The Knight of Her Dreams

chapter Seven



“Are you drunk?” Vicki asked suspiciously.

Julianna shook her head with a laugh. “What a nice way to greet someone in the morning. “Most people just say, ‘How are you doing?’”

Vicki had no reply, merely watching as Julianna moved airily about her room. Something strange was going on, she decided. It was only 10:00 AM. Normally, her younger sister wouldn’t be up this early on the weekend, usually trying to catch up on sleep after a busy workweek. When Julianna did get up early, she was often listless at best, irritable at worst. But instead, Vicki awoke to hear her humming in her bedroom.

Humming! her mind repeated.

Upon knocking, if she hadn’t heard Julianna respond in her familiar voice, Vicki would have sworn her sister had been kidnapped and replaced by an alien duplicate. When she emerged from her room immediately after, the smile on her face looked bright enough to renew Vicki’s suspicions that this couldn’t possibly be her sister.

Even Crystal was surprised to see Julianna in such good spirits, but she merely laughed at Vicki’s concern. “Better she be unusually happy than depressed,” she stated.

Their sister was totally oblivious to their opinions, caught in her own euphoric state of cloud nine. True, Julianna couldn’t understand what kept bringing Dominick back into her dreams, now three nights in a row. Nor was she sure how long this seeming ‘coincidence’ would persist with its surprising vividness, both when she was asleep and awake. But for all its strangeness, she didn’t question it anymore. She was happy now, for the first time in months.

Her dream knight had given her an inner strength, the feeling of love given and returned—even without the words themselves being spoken—and he was truly a positive influence on her life. He’d even helped ease the pain over Roger’s betrayal. And now, she was beginning to believe the saying that time healed all wounds.

Giving due credit, of course, to Dominick!

“Aunt Julie, can I pul-ease have a cookie?” asked a familiar voice behind her, just before Sammy’s arms wrapped around her legs.

Laughing as she disentangled herself from his grasp, Julianna knelt down to his level, rubbing her chin thoughtfully. “Isn’t it a bit early for cookies?” A sad-eyed pout replaced his former brightness, but he said nothing as he shifted feet. “Oh, good heavens. This looks to be an emergency, isn’t it? Well then, I suppose one cookie can’t hurt. Come on.”

Sammy grinned, taking her hand and pulling her towards the kitchen. Julianna laughed heartily at how such a little thing could inspire delight in a child. As she watched her nephew contentedly munching away at the cookie she’d retrieved from the jar up above, she found herself wondering what her own children might be like someday.

Maybe... like Dominick?

The doorbell rang, and moments later Vicki shouted, “Julie!”

“I’ll get it!” she called back, still a bit dreamy-eyed as she walked to the door. Absently, she wondered where she’d meet Dominick tonight. Another romantic setting? A space scenario? Or perhaps back at the castle again.

Smiling warmly in remembrance of how they’d spent the evening there last night, she opened the door...

And abruptly froze.

“Julie,” the quiet yet familiar voice said, as if from far away. “You’re looking better than ever.”

“No,” she whispered, shaking her head and feeling her skin suddenly turn cold. Roger! What on Earth was he doing here, now of all times, when she was finally moving past what happened? “I’m sorry,” she stammered finally. “You must have the wrong house.”

“Please,” he protested, holding the door ajar with his foot. “I need to speak with you. What you saw in the store wasn’t how it looked. Things have changed in your absence. Can’t you spare me a few minutes, so I can explain?”

Anger replaced her shock. “Explain what?” she bit out. “Explain that you’re in love with another woman? Explain that I’m just someone to pass the time with when it’s convenient? No thanks, Roger. I neither need nor want your explanations. Just get out.”

“I don’t love Marilyn, and she’s out of my life for good.”

So the rumors were true, Julianna thought absently. Still, true or not, it didn’t erase the scene at the store, and she concluded it didn’t matter, hardening her expression.

“I’m very happy for her,” she said coldly.

“And I realize what an idiot I’ve been in regard to you,” Roger continued. “Julie, look I know you must be angry, but I’m really sorry for what happened between us. I was trying to tell you in the supermarket that I was helping Marilyn out simply because her car broke down. But I would have done that for anyone.”

“How convenient that you were able to be there for her, but not for me when I needed it.”

“I see. So this isn’t about Marilyn so much as what happened between us during our last evening together.” The somber look in her eyes confirmed his words. “Julie, if I could do it over, don’t you think I would?”

“I don’t know. Would you?”

“Of course I would.”

Having heard lines like this from him before, she shook her head. “You know, that’s all fine and good for you, Roger. But you’re wasting your time telling me this,” she replied, her voice shaking slightly. “What’s done is done, and there’s no going back. Just because I wanted to take things slow, you couldn’t wait to jump into bed with someone else. All those years I thought you were different, but obviously I was wrong. Now please, just leave.” Before she could shut the door, Roger deftly stepped inside, placing his hands on her shoulders. She flinched against him, but her back was to the door. “Roger, let me go, or I swear I’ll scream,” she nearly yelled.

