“I never desired Cybele nor desired to lay with her, I did only to appease Kelly. The mistake was mine I should have seen you informed sooner forgive me friend forgive me!”

“Dear sister all has been forgiven.”

“Sister? You call me sister, “she spoke as her voice cracked.

“Forever, in this life and the next.” Gaia says smiling as she missed her sister and closet friend. Although she had forgiven her she still awaited for her to give answer to the question she purposely was avoiding.

“I could not return upon discovery, “she pauses before continuing, “My child swelled inside Kelly’s womb.” The shocked expression on Gaias face spoke the words she could not.

Since being banned from the Kaicus festival Alani (Alice) remained cautious of her surroundings. Despite the rude words spoken, being inappropriately touched, and rudely handled none compared to the cold glare of Jaeils eyes upon her. She hadn’t slept well that night, and before her eyes finally closed she decided when she rose at proper hour to spend the day exploring. Awakened the following morning she packed a small lunch and a fantasy book she purchased from the market. Stumbling upon a hidden path she follows it which led her deep within the surrounding forest. As she continued to travel she noticed the drastic color change in scenery. All things from the towering trees to the flowers blossoming from the ground below reflected bright fluorescent colors. Removing her packed blanket she finds a nearby tree, lays it on the ground then relaxes her back against the tree. Grateful for the majestic beauty surrounding her she removes her book and engulfs herself in another world of romance and fantasy.

Lying on her side the feel of dew drops upon her cheek stirred her from her sleep. When she opened her eyes she was surprised to discover night had fell. As her eyes adjusted to the darkness confusion began to set in. She recalled last in the midst of chapter 4 of her book her eyes became heavy as to what occurred next it was all a blur. What she hadn’t realized was she had stumbled into Sasa’e, a hidden valley known by location only by the Kaicus warriors. It was there they would indulge in the mind altering hallucinogens the valley had to offer. The fluorescent colors of the flowers and trees provided more than visual exquisiteness, once inhaled or consumed it served to relax the warriors mind before battle. Alani without realizing it, once her back made contact with the tree it released a toxin that causes a deep sleep. Packing her belongings fear began to set in as she did not anticipate to be out this late, alone. Knowing she was not welcomed, being isolated placed her in position to be harmed. Locating the path that led her there she walks upon it headed towards home.