The Second Apocalypse

Seem similar to me.
Perhaps chanv comes from sranc (remember they are geneticly twisted non-men).
Given that chanv deadens the emotions whilst sharpening the intellect, it could be part of Kellhus' plan to get the ordeal more 'emotionally prepared' prior to direct conflict with the consult.

Its mentioned in the books that the only reason Eleazaras doesn't partake of chanv is the fact that nobody knows where it comes from. Also, correct me if I am wrong but isnt Iyokus described as having translucent skin. I seem to remember parts where Eleazaras or someone can see Iyokus's veins and muscles through his skin. I believe the Inchoroi also have translucent skin.

Stupid theory: Chanv is another, centuries long method by which the Consult attempts to dominate civilizations of Men. Skin spies in key positions of power exist throughout the pre-Kelhus Three Seas, but chanv seems exclusive to the Ainoni nobility, perhaps the Consult's reaction to one of the great powers being under the direct rule of a School.

A couple problems I see with this is that we know Non-men ashes have effects similar to chanv like increased mental prowess, neutered emotions, and night vision for some reason. I dont remember anything about Iyokus having superior night vision, nor the Skin Eaters having see through skin.

I seem to remember that chanv comes via Zeum.

I had forgotten about the skin translucency etc, but I think that could tie into my theory, in as much as the non-man dna could be mixed with that of the inchies within the sranc by means of the Tekne.

Certainly agree that the consult could be responsible for chanv in the manner you suggest.

crackpot: If Kellhus intends to serve/ally with the no-god (not neccesarily to the consult's benefit), ingesting sranc might cause the men of the ordeal to be susceptible to the no-god's will-binding powers. Or perhaps it might flow the other way, causing Mog to be able to apprehend himself through other's perceptions :p

From the wiki:



Iyokus does become translucent. It's why Eli trusts him even after realizing there are skin spies everywhere.

I'm not sure if eating Sranc will be enough to place them under the No-God's control. I think the No-God enters into beings that lack souls. Which is why it can command all dragons save Wutteat, who being the precursor has a soul.

(I think Wutteat was altered from existing life, rather than made whole cloth from the Tekne.)

Agree with you there, put that controlling theory to bed.
And Jekhia is near the Katyursus mountains and nowhere near the north, so unless the mountains are full of sranc, chanv is probably unlikely to be made from them.

what does xiuhianni racial characteristics mean?

Random question, wasn't the tracker that was with the Skin-Spies (I forget his name) Jekhian?

I always found it curious how Akka, being as learned as he is did not pick up on the similarities between Chanv and Quiri. Being that it turns the skin see through, I wonder if it is Inchoroi remains or something that they introduced or developed.

Yeah, considering its origins chanv is unlikely to have anything in common with Sranc or qirri. Since it is associated with Xiuhanni, it most likely comes from Eanna. It also clearly Bakkerworld equivalent of spice and I wonder how this will play out. Eannan Shai-huluds anyone? No, this goes too far into the crazy theories territory, but perhaps something less obvious?

Too far into crazy theories? S'if.