“Julie, listen to me!” he said firmly, his grip tightening. “The last thing I want is to have you screaming for your family, but I’m not leaving until you hear me out.” Sighing once as she fell silent, he began more quietly, “I understand your anger, Julie, and I don’t blame you for it. Heaven knows I haven’t done much to earn otherwise from you lately. But ever since that evening you came to my apartment to find me, all I’ve wanted to do was run over here to set things right between us.”

Keeping her expression neutral, she asked quietly, “So why didn’t you then?”

“I didn’t think there could be any going back, so I chose the simplest route by trying to forget you instead,” he replied softly. His eyes became almost pleading. “But I couldn’t do that, which is why I’m here now. Our relationship means something to me.” Seeing the uncertain disbelief in her expression, he released her shoulders, continuing even more gently, “Julie, please... can’t you give us another chance? I swear things will never be like before again.”

Julianna turned away quickly, as if she feared being burned from having conversed with the devil himself.

Not too far from the truth actually, she considered.

His words were just what she’d wanted to hear before, and yet... how could she go against every fiber of her being to forgive him? He’d done nothing but hurt her before, and undoubtedly would again if she gave him his so-called chance. Her mixed feelings voiced a different response.

“I don’t know,” she said brokenly. “You’re like a stranger to me now, Roger. How can I trust anything you say anymore?”

“Give me time to prove it to you,” he murmured, moving closer to press a kiss to her forehead. “Please, Julianna, let me make it up to you.”

He hadn’t used her full name in the longest time, and the way he spoke it now, it sounded like an endearment.

If his words were poisoned again, they were sweetly lethal, she thought absently, surprised at this display of tenderness from one she’d no longer believed had the capability for it.

Even so, his last words triggered a different memory.

Dominick.

He’d used similar words in last night’s dream, hadn’t he? Yet that argument had stemmed from a misunderstanding. He’d acted from what he thought to be a betrayal, while in Roger’s case, he’d caused the betrayal himself. Two different situations entirely.

Dominick... her mind repeated. Would he vanish from her dreams forever if she accepted Roger’s invitation to try again? In fact, would he vanish anyway in days to come?

Turning back to face Roger, she tried to look in control, but it was a hopeless gesture. Despite her best efforts, she was confused again. As if sensing this, Roger used her silence to advantage, pulling her close to hold her.

Somehow, she couldn’t find the will to break free.

“Julianna, how I’ve missed you,” he whispered. “It’s going to be different this time, I promise you.”

Promises in words but not actions! her angry thoughts reminded her. Yet logic wasn’t always as easy to accept as some seemed to think, warring with her former feelings. Instead of pushing him away, she simply frowned and said nothing.

“Why don’t we spend the day together to do some catching up?” he suggested softly. “We can go for a drive, and find a restaurant where we can get lunch and talk.”

For long moments, Julianna considered the offer.

Until logic finally took full rein, prompting her to shake her head. “I’m afraid I can’t,” she said softly. “I have some work due tomorrow that can’t wait, and I want to get it done before I’m too tired later. You’d better go.”

Roger pulled back to stare into her eyes as if about to rebel, but then to her surprise, he accepted her words with a calm smile.

“All right,” he agreed. “But I’ll be back later to rescue you from that workload. Maybe over dinner?”

“Roger…”

“Shhh… just think about it.”

Not certain how to reply—admittedly, only half listening now—Julianna could only give a slight nod. Before she even realized it, he started to leave, stepping back to pull the door shut behind him. Just before it shut completely, he added with a smile, “It’s good to see you again, Julie. I can’t tell you how much just now, but I will.”

The door’s closing hammered against her ears, but even when Sammy’s abrupt pleading for another cookie began, Julianna was too at a loss for words to pay any attention to either. After all this time, why on Earth had Roger suddenly rendered her speechless?

It wasn’t as if she’d completely forgiven him for what he’d done, so it made no sense. So much different from last night when she’d wholeheartedly forgiven Dominick for his actions without reservation. Dear heaven, she wished he was here right now to hold her and to kiss her concerns away as he did so well. If he’d been here beside her, she wouldn’t have hesitated to send Roger walking without a second glance. And she’d certainly have told him where he could go tonight!

But that wasn’t what had happened at all.

Instead, she’d been caught off-guard by a weak moment.

“Oh, Dominick...” she whispered brokenly, clutching her arms tightly. “I wish you were here.”

*****

Buddy and Inferno stared at Dominick with confusion as he sauntered into Lost Limbo with the unmistakable air of better spirits. The girls at their table were equally puzzled over the grin on his face, but Kiri assured them with a conspiratorial smile that her psychic ability would pick up any conversation the guys might have.

“Your best, Zantarl!” Dominick called out cheerfully.

The near middle-aged bartender, who instantly returned a smile as the dreamphaser approached, wondered what had changed since his argument with Buddy yesterday. His curiosity showed through his amber eyes, although they were only good at seeing through material substances—not reading minds, like Kiri could.

As the proprietor of Lost Limbo for many years, despite his fairly youthful appearance, Zantarl had become well acquainted with Dominick and the group he associated with. He related to Dominick the most though, since the lad was alone more than the others—except for his dealings with various women, here and there—and had such a distant relationship from his parents.

