Unveiling the Enigmatic Reign of Cloud Dominion's Queen Sareth: A Fascinating Insight

WARNING: This article contains spoilers for the first episode of season 2 of Foundation. The introduction of Queen Sareth of Cloud Dominion, portrayed by Ella-Rae Smith, in this episode marks a significant shift for the Empire under Brother Day (Lee Pace). Referred to as "In Seldon's Shadow," the episode takes place 138 years after the conclusion of the first season of Foundation. Cleon XVII now holds the position of Brother Day, and it is known within the Empire that Cleon XIV was not the only flawed clone.

Brother Day intends to marry Queen Sareth, which explains Trantor's warm reception of this foreign ruler. However, the presence of Queen Sareth in Trantor creates complications for the Genetic Dynasty. In fact, Cleon suspects that the recent assassination attempt on his life is connected to his upcoming marriage.

Queen Sareth Is Not From The Foundation Books

Queen Sareth of Cloud Dominion, who is being considered as a potential bride for Cleon XVII, is not a character from the Foundation books. The Trentor-set Foundation storylines, which make up a significant portion of the show, were not created by Isaac Asimov and include elements such as the Genetic Dynasty. However, Queen Sareth and the possible marriage between her and Brother Day are linked to the challenges faced by the Empire in Foundation season 2. The first Seldon Crisis has been resolved, and while the Foundation has established itself as a mini-empire, the actual Empire is losing its power.

As Gaal Dornick explained, the Foundation has been gradually expanding by acquiring planets on the edges of the empire. Brother Day is not only searching for a different method to ensure a legacy (an heir instead of cloning), but also aims to strengthen the Empire through an alliance. However, Queen Sareth, in Foundation season 2, has her own motives. Leading her independent dominion, she believes that the Empire is fearful, and she is correct. There are even rumors that she gained her title by eliminating her opponents. Thus, what Cleon XVII perceives as an opportunity may also pose a threat, particularly to Brother Dawn and Brother Dusk.

What Queen Sareth Means For Cleon’s Genetic Dynasty In Foundation Season 2

The Genetic Dynasty has ruled the Galactic Empire for over 600 years, descended from Cleon I through clones. However, rebel forces manipulated Cleon I's genetic material before the Foundation's establishment, rendering all subsequent clones ineffective. Cleon XVII recognizes the impending failure of the current Genetic Dynasty model and desires to explore a different approach for the continuation of the Cleon dynasty. The proposed union between Brother Day and Queen Sareth, with the potential for offspring, disrupts the Empire's Genetic Dynasty and poses a threat to Brother Dawn and Brother Dusk.

If Cleon XVII proceeds with his plan, what implications does this hold for Cleon XVIII, the current Brother Dawn? Cleons have never fathered children, and the younger clone has always been next in line for succession. In the Foundation's Empire, there has never existed a true line of succession - only Cleon and his clones. While Hari Seldon argued that the Genetic Dynasty would contribute to the Empire's downfall, Cleon XVII's intention to have an heir has already created tensions among the three brothers. The outcome of the potential union between the Empire and Queen Sareth, which may materialize in Foundation season 2, remains uncertain.

Episodes of Foundation release Fridays on Apple TV+.