# Stories of the Raksura: The Dead City & The Dark Earth Below
## Introduction
- Overview of the Raksura world and its unique features
- Shape-shifting creatures (Raksura)
- Courtly intrigue, politics, and mysteries
- Threats from both mundane and magical sources
- Return of favorite characters: Moon, Jade, and others from the Indigo Cloud Court
- Two novellas by Martha Wells exploring new adventures in the Raksura universe
## Novella 1: "The Dead City"
- Setting: Ruins of Saraseil, a groundling city destroyed by the Fell
- Protagonist: Moon before joining the Indigo Cloud Court
- Plot Summary:
- Moon flees the destruction caused by the Fell
- Encounters a friendly caravanserai under attack by an unknown force
- Investigates the mysterious attackers threatening the caravanserai
- Uses his wits and abilities to protect himself and those around him
- Explores themes of survival, trust, and resilience
## Novella 2: "The Dark Earth Below"
- Setting: Colony tree's roots inhabited by Kek villagers
- Protagonists: Moon and Jade as they prepare for their first clutch
- Plot Summary:
- Moon struggles with impending fatherhood while facing external threats
- Members of the Kek village go missing without explanation
- Search efforts uncover deeper mysteries within the colony tree
- An unknown enemy begins stalking the court, creating tension and danger
- Themes include family bonds, leadership challenges, and unraveling secrets
## Key Themes Across Both Novellas
- Exploration of identity and belonging
- Moon’s journey toward finding his place among the Raksura
- Balancing personal desires with responsibilities to the community
- Danger and mystery in a fantastical world
- Unpredictable threats from both natural and supernatural forces
- Importance of ingenuity, teamwork, and courage
- Court dynamics and relationships
- Political maneuvering within the Raksura courts
- Interactions between different species and cultures
## Conclusion
- Reflection on the enduring appeal of the Raksura series
- Unique blend of fantasy, adventure, and character-driven storytelling
- Continued expansion of the Raksura world through novellas and short stories
- Anticipation for future tales set in this richly imagined universe