In fact, since Zantarl had all but been there when Dominick was born, he came to regard him as the son he never had—having five daughters from his current marriage. Fortunately, his wife Dreeana had been even more attached to the boy, always being available with a brownie and a warm hug over the years. Yes, while they loved their own children dearly, no mistake about that, Zantarl and his wife both looked at Dominick with the fondness of family.

As for their daughters’ reaction to Dominick, they rarely protested his visiting, particularly since a few had cases of ‘puppy love’ since he’d transformed from a cute boy to a handsome man. But despite his charm with the ladies, Zantarl never worried that Dominick would turn his amorous attentions on his own girls, since he stated quite clearly one time that he loved them all as the sisters he never had. No, Dominick regarded them as his foster family, and he was a good lad. A bit rough around the edges sometimes, but good deep down.

“Well, it would seem you’ve gotten the brawling out of your system for one day,” Zantarl said finally, placing the newly concocted drink on the counter, before leaning on one arm. “Care to let me in on the secret behind this?”

“No secret, Zan,” he replied lightly.

To the careful observer, his words sounded more like ‘No secret, Dad’, but Dominick took this in stride since it seemed true most of the time. Stirring his drink absently, he gave Zantarl his usual enigmatic look, yet for once it seemed a bit more serious.

“Right,” the clever bartender murmured, not masking his disbelief. “And you’re a guardian angel with a shining gold halo to match. The truth now, son.” Dominick gave a short laugh, explaining the past three days he’d spent with Julianna, not to mention their first meeting two months ago. Zantarl listened quietly, mixed emotions flashing across his face, until he finished. “Ah, I see now. Your latest love for the time being. No, hear me out. Now Chaos knows there’s no stopping you when you’ve set your sights on a pretty female, but don’t you think it’s about time you let this one go, for her sake if not your own?”

The younger man’s face sobered somewhat, but he shook his head. “You don’t understand, Zan. I can’t just let her go. Maybe at the very start I could have, but not now.”

“Dominick, for once try to see reason.”

“Reason?” he sneered, staring up at the ceiling with a weak smile. “No, I’m afraid reason doesn’t stand a chance anymore. And you have no idea what Julianna’s like.”

“I can guess. Flawlessly beautiful and passionate like the rest.”

“No,” Dominick protested. “I mean... yes, she’s beautiful, and surely passionate too, but she is not like the rest. She’s beautiful on the inside too, Zan. As sweet as honey, with a fiery spirit to match.”

“Really now?” laughed Zantarl. “How could that be favorable?”

“Maybe for someone who’d like a woman with a little fire within, rather than some of your guardian angel types who are so sweet you’re afraid of their dissolving into fairy dust in your hands. I’d prefer my spirited Julianna to them any day of the millennium. Because even with those moments, she’s also very loving and considerate, and most of all, understanding.”

“It would seem so after your rushed-to conclusions last night,” Zantarl agreed sternly. “You know you should have asked her who those people were, before you assumed the worst.”

“Believe me, I won’t make that mistake again.”

Zantarl nodded, his expression softening. “It’s nice that you took her out to dance afterwards to make up for it.” He leaned closer. “I would assume, in spite of omitting further details, more may have happened at this dream castle you created for her?” The younger man remained silent. “I see.”

“No, you don’t see,” Dominick protested, earning a curious stare from Zantarl. “There’s nothing wrong with what we choose to do together, and that is not my sole reason for wanting to see her again. Zan, if it was purely physical, I could have searched for someone else before. And I’m not going to deny that I didn’t enjoy our time together last night. But there is more to it than that. She has caring, intelligence, a good sense of humor, and a strong-willed spirit despite her underlying innocence. In a way, I feel like she’s what’s been missing from my life all these years.”

Zantarl’s curiosity became surprise. “I don’t believe I’ve ever heard you speak so of any of your nocturnal liaisons before, let alone women here. Truthfully, what are your feelings towards this Julianna if it’s not a temporary attraction?”

A question Dominick still wasn’t completely certain about himself. Having never been in love before, his feelings for Julianna were stronger than any he’d ever known. But he needed to be sure that it was really love, the kind that Julianna would be happy with. Desire might burn itself out in time, but if it was love... time would reveal it.

After some deliberation, he replied quietly, “I’d rather not answer that just now, Zantarl. I can only say that my feelings for Julianna run deeper than any I’ve ever felt towards other women, and that I’ll do my damnedest to make sure she isn’t hurt, one way or the other. If that means staying with her until she says otherwise, then I’m willing to do just that. Fair enough?”

“I suppose it’ll have to be,” sighed Zantarl, patting his arm quickly. “You’d best see to your friends at their table now. We can talk more on this later.”

“Thanks, Zan. I’m glad I can trust you.”

As Dominick walked away, Zantarl smiled after him with new understanding. So the lad might finally have found love after all, and apparently someone who might very well feel the same about him. If that was true, Zantarl would certainly be happy for him, and yet he was forced to wonder...

What kind of love could exist between two people from such distant worlds, who could only see each other for a few hours a night in their dreams?

Thinking of his own dear wife, Zantarl could see how love might make those brief moments bearable, but he was infinitely glad that Dreeana wasn’t separated from him in the same way. It was too bad really. He might have liked to have been introduced to this young lady of Dominick’s. If his words were to be believed, she was special indeed.

