Chapter 9: A Night of Visions

Cassandra found an armchair and sat down, hiding herself in the shadows of the room. She waited and heard Dido closed the door to the room to her left. With a sigh, Cassandra began her watch. If she was tired in a few hours, she would wake Dido. However, she doubted that would be necessary.

Despite the battle against Hecate’s forces and the years of neglect, the sectors of the city that they had passed through were largely intact. To be surrounded by numerous empty buildings was eerie. It seemed as though the inhabitants of Cignus were still here.

‘That’s impossible,’ Cassandra thought, chiding herself for her foolishness. However, the question of what happened to the people of Cignus entered her mind. She and the other surviving Guardians had assumed that they had been killed or subverted during Hecate’s strike. Yet, now seeing how intact most of the structures were, it seemed possible that some of the people had survived.

‘So, where are they?’ the rational part of her mind demanded.

Cassandra sighed. She had no answer to that question. ‘It was such a long time ago. There can’t be any survivors.’

The Guardian pulled her knees to her chest, wrapping her arms around her shins to generate some warmth. A slight chill was beginning to form in the room. Wordlessly, she transformed into her battle gear, prepared to attack at a moment’s notice. For now, however, she appreciated the additional warmth the suit provided.

The Guardian of Hope sat motionlessly in the darkness, her eyes peering into the shadows. She had reluctantly allowed the prince and the princess to come, realizing that the couple would have made the journey without her blessing. At least this way, she could be there to protect the last of the House of Light if something indeed was waiting for them.

Sense of expectancy was gradually becoming overwhelming for her. There was always a sensation of being watched, of something just beyond her line of vision. Apparently, Cignus was having some effect on Leda. However, it was much harder to judge Paul or Dido.

Cassandra rose to her feet and walked over to the window of the large front room. Her eyes scanned the vacant streets that were illuminated by the silvery light of the three moons. She hadn’t be aware of how much she had missed those three guardians until that moment.

A vague headache that had been developing for hours was suddenly intensifying. She glanced at her timepiece. Perhaps she would wake Dido to take the next appointed watch so she could get some rest.

She sat down at the table that had served the household as a dining table and a work place. The people who had lived here were simple yet prosperous. Cassandra wondered if they had been happy with their lives.

The thought was cut short as her headache seemed to explode with intensity. Holding her temples and closing her eyes, she tried desperately not to cry out. Suddenly everything faded into nothingness.

* * * * *

“Guardian, open your eyes!”

Cassandra obeyed the command and found herself in a open, grassy field. The vegetation waved in the breeze as far as her eyes could see. The only other thing under the lavender sky beside her and the grass was a handsome man a few feet away.

He was tall, much taller than any man she had ever seen. To confirm her suspicions, she noted the familiar green eyes and the rich, dark brown hair that brushed his powerful shoulders. Satisfied, Cassandra knelt before him.

“Rise, Guardian of Hope,” he said, his baritone voice seeming to echo even in the vast openness. He gently touched one of her shoulders, left bare by the simple, flowing white dress. Obediently, she rose.

“Do you remember me?” There was a flicker of amusement in his eyes.

“Yes, you are the god Riel, the lord of wisdom and vision.”

He smiled now. “It is good that you have not forgotten the training of your youth.”

Cassandra bowed at the praise. “It has been many years since you have communicated with me so directly.”

“Perhaps.” He took her hand, the heat of his body filling hers as they walked through the field. “You and the Guardian named Dido have returned to Cignus to aid a sister of the true princess.”

“Yes, Scylla, the Guardian of Mercy, believes that Lady Ilene is under the Redolarian curse. She requires a manual from the main library of the palace and the appropriate herbs.”

Riel stopped their stroll and turned to face her. She had done well with the difficult tasks that had been given her. Only in her darkest moments had she complained about the burdens she bared. Yet, even then, it was in the solitude of her mind and her heart.

He wished for the millionth time that he had had the power to have prevented the wrong done to her so long ago. Yet, even the gods have their weaknesses. Reluctantly, he released her hand.

“Guardian, I have a warning for you.”

She bowed her head, her purple hair fanning out in the breeze. “As your servant, I listen.”

“The true princess will face a series of choices. These choices are hers to make, although others will bare the consequences of these decisions as well. No man acts without the ripples of his deeds disturbing those around him.

“You, as the Guardian of Hope, will face a difficult choice. Remember your duty to the House of Light. That is all I can tell you.”

Cassandra bowed and then finally raised her head to face him once more. “I will remember and obey.”

Riel studied her intently for a moment before finally stepping away. “Until our next meeting, Guardian.”

