“When we first went to the sky, I didn’t want to go. I wanted to stay here on the earth. And being unable to roam was stifling. Tight places make me claustrophobic.”
“What helped you through it?”
“You probably won’t like the answer,” he said, giving her shoulder a light squeeze. “But, time. Having a thousand years to come to terms with my situation, watching you humans and your problems—it put things in perspective for me. Made me realize I didn’t have it so bad.”
“I don’t think I have a thousand years to figure things out,” Iyana said dryly.
Altair huffed a small laugh. “No, you don’t. And I’m sorry, my star, I wish I could give you time to grieve properly, but I need you to train with your magic.” Pulling away from her, his hand traveled lightly from her shoulder down her spine, tingles following in its wake. “We should start tomorrow. The sooner you master the magic, the sooner you can stop Uther.”
Iyana looked into his eyes. There was a sadness there. Pity too. But when she shook her head, she swore she saw anger pass over his face. It happened so quickly, though; she wasn’t sure if she imagined it. She forged forward. “I can’t, Altair.”
“Can I ask why?” And she must have imagined that anger, because his voice was soft and curious.
“I mean, Idoneed to train my magic, yes, but not for your reasons.” He frowned, his hand falling off her lower back. She missed his touch immediately. “With Imo gone, I’m the healer now. I can’t just leave my people.”
“I understand. Your people are important to you,” he said. “Remember, though, should Uther succeed, he will eliminate all of you. It won’t matter that you stayed.”
Iyana contemplated his words, vowing to take them into consideration. Later. Right now, on top of everything else, the idea of saving the world seemed inconceivable. Altair noticed her hesitation.
“It’s okay,” he said. “We can discuss it more later. Right now, you need to get some sleep. Magic will drain your energy, so you need to rest while you have the chance.”
While she was absolutely exhausted, sleep still felt impossible. “I don’t think I can.”
“Sleep, Iyana.” His thumb gently brushed across her cheek, the warmth of his magic flowing through her. Eyes fluttering closed, she finally slept.
The next morning Iyana woke feeling the most well-rested she’d ever been in her life. Her limbs still felt loose and limp, so she lingered in bed for a few minutes. Just long enough for the past couple of days to catch up with her. Any lightness she had been experiencing dissipated immediately once she remembered her normal routine would be a thing of the past. She needed to move. Action would alleviate these emotions; at least for a short time.
While getting ready for the day, going through the motions of dressing and putting together her medical supplies, there was a knock on the door. She tilted her head back and groaned.
“Go away, Altair!” she called towards the door, continuing to prepare for her rounds. But instead of the deep, shimmering voice of a star, there was a much more timid one.
“It’s Imelda,” came the muffled voice from outside. A smallohescaped Iyana as she hurried to let Imelda in. As she opened the door, she instantly recognized that Imelda was nervous—shuffling on her feet and wringing her hands. There was a burst of panic.
“What’s wrong? Is everything okay with baby Ian?” The words rushed out of her mouth.
“Oh, yes, he’s great actually,” she replied, still fidgeting. “Can I come inside?”
“Of course,” said Iyana, moving away from the entrance. Imelda walked to the middle of the hut and just stood there. Closing the door, Iyana thought this was strange behavior for her. Hopefully she was feeling well; it could be difficult for a new mother to adjust after giving birth. And then fleeing for her life the same night wouldn’t help matters. Waiting for Imelda to speak first, she stood by quietly. It took quite a while before she spoke.
“I didn’t mean to eavesdrop…” Imelda eventually said, appearing even more nervous, if that was possible.
“What?” Iyana asked, confused.
“I came by last night to bring you food. I thought you might not be up to cooking—”
“You didn’t have to do that,” Iyana interrupted. “Especially not with a newborn.”
Imelda finally stilled her fidgeting. “I know, but I wanted to.” She took a deep breath. “I came over now, though, because I overheard you speaking with the stranger, and I really meant to leave and come back later, but… I know he’s a star.”
“What?” Iyana asked, again.
“I’m sorry,” Imelda continued. “I kept listening. He talked about training your magic, and something involving Emperor Uther.” Iyana was struck dumb, unable to respond to what the young woman had heard. “I couldn’t pick up everything clearly, but I do know you refused to go with the star, deciding to stay with us instead.”
Iyana finally found her voice. “Of course I’m going to stay here. With Imo…with Imo gone, there is nobody else to tend to the village’s medical needs. I would never leave you vulnerable.”
Imelda breathed deeply again. “We want you to go.”
“What?” Iyana asked, yet again. It was starting to feel like she couldn’t remember any other words. “Who?” Ah, there was one.
