After the Rain ep35 : House of the Blooded

05/24/2015
After the Rain

Episode Thirty Five
"Blood"

Houses of the Blooded

Gillian and Zhivali enter the Upside Down Temple, thanks to Gil realizing the familiarity of Zhivali's blood with that of Dranna Ru would permit them entry.   They watch as the droplets flutter upwards and the door way opens for them to allow them inside.

Cassalanter talks to the Demon in the mirror.  She calls it her friend.  Nolwen arrives to ask about her special guests (Maya, Madelyn and Dalvinosh) and asks if they are to survive the burning of the world.  Cass gives no clear answer.

Rio finds that the Vashna have pulled away.  She searches for Nia or some other Serpent, hoping to ask some questions about the Vashna, and the Serpent she finds seems reluctant to help.  Rio tells him of the incoming battle and how it shall rid Shanri of two dictators.  She wishes to become a legend.  The Serpent agrees to assist if Rio answers three questions:  She is asked where Nia is and Rio responds she already has everyone else's secret name.  The Serpent is dismissed as the true leader, a woman, comes forward.  Rio shares that the pattern of the tunnels beneath the Citadel from a Circle of Protection ritual centering around James' opera house.   The woman asks Rio about Ash Jalan, and explains he's just a fictional creation of James.  The Serpent points out that the tunnels will need a lot of blood, which is why they must as Nia themselves for her help on what her plans were.  She does promise Rio their help.

James is at the Citadel with Madelyn's airship moored nearby.  The Tulpa has already faded. He looks at the pearl that Jarik once owned and decides to destroy it.  When he turns around, to his surprise, Jarik is there.  James asks Jarik about the contract and learns of how the Treaty was established to buy the ven time to prepare for their return.   The tunnels were inspired by the Suavan Althea Thorne.  Jarik seems confused and seems to think everyone is now a Bear. Jarik is so very confused.  He clarifies that it was Nerea, Bear Suaven, who inspired the tunnels, not Althea.  But then in the end, he corrects himself again and admits it was Nia's idea.  James clarifies if blood was spilled in its creation, and Jarik vehemently denies it was sorcery.

The plan is to trap the Golden City within the cities connecting the tunnels.  Jarik admits they never forgave the Senate for what they did to Seran Thorne.  The Opera House itself stands beyond the tunnel where only their families can access.  The plan is to trap the them along in the tunnel's perimeter.  Jarik wants to take James back with him.  He says that Madelyn and Dalvinosh's blood trace down to Cass.  Jarik hopes James can rescue Jalani from Q'naldinir.

Gillian finds Dranna Ru's body in the temple.  She lies in the spot where the Fallen Suaven, the Bloody-Eyed Widow, once lay.  Gillian talks to Dranna Ru by mixing her blood with her Ork's and pleading to Dranna Ru for help.  A centipede comes out of the darkness and walks up to her, and merges with her own brain to allow communication between her and the Suaven.  Dranna Ru pleads to Gill to take Zhivali away before the wall rises.  She says Shanri is meant to burn, and gives her visions of the Old Generation.  Gil sees images of Jarik and Nia talking of their plan with the tunnel.  They asked Dranna Ru to provide the blood by having the Orks murder all the Ven in the tunnels.  The ones to be saved will be marked on the forehead.  In return, they will make sure people forget Dranna Ru the Fashuva.  The conversation stops and they make their way outside.  Gillian makes Zhivali ride her familiar and bids it to fly away to the edge of Shanri.  As they fly, Dalvinosh's agents emerge and take Gillian prisoner.

Cass watches the rehearsals for the wedding and sees Cherno boldly playing the dangerous role of Galeo.  They talk to him afterwards, sharing with him how Galeo brings inspiration.  Cass suggests Cherno play Galeo as the Mother.  Cherno reveals that he was raised and prepared by Dalvinosh Steele.  He however claims Dalvinosh died a long time ago when the wall called the Mistweir collapsed, and he was spirited away to this Shanri.  All he could remember was a face - a beautiful woman who looked like Galeo - yet might be Madelyn - and that she somehow was instrumental to his arrival.  Cherno says he's still one-year old.  Cass takes one of his hair and asks for his name.  He remembers the name Calloway.   Once, there was a Bear child Galeo adopted by that name.

 The Serpents discuss a ritual that may be able to seal - something.  Nia and Jarik's plan seemingly already has prepared for this contingency.  Rio's plan is to start at the cities and leave the lands of Nia.  Any place not Serpent nor Fox will be razed, and the people herded towards Dalvinosh.  Rio's goal is to make Dalvinosh give up his army against the Senate so that all the armies can come to the center against the wicked ones.  Rio wants to time it so the armies are in time to meet them.

Maja Thayl arrives and interrupts Rio's meeting.  She brings Rio an invitation she received from Cass for her wedding.  Instructions to be at the Citadel at the Start of Summer are written on it. Maja is upset as she realizes none of the children have done as they were told.  Maja feels 16 years worth of planning has been put at risk because of this act of rebellion.  Maja says the only one that doesn't fear the wicked ones are demons.  Rio points out that she will be bringing all the sacrifices to the center.  Maja agrees, but the children are not supposed to be present.  Maja says she can make the people forget Rio.  Maja plans to attend the wedding.

James sends his vassals away.  Jesse arrives and the two talk about Jarik, the events and their emotions.  Jesse feels she is here to save James.  James, however, feels it is too late for that.  He feels he has no stake in all this despite Jesse feeling he is in the best position to do things since no one remembers him.  James opts to stay in the citadel, even refusing the Bloodsword she tries to hand him.

Dalvinosh Steele screams at Gil, questioning her role and actions.  Gillian, however, does not back down. Instead she drives home the news that the wicked ones are indeed coming and her conviction on speaking this makes him tremble.   He insists that he killed the last of the Wicked Ones in the past, even took the last of his children and raised it.  Gillian insists on taking the army he has raised and to her surprise, he surrenders to her both the army and his position as Avirex.  He has decided to accept the wedding invitation and hopes to learn the truth.  Gil sends Rio a message and suggests he stop his plans to raze the Provinces, now that they have both armies.

Cass tells Cherno to welcome their guests as Galeo.  Summer begins tomorrow.  The Totem Rex says he's delaying his own marriage to let Cass have her day.  Cass explains to the Totem Rex that her guests are people who have made her feel like a pawn.  The Totem Rex shows his wedding present to her - armies - and tells her that he rules the sky while Cass can rule the land.  He grants her the right to rule the armies during her wedding.  Jalani comes to speak to Cass about the army.  Jalani asks secretly if she has decided on whose side her allegiance lies.  Cass admits she will do what is best for what nurtured her.  Jalani tells her to take the army to Citadel.

Rio sends Gil instructions: to tell Jessie that Rio can save James but Jesse must use Jarik's secret name to stop the parents' plan.  Gil must keep the army from the Citadel's center, and keep the enemy's army from it as well.  Shanri is not afraid.

Maja and Dalvinosh arrive at Citadel where Rio is.  An airship arrives as well and from it, Nia descends.  She is painted white and her eyes gleam red and seems confused at what Rio had prepared.  Nia admits this all reminds her of Gillian, and confesses that Blood is Thicker than water.  Janine is worried. Nia understands she cannot stop Rio's plan and wonders if this will be their final encounter.  Rio has Talashan, and it has been a very long time since she had seen other Speakers of the Soil.  Nia thanks Rio for everything, proud of her despite her choice to do things differently.  Nia leaves, knowing matters are no longer in her hands.

James sees the invited guests arrive.    Maja Thayl, Dalvinosh Steele and Madelyn Yvarai gather to attend what may be the final wedding they ever attend.  James has his guards keep the three outside while he orders oil to be doused all over his lands.  Gillian's army arrives at the outskirts, while the other army camps around the Citadel.   The ven have now moved into position.

Cass talks to the demon and tells it she wants the demon with her.  The demon claims it can only help if she says its name.  Galeo calls out for Cass as the time for the wedding has come.  Cass claims she is doing all this for Galeo as her attempt to rid Shanri of those who used her.  The rest can start over.

Jalani steps through the opera house to receive Cass' guests.  She is shocked that James is still there, but focuses instead on showing where the guests should go.  James has to let them in.  Gillian mobilizes the army.  Galeo says that no matter what, Cass is of the blood.  She insists on having her wedding before she commands the army.   James and Jalani make their appearance - allowing guests to come in.  The Madelyn Yvarai that comes forward is an old woman.

Cass greets the guests.  Maja does not seem to happy to be present.  Madelyn is polite and smiles.  Dalvinosh is at awe, looking around and trying to understand it all.  Maja tries to give an excuse to leave the event, but the guards do not allow her to leave. She takes this as an insult.   Cass, however, points out how Maja had brought her armies.  Maja denies them being hers. She forces Cass to admit her plans, but it seems Cass still has not decided where she truly stands.

Galeo greets them and Maja is terrified to see her.  Madelyn asks if this is the moment they can talk and Madelyn uses the word, "reunited" to refer to this discussion.  The wedding begins.  Cherno watches from the distance and sees Madelyn Yvarai. He remembers her.  Rio's army marches into the Citadel as James continues to douse his property with oil.  Gillian remains ready with the armies.