“Zantarl, what’s the hold up on our drinks!” came a shout from one table.

“Hold onto your shorts, Izzy, or you’ll be dealing with a much longer dry spell!”

With that, the further details to the saga of Dominick and Julianna would have to wait until later.

In the meantime, Dominick sat with his friends while they amiably chatted, not noticing the attentive looks Kiri gave him. In fact, he seemed somewhat oblivious to the conversations altogether, although he smiled now and then. Kiri’s eyes were seeking during his distraction, although with her mind-reading ability it wasn’t hard to read the very clear images in his mind.

One other watching at a table nearby looked equally interested in his distraction, listening in secretly.

Dominick smiled as he continued to toy with his drink, never actually drinking it, but staring ahead blankly while thinking of Julianna. Tonight perhaps she’d tell him more of her nephew that she adored so. With her liking for children, he supposed she might like one of her own someday.

If it was possible, he would have gladly obliged her there, but alas, the dream-state only provided so much reality. A matter of no consequence right now, he decided finally, turning his thoughts to brighter things.

Maybe this evening, they could have a romantic dinner beside the silvery ocean. The dream’s night sky could be filled with bright rainbows—reminding him of her blissful words comparing them to their time together last night—and likewise, accompanying soft music could be made to fill the air. After dining, he had the perfect place to show her afterwards... but that would have to wait for now.

Glancing up at the clock on Lost Limbo’s wall, a frown replaced his brightness. There were still many hours to go before he could see her. Damn, but time could go so slow when one anticipated a rendezvous with a loved companion.

He stopped himself abruptly. There it was again. Love?

But was it really love or just something that resembled it to the point of maddening illusion? Maybe tonight he could ascertain the truth once and for all, and perhaps also find out her feelings on the matter. He was a bit afraid that she’d proclaim last night to have been wonderful, but that a continued relationship could never be between them—and surely she was justified in believing so—although he planned on taking steps to investigate the real truth to that. For he certainly didn’t want to lose her now, since he so valued their time together.

“Dom!” yelled Buddy, snapping his attention back again. “It’d be nice if you paid attention to us for a few minutes. Where is your mind anyway? Off daydreaming with that ability of yours?”

A smile of consideration crossed Dominick’s face in silent response. Daydreaming, he mused... a possibility he hadn’t considered. It would certainly be nice to see Julianna right now, and although he didn’t make a habit of it, he knew it was possible.

But not an option he’d use, since to be honest, he didn’t want to interfere with her daytime life. After all, he couldn’t keep her mind suspended in a perpetual dream, now could he? A person had to eat, and while one could do so in the dream-state, it wouldn’t be of any use to the person’s physical body which would remain unnourished. Besides that, she’d briefly mentioned having a job too, which he wasn’t about to risk jeopardizing.

No, he’d see her in a few hours, and that was that.

A sudden searing pain in his arm jolted him back to reality again. “Ow!” he exclaimed, glaring at Inferno. “What was that for?”

“Ah, the dreamer boy returns,” sneered Buddy. “How honored we are.”

Ignoring his remarks, Inferno shook his head apologetically. “I didn’t use enough heat to burn you, Dominick,” he said quietly. “It’s just that when you’re off in dreamland, it’s very hard to pull you back.”

Dominick was silent for a moment before smiling. “Okay, I’ll buy that,” he laughed. “Just make sure you don’t try the same stunt at night, or I won’t be responsible for my less tolerant reaction.”

Inferno’s eyebrows quirked up curiously. “Question. Are you still seeing that girl you were chasing?”

“Yes, I’m definitely still seeing her,” he replied happily. “Although last night I’d say the chasing most certainly ended.”

Buddy gaped at the implication. “Dom, you didn’t...” Silence. “Oh, Chaos, you did,” he sighed. “Well, maybe it’s for the best. Now you can leave that poor girl alone, and...”

Dominick’s expression was stern. “You know, it would be wonderful if my closest friends would start remembering for the umpteenth time that I’m not my brother. When I said the chasing ended last night, I meant as in we’ve found that we’re mutually happy together.”

“You’re not going back to see her again, are you?”

“Yes, I am,” he said evenly. “I promised her I would.”

“I shouldn’t be surprised! Far be it from you to... you did what?”

“She asked me to meet her again tonight, and I promised I would.” He couldn’t help giving a wearied sigh to his gaping friend. “You’re reading something negative into something that is completely the opposite. The entire time I spent with Julianna last night brought me more happiness since I can’t remember when.”

The piercing sound of breaking glass abruptly jarred him into turning, along with the other occupants of Lost Limbo, to face an angry Sionne who now stood. “Well, well, well... so your new harlot has a name,” she hissed softly. “Julianna, is it? From which corner did you dredge this one up, Dominick?”

He smiled darkly. “Sionne, if you were a man, you’d be missing several teeth right now for your insults. As it is, it’s none of your business.” He tried to turn away again, but she grabbed his arm.

“Your grandfather will no doubt see differently, since he’s already decided we’re to be betrothed.”

