Goddess of the Night

Chapter Four: Visions of Death

It felt like an eternity by the time Rody and the others decided to show up, but by then Jimmy had done literally everything in his power to keep me from going back into that tomb, while I was more than ready to kick his ass for getting in my way as the two of us continued to argue between each other with Asisu paying us no mind. Hell she didn't even seem that all worried about Carol, as she sat by herself staring into space, while I on the other hand was already getting tired of waiting the moment Rody and his team finally came into view. Of course, once explanations were out of the way, and Jimmy and I got chewed out by Rody for being so careless and disobeying his orders, it didn't take long for Rody to get a search party together, with Jimmy and I being the first ones to volunteer despite the fact that Rody was still pretty angry for letting this happen in the first place. But before he could interfere, I informed him of what we found down in that tomb and it was decided that more hands were needed in the event we ran into any problems down in the crypt. As everyone was geared up and preparing to head down into the tomb, I noticed Asisu sitting by herself in the same place we'd left her only this time she looked to be in some kind of trance, but then again I wasn't really sure.

"Asisu," I called out to the young woman who seemed to snap out of whatever daze she was in and looked almost confused as she turned to face me appearing exhausted, as I began to wonder if she was okay.

"Are you doing alright?" I asked. "You've been looking really out of it since we got back from down in the tomb?"

Giving me what felt like a forced smile Asisu only seemed to wave her hand at my concern.

"No, Miss Cassandra I am fine," Asisu assured me shaking her head in dismissal. "I've just been deeply worried about Miss. Carol, I can't imagine how frightened she must be all alone in that tomb."

"You've sure been pretty good about not showing it." I thought as I pushed the negative thought aside as I knew this wasn't the time or the place to get ahead of myself. As much as I still didn't trust Asisu, there was no doubt everyone loved her including Carol.

"Good thing we'll be heading into the tomb very soon to find her," I spoke feeling pretty positive. "So are you coming or what?"

"I would love to," Asisu stated as she rose from her seat, however the moment she tried to take a couple of steps she suddenly fell forward causing me to catch her before she hit the ground. Looking at her close up, her face was pale and she felt hot to the touch which told me she had somehow gotten a fever.

"Whoa! Asisu what's wrong!?" I called out to her before turning my attention to anyone close by to help me carry her to a nearby tent as we laid her down. I handed her a bottle of water as she carefully took a couple of sips before looking almost embarrassed of being caught in such a venerable state once again.

"I'm so sorry Miss Cassandra; I fear I may have pushed myself beyond my limit again. My…my body must still be weak from the elements." she spoke with an unsteady voice while her body shivered making it hard for me to be mad at her considering how bad she looked at the moment.

"I almost feel like a jerk for assuming the worst about her." I thought as I shook my head trying to dismiss her unnecessary worry.

"Don't worry about it Asisu, we'll just manage with the people we have, just be sure to take care of yourself." I spoke as I started to hear what sounded like Jimmy's voice calling my name from outside. "We'll find Carol and bring her back, so just wait here for us for the meantime."

She nodded as I turned to leave the tent heading back to the tomb's entrance to meet up with Jimmy who already looked impatient.

"What took you so long?" he asked.

"Asisu fainted when I asked her to join us in the search, got her resting in the tent close by," I explained as I shook my head. "If it's not one thing it's another."

"Do you think she'll be alright?" Jimmy asked looking concerned.

"She'll be fine up here with everyone else, for now, let's focus on finding Carol and then we'll deal with everything else once we know she's safe," I spoke as I passed him a flashlight and went to meet up with the rest of the rescue team as we ventured into the darkness of the tomb unsure of what dangers awaited us from down below.

"Cassandra, do you think Carol will be alright by the time we get down there?" spoke Jimmy starting to look worried the deeper we went.

"Carol's a lot tougher than most people realize," I muttered. "She's always had a way of surprising people who underestimate her. Even though I'm pretty sure she'll be mad and scared once we find her, she'll bounce back like she always does. Holding grudges just isn't her thing."