The wedding ends without incident and the feast begins.  Cherno comes forward, not dressed in costume as planned, and Cass takes over to address the gathered.  Taking Nolwen's sword, she addresses the army as hers and claims she is uniting the land and sky today.  She commands the army to attack the Totem Rex.

Obedient to the end, the army rushes the Totem Rex.  Maja is confused and runs for cover.   Madelyn finally recognizes who the Totem Rex is and the shock silences her.  Dalvinosh recognizes the construction of the structure and reels at his realization.  The Totem Rex uses Sorcery and terrifying powers to fight back and the armies seem to struggle against this one man.

Cass addresses her guests, calling them the "cleverest of all her ven acquaintances."  Madelyn says it isn't chance that they are all here, but seems thankful they are not all complete for some reason. Dalvinosh realizes the cirty itself is a massive artifact, the only reason why the Totem Rex is still alive after he had killed him, and he realizes the blood of the Wicked Ones are in Madelyn and her line.  She is his daughter.   He tried to keep the blood apart, even eating the body, but the blood desires to return to the city!   All the Potent Blood carries are drawn to return, including Gillian.  She defies it, standing her ground, but others are not as strong.  Those who get too close are struck down, and the Blood breaks free from their bodies to float towards the City.  Gillian calls for her men to drag the other Potent Blood carriers back, and to tie them to the ground.

Her actions might have helped as the Totem Rex seemingly begins to act weaker.

Maja searches for Jalani among the screaming crowds.  Madelyn admits that all of them have visions - she has of a Bronze Inquisitor, Dalvinosh of a grinning man, and Cass of this demonic presence.  Cass asks if Galeo's spirits are still there  but Madelyn insists that their blood carries with it something that whispers in their ear.  Something that insists to be superior than others.  She says the Totem Rex wants to collect their blood and reunite the divided essence within them.

James, Gil and Rio observes the Golden City seems to wobble and weaken the longer they keep the Potent Blooded from getting closer.  Rio and Gil command their forces to pull back.  James notes that the map on the garden matches the structure's damage, as if it updates them real time on what is transpiring.  The tower begins to move.

Galeo calls for Talia Yvarai and for Falvren Dyr to come forth and use her.  Galeo's one eye turns bloodshot as Falvren Dyr possesses her.  He speaks through her mouth and warns that he is the Weapon.  Galeo attacks the Totem Rex, despite Falvren Dyr warning her that this battle will not end well for her.  She insists it will end well for Cass and that is what is important.

Rio sees the Totem Rex fighting the army with ease.  Through some Sorcerous power, Bloodswords swirl and dance around him like a cloak, slashing at anything that gets too close.  The armies commanded by Cass to attack are dying all around him.  Cass rushes to Cherno, who declares her as his sister.  Dalvinosh stole him from Galeo when he was a baby, during her celebration.  Dalvinosh decides it is time and uses the artifact hidden long in his chair.  

Cass demands for Cherno to be Galeo, and asks what "she" has in her head.  Gillian finds a burrower Ork bursting from the ground to pick her up. Jalani appears at the tower with Nolwen and tells him to seal the door.  She slits Nolwen's throat to ensure he cannot reopen it.  James seals the door as well.

Rio snatches the Totem Rex from the air, but having lost his opponent, Galeo/Falvren Dyr gets angered.  Multiple Bloodswords stab at Rio and they crash into the garden.  Cass encourages Cherno to try and be Galeo to get them out of the city.   "Galeo" suggests taking the door.  It closes before they get to it.  Madelyn tells them they can take her airship, which remains nearby.

Gillian, upon the burrower worm, rides it all the way down from the Golden City.  The Serpents begin using the Talashan magic to force teh blood back.  Madelyn tells Cass she can only take one person with her - and then reveals she has the glider that was once a gift to Seran Thorne.  Cass gets into it before Madelyn can do so, and demands to know who can make the rebuilding of the world worth her while.  Cass decides to save Cherno instead.  Madelyn curses her as they leave, promising her that all she cares about shall die.  

Madelyn and Dalvinosh fall into the ritual Rio is in the center of.  Rio points out as she stabs that the Sorcerer-King also feared Shanri - as it is something all ven inherited.  James touches the Opera book and hears Talia Yvarai saying someone is calling her.  James takes the book with him.  

Cass tells Cherno that it will be his duty now to spread her name as House Callselanter.  She gives him this final duty then stabs herself in the chest, perhaps to fulfill the curse that the only thing she cared about shall die by her hands.    Cherno does not understand though why she would do that and not simply allowed someone else to escape on the glider with him.

James gets to the tower and realizes that the tower is made of orichalcum.  He sets the book down and impales the book.  The demon bleeds, and its blood fuels the spell of the tunnel network.  The wall goes up and the Sorcery is completed.  Rio watches as the wall rises.  Gillian and Cherno remain outside its walls.  Gillian gathers all the survivors she can, and they head out.   Dranna Ru threatens to eventually kill her entire line if Zhivali is not safe.

Galeo returns to herself, no longer possessed by the Suaven.  Shanri responds to their event, and the entire circle of land cupped by the Ritual is sucked into the Abyss, taking Rio and James with it.

At the Senate Hall, Cherno calls to be Avirex.   He calls out to all to listen.  And he hears a voice whispering in his head.

And far away, Gillian watches as a woman and a man walk away.  Finally free to be together again.

The End

After the Rain ep34 : Houses of the Blooded

05/10/2015
After the Rain

Episode Thirty Four
"Preparations"

Houses of the Blooded

Gillian has learned to tell when someone has been replaced by tulpa from the Old Shanri.  The idea that the Sorcerer-Kings are returning has been raised, and the thought brings fear to those who consider it.  Investigation of the tunnels beneath Citadel reveal they go all the way to Bastion, where Gillian's grandfather helps them cross to the Old Shanri.   The Serpents have identified the connection between potent blood and the existing ability to call upon Blessings.  They have begun cataloging the people who have such Blood.

Gillian meets with Count Kether, who tells her he'll be watching the war to come in Old Shanri.  He knows better than to be too close to the coming battle.  She forms an army of her own, one composed of Orks.  She visits Nia's old holding which Rio had taken over and speaks with her "sister" on these matters.   The two silently discuss the power of the Quill, and begin unlocking its secrets.  Gillian admits she fled because she attempted to poison Dalvinosh Steele and failed.  A grinning man pointed to her as the culprit.  The two now attempt to gain the Secret Names hidden in the Quill, but there seems to be no finding Nia's.  To their surprise, the Quill breaks and spells out, "Enough."  Rio stalks out in frustration.  Gillian grabs the Quill and tries one last name, "Dranna" and is surprised when the Quill writes, "Dranna Ru knows."

Rio finds herself intercepted by Foxes, who have come for Sanctuary against Dalvinosh Steele and the Senate.  Their leader, Y'lena Yvarai, the mother of Velya Vykos, tells her that her son once was close to Rio's mother.  The Orks look to Rio for a decision and she chooses to allow them to hdie.

Cassalanter and Nolwen speak of their upcoming wedding.  He talks of having the Golden City descend to the ground so the sun and the ground can be united - wed - together.   The discussions meander often, but Nolwen is too smitten to notice.  Galeo soon arrives to join the conversation, and she talks to Cass about other matters.  She seems shocked to learn that Hero is still alive.  The two realize that does mean she is still married.

House Serpent gathers to deal with the realization that the threat of the Sorcerer-King is real.  A voice in the crowd raises the inquiry of Dalvinosh Steele himself might be one, especially given the strange and powerful manner of Sorcery that he invokes.  Some fear is is he who has been replacing various ven with the tulpa in some strange bid to raise an army.  Their worries are laughed at by an attendee, who reveals herself to be Madelyn Yvarai.  The woman directly corrects their misconceptions, speaking of the Old Shanri and of the coming danger.  The Earl, fearing the change, accuses James to be her Spymaster.  Madelyn scoffs as such a thought.

Back at Q'naldinir, Jalani joins Cass and Galeo and once Galeo leaves, she invites Cass to join her in a secret conversation and using the Ritual of the Rose, creates a chamber of privacy for them to use.  There, Jalani tries to learn where Cass stands.  She shares that they seek to stop the Totem Rex.  Cass, however, remains flightly and undecided, which frustrates Jalani.  Jalani reveals she has a clam-shaped compact, similar to what has been used by the mythic Cherno, but she does not use its magical properties to steal the memory of the meeting away.   Beyond Jalani's senses, the presence in Cass' mind whispers to her that it might serve her interests to help Jalani take the Totem Rex down... and to then take his place.  It suggests she should throw someone the Totem Rex would follow over the island.

The Orks and the Foxes, in an unprecedented moment, train together for the coming war.  Gillian brings up the Shadows that Dalvinosh employs and offers an approach for the Serpents to use against them.  But when Zhivali Ru is dragged to them, they learn he is the new Spymaster for Maja and was sent to search for the Quill.  He was overcome by the sight of the Ork army.  Rio considers keeping him prisoner given his value as Dranna Ru's son.  He admits he cannot contact his mother because she is gone - left for some temple.  Rio realizes this may be the upside down temple and sends Gillian to take Zhivali there with her.