“Really?” he chuckled, becoming serious. “Then I’m happy to hear it, and I accept completely.” Sionne began to smile triumphantly, while his friends could only gasp. “Though you’re a bit younger than I’d have expected for a new step-grandmother, I’m sure you’ll be very happy together.”

Moments later, the whole place erupted into laughter, including Buddy and Inferno, with the exception of Jarissa. Dominick maintained his composure with an icy smile, while Sionne’s hands curled into fists, her face red.

“I’m sure your grandfather won’t be quite so pleased by your amused mockery!” she yelled above the laughter, storming out angrily.

“Good one, Dom,” chuckled Buddy, slapping his shoulder good-naturedly. “She certainly had that coming.”

“Oh, really?” snapped Jarissa, her devil horns blazing red as he abruptly quieted. Turning to Dominick, she met his nonchalant look with ire. “You have a hell of a nerve, treating poor Sionne like that. She’s done nothing but strive for a bit of kindness from you, yet all you can do is flaunt your illicit liaisons in her face and humiliate her.”

“Poor Sionne brought it on herself,” he replied evenly. “Although leave it to a guardian devil to defend those with questionable motives.” Even as Jarissa silently fumed, he continued, “Sionne knows we’ve never been a couple, I never agreed to a betrothal with her, and certainly have no ties to keep me from seeking out someone else if I choose.”

“We all know that,” Inferno said meaningfully. Even Psych nodded.

“Maybe. But speaking of liaisons, Kiri overheard that you managed to seduce that innocent girl in her dreams.”

Dominick’s expression darkened again as he turned to Kiri, who now stood beside her friend. “Next time, you’d best eavesdrop a bit more carefully,” he hissed. “I didn’t seduce Julianna. What we shared last night was completely mutual.”

“For one night,” she sneered. This time it was Dominick’s gaze—not Inferno’s—which seemed to shoot real fire at her.

“As I just told Buddy, we happen to be meeting again tonight,” he retorted.

“Yes, and perhaps for a few days more, if she’s intrigued you that much.” Her eyes became accusing. “But beyond that, we all know it’s a matter of time before you tire of her. The only difference is, when your days of meaningless loveplay with her are over, you’ll leave without consequence, while she’s left alone with yet another rejection.”

This time, Inferno and Psych both stood up.

“Kiri, that’s out of line,” he protested. “Aren’t you judging a bit prematurely?”

“Yes,” agreed Psych, “Dominick would never treat a woman that callously.”

“I know what I saw!” Kiri exclaimed.

Dominick had been silent for long moments, all too conscious of Buddy’s questioning eyes upon him, but before Kiri could retort further, he broke in, silencing all.

“Your words twist things,” he said finally, barely controlling his anger, “so allow me to clear up what you think you saw. As to our meaningless loveplay as you call it, I can assure you that you’re completely wrong on that count, and you have no right to insult us like that. I already said it was mutual, and it has more meaning to us than you’ll ever understand.”

Pushing his chair in angrily, he stood to face her, continuing, “And before you proclaim yourself judge and jury over us, Kiri, I think we both know where your venom is really coming from. It’s not me who would do something like that, but your on-and-off paramour Riff. Instead of railing at me, maybe you should aim your anger where it really belongs!”

Turning to Buddy and Jarissa directly, he added, “If the rest of you choose to think the worst of me, I can’t stop you. Until this point, I’d credited you as being more understanding of me than that, so that really saddens me. But if all this means you’re forcing me to choose between you and Julianna… then I’m afraid we have nothing more to say to each other.”

He bit out the last as he slammed his chair against the table and stormed from Lost Limbo, leaving behind the gaping guardian pair, while Inferno and Psych unsuccessfully entreated him not to leave. Even Kiri looked apologetic at his departure. Zantarl shook his head and sighed upon witnessing this. He could only hope that this Julianna was worth as much as he claimed. If not, he feared that Dominick would lose a lot more than just his heart.

*****

Thank heaven for helpful siblings to solve a dilemma!

Julianna heard the door shut downstairs, following Roger’s fairly loud disagreement over Crystal’s explanation that her sister had suddenly developed a migraine that she needed to rest out. He protested that she was fine earlier when he’d spoken with her, but Crystal was soon backed up by her concerned husband. Jerry wasn’t a fond admirer of Roger’s either, and he wasn’t about to let his younger sister-in-law see the man when she said she didn’t want to.

Quietly peering out the corner of her window, Julianna saw Roger slam his car door and speed off. Sighing in relief that he was gone, she reclined on her bed and shut her eyes against the darkness. After completing her aforementioned work early in the day, and later receiving some helpful advice from Marybeth over the phone, she decided to put off meeting with Roger until she had more time to think things through.

That is, if I decide to see him again, her mind amended.

A knock on her door stirred a glance from her. “Come in,” she said tiredly. As Crystal and Jerry’s smiling faces appeared, Julianna echoed the gesture.

“It took a bit of convincing,” sighed Crystal, “but he’s gone.”

“So I heard,” Julianna agreed nodding. “Thank you both for being so helpful and understanding.”

“Hey, it’s the least a couple of old folks can do,” laughed Jerry, earning a rap on the shoulder from his wife.

“Speak for yourself, mister,” she admonished. “Just because you think you’re over the hill, doesn’t mean that I have to take part in that title.”