“Until then.”

* * * * *

Scylla closed her eyes and tried to send comfort to her twin. The strength of the guilt and the sadness that had washed over her without warning was overwhelming. As quickly as it appeared, the sensation faded.

‘What is going on with Dido?’ she wondered.

Scylla knew her twin was in no acute distress. However, the feelings she was experiencing were puzzling. It was an old wound, the associated sorrow and guilt seemingly long-suffered and contained.

‘Wherever you are, Dido, please be safe.’

* * * * *

“Ulei, time for dinner!”

The young girl with the unruly mahogany curls immediately dropped the rope her playmates had been skipping. Ignoring the other girls’ protests, Ulei waved over her shoulder and promised to see them tomorrow. Laughing, she ran all the way to her house.

She opened the door to her house, surprised that her mother was not standing in the doorway with her hands braced on her hips as usual. Brushing the thought aside, she opened the door. With a frown, she wondered why there was no light in the house.

“Happy birthday, Ulei!”

She squealed with delight as she surveyed the group before her. Both sets of grandparents, a couple of great aunts, her great uncle, her parents’ siblings, and several cousins of various degrees cheered and sought their opportunity to give her a quick embrace. Ulei could barely contain her excitement. A gathering of the family was rare and occurred only on special occasions. She was honored that they had gathered for her birthday.

Her mother gave her a quick hug and drew back, her nose wrinkled. “Uh, Ulei! Did you roll in the streets?”

“Ella, Ella,” Grandmother Evea cried softly, patting her daughter’s hand. “Let young Ulei enjoy her celebration. We are all family here. No one will think less of you.”

Ulei’s mother gave a long-suffering sigh and headed back to the food preparations. Evea gave her granddaughter a conspiratorial wink, sending the young girl into a fit of giggles. Without warning, she was swooped up by one of her uncles, who complained about how heavy she was getting.

Ella and several of the women had laden with a large amount of food and finally announced the beginning of the meal. Ulei took the place of honor, proudly flanked by her parents. Giving thanks for the nourishment and the fellowship, the meal began.

Each dish was passed around the table and was praised. Its consumption was only interrupted by fragments of conversation as the family caught up on what was going on in each member’s life. Even Ulei was asked to give a detailed account of her education and her playtime.

When every appetite was satisfied, the food was quickly cleared. It was time for the heart of the celebration, Ulei’s favorite part. She nestled in the cushions of her chair and waited for her gifts.

Beginning with her cousin Dairon, each person at the table told a story in Ulei’s honor. Her heart raced during the sword fights, melted during the romances, and grieved with the mourning. Numerous worlds came alive as each person told their tale.

The best of the group was her parental grandfather, Otov. When his story was finished, Ulei applauded everyone. They visited with one another for an hour more before it was decided that everyone should head home.

Ulei stood by the door and accepted the blessing that each person who bestow upon her. As the last cousin departed, her father scooped her into his arms and carried her to bed. Her eyes drifted close soon after her head hit the pillow.

* * * * *

“Letov! No, leave him alone!”

Her mother’s cries woke Ulei. She jumped out of bed and quickly put on some clothes. Her soft shoes made no sounds on the stairs as she made her way to the front room of the house.

She froze at the base of the stairs. Her father’s unconscious form was being drug by two men into the streets. Her mother was fighting off two men who were trying to restrain her.

“Mother!”

Ella turned to her daughter and was grabbed from behind, the large man pinning her wrists behind her back. Ulei began to retreat slowly up the stairs as one of the men approached her.

“I thought it was just the man and the woman,” one of the men standing by the door complained.

“You are foolish to believe an Aylire,” another scoffed. “Especially since you know of their power. Hosad, bring that girl to me.”

“Leave her alone!” Ella screamed, desperately trying to get free. “By the House of Light, she’s only a child!”

Despite her efforts, the man had little trouble dragging Ulei to the one in charge. He peered intently into her eyes, his nose almost touching hers. With a satisfied smile, he gestured for one of the men to grab her again.

“You are an Aylire all right. A strong one, too. You will serve our purpose well.”

Ulei began to cry as first her mother and then herself was forced by the men into the dark streets.

* * * * *

“Leda, honey, wake up!”

Choking on a sob, Leda buried her face in Ganymede’s chest and his arms closed protectively around her. During some part of the night, Leda had changed back into her normal form. Paul was still Ganymede, his cape still covering them.

“Leda, what’s wrong? You were screaming and I couldn’t get you to wake up. Tell me what’s going on.”