Madelyn refuses to answer any of the accusations the Earl makes on James being affiliated to her.  Multiple incarnations of Madelyn surface, which shocks the gathered.  One throws James a ring and he recognizes it to be the one Jarik talks about before, owned by Dalvinosh Steele and used to communicate with the other Earls.  The real Madelyn wears one too, and through whispers attempts to gain James' support.  But James, tired of her mind games, destroys the ring - causing Madelyn intense pain from the feedback.  The Earl of the Serpents tries to interrogate James, but he uses his cursed blade to injury one of the Serpents and forces them all to back away.  Madelyn offers herself to the blade, and knowing the blade would force the injured to speak truthfully, James realizes Madelyn plays a dangerous game to make him believe her claims: that she was sent by Jarik to pick up his children before the war with the Sun comes around.  James drags Madelyn off before she could reveal more secrets. In private, Madelyn shares Count Kether had failed to gather them, having lost his will to do anything given his loss of love and having been swallowed up by a deep boredom.

Cassalanter meets with the Totem Rex.  The man, dressed in gold, addresses her directly and she shares she has come because Nolwell desires marriage in view of the world below.  The Totem Rex does not disagree with this request and even admits the Treaty has reached its time to end.  He seeks to hold the wedding in the Opera House in the Summer.  He is visibly distraught, however, when Galeo speaks of wanting to create art.  As the Dragon, her words hint she sees herself as a Fox.  Cass counters as a Dragon her way is to cultivate change, and this might only be expressed through Art.  She requests to have the Wedding attended by her friends, and seeks to have Dalvinosh Steele, Madelyn Yvarai and Maja Thayl to come on first light of summer to fit for clothing. Jalani simply believes Cass is playing a long con.  She fears, however, she is giving Cassalanter too much credit.  

Weeks later.  Cass is watching a performance on the streets.  He holds a small mirror, which she uses to speak with the Demon when she feels she must.  The Demon offers to help discern Cherno's motivations, for a price.  Cass approaches Cherno during the act, and asks him to take her home.  Cherno seems awestruck at the realization she has none.  Cherno visibly changes form and Cass takes him with him to her own abode.  She asks him of how he arrived at the city and admits he merely walked through some doorway.  He mumbled about Ash having many named, including a James Adrente.  Cass asks if he would like to play the role of the Totem Rex.  Chero admits he has no idea who that name is.

The Wasp, Noreen, arrives.  Sister to Nolwen, Noreen approaches the two to talk to them about personal matters. In response, Cherno becomes Nolwen in appearance and asks her to be one of the bridesmaids.   Cherno wanders off to the side while Noreen talks to Cass.  She shares her brother has been trying to find a way to break the treaty and find a place down below -- he might still be below.  Cass finds Cherno back in the room, confused on where they are.  He seems fascinated by the story of Galeo's daughter, and when she glances at the mirror to check on the demon, to her surprise, it is silent.

Back at Old Shanri, Jarik screams in frustration as he can no longer reach out to James.  Madelyn explains that James refused to accept it.  Jarik concedes though because his focus will have to be on Jalani and finding a way to save her.

After the Rain ep33 : Houses of the Blooded

03/29/2015

After the Rain

Episode Thirty Three
"Names"

Houses of the Blooded

The Quill finds its way to Rio.  Gil is with Rio and Lyra when the Black Hand arrives to deliver the artifact.  Rio speaks to the two of them about the army she needs, to defend everything else while Dalvinosh focuses on the coming of the others.  Lyra doesn't quite understand the fear of the other Shanri.  Rio insists they need to gain soldiers from the Foxes and Serpents and so she sends Lyra to know the mind of the Serpents.  She suggests Lyra look for the heir of the three sisters.  Lyra admits the tomes of those women were last said to be in the hands of Jarik.  Rio announces she plans to take on the Serpents themselves and she tasks Gillian to focus on finding an ork army for Rio to command.

Through the loyal Jeeves, James summons Jesse.  They speak about Szas, and discuss the fact she is watching over Cherno.  He takes the tunnel beneath the Provinces to reach the city of Catan and searches for the Spider.  The Spider, it turns out, is aware of Q'naldinir and of Jalani's situation.  Szas admits she killed someone to give James the face he wears as Ash.  As they discuss things further, they speak of Jaric finally embracing the use of Sorcery, and how the last tunnel was sealed with their names and then forgotten.  With Nia and Janine solidifying their stronghold in the senate over the last generation, the role of Cherno remains uncertain.  James chooses to leave him in Q'naldinir under the pretense of allowing him to let his art evolve.

Cassalanter finds herself seated at the far end of a majestic table.  Galeo sits at the opposite end.  The two discuss things, speaking of what has transpired and even visit the Garden.  There, Galeo admits she is excited since there remains less than a year before they will finally cultivate Shanri.  Galeo is curious to how her land is now owned by Cass and she even wonders about Hero.  Cass mentions that Galeo used to be a Suaven, and that statement confuses the Dragon of the Q'naldinir.  She remembers it to have been true for a while, but that when she died in Shanri, it was the time Seran had coldly left her behind.  Galeo is beyond petty revenge, however.  She sees herself reborn with the task to do the impossible: to revive Shanri from its ashes into a perfect new image - one of course she alone can define.  The Garden is grown to be a map of Shanri itself, and when Cass points out where she knows Galeo's temple to stand, Galeo is interested.  "Could there be another me around?"  Deciding it is time to rest, she calls for her servants who then carry her away to sleep.  Cass feels this place needs a proper queen.

Days pass and in Q'naldinir, Cass sees a gathering around a woman crying for her dead child.  The people around are muttering the name, "Cherno" out of all things they could say.  But Cass realizes the term Cherno instead means "to understand by never say aloud something," in this place.  A loud sound clacks and suddenly, everyone is simply walking away.  Cass pushes her way through the gathered and finds Galeo there.  She approaches her and tells her about Cherno, a subject that Galeo seems eager to hear.  She recognizes the debt she owes Cherno and shows Cass an unrooted anhill, which is exposed but undamaged.  Using a lens, she then proceeds to burn the ants and tells Cass how this captures in a way what she seeks to do to Shanri and the ven.  Cass mentions that she thought Galeo was in her own head for a while, but Galeo admits to having no idea what she means.

Galeo, however, admits the demon in her head has gone quiet.  Cass wonders if it has transfered to her own.  When Galeo tries asking, a response comes in Galeo's own motions... motions she cannot control.  Spoken through the Invisible Tongue, her own hand tells her, "You did make her the inescapable trap."

Rio and Gil leave Dalvinosh' Province, leaving only a note for the old fool.  They separate ways in hopes of accomplishing their goals sooner.  Rio visits the Duchess Jesse, but discovers she had left in a hurry, leaving even her own Maids and Personal Guard behind.  All the vassals are rushing to pack and follow suit.

Gill returns to Warriorsett and meets with Uvanla, Lukas and Artemisia.  Uvanla notices she's acting distant, and in response she evades the question.  She makes him promise to write on his wall where he can see, "If I don't return by the end of the year, find me."  Uvanla agrees and makes her promise to tell him her secret if he does find her.  Gil turns to Lukas and Artemesia and asks them to finally share their secret.  They admit they hope to take her away from the threats surrounding the ven.  They admit they are but tulpa and have been tasked to bring the children to safety.  When asked about the original, they refuse to give clear answers.  The earlier generation, it seems, were aware of the threat of those from Q'naldinir, and have asked Madelyn Yvarai to help them close the door leading to that place.  But when they learned they had no power to do so, the older group decided to buy themselves time.  Jalani volunteered to act as an intermediary between the two, but in truth was buying time for the others to fulfill some grand master plan. Janine and Nia have been building their army of ven and ork.

Rio uncovers a tunnel that leads to Citadel and even more interestingly, the tunnel supports a rail system.  Following it, the deeper tunnels go through wider winding routes.  The first few days of journeying through them are quiet and safe.  But days later, an alarm sounds as an Ork is sighted ahead!  What was about to become a fight is abruptly halted when the Ork claims to recognize Rio.  It turns out to be one of Janine's Orks.

James welcomes Jesse and seems unhappy with all the untruth she had been surrounding him in.  He is pissed off about the use of sorcery and of the fact he feels used.  She says that Artemesia and Lukas had visited her to explain why they are young.  James wants a Bloodsword and his insistence for one worries Jesse.  James seems final in his desire to have NOTHING to do with the others.

Lukas and Artemesia inform Gil of the ven they have been gathering to hide them at the Other Shanri and replacing them with tulpa.  The tulpa have been modified to last longer, but inadvertently now seemingly age backwards.  Gil admits to them that Nia spoke of war to come when the Season of Summer arrives, and this sends them to a panic.  Lukas even considers killing himself in order to send a message back to Other Shanri, but Artemesia remembers the Merchant receipt.  The ritual of the merchant is then used to deliver the message while Gil sends Lukas on Thanos, her Ork mount, to fly away. Gil brings up the topic of Haroun and how Dalvinosh has him imprisoned, and this almost tempts Artemesia to act.  But both decide it would be best to wait for Lukas.

Galeo is upset that Cherno has not accepted her invitation to lunch.  She decides to build and perform an opera to call him out.  Cass and Galeo talk about the Totem Rex and Cass mentions her desire to meet him.  Galeo insists he does not just meet anyone and even raises the fact Cass might consider replacing Jalani as the Elk.

