Part 25: Memory of Vera: The Night Watch

The Night Watch

As young Vera surveys the trees, a strange sound reaches her ear. It is as if whispers are riding the wind.

Vera's mother, Herava, nudges her daughter. "Vera. It is our responsibility as temple-guards to watch over the sacred grounds. Why are you watching the trees?"

"I hear something, mother."

"What you hear is rustling. Look."

Vera follows her mother's gesture. Before Vera can utter a word, her mother is off, skirting the soil and returning to Vera with a captured prisoner.

Herava addresses her victim. "Ratika!" Ratika does not quiver in fear but instead yells obstinately. "What are you doing? Snatching me up like that!"

"You are trespassing," Herava returns. "These lands are reserved for the Temple of Yarbog. You know this, Ratika."

While the little Rodentian attempts to make some excuse, Herava turns to Vera. "Return her to where she belongs."

Vera nods and departs, a tight grip on the trespassing Rodentian.

"I'm not a criminal. You can let me go," Ratika states.

"Kind of inaccurate, don't you think?" Vera counters. The Rodentian stays silent so Vera continues. "You have nothing else to say?"

"I'm trying to think of a properly dramatic way to inform you that you're wrong!"

"Virtually impossible. Hang on, we're almost there."

"As if I have a choice to hang on or not," Ratika mutters.

Vera releases the Rodentian and as Ratika runs off she turns and yells, "Next time, a little warning would be appreciated. Even if only a whisper!"