Airship used for fast personal transport

Summary

The chapter “The Adoption of Zailm” narrates the protagonist Zailm’s visit to Prince Menax’s office, where he finds Rai Gwauxln, the ruler of Poseid, with the prince. They discuss visiting the temple of Incal (Incalithlon), and Zailm accompanies them. They travel using a vehicle operated by occult power, a rare demonstration of Gwauxln’s abilities.

Upon reaching the temple, they enter the sacred space, and the Incaliz (high priest) leads them to a raised platform where a mystical light, the Maxin, emanates from a crystal cube. The light is described as powerful but without heat and can destroy anything it touches. The Maxin has existed for centuries, created by a mysterious ruler with immense knowledge. It symbolizes divine power and is part of religious rites in Poseid, including cremating bodies by casting their ashes into the light.

Zailm is adopted by Prince Menax during a ceremonial ritual in the temple, and the Incaliz invokes a blessing. This event marks Zailm’s official integration into the royal family. The chapter also discusses the spiritual significance of the Maxin and its history, as well as the belief that touching or tampering with it brings destruction. Additionally, the text touches on the background of Gwauxln and the Incaliz, both of whom were once “Sons of the Solitude” ascetics who returned to society and assumed prominent roles.

The chapter concludes with Zailm reflecting on his later failures, symbolized by the foreboding words of the Incaliz, and hints at his future downfall.

Technology

In this chapter, several examples of advanced technology in Poseid are described, much of which is tied to mystical or occult elements:

1. Automated Vehicles: A palace car is summoned by Rai Gwauxln and operates without a driver. It moves through the palace, opening doors automatically and navigating the space as if controlled by an invisible hand. This car represents a highly advanced level of automation.
2. Vailx (Airship): Zailm, Menax, and Gwauxln travel in a vailx, a type of airship used for fast, personal transport. It seems to function effortlessly, without attendants or a crew, showcasing Poseid’s mastery over flight and transportation technologies.
3. Maxin (Divine Light): The Maxin is a mystical and technological phenomenon, a powerful and eternal light that emanates from a crystal cube. It burns with great intensity but produces no heat and can destroy anything that touches it instantly. The Maxin requires no fuel or energy source and is considered a divine or occult force. It plays a critical role in religious and ceremonial life, including cremation rituals.
4. Incandescent Lighting: Inside the temple of Incal, incandescent lamps are used to illuminate the interior, reflecting light off crystals in a way that creates a soft, omnipresent glow. The lighting system is designed to appear natural and is part of the temple’s aesthetic.
5. Air-Tube Lighting and Sound System: The temple is also equipped with air-tubes through which rays of light and musical notes pass. These tubes create colored lights that change in sync with the music, suggesting a sophisticated integration of light and sound technology.

Names and locations

Names:

1. Zailm Numinos – The protagonist who is adopted by Prince Menax.
2. Prince Menax – A high-ranking figure in Poseid who adopts Zailm.
3. Rai Gwauxln – The ruler of Poseid, a highly revered figure with occult powers.
4. Mainin (Incaliz) – The high priest of the temple of Incal, a man of immense knowledge and spiritual authority.
5. Soris – The son of Prince Menax, mentioned in passing.
6. Anzimee – The daughter of Prince Menax, mentioned in passing.
7. Astika Menax – Title of Prince Menax as a councilor in Poseid.
8. Incal – The deity worshipped in Poseid, often mentioned in connection with divine acts.

Locations:

1. Agacoe Palace – The palace where Zailm meets Prince Menax and Rai Gwauxln.
2. Incalithlon – The great temple of Incal, where religious rituals and ceremonies are performed, including Zailm’s adoption. It is shaped like the pyramid of Cheops.
3. Caiphul – The capital city of Poseid, where many significant events occur.
4. Pitach Rhok – A location mentioned by Zailm when reflecting on his past resolve.
5. Navazzamin – The afterlife or spiritual realm to which souls pass after death in Poseid’s belief system.
6. Maxin-Stone – A sacred platform in the temple of Incal, upon which the eternal Maxin light burns.
7. Atl – The ocean referenced in a prophecy, foretold to eventually cover the land of Poseid.

The chapter

The full text of this chapter is in the book: Chapter XIV: The Adoption of Zailm.