"I know…" Jimmy spoke looking angry if not guilty with himself. "I just…I wish I hadn't let go of her hand, maybe then I wouldn't have grabbed Asisu's by accident."

"You here now aren't you?" I spoke trying to make him feel better. "Isn't that what matters in situations like this?"

"But if something happens to her, I'll never be able to forgive myself, if-"

"Then don't think that way!," I spoke out being very stern and a little annoyed but his sudden change of behavior. "We need to stay positive no matter how bad things get, and you need to be strong for her once we get her out of here."

"Why do you say it like that?" Jimmy asked looking a little embarrassed like I didn't know what he was up to.

"Because I'm her friend, but if you wanna be something more, you'll have to step up." I told Jimmy "that's what boyfriends do right?"

"But we're not-" Jimmy was quick to try and deny but I shut him up as I flicked him hard on the forehead like the idiot that he was.

"Yeah and that will never change if you don't do something about it!" I called him out. "It's time to be a man Jimmy! Or better yet it's time to be the man she needs right now. You don't go this far for someone only to chicken out at the last second, have some faith in yourself dude!"

He didn't say anything but simply nodded in agreement as we made it to the lower levels of the tomb. Of course, it didn't take long for us to find the bodies of the two officers we stumbled upon earlier, however, Carol was nowhere to be seen.

"Where could she have gone without any light?" I asked starting to feel worried now.

"She probably stumbled somewhere in the dark trying to find a way out. Let's keep looking, she may still be close by." Suggested Jimmy as we carefully searched the area of the tomb.

I felt my anxiety start to rise with every moment that passed while I looked for her in that tomb. All kinds of possible scenarios raced through my mind as I hoped we'd find her alive. Thankfully my prayers were answered as I heard Jimmy's voice cry out with relief from behind.

"Carol!?" I heard him call out before calling out to me. "Cassandra, we found her!"

I quickly turned to make my way back to where he was with Carol clutching his body as she cried looking scared out of her mind. She seemed to be resting on the mantle of where the Pharaoh was originally found, but based on what I could see aside from being dirty and covered in blood she appeared unharmed.

"Carol thank God you're okay!" I cried out joining the group in a hug as Carol and I seemed to smother Jimmy in what could only be described as a bone-crushing group hug with Jimmy sandwiched between us.

"Oh my God Cassie you don't know how scary it was down here!" she cried "I called out for you and Jimmy, but you two didn't hear me! Nobody heard me calling!"

She fell into a whimpering crying mess, as I hugged her while Jimmy looked on sadly almost feeling responsible for putting her through this. But deep down we were all to blame for all this mess, but I was just glad it was over now that Carol was safe.

"We're sorry Carol," I spoke stroking her hair before I pushed her up a little to wipe her tears from her eyes. "But don't worry we're here now and we're going to get you out of this terrible place."

At the mention of the word terrible, I noticed a switch seemed to flip in her mind as her eyes quickly snapped to mine just as her grip on my arms suddenly increased. The look on her face seemed to flood terror as she seemed to shake while trying to get her words together.

"Cassie you have to listen to me!" She stated not really sure how to explain it. "I don't know how it was possible but I did see something terrible! I saw something that I shouldn't have been able to see, in fact, I was actually there! I even saw Asisu, only it wasn't really her!"

I looked at her completely confused. "Whoa, Carol slow down what do you mean? What are you talking about?" I questioned not understanding what she saying.

As soon as she settled down a bit she started to tell us what had happened when she was all alone down here. She claimed that she had somehow gotten attacked by the carvings on the walls and was taken 3000 years into the past where she saw the Pharaoh, and oddly enough Asisu who tried to sacrifice her in some kind of ritual after watching them kill a man.