Her husband kissed her cheek lovingly. “You never seemed to mind the title of being Mrs. Old Timer before,” he whispered. Before she could reply, he slipped his arms about her waist to hug her close. “Maybe I can remind you of that later,” he added suggestively.

At Crystal’s quiet protests about discussing such things now, Julianna’s bright laughter eased any tension. “Neither one of you are over the hill, and you’re certainly younger than any old timers I’ve ever seen,” she commented. “Now why don’t you go work this out amongst yourselves, while I prepare to get some sleep?”

Jerry flashed his sister-in-law a quick smile, but aimed his words at Crystal. “I’m glad we kept this tactful sibling of yours with us,” he chuckled. “Now all that needs to be settled is our earlier discussion on a sibling for Sammy...”

“Good night, Julianna!” interrupted Crystal, passing her husband without a backwards glance.

“Maybe you should settle your present discussion first,” Julianna told her brother-in-law knowingly. “Otherwise, Sammy’s liable to remain an only child.”

“Ah, good point. I suppose I’d best switch to my alter ego of Humble Husband,” Jerry replied, his eyes twinkling. “Good night, kiddo,” he added, just before slipping out the door to follow his wife.

As Julianna heard him calling out to Crystal in a sugary voice, followed by her sister’s sarcastic reply not to use such a tone with her now, she couldn’t help but laugh quietly. She was glad her sister had found someone like Jerry. Despite their occasional bickering, they really loved each other, and she knew Crystal would be the first to agree.

Likewise, Vicki had been equally fortunate in finding her fiancé Luke. From the several times they’d chatted across the dinner table, Julianna could see that while Luke had an often reckless lifestyle, he certainly wasn’t reckless over his love for Vicki. Constantly, flowers would arrive at the door for her older sister, along with notes of love and adoration from her most un-secretive admirer.

Up until a week ago, seeing her sisters so happy would cause mixed emotions. She was certainly happy for them, yet saddened over not having a companion of her own.

But now that Dominick had come into her life, suddenly she didn’t feel so alone anymore. True, she could only see him in her dreams, but he still felt more real and wonderful to her than any man she’d ever known—including Roger.

To pass the time, she watched television until it was nearly ten, glancing at the clock repeatedly. Being a night person, she usually went to bed later, but tonight she didn’t want to prolong being away from her dreams. In fact, she practically willed sleep to come for her, since she knew Dominick would be there for her.

At least she certainly hoped he would.

After today, inwardly she really needed his strength to lean on, since Roger had shaken things up earlier. If only Dominick was truly here, so he himself could tell Roger to leave forever. It would serve him right to be fed the same harsh medicine she’d forcibly swallowed over his affair with Marilyn.

The only difference was, she wanted more than just a temporary affair with Dominick, for she was more convinced than ever that she was falling in love with him—if she wasn’t completely so already.

When caught absently sketching little drawings of him at work, a few of Julianna’s co-workers had inquired with interest about her mystery man. She mentioned him in passing, but declined their suggestions to introduce him to them in person. They seemed to take her dismissal as amused jealousy, but Julianna knew better. If only I could introduce him to you! she’d wanted to shout, but sadly couldn’t.

The night hours now erased her earlier sadness totally.

Against her shut eyes, Julianna smiled softly at the airy feelings sweeping across her mind. Her thoughts drifted away from Roger, her questioning co-workers, and all other problems currently in her life.

Soon she’d be with Dominick again, and all would be well.

*****

All was not well for one man.

Puffing for breath, Alarius Zaxelby was navigating the dark twisting corridor without much success. How he’d even ended up in this unforeseen mazelike territory, he had no idea, but there was no mistaking the loud growls of a distant creature heading towards him. Being half-elven, his ears could distinguish fairly well what it must be.

It was the sound of an angry dragon.

“Give yourself up, Zaxelby!” came a rumbling voice, no doubt from the dragon itself. A voice that was sickeningly familiar to the half-elf, who knew its owner well. “Relinquish the map now, and I might spare your life!”

“You’ll get neither from me this day, foul beast!” Alarius yelled back, losing sight of where he was going.

Tripping over a hidden stone to crash to the ground, the fairly young man let out a sharp gasp, turning in anticipation of seeing the creature right behind him.

Not yet. There was still a chance he could escape.

But where is the way out? his thoughts demanded as he scrambled to his feet, running down another passageway. Reaching into his jacket, he pulled free the map in question. Given to him as a gift a few weeks ago by a generous friend who also lived on the island of Barokka—who discovered the map during his many nightly travels—the map’s information granted its owner the whereabouts to a hidden portal.

Just within the doorway to this portal was a perpetual flowing waterfall, looking like a liquid rainbow. In actuality, this ‘rainbow’ of sorts constantly rained forth a cascade of colorful valuable jewels interspersed with its water, giving it its rainbow-like appearance. At the bottom of this waterfall—or perhaps more accurately, a ‘jewel-fall’—several useful magical items had also once been left there. A veritable treasure trove!

