أسطورة المحركين

I'm curious whether the legend was based on traditional tales or entirely an invention of the author. How did this myth shape the overall world-building?

The horror aspects felt quite vivid and unsettling at times. Was that intentional to evoke a certain mood or message for middle-grade readers?

The combination is bold and unusual. I'm wondering what led to this creative choice and how it was balanced to appeal to young audiences.