The Ork tells Rio that the tunnels were part of Nia and Janine's plans.  They make their way all the way to Citadel which raises their alarm at her entry.  James tells her that Jesse is no longer welcome in his castle.  James and Rio talk about the events and Jesse's staff is sent away to go after her.  He shows Rio his face, and revealing his Ash persona is gone.  James is still quite bitter of the events but he reaches an understanding with Rio.  Rio tries to assign the job of talking to Szas to James, but he instead chooses to send Rio to do it.  James chooses instead to explore the unknown tunnels with the new sword Rio gives him.  Rio leaves.

Artemesia and Gil talk, and the two discuss how the goal is to save the bloodline.  Gil negotiates to delay the journey to the end of the season, admitting she has things to do for Rio.  Artemesia speaks of the sacrifices the old generation had made and raises the point that being ven has its place in the world, regardless of how they feel about things.  Gil asks Artemesia to take Uvanla away.

Cass asks Nolwen to help her create some guards and swords and the task is accomplished with the least of effort.  Cass begins dropping hints at a Romance with Nolwen, setting herself up as someone who can be seen as reliable and beautiful.  Cass even suggests Nolwen can use this occasion to make amends with the Dragon whom he had insulted.  The two carry the conversation more, and Cass begins to seduce Nolwen to feed her more information she needs. 

Weeks pass.  Cass is alone when she notices her reflection talking to her through body language.  The movement in the reflection are motions that are empowered by the Invisible Tongue.  The voice in her head whispers taunts and lies, even making Nolwen leave.  Cass begins to speak back to the reflection, speaking aloud because she wants the words to reach the Totem Rex' ears as well.  The voice is upset with Cass' choice to not believe her words and is insulted that she refuses to see that it wants to help her.

Galeo uses the five corpses of the servants as actors for her opera.  She names one Hero, the Husband.  She seems determined to create a masterful piece.  Little does she know someone watches from his lofty throne.  And Afhil stands nearby, watching beside him.

After the Rain ep32 : Houses of the Blooded

3/22/2015
After the Rain

Episode Thirty Two
"Dragon"

Houses of the Blooded

Gil and Rio are at the estate.  Gil crosses the courtyard and sees Dalvinosh Steele walking and talking to... shadows.  Gil has seen one of these mirror masks before, but it was broken and pieced together in her Mom's house during the War of the Dukes.  Seran had come one rainy night...

Rio is looking at Dalvinosh' military structure.  She goes to the farms, and sees a fellow former Vashna.  She follows him in a gathering of around ten ven, gathered around a crate with a wolf symbol on it.  They hold out their Bloodswords... but it becomes clear they are not wolves as they hesitate on using the blades.  Rio slides in and asks her nondescript questions in an attempt to learn more about what the gathering is about.  The woman leading the group has both a seven-foot long centipede in her service, as well as a blade.  Rio realizes it is her mother behind this gathering.  Some mistake her to be Dranna Ru, but Rio reminds them Dranna Ru is a legend.  Rio speaks with Nia and and the two exchange stories on what had transpired. Nia is particularly angered when Rio speaks of her eyes having glowed red.  Nia is still in communication with Janine, through a pearl earring, and both turn out to have tricked Dalvinosh Steele into building an army they hope to manipulate to fight what they believe is the last remaining Sorcerer King.  Both had made plans for the army of Dalvinosh to clash with that of the Sorcerer King - and were to pounch in and defeat whoever won between the two.   Rio learns the larger part of their scheme: all whom had been announced or found dead were in truth replaced with a Tulpa in the last ten years.  And these have all joined them in preparation to fight the Sorcerer King.

Galeo poses in her gown which is the stage.  Jalani whispers to Cass to follow as she shows respect to the "Dragon's" presence.   Cass cannot shake the familiarity she feels with Galeo's presence.  Galeo however dismisses Cass, talking about being the one who addresses and is not addressed.   The condescending attitude is thick and palpable.  Nolwen attempts to guide Cass in how to relate and address Galeo.

Jalani talks to Ash about the situation, surprised that Jarik had never oriented them on what to expect up here.  She takes him to a hidden room where they can speak unnoticed and slowly she turns a gear to close the doorway behind them.   The place clearly is prepared for Sorcery, however, with the rosebushes along the walls.  She admits the Totem Rex can see through the room, but the Dragon can not.  Jalani admits the Dragon is an old friend whom they thought was dead.  She proposes to grant Ash access back to his memories, mentioning him not recalling how he lost his arm.  She admits they made him forget for his own safety, but the fact they both are here now, hiding clearly was a pointless decision.  Ash asks her to visit them in the Citadel, but she starts explaining her role here is more than just politics.  She talks about adoration of the Totem Rex - a Cunning move which Ash picks up on as she covers their intentions with misleading worlds.  On the table, engravings of letters and numbers are present.  Jalani continues a conversation verbally of the Totem Rex' triumphs, while using her finger to point out a different communication.  They communicate through the board, and soon conclude it might be best to find Jesse.

What began as Galeo chiding and maltreating Cass' presence in the Golden City transforms into a moment when the former Artist realizes who the young lady is.  The realization brings her to scream.  At the same time, Gil remembers Janine once making demands upon Seran to explain why she is with Madelyn Yvarai.  Seran had come to visit her in the past.  As before, Madelyn had used her clamshell artifact to cause others to forget.  Gil recalls seeing the Mirror Mask that Seran once wore.  Presently, Gil listens to Dalvinosh as he complains about many things, including Nia's withdrawal to the lands beneath.  Using Sorcery, the old man calls out to Nia but the spell instead locates Gillian, which ruins his plans.

Galeo's screams lead to her retelling of her lost history.  Of how she was plunged into water when the demon's wishes were revoked.  Of how she was stranded on an island with Seran, the island being one of the ruins of Old Shanri.  Of how Galeo was close to death from her injuries, and how none of them had a means to save her.  Of how Seran used her True Name to craft an Airship and find Lukas.  And eventually how she saw the sun approaching her, and discovered the Totem Rex at her side.    Galeo is back thanks to the power of the Totem Rex.  And her desire for revenge is to be by pruning Shanri of the unwanted elements that keep it from becoming better.

Ash's memories return as that of James, who was barely rescued by his sister, Jessie, and their cousin, Rio.  James had stayed alive for weeks by drinking Quan Wei's blood, after the treachery of the Foxes.  But they had to hide his identity to protect the whereabouts of the Quill.  Rio insists its whereabouts be concealed.  A secret he keeps even from her mother.

Dalvinosh's tale is revealed as well, as he shares how he was once just a Tulpa from a city where the Senate had fallen.  In his past, Madelyn loved a Serpent named Jano Mwrr and despite her creating the Mistweir to block the Storm, she was punished with the removal of any memory of her husband and child.  Galeo Silja, it is revealed, was the child Madelyn Yvarai had never remembered.  But now, Dalvinosh is in Solace, and only remains active by possessing the Ruks that serve him.  Madelyn had been murdering her bodies, forcing him into this final one.  Dalvinosh wishes to leave his legacy with Gillian.  But Gil declines, and to force her hand, he admits he has had Haroun Q'n imprisoned for the last ten years.

Galeo confesses the voices in Cass' head were her, a connection they shared for barely a few weeks since the wish was very quickly revoked by the Demon's imprisonment.  Cass ignores how this means the voice she still hears might be just madness growing inside of her.  Cass chooses to stay with Galeo, and to her surprise realizes Galeo does not remember her Secret Name.

Rio now realizes everything was part of their plans.  The Garden mirrors the city above.  The tunnels are both to prepare others for escape.  So many things planned in preparation for the invasion.  Nia admits they suspect the Sorcerer King was drawn by the immense powers unleashed at the Opera House.  Nia needs the armies present in the current Senate Hall by the next Summer.  Eventually Gil is reunited with them, and after sharing all the information about the current events, both choose to stay to assuage Dalvinosh' suspicions.  Rio beats Nia up, takes her hood, and returns to report back about the Bloodsword transaction she had witnessed.  The act gains Dalvinosh's trust, who rewards her with command over the Army.

Elsewhere, Rio's loyal Blackhand dig where they had been directed to do so, and uncover Rio's spear which had long been hidden there.  Keen eyes might have noticed that of the many feathers around the spearhead is actually the Quill.

After the Rain ep31 : Houses of the Blooded

3/9/2015
After the Rain

Episode Thirty One
"Dragon"

Houses of the Blooded

Senate.

Dalvinosh stresses the threat that exists represented by Lady M.  He has called for the generals to prepare and swear an oath to him.  He calls for Gillian to come to him earlier, rather than borrowing her during the Winter Season.  All wolves are required to join as Blood Generals. Rio is reinstated as the most publicly known general and allowed to have an army and has a voice among the Valerajan.  Younger tulpa are found in many provinces.  The older version of these tulpa however are missing.

Cass was not present at the Senate - no one really notices her absence however.  Rio manages to move Lyra Dru as her attache.  The temple of the Hearth Mother has become a staging ground.  And while the Foxes and Serpents secretly do not support Dalvinosh, they have begun to see Cassalanter as a possible figurehead/voice.  She, however,has ceased to "hear" Galeo's voce in her head.

