PART SIX: SMALL BATTLES IN THE GREAT WAR

This is an interlude consisting of a philosophical statement from Ekur-Tkalal, a Carryx keeper-librarian, reflecting on the nature of Carryx dominion and their approach to controlling other species, including humans. The passage contrasts the Carryx's systematic harnessing of diverse alien technologies and abilities with humanity's nature as self-delusional and conflict-driven.

Ekur-Tkalal's statement describes the Carryx as a unifying force that brought together the unique capabilities of a thousand different species under centralized control. The Carryx leveraged asymptotic space through the Temperantiae of Au, created loyalty mechanisms using Janantie moss patterns, designed world-palaces through the Phylarchs of Astrdeim, built communication networks from Void Dragons, and strengthened battleships with living shells from Sinyas and Vau's oceans. The passage characterizes these species' contributions as "glories" that would have remained "feral" without Carryx guidance. The statement then turns to humans, depicting them as structureless beings prone to internal and external conflict. Their defining trait is rationalization—the ability to deceive themselves into actions they would otherwise reject. The final phrase, "That is their way, and for a time we harnessed it as we did everything. For a time," suggests a shift in this dynamic, implying the Carryx's control over humanity may be slipping or changing.