I wasn’t quite finished with the story I was telling by the time 2025 ended and so decided to continue it until it reached an ending point. Then I will start a new one. Besides, I kind of want to see where Penelope ends up. And so we have…
Day 231: The implausible scenario became a dream.
The implausible scenario became a dream. Penelope found herself drifting in darkness. She was floating, quiet and peaceful. She blinked as though trying to take in the nowhere space. Then she blinked again and found herself standing on the pathway through the field of flowers. There was no longer a lake but there was a small flat section off to her left. As small path connected it. Penelope could see that there was a table and two chairs waiting.
The guardian of the lake was sitting in one of the chairs.
Penelope walked over. The woman smiled at her.
“I had hoped you would return,” she said.
“I didn’t want to intrude too often,” Penelope found herself saying as she approached.
“You do not intrude although I imagine with so much to learn your time is sparse.”
“It has been quite busy,” Penelope said. The guardian gestured to one of the chairs and Penelope sat down.
“I believe refreshments are traditional,” the guardian said. She looked to the table. Penelope turned to look as well. At first it was empty. Then dishes started to appear. There were bowls of fruit, a plate laden with flat bread, a jar of honey, a plate with cheese. There was also a pottery pitcher and two nearly hourglass shaped pottery cups.
“It has been a while since I have offered refreshment, is this still suitable?” The guardian seemed uncertain of herself. “Customs change so often.”
“This looks lovely,” Penelope said.
The guardian smiled. “Excellent, then please help yourself.”
Penelope nodded and looking over the options, chose to tear off a corner of the bread, add a little cheese and drizzle a bit of honey. It was a small bite but it comprised three septate elements so she hoped it would be enough to make the guardian feel appreciated.
The guardian waited as Penelope ate her chosen morsel. “You are not eating?” Penelope asked.
“I do not consume such food I am afraid,” the guardian said.
Penelope looked at the table. “Did you create it?” she asked.
“No,” the guardian said. She shook her head. “I brought it from various places and times to here. It is assembled from small parts gathered in multiple places and so its absence will cause no one any concern. It will not be noticed.”
“I see.” Penelope said. She decided that her bite was enough to be sociable and decided to take no more.
“You have come with questions?” the guardian asked.
“I have,” Penelope replied. “Does that offend you?”
“That you seek me only when you have need?” The guardian asked. Penelope nodded. The guardian smiled. “It was why I was created.”
“Still it seems a bit rude,” Penelope said. Having grown up with Trinity she was accustomed to dealing with someone who took without giving back and didn’t want to repeat her actions. “Is there something you would like to discuss?”
The guardian looked surprised. “I will think on that and on your next return perhaps.”
“Good,” Penelope said. “I would like that.”
“I believe I would as well,” the guardian said. “But tonight, your questions?”
“Right. I had my arm broken and one night shortly after I dreamt of these lights.” Penelope explained finding the memories.
Ten til Midnight 