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It was supposed to be both the source and ultimate destination of all souls and ardor, which may have been one and the same thing. The Current was theorized to connect countless realms where life existed--and more. Many scholars throughout history believed that, wherever a reaper ferried a deceased soul to, the Current would eventually carry that same soul--or the energy that composed that soul, perhaps--back into this world.

An eternally recurring flow of imaginary power. Unfathomable in its strength and potential.

Morgunov, therefore, understood what Rasalased was getting at.

The ancient mythical beasts of the Sandlords could theoretically reside within a plane of nonexistence. And someone, therefore, might be able to ride the Infinite Current to such a place and meet or otherwise bear witness to them.

A truly ludicrous plan, filled with absurd danger. The Infinite Current, if it did indeed exist, would not be some leisurely route through scenic territory. The Current was supposed to be a force of literally unparalleled soul power and ardor. To endure through the Current, having your own soul constantly pummeled by such a force, while also attempting to guide your own path through it...?

Morgunov was not sure he could imagine a more impossible feat.

But perhaps that impossibility was precisely what made the plan worthy of a god’s time.

He had to learn more.

“What do you want with the arasaba, exactly?” asked Morgunov.

“I believe they may be the progenitors of my kin,” said Rasalased. “And if so, then I must learn more of them.”

“Ahhh,” said Morgunov. “You want their power.”

“Perhaps. Perhaps not.”

The emperor snorted, then laughed. “Yes, I’m sure your interest in them is purely academic. Just like me!”

“If the arasaba hold answers regarding the origins of my kin, then they may also hold answers regarding the origins of all mankind.”

Morgunov bobbed his head. “Could be. But is that really so mysterious to you? If your surly sister here is truly a Primoridal like she claims, then she should have plenty of juicy answers about all sorts of things, no?”

“Even if that were so,” said Rasalased, “I would not want her to provide them. There comes a point where one should not rely on the knowledge and experiences of another in order to continue growing. One must seek the truth for oneself.”

At that, Morgunov couldn’t help smiling. “A man after my own heart.”