Jimmy, for the most part, didn't seem to believe her as he came up with all kinds of rational explanations to justify her concerns, but I, on the other hand, didn't feel the same. With what Carol was talking about, and the events I saw in my dream made things far too convenient for someone like Asisu to suddenly drop into our lives. Even now there were things about Asisu that was still a mystery to us, and while everyone around her seemed to fall in love with her beauty and charm, there was something I couldn't swallow about her that only made me wary every time she came in the room. But despite what I knew, I chose not to say anything. Even after we had made it back to the surface and took Carol home to be rested after such a disastrous day I kept thinking back to what Carol told me as I recalled the way Asisu was suddenly acting around her that only made me that much more suspicious about the woman who seemed to do no wrong.

"Is it possible that the creature I saw in my dream could be Asisu?" I thought as I tried my best to remember everything in that dream, yet even that was proving to be very difficult as I tried to recall what the creature said and the name it spoke.

"What was its name?!" I spoke as I paced back and forth in my room before tossing myself back on my bed nearly frustrated at my effort, as I felt a headache coming on.

"Ugh! I give up! My head is splitting in two!" I spoke knowing full well I wasn't going to figure it out which only made the situation all the more frustrating. And yet for some reason, I just couldn't let it go. "What does it all mean? Am I going crazy or something?"

"Probably, if you're already talking to yourself in the dark." spoke a familiar voice that caused me to jump from my lying position to a sitting position just to see Carol standing at my door with a raised eyebrow watching me stress over whatever had been driving me nuts.

"How long have you been standing there?" I asked not even bothering to try and hide the fact that I had been caught in a pretty embarrassing situation.

"Long enough," she simply spoke as she entered my room before closing the door behind her. "Got something you want to talk about?"

"Not really," I lied, the truth was I wasn't sure how I could even bring up the subject. "I've just been having trouble sleeping lately and with everything that's happened, you could say I'm still on the edge a little bit, especially with what you said about in the tomb."

I noticed her demeanor change as I watched her start to get a little nervous about the touchy subject.

"Please don't worry about it too much…" She spoke looking a little sad. "We've all been under a lot of stress lately and I'm sorry if I said something that might have got you worried about me. In fact, it doesn't even bother me that much anymore."

"So you're just going to pretend it didn't happen?" I asked trying to figure out if she was being serious.

"Well, no one really believes me…" spoke Carol crossing her arms and looking a little discouraged. "Besides Jimmy made a couple of good points that I can't really argue against logic so why not."

"Asisu," I stated causing her to freeze.

"What about her?" she asked as I took a breathe not really sure how I was going to tell her.

"You know there something off about her right?" I started trying to be very careful with my words. "I mean ever since she's come around there have been strange things happening, and I find it peculiar you'd suddenly have that experience in the tomb with someone that looked just like her."

"Yes, but the person in that tomb isn't the same as Asisu." Carol defended almost like I expected her to. "In fact, our Asisu is kind and gentle, and the other was bloodthirsty and evil. Plus, wasn't she with you and Jimmy the whole time I was down in that tomb?"

"She was…" I admitted. "But she didn't seem all too concerned about you being down in that tomb either."

"What do you mean?" pressed Carol, as I tried my best to think of a good explanation.

"It was like she zoned out the whole time I was arguing with Jimmy to go back for you, kind of like when people say the lights are on, but nobody's home. It just seemed like her mind was focusing on something else." I spoke knowing full well I probably wasn't making a very good argument.

"You know you sound crazy right?" Carol spoke almost sounding a little disappointed, "She could have been worried about something else Cassie; you do know we still haven't been able to find her little brother."

"I know…" I stated. "But there's just something about her I just don't trust Carol. She's still very much a mystery and with everything around here going wrong how do we know she's not involved somehow?"

"I don't know, but we also can't just go around accusing her for no reason." Explained Carol "But I do understand your concern and I know you're just trying to protect me, but please just give her a chance. I know Asisu is really a good person, in fact everyone around here absolutely loves her, so why can't you?"

"Because not everyone who appears kind has good intentions, Carol…" I spoke truthfully. "And I don't want you or your family to get hurt. You all are too trusting and that can be dangerous."

"We'll be okay," Carol spoke as she hugged me. "Just trust me, nothing bad is going to happen to us, we have you after all."