Ash hopes to visit Jalani to learn more about the "Canaldenere" which he realizes may actually be Q'naldinir of legend.   He waits for Norene to visit and when she arrives, learns that the Totem Rex has approved his request to visit.  They make plans to leave immediately.  Cass joins in rather impulsively with Nolwen, who allows her one gift she can choose.  They arrive and discover they are standing on a glass floor where a vast forest can be seen below.  Empty frames float around them in the chamber, like orphaned paintings.  The walls of the dome are made of orichalcum.  Cass looks further and finds Jarik's old castle below them as well!  The garden in the courtyard, it seems, looks like a map from above.  Looks like Nolwen's city only visits when it is Summer, which is when the garden is a bloom and the map is visible.

Rio is listening to Dalvinosh's speech in the Senate.  Jesse notes that Cass is missing.  Dalvinosh declares that the Valerajan will act on the council, one which Dalvinosh himself will not be part of.  Rio, along with four others, are allowed to overrule Dalvinosh's decisions at any time.  The Earl of the Wolves volunteers all Wolves as part of the Swords.  The Q'val of Althea Thorne is called in - he is asked to pray to Althea for when the army travels to other Shanri.  They declare that the staging grounds will be in Bastion, Janine's land which houses Nerea's temple.    Jesse points out that Rio's service to Cass must end, but Rio doesn't care.  Dalvinosh watches them silently.

Gillian is in a caravan when she remembers the moment Kether spoke with her.  Apparently, Uvanla's personality and directive is all his.  Kether says he knew her mothers, and that they must leave their fortress.  Gillian says she will help him if he allows her to marry Uvanla.  He is surprised at her, even impressed, but she admits it is convenient.   Uvanla arrives, and Kether pretends to be one of the Veth and moves away.  The two leave, flirting as they walk off.

The Senate makes a motion to dismantle all temples of the Suaven to show their disappointment.  Rio says the effort is a waste.  Someone proposes that all provinces with a shrine should disassemble one of them.  The Long Winter prophecy is mentioned.  A man had been appearing, saying there will be three years of Winter.  Dalvinosh announces that the Senate will help anyone who wants to make Silos.  Maja Thayl talks to the Senate, here to claim the land of Amon Rabbas.  She says she believes Amon poisoned himself.  Rio suggests to Jesse to give more people to the lands of Jarik.    A Galeo Silja has been Blooded - she is the daughter of the pair which Galeo adopted in the past - the sister to her adopted son.  She claims the Citadel as the land, and she's interested in watching some land for them if they are leaving.

Ash arrives on the landing of Q'naldinir.   Apparently, there is a House of Cats and Wasps.  Apparently, all ven here live in the one and only castle.  The door in is unlocked by blood. Apparently, they are only close by during Summer.  Nolwen and Cass talk and she learns they believe their City is our Sun.  The Totem Rex, however, is not of any House.  The Elk, it turns out to be Jalani, is the only Elk in Q'naldinir.  The glass floors were Totem Rex' request, a desire to be able to look down upon the others.  To them, Cass is only Ruk, and Ruk are only companions to the Houses.  Apparently, the ven in the city are servants, creations to serve them.  Nolwen is of the House Falcon, and the only Falcon.  The hierarchy is strangely different in Q'naldinir.  Ash too is seen as veth in this land.  They are greeted by Jalani, who is shocked to see her son, James.  He does not recognize her, however.  Dismayed by his lack of an arm, they talk and he insists his name is Ash Jalan.  Jalani asks about Jesse.  He suggests casting the Rose, but she admits it doesn't work here.   Around her are paintings of Jalani's old life.  She explains how here, the ven are people Blooded to become Vassals.  Being Veth are their natural Bloodright.  Nolwen sees Cass as pure of blood, and thus she is Ruk.  He gives her a ven to be Blooded under her service.  Nolwen Bloods the man there and then, and the man is declared Ven.  Nolwen calls Cass his "Dragon" and when Cass asks to make one of her own, he says that is up to the Totem Rex.  Cass also asks to meet Jalani.  

Rio arrives at Dalvinosh's castle and is invited to dinner  They talk of today's Senate hearing and Rio admits she felt the clamor was a waste of time.  She explains that she does not disagree that the armies are necessary - but she does not see that war as requiring her service.  Dalvinosh asks about Gil - Rio says she requires Gil in her army for her ability to speak to Orks.  After all, Rio wants to lead an Ork army.  Gillian arrives and is also made to sit.  Dalvinosh tells them a story - a castle with two women ruling the throne, and their desire to have children.   How both women began to move unaware that the other was seeking the same thing.

Dalvinosh is here to find a successor - he tells Gillian that she must protect Rio.  Rio points to Theia, the other sibling.  Dalvinosh is flabbergasted that Rio is not her daughter.  Szaz is called in to be scolded for her faulty intelligence.  Dalvinosh hits her, angry.  He asks Gillian if it is her - Rio says the "twins" don't know their sires.  Dalvinosh demands for Rio to blind Szaz' remaining eye.  Rio does so with a fork.  Dalvinosh admits if they need her to ever have eyesight, they will find a way.

Dalvinosh demands for Gillian to bring Theia to Dalvinosh by Autumn, or else Rio will not leave for the war.  Rio is displeased.
Jalani asks about Jarik - Ash deflects.  She recognizes Jess's Sorcery on him.  Apparently, time passes moe slowly here in Q'naldinir since there are no days and nights.  They talk about Jesse and Rio.  Nolwen takes Cass through a Village, where "ven" children run around.  Cass arrives at Jalani and Ash's meeting.  Nolwen comes in and draws his spear.  Jalani also keeps a blade at ready.  It seems that Nowlen wants to kill Jalani so that Cass can take her place as Elk.  Jalani's dagger is almost identical to Ash's.  Cass tries to stop the fight, and would instead be happy to be Nolwen's Dragon.  Cass says they can find another way - Jalani and Nolwen panic as the Totem Rex speaks through the ven.  He questions the gall that someone would seek to usurp him.  Cass plays dumb to the accusation.  The Totem Rex allows Cass the chance to learn their ways and terms.  She will be allowed to meet the Dragon, and learn from her.    Jalani must present Ash to the Totem Rex... as her son, James.  The Totem Rex declares his name as Cherno.  

Dalvinosh leaves - Szaz says that now her debt to Janine and Nia is paid.  She had their help in spiriting Jarik away.  Rio says that the only reason why she didn't kill Dalvinosh is because she needs his influence, but Szaz points out that Dalvinosh needs her more.  Szaz says the place where they found Ash has been empty of Suaven.  Szaz says the place where they found Ash has been empty of Suaven.  Szaz says Dalvinosh mistakes the threat for the other Shanri - but he looks in the wrong direction.  They are being replaced because they are being rescued.  Rio and Gillian bicker - Rio mentions the Wicked Ones.

Jalani is confused about Jarik - Ash and Cass both deflect.  Jalani thinks it was Madelyn?  Jalani gets upset when she finds out that Madelyn is Younger.  It appears that she has learned the ritual that Dalvinosh uses.  Jalani hints for Cass to use the Blessing, Invisible Tongue - and she gives more hints of the unrest.  This is a city of the Sorceror-King.  

Their visitor arrives.  The Dragon of the Totem Rex.  Ash and Cass stare at Galeo, the Dragon of Q'naldinir.  She smiles and stares at Cass, finding her familiar, but not knowing who she is.

After the Rain ep30 : Houses of the Blooded

3/2/2015
After the Rain

Episode Thirty
"Holes"

Houses of the Blooded

Rio and Ash decide to explore Jarik's old castle.  There are no orks in the castle, however there seem to be a lot of wards present.  All the Art have been ransacked save for a statue of Galeo Silja.  There is a glowing door and stories of a hidden shrine.   In the courtyard, a scene has been immortalized with makeshift statues reenacting the events of the opera house.  The castle remains structurally sound.  The staff tell them that Jarik used to stare at the recreations a lot.  He has had no visitors for twelve years; and his last visitor was a certain Lady M.  The two also locate tunnels which Jarik may have used in the past.  Rio finds a mannequin representing Nia and her Tulpa - and finds a note that says, "Sorry, Jarik, this isn't how the ritual works.  This is not a tulpa."  

Ash discovers the tunnels extend to Warriorset and Catan.  The staff share that Jarik used it for select vassals, and they never were permitted inside.  Rio notices an unidentified mannequin but fails to recognize who it should be.  She rearranges it's position elsewhere and sticks a note, "Try again" on it. Birds flutter away.

Cass and Gil prepare to leave Warriorset, but thee memories of Dalvinosh's visit are still fresh in their minds.  During his stay, no Contracts were established.  Dalvinosh shared he is convinced the attempts on his life are not by fellow Elks.  He told Cass he had forgiven all the insult he had taken from her vassals, but has requested for Gillian to be lent to him for a season.  Dalvinosh caught Cass during one of her moments when she was speaking to herself.   As Gil and Uvanla prepare for the travel to the Peak, they talk about Kether and see Artemesia and Lukas talking.  Gil remembers that her familiar saw the two talking before, and referring to them as "the children."

Cass talks to Artemesia and Lukas, provoking them to give her information.  She discovers they used to own land but "they" took everything.  Even her name.  She stresses they cannot even have children because she does not have a name.

Gil and Uvanla  talk and he shares his "assassin" was really an affair.  They establish that there is something between them, and that they have been flirting.  But Gil notices something odd, Uvanla seems to be leaking wine.  She inspects his back and finds a tiny clean hole.  Somehow the wine he drinks leaks out there.