While planning to follow his friend’s advice to leave the magical items, Alarius planned to sell some of the endless jewels in order to give his poor family the life they deserved. Perhaps sparing a few colorful trinkets for his three children, soon to be four, and using some of the gems to create a beautiful necklace for his dear wife and now mother-to-be again.

He’d decided to seek this treasure after their fourth child was born in a few months, not wanting to be absent when his wife might need him sooner than expected.

But then a sudden twist had altered his plans.

Their youngest son Daric had become deathly ill.

An immediate cure was needed for the boy, whose swiftly ebbing life required the services of an efficient but expensive healer in outer Chavernos. Since the healer demanded full payment up front, Alarius needed to seek out the treasure immediately. Leaving Daric in the capable hands of his wife and the local doctor—a wise elder man who promised to do his best to keep the boy alive until his return—it was with a heavy heart that the half-elf began his quest.

Under normal circumstances, Alarius should have had no trouble succeeding in his mission. The silvery-blond-haired half-elf appeared in his late twenties and as strong, although countless years older in actuality—due to his youthful long-lived elven blood. The same was true of his half-elven wife, who was equally capable, and might have accompanied him on the journey if she’d been able.

Thankfully, the portal’s location wasn’t very far away.

Unfortunately, neither were the two men who followed him, who’d learned of the map and sought to steal it.

If they were reasonable men, perhaps Alarius could have seen negotiating with them. But knowing many from Barokka, he remembered well who these dark followers were.

Their kind never bargained.

And Daric’s life depended on him now.

The exit, blast it! he nearly yelled. Where is it?

As if in answer, a light began to brighten up ahead. Sighing thankfully, Alarius found an extra rush of adrenaline which helped carry him towards his destination. And then he saw it... the blessed exit!

Reaching his hands towards the sunlight just a few feet away, abruptly darkness fell upon the doorway leading out.

Replaced instead by the black scales of the dragon.

“Thought you could escape, did you?” it hissed.

Letting out a shocked yell, Alarius dropped to his knees, as the dragon loomed closer, its bloodstained talons outstretched. There was no need to ask whose blood would be added next to that already there, the half-elf considered dismally, feeling his heart race still faster.

“Please, let me go,” he pleaded in a whisper. “My son... he needs help.”

The dragon emitted a harsh laugh. “Right now, you’re the one who needs help, in case you’re blind, man.”

“You don’t understand...”

“No, you don’t understand!”

Hissing violet flames, the dragon slithered forward to grasp the collar of Alarius’s shirt, dragging him from the ground to hold him suspended in mid-air. While the half-elf struggled to free himself, he found himself shaken roughly.

“I’m not a patient man, Zaxelby,” snarled the dragon, baring its sharp teeth of several inches long each. “That map should never have fallen into your hands. It rightfully belongs to me and my associate Quell. Either give it to us willingly, or you’ll find the rest of your family dead along with your son!”

“You’d kill them anyway, you black-hearted demon,” rasped Alarius.

The dragon broke into a fiendish grin, before tossing him to the ground. As the half-elf rubbed his shaken head, the scaly beast transformed itself into human form.

A human dreamphaser to be precise.

“I could indeed,” the dark-haired man murmured through a malicious chortle, his voice sounding normally human now. “Especially the brats. Chavernos, how I do detest those little scavengers.” If not for their kind, you’d still be alive, Caralei.

Waving his hand absently, he conjured up a regal-looking chair. Judging by his almost amiable smile now, one might easily neglect seeing past the coolly handsome features to find what really lurked within. Many had been fooled thus over the years by his seemingly dual nature.

Something which accounted perfectly for his known name... Dual.

Reclining lazily, he rubbed his chin knowingly. “But before killing all of them,” he drawled, “I might spare your fair wife for a while, just so I could... sample her charms once or twice.”

Alarius’s eyes lit up like bright flames. “I’ll see you rot in the demonworlds below before you set a finger on Laelea!” he hissed.

Dual quirked one eyebrow up. “Admirable, Zaxelby,” he laughed. “I’d imagined you hadn’t the spirit to threaten a dreamphaser. To find otherwise, I salute you.” Stretching out his legs, he shook his head. “No, my dear Alarius, I have no wish to set my sights upon your wife presently. After all, she last appeared quite heavy with your latest offspring. I’m merely reminding you that I can make your life quite miserable, or end it as well, unless you cooperate.”

The half-elf gave a forced laugh. “Cooperate! You mean for me to trade my son’s life for my own!”

“Did I leave you with that impression?” Dual asked in mock surprise. “Surely, you simply misunderstood. You see, you’re trading that map for all of your lives. Refuse to surrender it, and we’ll kill your ailing son, followed by the rest of your limitless brood.”

Seeing his hesitation, Dual waved a hand to reveal a floating image of Alarius’s family waiting for him. The half-elf silently cursed the dreamphaser for his most effective cruelty. Just seeing Laelea again as she smiled upon the children, so far away, was a bitter torment to him now. As if she knew he was watching from afar, his wife looked up with a sad smile, one hand resting against their unborn child.

Alarius could also see the too small house they lived in, which would be even less suitable for yet another child. And his gaze fell upon little Daric, his pale form resting beside his attentive mother. The boy’s eyes were closed from the fever, which held him in its deathlike grip, yet neither Laelea nor the doctor were willing to let him slip away... not while the hope of Alarius still remained.