The two Guardians burst into the room, both armed with their respective weapons. Ganymede saw that both women were red-eyed as if they had be crying. ‘What is going on?!’

Leda reluctantly pulled away from Ganymede. “I’m sorry about the commotion I made. I had a nightmare.”

“That’s the worst nightmare you’ve ever had, Leda,” Ganymede said.

Cassandra changed back into her usual uniform and stood at the edge of the bed. “What did you see?”

“I dream about a little girl, the one who used to live in this house. She was abducted on the night of her birthday.” She faced Cassandra. “Who are the Aylire?”

The Guardian’s eyes widened slightly. “The Aylire is a familial clan of Cignus. They were gifted storytellers and were renowned for that ability.”

“But why would someone kidnap Aylire?” Leda asked, her face marked in confusion.

“The Aylire have the ability to make their listeners fell as though they are in the story being told. The ability could be taken advantage for ill will, especially if the particular Aylire was strong. Iphigenia is a member of a related clan and that aids in her ability to use the Orb of History.”

“Were all the Guardians members of these clans?” Ganymede asked.

Cassandra shook her head. “Not all, but the Guardians usually don’t discuss their lives before they came to live in the palace.”

“Why?”

“There are a lot of reasons,” Cassandra said.

“Scylla and I are not true members of any clan,” Dido stated. “Our parents were from different clans and married against the wishes of both families. Therefore we were all outcasts.”

“And the House of Light?” Leda inquired.

“The House of Light is not associated with any particular clan,” Cassandra explained. “In fact, members of all the various clans have ruled as part of the House of Light during some point of the history of Cignus. It allowed the royal family to truly represent all of Cignus.”

“There’s just so much about my father and Cignus that I don’t know,” Leda murmured.

“I realize that, but, for now, we all need our rest,” Cassandra said gently. “I and I’m sure Dido will try to answer any questions that you have. But, please, for now, we need to rest.”

Leda nodded and Dido left the room. Cassanra paused at the doorway and turned around. She was about to say something but shook her head. “Goodnight, Your Majesties.”

Leda smiled at the titles the Guardian of Hope stubbornly refused to drop. “Sleep well, Cassandra.”

With a slight bow, Cassandra left the room and closed the door behind her. Ganymede pulled the cloak back over them as they laid back down. Keeping her arms wrapped tightly around her husband, Leda eventually fell into a dreamless sleep.