Rio and Ash send for the vassals and meet Jeeves, and old man, and Sofia.  Both were once Jarik and Nia's valets.  Jeeves shares that the tunnels were built with the help of "The Duchess" named Dranna Ru and that it leads to five locations:  Catan, Warriorset, Calcifer, Meridian and the last being one only Jarik would use.  The last one is heavily warded.  To their surprise, Jarik emerges from one tunnel, mumbling to himself about the wrong puzzles.  It fades away.  Jeeves explains that echoes of Jarik and his work still linger.  Sofie admits the echoes are strongest during the Summer.  The group then returns to the Opera House which had been completely burnt down and find the echoes visible.  Rio realizes his is how Jarik was recreating the scenes in the courtyard.

Stepping into an echo, they see the opera's final moments.  Rio stares at the unknown person and sees it is a woman with golden hair, who is looking straight back at her.  The strange suddenly speaks and asks for the master of the house!  She introduces herself as Norene, Baroness of Bleylock and claims to be here to search for Anguish and finds instead Avanadande.  She seems disappointed to learn Jarik is dead and says she was his guest.  She claims to visit every Summer at his invitation.  She claims she needs no roadmen, however, to return to the supposed city Under the Sky.  She disappears through a glowing door.

Ash and Rio continue to investigate, sensing the ruin feels like a puzzle house.  Rio calls upon her secret name, Tissera, the hooded light, which she cites when she travels through ruins.  They learn not all echoes are what happened, but are projections of something else.  The ward blocks all ven, ruk and veth alike.  A new structure in the garden is a tower with no visible entry way.  At the base, a lush growth of a variety of plants.  There are no books to be found.  They find the remains of a glider hanging at one area.  But no tomb for Jalani, Jarik's wife.

Cass arrives at the Peak, much to the dismay of Ash and Rio.  As she is walking in, she's met with a glowing figure, Jalani's echo.  Jeeves welcomes her to the Garden.  Sofie warns them not to touch anything.  There are frames of ruined paintings, including Cherno's "Five Coming Ages" which have the Riddle of Blood, After the Rain, and others.  Artemesia points out the oddity of the various trees in the garden, and their impossibility given the season.

Ash and Rio join Cass, who claims to be concerned about his welfare.  A one-eyed woman interrupts them, an echo of Szaz,   Artemesia is denied the chance to excuse herself.  Glass shatters inside - and the sounds of footfalls close in.  From the Opera ruins, figures dressed in light emerge.  A man emerges after the guards, with blood-red eyes.  He bows and introduces himself as Nolwen, Shivu of Belgrave, and Norene's sister.  Before he can explain his presence, he notices Cass and mistakes her for Ash's wife.  They learn he is an emissary from Canulderene, to confirm if the Treaty of Summer still stands.   It is clear he is distracted by Cass' presence, however, and is surprised to hear her name.  Nowlen is taken aback that she is Galeo's daughter.  They learn that an agreement had been established between Shanri (through Jarik) and Canulderene and they note how Nolwen speaks of their world as that of the ven.  He sees Cass, however, as close to that perfection.  Ash asks to review the treaty's conditions and learns the castle is deemed neutral grounds.

Nolwen's power is hinted at when he casually "splits" into two beings to both converse with the gathered and invite Cass to the other castle.  Rio asks if they may visit the domain of Jaymen Steele - the Sorceror-King - and Nolwen readily acknowledges he is their Totem Rex.  Somehow, he seems to easily "read" their Blessings as well.   They learn Jarik's death would undo the Treaty, and Ash lies through his teeth to claim he still lives.

Gil and Uvanla go through the days as normal, with Gil attempting to tend to the hole.  It baffles her, however, as it seems to not need to heal.  Uvanla tells her about Kether - whom he claims to have never met and only knows of thanks to Kether's closest friend.  During the narration, however, Uvanla unveils a lapse in his memories. The hole seems to be that caused by an arrow.  Cass, Lukas and Artemesia walk in them and mistake the moment to be one sexual in nature.

Nolwen invites Cass to stay in his Castle for two seasons until the Winter.  She agrees if a door can be opened in her own Castle.  Nolwen says Cass is "Pure" unlike the others and claims she has four names.  Ash is unhappy with this offer, but chooses to stay.  Rio chooses likewise to remain.  Having no choice, Ash accepts that he has to let Cass go through the door.

Rio reports the events to Jessie, who is appalled and confused by these newcomers.  The factions of orks, the exodus from the storm, the tasks assigned to Bowen remain unresolved.  Could there be a third city of these kind of ven?  One filled with the Wicked Ones?  Rio does not like the fact this new city has its own armies.   They consider warning the Senate, and Rio considers it time to raise secret armies.  They wonder if Dalvinosh should know of the events.  Rio has two seasons to try and locate the missing Quill.  Jessie is very worried.  Rio opts to act as an intermediary with Dalvinosh Steele.

Uvanla maintains the castle, now that he truly is one of Cass' vassals.  In her absence, he informs any visitors that she had gone to a "pilgrimage."

Norene visits Ash once more, who admits to be happy to know Jarik is well.  She wasn't sure what to tell Jalani - which makes Ash realize Jarik's wife has been at the "other side" for the last ten years.   She has land, it seems in the other city, but Jarik never visited as the city is full of Sorcery.  To Ash's surprise, Norene and her kind do not believe in any Suaven.  Norene also claims Jalani is her mother and that their father is the Totem Rex.  Ash arranges to have a meeting with Jalani and she laughs when Ash calls themselves ven.  Almost at the perfect moment, Ash catches sight of an echo of the moment Jarik bid farewell to Jalani.

Gil sees a man at the gates of Cass' castle.  She goes to see who it is and discovers it is the same man which Uvanla sketched to identify the "closest friend" of his father, Count Kether.  The man introduces himself as Count Kether and claims Uvanla is his familiar, a child he found before whom he had claimed.   He invites Gil to discuss things in his castle, which turns out to be an airship in the sky, but Gil declines and brings him instead to the village to talk.  

More and more, the children begin to realize that their parents have left them far more stories to finish than they had thought.

After the Rain ep29 : Houses of the Blooded

2/16/2015
After the Rain

Episode Twenty Nine
"Murder.  M."

Houses of the Blooded

The Althua continues.  The vassals of Cassalanter have inherited the lands of Jaric Thayl.   Cassalanter has gained the Title of Countess, while Ash, Gilian and Rio have become Barons.  The gathering of cats and hints of shadows remain fresh in their minds.    Artemesia and Lukas, and the terrible fear that Cassalanter might have been talking to some demonic force instead in her head all these years.  And the young Lady M whose feature resemble the infamous Madelyn Yvarai.

Cassalanter stands at the center of a raised stone platform.  All watch as she is questioned about the events that transpired in the Puzzle House. The matter is the death of Jaric Thayl, a death which may have been a Murder.   The Murder Weapon is a Bloodsword.   Rio stands to speak and is asked to identify the names of those present in the murder.  She states Cassalanter Steele, Gilian Burghe, Rio Burghe, Lyra Drew and her company whose names are not important right now.   Also present were Uvanla Yvarai, Zhivali Ru and someone named Lady M.  They were all gathered at the puzzle house, a fake one, to receive awards.  Jaric Thayl was present as a surprise to the winner and was to give the award.  A vassal is called to be present, the man who was the personal chef who prepared his food and wine.   Under the threat of death for all under his line, the vassal is asked to explain if the deceased Jaric Thayl...  the Senator pauses, glances at the gathered member of House Serpent, and suddenly changes his tone, admitting an error in having the vassal speak  "as he has nothing noteworthy to say, nor knowledge if Jaric was indeed poisoned."   As the veth hurries off, Gilian stops him by the arm and he begs not to be killed.  Gilian asks if the food ever left his eyes even for the moment, but the veth admits the man never ate that day.  The day before, he had "stone soup" and refuses anything else, most especially anything of the color red.   The senators ask Gilian if there is a matter they need to be aware of, and Gilian admits she merely had questions.  She does learn that Jaric had a bottle of wine which he presses himself.

Gilian however realizes Jaric did not plant the grapes himself.    All the names declared by Rio are asked to come to the platform.  Rio notes that Lady M is not present.  Gilian gives her name and the illuminated platform declares her name to be true.  She was present in the moments after his demise, and she shares how Jaric showed the bright red eyes showing signs of Arsenic poisoning.  How the Bloodsword cleanly cut the stone but was stuck to the ground.  She suspects however the grape plants were tainted with the arsenic, allowing the wine to have small traces of the poison - too small to be deadly until enough of it was consumed. As the others are questioned, most admit to not even knowing Jaric Thayl personally.

As the questioning continues, the charming Lady M reemerges beside Ash.   She tells Ash how a wise man once told her, "Failure does not always mean defeat. I wonder, would they hold it against me if I chose not to go down?"  Ash asks if she was present at the murder, and she admits openly she was.  She counters, however, that they didn't ask for her by name.   As Uvanla explains that he did not have a reason to want to kill Jaric, he admits his father, the late Count Kether, would have wanted him dead.  When asked about his father, he admits his father is dead.

