Unveiling the Veil: Understanding Destiny 2’s Enigmatic Force
The Veil in Destiny 2 is a paracausal entity deeply intertwined with the Darkness. Functioning as a power source for Neomuna, a hidden city on Neptune, it also projects a paracausal energy field that forms the basis of the city’s CloudArk. Believed to be connected to the Traveler, the Veil’s true nature and purpose are shrouded in mystery, with only the Witness seemingly understanding how to wield its immense power.
The Veil: A Deeper Dive
The Veil represents one of the most significant and perplexing elements introduced into the Destiny universe. Its discovery by the Witness’s people was pivotal, as it illuminated the duality of Light and Darkness, revealing that Light, like Darkness, can be both creative and destructive. This understanding led the Witness to view Light as chaotic, thus setting the stage for the Light and Darkness Saga’s central conflict.
The Veil is not merely a power source; it’s a metaphysical anchor, possibly acting as a counterpart to the Traveler. Its existence predates even the Witness, spanning billions of years. This ancient origin underscores its immense power and significance within the cosmic framework of Destiny. While the Traveler terraforms and provides Light, the Veil resonates with Darkness and enhances the power of Strand.
The Witness’s Obsession
The Witness’s pursuit of the Veil stems from a desire to impose its version of order upon the universe. Having learned from the Veil about the supposed chaotic nature of Light, the Witness aims to control both Light and Darkness, to enforce a final shape where existence is simplified and predictable.
The Witness sees the Veil as the key to unlocking the secrets of the universe and fundamentally reshaping reality. By wielding the Veil’s power, the Witness believes it can end the cycle of creation and destruction and usher in an era of enforced stillness. This ultimate goal drives its relentless pursuit of the Veil, making it the central conflict driver in recent Destiny expansions.
Unraveling the Mysteries: FAQs About the Veil
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Veil, addressing common misconceptions and diving deeper into its implications.
Is the Veil the Winnower?
No. While the terms have been used interchangeably by some, recent lore clarifies that the Winnower is a philosophical principle associated with the Darkness, a cosmic force driving toward simplicity and the elimination of all but the “fittest”. The Veil is a physical manifestation of that principle, a conduit for its power, but not the Winnower itself. The Traveler is often referred to as the Gardener to contrast the Winnower.
Is the Veil Evil?
The Veil, as a source of immense power linked to the Darkness, doesn’t possess inherent morality. Whether it’s “evil” depends on how it’s used. In the hands of the Witness, it’s a tool for implementing a destructive and controlling agenda. However, the Veil’s properties have been shown to be beneficial under certain conditions. The concept of paracausal forces in Destiny isn’t about good versus evil; it’s about different perspectives on existence.
Was the Veil Inside the Traveler?
The Veil was hidden on Neptune by Savathûn during the Collapse. The Veil is now powering much of the city. The Traveler and Veil are intrinsically linked, serving as counterparts within the universe.
How old is The Veil?
The Veil is ancient. Its existence predates the Witness and the Black Fleet, stretching back billions of years. This extreme age is frequently emphasized to highlight the Veil’s significance as a fundamental part of the universe’s fabric.
Where is the Veil Located?
The Veil is located deep beneath the surface of Neomuna, on Neptune. This hidden location makes it difficult to access and protect, which explains the Witness’s elaborate schemes to obtain it.
What Powers Does the Veil Possess?
The Veil functions as a power source for Neomuna’s CloudArk, enabling the city’s advanced technology. It projects a paracausal energy field, and it seems to be intrinsically linked to the Strand, a Darkness-based power that Guardians can wield. The exact extent of its powers remains largely unknown, adding to its mystique.
How Did The Witness’ People Discover The Veil?
The lore doesn’t specify how the Witness’ people found the Veil initially. However, the finding became a pivotal moment, leading to their understanding of Light and Darkness. The Witness’ people began to view Light as a chaotic force that needed to be tamed after studying it, and it ultimately led them to the path of seeking the Final Shape.
What Is The CloudArk?
The CloudArk is Neomuna’s digital repository of its citizens’ minds and consciousnesses. It functions similarly to a virtual afterlife or collective consciousness. The Veil powers the CloudArk, enabling its advanced capabilities and ensuring the preservation of Neomuna’s people.
How Does The Veil Connect To Strand?
The Veil seems intrinsically linked to Strand, granting Guardians the power to weave threads of consciousness and manipulate the fabric of reality. The source of these powers comes from the Veil, as well as other Darkness forces. It is also heavily speculated it has links to the Traveler.
Can Guardians Wield The Veil’s Power?
Guardians can indirectly wield the Veil’s power through Strand. However, direct control over the Veil itself is something that only the Witness seems capable of. Further research is needed on the Guardians capability to harness the power of the Veil.
What Role Did Savathûn Play In The Veil’s Story?
Savathûn played a crucial role by hiding the Veil on Neptune during the Collapse. This action ensured that the Witness couldn’t immediately access it and provided humanity with a fighting chance against the Darkness. Although she was a cunning adversary, Savathûn had a strong desire to preserve the universe and protect humanity, even through deceptive means.
Is The Veil Connected to the Traveler?
Yes, the Veil and the Traveler are connected. It’s theorized that they are counterparts, representing the Darkness and Light respectively. The exact nature of this connection remains a mystery. But it is believed that they work together to create balance.
What Happens if the Witness Fully Controls The Veil?
If the Witness fully controls the Veil, it could reshape reality according to its vision of the “Final Shape.” This might mean the end of free will, the cessation of change, and the imposition of a stagnant, unchanging existence. The consequences are potentially catastrophic, representing the ultimate threat to the Destiny universe.
Where Can I Learn More About Destiny 2 Lore?
Bungie frequently releases lore through in-game content, item descriptions, and external sources such as the Destiny website and community forums. Content creators such as Myelin Games also create deep dives into specific subjects.
Does Science Learning Connect with Destiny 2 Gameplay?
Understanding complex systems, problem-solving, and collaborative gameplay are all integral to both scientific learning and playing Destiny 2. Games like Destiny 2 demonstrate how interactive experiences can foster critical thinking and teamwork skills, connecting the realms of entertainment and education. To learn more about the intersection of games and learning, visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
The Veil remains one of the most fascinating and enigmatic elements in the Destiny universe. Its true nature, powers, and ultimate purpose continue to be unraveled, promising more twists and turns in the ongoing saga of Light and Darkness.