A hope slowly dying like a candle flame being snuffed out.

“Think about it, Zaxelby,” whispered Dual, his voice snakelike. “As you can quite clearly see, you’ll soon have another brat if you lose this one, and you might even get back in time to see its arrival in person. One life for all... if you agree to the terms.”

The vision faded instantly as Alarius glanced up in alarm. “Terms?” he repeated. “If I give you the map, you’ll have what you seek, and I shall lose my son! What higher price must you ask, you cursed bastard?”

“A simple favor. The necessity of one word or two really.” Spreading his hands amiably, he continued, “I just wish to know the party responsible for giving this map to you when it was meant to be ours alone.”

Alarius’s mouth drew into a tight line. “I found it myself,” he said quietly. “No secret as to how. People often find things when they least expect to.”

Dual’s ill laughter cut him off. “Am I to believe that you merely stumbled across it, when the map was hidden in the deepest stairwell of one of the multiple towers on the hills of ice beyond?” Alarius wouldn’t reply. “No, Zaxelby, don’t debase yourself as a liar as well. We both know that only a few unique magic abilities would know exactly where to seek it, and both you and your wife have minor ones that wouldn’t aid in such a search.”

“Maybe you underestimate us,” Alarius suggested lightly.

“Don’t try my limited patience,” hissed Dual, transforming into the dragon again. “Since you reside in Barokka, it’s likely someone there gave you this rather valuable item. Either you give me the name of the culprit who did this, or I’ll send Quell out to use his powers of silencing to finish off your family before you see them alive again. Now, Alarius... choose whom you wish to protect. Your traitorous friend who got you into this to begin with, or the family you cherish so much. Choose!”

Traitorous... The word echoed in Alarius’s mind, but it could bear no truth to him. His friend of many years had given him the map in good faith to help him and his family to have a better life, knowing he wouldn’t need the treasures himself. And despite Dual’s words, he knew that the map did not rightfully belong to him or Quell.

His friend had merely found it first.

“He’s no traitor,” hissed Alarius. “Nor am I!”

“You’d best learn differently then,” sneered Dual, “or this will be the next sight you see!”

A new vision appeared, this one distorted and twisted. His house was engulfed in flames, the children screaming as they ran from it. Quell’s image stood close by, using his malevolent powers to only partially ‘silence’ each one with paralysis as they passed through the flaming doorway, dropping them instantly to remain in the fire’s path. All remained conscious, their agonized screams filling Alarius’s ears, as the vision allowed no mercy. If not horror enough, he witnessed his beloved Laelea struggling weakly from the house, carrying the lifeless Daric, until Quell paralyzed them too...

“No!” yelled the half-elf, drowning out Laelea’s screams with his own anguished cry. Dropping to the ground as the vision persisted to taunt him, Alarius’s eyes shot fire. “Damn you, Dual! I won’t let you harm them!”

The dragon’s eyes softened knowingly. “Of course you won’t,” he purred, finally allowing the horrific vision to fade out. “Just give me the name, Alarius.”

Alarius bit his lip, shutting his eyes painfully. “Damn you, Dual,” he said once more, brokenly, adding in an equally shattered whisper, “Forgive me, my friend... and my poor little Daric too. I had no choice...”

Dual leaned forward, his eyes glittering. “The name, Alarius!”

The half-elf wouldn’t face him as the name slipped from his tongue. “Dominick…” he sighed. “Dominick Westbrooke.”

The dragon remained motionless for what seemed like forever.

“Dominick,” he hissed finally, with no absence of venom. “So... once more, the familiar sword in my side has struck again.” Glancing up to face the bemused Alarius, his expression retained its anger, but his words were calm. “You’ve done well, Alarius. You and your family are free from harm, and you may return to them as soon as this dream ends and you relinquish the map. We’ll arrive to retrieve it shortly.” The half-elf stared at the ground, unanswering. “You should feel proud, my friend. You’ve saved many lives this day, your own included.”

While feeling unable to speak, lest he bring renewed threats of destruction upon his family, Alarius continued to keep his gaze lowered, remorse filling his mind.

I shall never be proud of betraying a loyal friend, he thought silently, and what life shall I have knowing I’ve forfeited my son’s? None I can bear...

“Damn you,” he whispered, feeling the chilling winds tugging at him to announce the ending of the nightmare.

As he vanished, so did Dual.

*****

Reappearing in a place not far from the dreaming Alarius’s actual slumbering form, the dark dreamphaser was once more in his human body. The dragon form was merely an illusion that solely existed in the dream-state, albeit it was certainly effective enough there.

Ignoring his ally Quell’s enthusiasm regarding the map, Dual’s thoughts traveled instead to the revelation he’d learned. Until tonight, he wasn’t certain who had cheated the valuable map from him. And from Quell too, of course, although that was a more minor consideration. But now he knew the thief, and the name brought no surprise.

“Dominick, my old enemy,” he hissed softly, “ever you plague me. And once more, you’ve earned another dose of retribution for your interference.” His eyes narrowed with malice. “You’d best be on guard, my persistent foe. For when next we meet, you’ll wish the day had never come!”