When we also consider Goatheads distinctive behaviors and reactions, particularly regarding discussions of Atlantis, dismissing these connections as mere coincidences becomes challenging.

Visibly unsettled yet intrigued, Lucretia turned towards Duncan with a look that conveyed concern and deep thought. After several contemplative glances, she cautiously shared her perspective. Youve mentioned before that Goathead is believed to have originated from subspace. Setting aside for a moment the perplexing idea that an elven God of Creation could take on such a form, were still left with the puzzling question of how the Vanished fits into this complex puzzle were trying to solve.

Lucretia paused, clearly struggling to find the right words to convey her concerns more clearly. After a short moment of reflection, she pressed on, And what significance does the Vanished have in this scenario?

Duncan could sense the deep-seated worry behind Lucretias questions. Although focused on the Vanished, her inquiries seemed to be driven by a deeper, more personal anxiety.

Rest easy, Lucy, Duncan offered her reassurance, his tone imbued with a comforting strength. The realm of subspace is filled with mysteries that even I dont completely understand. Its difficult to pinpoint exactly how its influencing the Vanished. What I can promise you is that as long as I retain my human essence, Ill ensure that the ship remains within our grasp. And right now, I am fully in possession of my faculties.

This declaration seemed to alleviate Shirleys evident concern over the conversations revelations. Precisely, precisely, she chimed in, a bit too quickly, echoing Duncans sentiment. With the captain here, theres no chance the ship will deviate from its course. After all, the captains grasp on humanity

Duncan gave her a puzzled look: ?

At that moment, all attention abruptly shifted to Shirley, who appeared completely oblivious to the sudden focus on her. Unfazed, she proceeded, Despite its peculiarities and mysteries, the Vanished

It was then that Dog, having silently emerged from his hiding spot near the sofa, assertively placed a paw on Shirleys head as if attempting to silence her. His gesture seemed to convey a stern, Enough talking! effectively halting her mid-sentence.