The High Mountains |
1. Tomorrow Never Knows
-The Beatles
"Every morning we are born again. What we do today is what matters most."
-Buddha
UFOtext=
I. Valloire- New Year's Eve
The Twinkling Star fell from the night sky onto the high mountain. From the warm cabin Astira could see through the invisible walls. A vast snowdrift stretched upward in the moonlight toward the dark peak, interrupting the slide of stars in the Milky Way. Far below to the south, she could see the lights of Valloire shining in the valley.
"Thanks for the lift!" said Astira, tightening the laces on her boots.
"You can see the lights of the Valloire spaceport off to the right."
Astira stood up straight, ready to leave.
"Young lady, will you not join our party at my chateau?" asked the Count.
"I cannot- the Mule knows me & I suspect he is in town. I have a secret meeting with a secret mentor. I must go my own way."
The Count gazed at the young woman. He didn't know her, yet something about her seemed familiar.
"You must take care- it is not safe to travel alone here." said the Count.
"Count- I know that. One is never 100% safe in life. Everything is risk." said Astira.
A door opened. Princess Lei & the Count watched Astira disappear into the cold night.
~
One hour passed. The Count & the Princess walked to the double door of his brightly lit mountain chateau.
"Count & Lady, a Jovian pleasure to meet you. My name is Bosco. Count, I am your new personal companion & valet."
"Indeed," said the Count, somewhat surprised. He surveyed with interest the puny young man.
"Where is my Saint Bernard?" asked the Count, with mild concern.
"Family matters, Count. Please lay down all of your concerns. You may trust my loyal pledge to do my best- a humble & honored substitute in his absence." The puny young man bowed curtly.
"Very well." said the Count.
"I trust the preparations for my New Year's Eve party are all in order?"
"Indeed they are Count. Guests are due to arrive within the hour."
"Magnificent Bosco! Princess Lei, allow Bosco to escort you to your room. Perhaps you wish to rest & freshen up a bit. We face a long midnight vigil to the beginning of the New Year."
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