“Volitare: Blood Above the Clouds” is an illustrated animatic video which serves as an introduction to an original fantastical narrative. This narrative follows characters Kaoru and Zaela as they decipher a prophecy that threatens both of their worlds. Inspired by the city “Atlantis” from Plato's works “Timaeus” and “Critias”, Zaela’s world is Aminaray, part of a secret society of floating island nations that reside in the Earth’s atmosphere. Kaoru’s world is present-day Chicago, Illinois, where she and the rest of Earth are completely unaware of said islands’ existence. Until one day, a chance encounter between Kaoru and Zaela leads to the discovery of Kaoru’s role in a prophecy that warns of Aminaray’s downfall. This story examines the morality of colonialism and religion, as well as how isolation and regret influence one’s sense of self.
This video is accompanied by the synthpop song “Virtual Angel” by K-pop girl group ARTMS.
