The flight was long and boring. Katelina bounced between clutching the arms of the seat, wandering to the bathroom, and raiding the kitchen for drinks and snacks. Each time Verchiel was stubbornly "at his post" and each time she ignored his attempts at conversation.

Boredom took its toll, and eventually she drifted off into dreams. She stood in heavy spring garden. A storm rumbled in the distance and the thunder made her jump.

"Do not be afraid."

She spun around ...