A Night of Visions Cassandra found an armchair and sat down, hiding herself in the shadows of the room. She waited and heard Dido closed the door to the room to her left. With a sigh, Cassandra began her watch. If she was tired in a few hours, she would wake Dido. However, she doubted that would be necessary. Despite the battle against Hecate’s forces and the years of neglect, the sectors of the city that they had passed through were largely intact. To be surrounded by numerous empty buildings was eerie. It seemed as though the inhabitants of Cignus were still here. ‘That’s impossible,’ Cassandra thought, chiding herself for her foolishness. However, the question of what happened to the people of Cignus entered her mind. She and the other surviving Guardians had assumed that they had been killed or subverted during Hecate’s strike. Yet, now seeing how intact most of the structures were, it seemed possible that some of the people had survived. ‘So, where are they?’ the rational part of her mind demanded. Cassandra sighed. She had no answer to that question. ‘It was such a long time ago. There can’t be any survivors.’ The Guardian pulled her knees to her chest, wrapping her arms around her shins to generate some warmth. A slight chill was beginning to form in the room. Wordlessly, she transformed into her battle gear, prepared to attack at a moment’s notice. For now, however, she appreciated the additional warmth the suit provided. The Guardian of Hope sat motionlessly in the darkness, her eyes peering into the shadows. She had reluctantly allowed the prince and the princess to come, realizing that the couple would have made the journey without her blessing. At least this way, she could be there to protect the last of the House of Light if something indeed was waiting for them. Sense of expectancy was gradually becoming overwhelming for her. There was always a sensation of being watched, of something just beyond her line of vision. Apparently, Cignus was having some effect on Leda. However, it was much harder to judge Paul or Dido. Cassandra rose to her feet and walked over to the window of the large front room. Her eyes scanned the vacant streets that were illuminated by the silvery light of the three moons. She hadn’t be aware of how much she had missed those three guardians until that moment. A vague headache that had been developing for hours was suddenly intensifying. She glanced at her timepiece. Perhaps she would wake Dido to take the next appointed watch so she could get some rest. She sat down at the table that had served the household as a dining table and a work place. The people who had lived here were simple yet prosperous. Cassandra wondered if they had been happy with their lives. The thought was cut short as her headache seemed to explode with intensity. Holding her temples and closing her eyes, she tried desperately not to cry out. Suddenly everything faded into nothingness. * * * * * “Guardian, open your eyes!” Cassandra obeyed the command and found herself in a open, grassy field. The vegetation waved in the breeze as far as her eyes could see. The only other thing under the lavender sky beside her and the grass was a handsome man a few feet away. He was tall, much taller than any man she had ever seen. To confirm her suspicions, she noted the familiar green eyes and the rich, dark brown hair that brushed his powerful shoulders. Satisfied, Cassandra knelt before him. “Rise, Guardian of Hope,” he said, his baritone voice seeming to echo even in the vast openness. He gently touched one of her shoulders, left bare by the simple, flowing white dress. Obediently, she rose. “Do you remember me?” There was a flicker of amusement in his eyes. “Yes, you are the god Riel, the lord of wisdom and vision.” He smiled now. “It is good that you have not forgotten the training of your youth.” Cassandra bowed at the praise. “It has been many years since you have communicated with me so directly.” “Perhaps.” He took her hand, the heat of his body filling hers as they walked through the field. “You and the Guardian named Dido have returned to Cignus to aid a sister of the true princess.” “Yes, Scylla, the Guardian of Mercy, believes that Lady Ilene is under the Redolarian curse. She requires a manual from the main library of the palace and the appropriate herbs.” Riel stopped their stroll and turned to face her. She had done well with the difficult tasks that had been given her. Only in her darkest moments had she complained about the burdens she bared. Yet, even then, it was in the solitude of her mind and her heart. He wished for the millionth time that he had had the power to have prevented the wrong done to her so long ago. Yet, even the gods have their weaknesses. Reluctantly, he released her hand. “Guardian, I have a warning for you.” She bowed her head, her purple hair fanning out in the breeze. “As your servant, I listen.” “The true princess will face a series of choices. These choices are hers to make, although others will bare the consequences of these decisions as well. No man acts without the ripples of his deeds disturbing those around him. “You, as the Guardian of Hope, will face a difficult choice. Remember your duty to the House of Light. That is all I can tell you.” Cassandra bowed and then finally raised her head to face him once more. “I will remember and obey.” Riel studied her intently for a moment before finally stepping away. “Until our next meeting, Guardian.” “Until then.” * * * * * Scylla closed her eyes and tried to send comfort to her twin. The strength of the guilt and the sadness that had washed over her without warning was overwhelming. As quickly as it appeared, the sensation faded. ‘What is going on with Dido?’ she wondered. Scylla knew her twin was in no acute distress. However, the feelings she was experiencing were puzzling. It was an old wound, the associated sorrow and guilt seemingly long-suffered and contained. ‘Wherever you are, Dido, please be safe.’ * * * * * “Ulei, time for dinner!” The young girl with the unruly mahogany curls immediately dropped the rope her playmates had been skipping. Ignoring the other girls’ protests, Ulei waved over her shoulder and promised to see them tomorrow. Laughing, she ran all the way to her house. She opened the door to her house, surprised that her mother was not standing in the doorway with her hands braced on her hips as usual. Brushing the thought aside, she opened the door. With a frown, she wondered why there was no light in the house. “Happy birthday, Ulei!” She squealed with delight as she surveyed the group before her. Both sets of grandparents, a couple of great aunts, her great uncle, her parents’ siblings, and several cousins of various degrees cheered and sought their opportunity to give her a quick embrace. Ulei could barely contain her excitement. A gathering of the family was rare and occurred only on special occasions. She was honored that they had gathered for her birthday. Her mother gave her a quick hug and drew back, her nose wrinkled. “Uh, Ulei! Did you roll in the streets?” “Ella, Ella,” Grandmother Evea cried softly, patting her daughter’s hand. “Let young Ulei enjoy her celebration. We are all family here. No one will think less of you.” Ulei’s mother gave a long-suffering sigh and headed back to the food preparations. Evea gave her granddaughter a conspiratorial wink, sending the young girl into a fit of giggles. Without warning, she was swooped up by one of her uncles, who complained about how heavy she was getting. Ella and several of the women had laden with a large amount of food and finally announced the beginning of the meal. Ulei took the place of honor, proudly flanked by her parents. Giving thanks for the nourishment and the fellowship, the meal began. Each dish was passed around the table and was praised. Its consumption was only interrupted by fragments of conversation as the family caught up on what was going on in each member’s life. Even Ulei was asked to give a detailed account of her education and her playtime. When every appetite was satisfied, the food was quickly cleared. It was time for the heart of the celebration, Ulei’s favorite part. She nestled in the cushions of her chair and waited for her gifts. Beginning with her cousin Dairon, each person at the table told a story in Ulei’s honor. Her heart raced during the sword fights, melted during the romances, and grieved with the mourning. Numerous worlds came alive as each person told their tale. The best of the group was her parental grandfather, Otov. When his story was finished, Ulei applauded everyone. They visited with one another for an hour more before it was decided that everyone should head home. Ulei stood by the door and accepted the blessing that each person who bestow upon her. As the last cousin departed, her father scooped her into his arms and carried her to bed. Her eyes drifted close soon after her head hit the pillow. * * * * * “Letov! No, leave him alone!” Her mother’s cries woke Ulei. She jumped out of bed and quickly put on some clothes. Her soft shoes made no sounds on the stairs as she made her way to the front room of the house. She froze at the base of the stairs. Her father’s unconscious form was being drug by two men into the streets. Her mother was fighting off two men who were trying to restrain her. “Mother!” Ella turned to her daughter and was grabbed from behind, the large man pinning her wrists behind her back. Ulei began to retreat slowly up the stairs as one of the men approached her. “I thought it was just the man and the woman,” one of the men standing by the door complained. “You are foolish to believe an Aylire,” another scoffed. “Especially since you know of their power. Hosad, bring that girl to me.” “Leave her alone!” Ella screamed, desperately trying to get free. “By the House of Light, she’s only a child!” Despite her efforts, the man had little trouble dragging Ulei to the one in charge. He peered intently into her eyes, his nose almost touching hers. With a satisfied smile, he gestured for one of the men to grab her again. “You are an Aylire all right. A strong one, too. You will serve our purpose well.” Ulei began to cry as first her mother and then herself was forced by the men into the dark streets. * * * * * “Leda, honey, wake up!” Choking on a sob, Leda buried her face in Ganymede’s chest and his arms closed protectively around her. During some part of the night, Leda had changed back into her normal form. Paul was still Ganymede, his cape still covering them. “Leda, what’s wrong? You were screaming and I couldn’t get you to wake up. Tell me what’s going on.” The two Guardians burst into the room, both armed with their respective weapons. Ganymede saw that both women were red-eyed as if they had be crying. ‘What is going on?!’ Leda reluctantly pulled away from Ganymede. “I’m sorry about the commotion I made. I had a nightmare.” “That’s the worst nightmare you’ve ever had, Leda,” Ganymede said. Cassandra changed back into her usual uniform and stood at the edge of the bed. “What did you see?” “I dream about a little girl, the one who used to live in this house. She was abducted on the night of her birthday.” She faced Cassandra. “Who are the Aylire?” The Guardian’s eyes widened slightly. “The Aylire is a familial clan of Cignus. They were gifted storytellers and were renowned for that ability.” “But why would someone kidnap Aylire?” Leda asked, her face marked in confusion. “The Aylire have the ability to make their listeners fell as though they are in the story being told. The ability could be taken advantage for ill will, especially if the particular Aylire was strong. Iphigenia is a member of a related clan and that aids in her ability to use the Orb of History.” “Were all the Guardians members of these clans?” Ganymede asked. Cassandra shook her head. “Not all, but the Guardians usually don’t discuss their lives before they came to live in the palace.” “Why?” “There are a lot of reasons,” Cassandra said. “Scylla and I are not true members of any clan,” Dido stated. “Our parents were from different clans and married against the wishes of both families. Therefore we were all outcasts.” “And the House of Light?” Leda inquired. “The House of Light is not associated with any particular clan,” Cassandra explained. “In fact, members of all the various clans have ruled as part of the House of Light during some point of the history of Cignus. It allowed the royal family to truly represent all of Cignus.” “There’s just so much about my father and Cignus that I don’t know,” Leda murmured. “I realize that, but, for now, we all need our rest,” Cassandra said gently. “I and I’m sure Dido will try to answer any questions that you have. But, please, for now, we need to rest.” Leda nodded and Dido left the room. Cassanra paused at the doorway and turned around. She was about to say something but shook her head. “Goodnight, Your Majesties.” Leda smiled at the titles the Guardian of Hope stubbornly refused to drop. “Sleep well, Cassandra.” With a slight bow, Cassandra left the room and closed the door behind her. Ganymede pulled the cloak back over them as they laid back down. Keeping her arms wrapped tightly around her husband, Leda eventually fell into a dreamless sleep.


Chapter 10: Suspicions Jupiter's Gone