The only person I feel for in all this is GR. Insha-allah, SC will be his stepping stone to much, much better. The man has already proved his mettle. Less said about others the better. Esp why we had to tolerate "body-doubles" in the middle of sucha crucial narrative phase!
Arshi: I think the confusion regarding Alak arises from Vahbbiz' depiction of her. It's too inscrutable, her voice is never adequately modulated & she isn't able to bring out the nuances clearly. Even I was confused. And looked to Kumud for clarity, but got no clearer assist.
Edit: Oops sorry for being the bearer of bad tidings. But we need a miracle to save SC at this point =(