In Cinereous Skies, at times Neal is unsure if he's awake or dreaming. That has been a recurring theme in Arkham Files and one which I've spent much time daydreaming about as well.
Warning for spoilers to Arkham Files
Dreams have a special significance in H.P. Lovecraft's works. In several of his stories, the hero is aware that he is dreaming. Falling asleep creates a portal to an alternate reality. The concept is especially evident in The Dream-Quest of Unknown Kadath where the main character, Randolph Carter, deliberately falls asleep so he can enter the "Dreamlands." He is a veteran, having visited the Dreamlands many times before. He's able to draw on the experiences from those previous trips.
For Rolf and Klaus Mansfeld, dreams have another meaning. They used virtual reality to build an alternate world and then programmed those memories into Neal. The experiences were designed to resurface during dreams. Their technique has a parallel in Cinereous Skies. Phineas admits to Neal that he manipulated Neal's dreams. He planted scenes of Merope and Celaeno into Neal's mind to help prepare him for the revelations to come. Will Rolf compare that to what he did in California? In Cinereous Skies, it was one of the good guys who planted memories. And the results were beneficial. Could that possibly be a signal from Peter that he approved of Rolf's technique? For someone as egotistical as Rolf, it's conceivable he'd feel that way.
Tricia believes that by this point Rolf craves the admiration of Peter, a man whom he considers to be a kindred spirit. The Arkham Round Table has provided tantalizing hints to strengthen Rolf's delusion. Among them are the parallels between the Meropians and the Mansfelds. Both names start with M. The Meropians are shapeshifters with telepathic powers, capable of planting thoughts and entering dreams. Rolf and Klaus have also assumed other identities and engaged in psychological manipulation.
In Cinereous Skies, Neal and Peter—along with Mozzie and Elizabeth—show no hesitation in forming an alliance with the Meropians. Will Rolf view that as a signal that they're ready to do the same with him and his brother? The Mansfelds believe the FBI is unaware that they're alive. Has Peter discovered the truth and is now suggesting they form a secret partnership?
Cinereous Skies on Archive of Our Own
Cinereous Skies on FanFiction
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