But in response, the lit platform ripples.  In the new age since the reign of the Demon, the Senate had embraced the use of Sorcery to properly identify when falsehood was being stated in the Senate.  Uvanla's statement on his father's death, it seems, was just revealed to be a lie. "Does this mean my father is alive?" The light goes on.   Uvanla is sent off the platform, despite his desire to ask more about his father.  Zhivali Ru is called to speak and his sharing reveals he was with Ash Jalan, discussing matters of interest in the archives.  He claims they were talking about cats, but the light flickers as well.  Supposedly the cats speak a hidden language only Foxes understand, and that they see a hidden world.  Before could elaborate, however, the Senate commands him to stop before he says more about the superstitions of what these animals can see. Under the Senate's protection, Zhivali names five people who would have wanted Jaric killed: Count Keter, Dranna Ru, Dalvinosh Steele himself, the count of Margrove Tavlim Steele and the last being Lyra Drew.

Lyra's testimony has her admit she attempted to strike Jaric with the Bloodsword.  She did not, however, have intentions to murder him.  She claims Sorcery was used to take control of her.  She had hid in a hidden chamber in the puzzle house.  Cassalanter was inside and saw a trail of bloody footprints on the ground, which turned out to be a false trail Lyra set for her.  She dodged in the last second, guided by a voice in her head, and Lyra's eyes changed color as the strike missed.  She admits she had used a Sorcerous spell to prepare her for the puzzle house, anticipating danger.  In anger, Lyra tried to strike a second time, but that's when Gilian disarmed her with her bow.  The arrow struck her at the side, enough to distract her.    She stumbled on her own Bloodsword and lost her balance.  Rio swoops in to catch her from falling backwards.  "I had been... caught," Lyra sighs.   The Senator even reminds her to watch her step as she heads down from the platform, a jibe at her ineptitude as she steps down.  She admits to Rio that she did not kill him, and Rio realizes the Bloodsword must have been seiged by Doom when she tried.  Someone else was behind the murder.

They call for the Lady M.  She raises her hand to announce her presence.  Cass hears the voice in her head shocked to see Madelyn is alive. The voice directs Cass to pluck a strand of hair from Lady M as she walks by.  Cass walks up to Lady M, acting like they were old friends, hoping to disarm others from noticing her true goal - an attempt to take some of her hair.  But Lady M reads her motives like a book and tells her to stay away.

She addresses the Senate, and under the Sorcerous light, her statements of truth are unleashed upon an unexpected gathering of Ven.  She rather not give her name but admits she allowed others to call her Lady M.  She openly admits she poisoned him, and shares how she watered the vines for arsenic for three Seasons.  When they ask if she truly has admitted to murdering one of the ven, the light flickers at her feet.  She reminds them to ask the right questions.  Dalvinosh Steele stares in silence.   "Does anyone have the right questions?" Lady M calls out.  Finally, Jessie Jalan asks about her father and Lady M admits Jaric is safe at the Other Shanri from the Earl.  The Senate is at an uproar wondering which Earl Lady M claims to be the threat.  Rio walks up to the Serpent and asks him to ask what she killed.  Lady M was about to respond, but the Lyra Drew rushes forward with blood-red eyes.  She tackles Lady M off the platform of truth to the ground.    Rio tells the Serpent to ask Lady M who is using Sorcery on the Wolf.  Cass hurries to help Lady M up from the ground, cunningly pulling some of her hair in the process.

"It is too late.  He won't let them-" Lady M tries to say, but the Vashna rushes forward and stab her with spears.    The Earl declares that the verdict for Murder, confessed, is death.  Lyra Drew crawls to Gilian, terrified, realizing she had been usurped again.  "Someone knows my name!"

*

Jessie quickly warns the group to not ask questions, to go home and remember they do not know which side they are on.  Many return to the Quarterhouses.  Rio sneaks back inside and meets with the Serpent and the two use the Illuminated Platform to test one more truth.  Rio speaks out, "Madelyn Yvarai is alive."  The light does not flicker.  Lady M was Madelyn Yvarai, and they have killed her tulpa.  They decide to go quickly, knowing the Senate is never truly empty.  Rio slips back on her Vashna clothing, leaving the Senate incognito.

*

Ash prepares a Blood Mirror, using the splatter of Lady M's blood he had gathered.  Cass tries to hold more conversation with her mother, but she hears no responses from Galeo in her head.  Uvanla asks Cass what to do with her dress drenched in more of Lady M's blood.  Cass has him cut the dress in half, to give half to the Court Scholar and half to keep it til she needs it.  Gilian rides alongside the carriage on horseback, and though she knocks to ask how things are, she receives no response til after a few tries.  The group makes their way back to Cassalanter's Province, realizing there is a definite need for a Maid.  Gilian notices the Roadmen watch her with caution.  She ignores them, not caring that she rides through the City atop an Ork.

With conversations leading to discuss the stories of Jaric Thayl, Ash wonders why he feels uncomfortable talking about it.  Cass, however, prods and likes the discomfort the topic seems to generate upon him.

Gilian and Uvanla discuss how they will start making the Castle look better.  Uvanla even talks about painting the whole castle white, including having everyone dress in white.  Gilian scoffs at the changes to be adjusted, and admits they do not even have a Financier - they do not make deals with the Merchants. Gilian muses how he finally remember things now.  Uvanla seems shocked to realize, yes, he does remember things better now.  He even wonders why there are no roses every fifty feet.  Uvanla and Gilian talk about how Merea has stacks of things and books all over her castle.   Mirrors all over the castle as well, on the walls, floors and ceiling.  How it almost looks like a puzzle house.

Artemesia and Lukas appear at Cass' castle door, asking to be of service as vassals.  Lukas claims to be from the Forgiving Hands, but admits he didn't know why he said that.  Uvanla and Gilian note, however, that neither identifies themselves by their Houses, despite being ven.  The two claim to have been travelling companions for years, which Gilian finds amusing since it means they left their lands for years.  They admit they enjoy traveling far more than others realize.  Gilian directly asks what House they are.  Artemesia and Lukas smile.   Ash arrives, curious of the two, and Uvanla tells him of the plans for all to wear white.  Ash protests.    The two seem to have slips in their show of station, however, with Artemesia bowing like a man and Lukas claiming to have the skills of a Spymaster simply because he looks like he wouldn't know anything.  They admit they travel around frequently through the Merchants, using the High Way they have created.

The presence of cats in the castle, leads to Ash throwing an orichalcum dagger at the cat and pinning it against the wall.   Cass is horrified at the shattered mirror on the floor.  It was one of her mother's keepsakes.  Cass calls for the cat to be tortured, and Ash kicks it against the wall. "There are moments when things are just cats, and things are more than that."   Ash yanks it off the wall and dangles it by the blade, "Now it is just a cat."

Rio begins mapping in her head the servant passages through-out the castle as she accompanies Lukas and Artemesia in touring the castle they will soon serve in.  Ash uses Sorcery and places Curses upon Lukas and Artemesia to never speak to each other in private, as a means to secure their trust-worthiness.

*

With the coming of Summer, each of the ven take their duties to watch over their newly gained Provinces.  None, however, anticipated the visit of the Earl of the Blooded of the Elk.  Dalvinosh Steele arrives with fifty Swordsmen escorting him.  He arrives at Cassalanter's gate, and turns down Cass' invitation to step inside for wine.  He admits he does not feel safe as there have been four attempts in his life since the Senate hearing.   He informs them that in the Summer Hearing, there will be a vote and he requires the support of all those loyal to him.

Cass admits she is an Elk.  He admits he is starting to believe that Shanri has had enough of the Senate nonsense.  The vote is to be for the protection of Shanri.  "The Elks must rise."    He talks of the threat now being revealed and the need to prepare for what is to come.

He then asks if her vassals are loyal beyond and Cass admits they are.  He asks if they will vote with the Elks and she reassures they will do what is best.  He notices Gilian, noticing she is a vassal, and demands Cassalanter to correct this immediately.  "No Elk shall remain a vassal.  Correct this immediately."  The Earl demands he identify a non-Elk, and Cass introduces Artemesia.  The Earl converge towards her, but Rio steps to intercept, drawing her Bloodsword.  The Earl's Swordsmen draw their swords.

The Earl asks if Cassalanter is showing hospitality as he is currently bored and wishes to entertain himself with violence upon a non-Elk.  Cass asks Rio to sheath her sword, and she places it on the ground.  Artemesia is looking at Lukas.  Lukas' hand clamps around the space beside his waist, as if there was something that cannot be seen there.  Gilian grabs Lukas' hand by the wrist.  He lets go and Gilian can see his sweat making slightly visible the hilt of a blade.  The Earl thankfully changes his mind and opts to stay instead for the next few days.  The Swordsmen are commanded to sheath their blades and gather his things.  "Prepare your accommodations.  Perhaps we can ride together to the Senate hearing."

The Senate Hearing is two weeks away.

After the Rain ep28 : Houses of the Blooded

2/8/2015
After the Rain

Episode Twenty Eight
"Winged"

Houses of the Blooded

The Althua continues with the first day focusing on the Galeo exhibit and the second day featuring the Ork Hunt.  In the moments between scenes, Cassalanter learns of the established trails used in hunting in the region.  Rio keeps an eye out for the murderous Zhivali Ru but finds no sign of the son of Dranna Ru.  Perhaps his actions the previous night have lead to unexpected ramifications.   Gilian finds him, but finds him preoccupied with one of the servants in the Castle.  She talks to him about the upcoming Ork Hunt, and he admits not being a hunter.  Rumors spread of the Senate considering moving the location of the hearing.  Perhaps to this very Althua, even?  The Blooded of the Wolf are impressed by Cassalanter's handling of the duel with her Aunt Nerea.  How Cass takes advantage of this newfound respect remains to be seen.  And the Blooded of the Fox begin setting their plans to motion.

With the 45 seats in the Senate House, there are discussions of replacing the Blooded of the Bear with a different House.  The Veiled House of the Horse is brought up and 19 have publicly proclaimed their support of such a move.  Only six more votes are needed.

The members of the House of the Horse approach Cass and Ash Jalan to offer a Blessing from one of their Suaven.  They claim the silence from the Suaven does not occur among the "lesser" Suaven such as their own.  Cass tells them she will give her response in two days, which is when the Althua ends.

The day is to have two events, an Ork Hunt and a Puzzle House.  The group discusses the two as to who will do which.   Maja Thayl, hosting the events, calls for all to come as the first event begins.  The hunt, as it turns out, involves an Ork that has wing!  Most had not anticipated a hunt for a flying beast.  Gilian, however, had joined the event with her bow in hand and unlike the others is ready to use it to bring the monstrosity down.  Ash realizes the Ork cannot use its wings to sustain flight for long.  At most it can glide.

At the platform where the audience awaits, the others watch the hunt from safety.  From there, there is a glimpse of the Puzzle House in the distance.    Rio slips away from the rest, hoping to investigate the Puzzle House without the others noticing.  Ash and Cass joke about grafting a wing on one of them to serve the other better.    When Gilian finds the Ork, she realizes the thing is headed straight towards her.  Behind it, the ven take chase with swords and horses.

Gilian takes aim and wings the beast, forcing the Ork to the ground.  She quickly uses Sorcery to transform it into her Familiar, taking claim of the beast before any of the others can try to hurt it.  Gilian has won the contest.

During all this, however, Jessie Jalan pulls Cass aside to inform her that she will now have a second Province.   The land had been divided for each of her Vassals will claim hold of it.  The land used to be the lands of Jaric Thayl, her father, but she seems to be determined to ensure someone else claims hold of it at once.

By the Puzzle House, Rio finds a young woman, identifying herself as Lady M near there.  The woman seems amused to realize who Rio is, and as Rio puzzles over who the woman is - she realizes the woman is a much younger infamous woman.  This woman has the striking resemblance of Madelyn Yvarai... but at the height of Summer.  They discuss her mother, and how she had changed since the Opera of Jaric Thayl.  They discuss how the Puzzle House is "shallow" and more theatrics than true content.  When Lady M approaches Rio, however, and tells her she must go.  "Go where?  Where does a Spectre travel?" Rio hisses.   "Anywhere where one is not warded, I must say."  When Lady M reaches to touch Rio, she grabs Lady M's hand and is surprised it is warm.   She asks Rio to tell the children of Jaric Thayl that Lady M has returned and that she wings with her news she can deliver when she is welcome."Every wise Fox knows you leave them waiting."   Before they can separate ways, she asks if the "thing in the shadows" is with her.  Rio strikes with her Bloodsword but cleaves only wood.  Lady M snarls at Rio for the "attack" but her body language instead tells Rio that they shall speak of things in the future in secret.  She had invoked the Secret Tongue through her bracelet which cast the Prayer when they touched. She suspects the Shadows are from the Senate, observing her.  Rio spits on the ground.

With Gilian winning the match, there is some complaint about a "Bear" winning the match.  Rio and Cass come forward, however, to defend her triumph.    Around them, Ash can hear the other nobles admitting defeat, having wagered their vassals.  Dalvinosh Steele observes the proceedings as they ask if it was a Bear that won the match indeed.  Lyra Drew contests the win given it was a Ruk that won the hunt.  Even Jessie is shocked that Gilian turns out to be a Bear!  When Cass counters the Bears were never unveiled, Lyra asks if they have an Earl, or is Gilian the Earl?   Cass remembers the Bears did leave Shanri.  They took an exodus to the Other Shanri.  Maja tries to help, claiming Gilian is an Elk claiming the name out of novelty.   Rio calls for Lyra to explain the nature of her complaint, and she states it is an Insult to the Althua for a Ruk to have been sent to the Challenge.  Rio tries turning it around, claiming it is bad form to complain before the Host does.  Lyra calls to Maja and asks if she was aware - a moot question given Maja already admitted she "believed" she was an Elk.  She asks Cass to clarify things for everyone.  Cass claims that no less than a personage such as Nia Jalan attested to her Blooding.  "She is Blooded.  Now what her House is is not mine to question."  Rio identifies herself of the Elk House and reminds them that Gilian is her sister.   Lyra smiles, believing she has gained advantage and asks Rio, then, to formally introduce her sister to the Senate. "And I would be glad to recognize her."  Rio walks up to Dalvinosh Steele, finding the Courage to do so, and kneels before him to be the second sponsor.  She calls Lyra's bluff and attempts to shame the Wolf.  

The Avirex declares he understands and he addresses Gilian, asking if she accepts his recognition of her to be now known as Gilian Burghe Steele.  Without any Courage, Gilian could not deny the request despite not wanting to be seen as an Elk.  "Then I am your second," Dalvinosh Steele himself concludes. Maja Thayl apologizes for not recognizing the Elk by being the third.   The contest of Gilian's House is closed.  "The Elk has won."

The Althua continues.  The ven amuse themselves.   Ash pulls away from them all and finds himself an empty room (save for a cat) and after shoving the cat away, he draws the curtains and pulls out the cloth package he had received from a Horse and opens it.  It looks old and fragile, and the contents seem written in the Old Tongue.  The documents are called The Mystery of Artemesia  and it seems to be a long epic poem of a lovely and innocent woman sought to make the world better, but in her attempts she had to transform from waif to artist, and from artist to... Her words became teeth, her songs became barbs and her paints were blood.  Closing it, Ash secures it under his clothes.  Something clatters to the floor, and he picks it up. It is a sliced shard of orichalcum.  He finds a second cat, a brown one this time and he starts to feel suspicious of all these cats in the area.

Rio starts to realize whose castle this is, as the archival room is almost the same size as the ballroom.  There is even a strange winged thing hanging on the ceiling.  As well as other Artifacts spread around.   The place clearly has more Serpent touches than Elk.   As she follows a group of servants seemingly moving a scroll to a chamber, she notices how there are many more of these scrolls in the chamber and how the guards even carefully avoid breaking the white lines on the floor.  A woman notices Rio and asks her if she needs help.  The woman, Ashla Mwrr, is the Lady's Scholar of Secrets.  Rio realizes she serves the Duchess Jessie Jalan.   The prize was a Kind Ritual, one that allowed the easing of wounds.  It was intended to be the Prize, but a different prize was chosen instead.  Rio admits she was curious to see what the original prize was, nothing more.  Rio eventually meets Jessie Jalan and secret and learns that the lands once owned by Jaric Thayl are being spread out among them to keep them safe.  She needs them owned given the circumstances of what have been uncovered - the Murder of Jaric Thayl.

Gilian stumbles into a guard, who causes a chain reaction of commotion leading to one accidentally striking Dalvinosh Steele's shoulder.  The Avirex shooes the guards away and talks to Gilian, admitting he had not been able to stay in touch and watch them grow.  He confesses he had known her mother, Nia Jalan, and is sad to have failed to raise them as his own.  He understands there is Blood and there is Blooding.    "This... this is wrong," he mutters.  Gilian hears a clacking sound and suddenly, she is alone in the room, in a daze.  

It is later in the evening, with the ven resting for the night, when another secret is uncovered in the grounds of the castle.  Ash sees more cats and investigates.  He finds he is not alone in following the trail. He cannot see who, but he senses the shadow in the room is sentient.  He asks to see the mask, but the voice says no.  "But you are not beyond notice."  Ash asks if that was a threat and receives no response.

Duchess Jessie Jalan

*

The man in the room opens his eyes.  "That was close."  The woman nods, "Those were Inquisitors.  Dalvinosh suspects.  We will have to stop for now."  

*

Dinner.  Mostly a quiet night until Cass notices a man in the crowd which seems familar.  The voice in her head begins to gasp, claiming the man is the other Count Kether and that she had last spoken with Miralia but failed to send him word of it.  Cass approaches him and learns he is currently called Snotnose, having failed some wager to stab a knife between his fingers twenty times.  The voice is frantic, claiming he has to be some kind of Tulpa, but the Blood is impossible if he were one.  Cass entertains him with wordplay, and eventually succeeds in having him give clues to who he is.  He claims he is searching for any sign of his family, including his wife Miralia, and that he hopes to find them.   He admits he had heard of news that his sons are dead.  She asks him if he knows Galeo Silja, and claims her mother knew her.  The man claims she is the sole reason he returned, because he is the Count Kether of the Other Shanri.  He offers to dance with Cassalanter, and he asks her to tell him more about her mother for she had somehow made a tulpa come to life.

*

In the kitchen, a man and a woman watch as they dance.  They argue about needing to do what they must to stop the Demon from regaining power.  The woman is Artemesia.  The man is Lukas.  And they admit had Lukas not messed things up, they wouldn't still be here.