"That doesn't really make me feel better, but I'll try to play nice with her," I spoke returning the hug. "Just don't expect me to be friends with her. If she wants my trust she'll have to earn it like everyone else."

Carol rolled her eyes as she laughed at my stubborn response. "Oh dear, you've always been so difficult, but I suppose its progress. And who knows maybe after a while you and Asisu might turn out to be really good friends. Might even make me jealous."

"That's a little bit of a stretch," I spoke a little glad the conversation was over. "But we'll see how things fare once all this chaos blows over."

"Yeah, I understand what you mean," she spoke with a sad smile. "This is not what I had in mind when I wanted to show you around Egypt. But hopefully, things will get better with the ball that's coming up."

"What ball?" I asked looking confused.

"The ball we're having in two days, remember?" she gave me a look which made me recall the mention of the event, but then again I wasn't really planning on attending, to begin with.

"Oh, that," I spoke scratching my chin was I nervously laughed. "I completely forgot."

"I had a feeling you would," she spoke as she went into her closet before pulling out a bunch of dresses she seemed to toss next to me that only seemed to make me dread what I knew was coming as she faced me with a knowing smile.

"So what are you going to wear for the ball?" Carol inquired with an obvious teasing tone in her voice and posture.

Looking at the dresses that seem to be burying me under the realization that she wasn't going to drop the matter, I looked at the vast array of colors and fabrics knowing very well that Carol had been planning this ambush dress up the moment she walked through the door.

"If it's not black I'm not wearing it," I stated calmly but clearly as I wore a bored expression on my face knowing full well there was no point in fighting my fate. But dammit if I was going to have to endure this nightmare it'd be on my terms.

"Oh don't worry!" Carol stated as she giggled pulling another set of assortments out of thin air. "I got your covered!"

"And so it begins…" I thought as I was without mercy hauled into the restroom with black dresses packed into my arms and Carol even more eager to make me her damn Barbie for what was already fixing to be a long night.

X-TIME SKIP-X

As time grew closer with the arrival of the grand ball, I was happy to see Ryan and Carol's dad Mr. Rido had arrived back in Cairo upon hearing the rumors of the thefts that had taken place and the suspected murders that were believed to have been caused by the so-called curse. Of course, nobody really believed in the rumors going around, and no matter how weird things seemed to get around here with every passing day it seemed like the Reed family always had a logical explanation to dismiss what the locals were calling sure tale signs of the evil we were just too blind to see.

Ryan, for the most part, though it was all paranoid superstitious nonsense, as we spoke in-depth about what he and Mr. Reed had missed so far, as well as catching up with how things been in the past couple of years since I've been gone. For a moment with the three of us simply talking there catching up, it almost felt like we hadn't been away for so long, that is until one of Ryan's men came busting into his home office with a grim expression with news of another murder involving around the Pharaoh's tomb.

"This is getting insane," I spoke going over the reports and the photos taken at the scene of the victim as well as the note that was stabbed into their back written in Egyptian. "Who are the people that are doing this?"

"We have several potential suspects," spoke Ryan has he poured himself a drink before taking a seat in his favorite chair. "However we cannot simply act irrationally without any proof, and without the stolen artifacts and the missing body of the Pharaoh it will do us no good to capture the ones responsible if we cannot recover what has been taken."

"Then what do you suggest we do about it?" spoke Carol looking almost as frustrated and eager to put an end to all of this as I was. "Ryan people are dying and getting hurt, the longer this continues the harder it will be for us to continue this project."

No surprise from anyone that Ryan already had a plan set into motion long before his arrival back to Cairo, as he began to explain his plan to not only catch the people responsible but hopefully retrieve the stolen artifacts as well.

"Wait so you telling us this ball is really just a trap?" I spoke trying to pick his brain a little. "But how are you going to pull that off without raising suspicion?"

"We've decided to hold the auction of some of the rarest pieces at the ball," Ryan spoke lighting up one of his thick cigars before taking a puff that released the smelly heavy smoke I was never really fond of. "Some of these artifacts are considered to be worth millions in the hands of collectors which will draw many who would be foolish to miss such an opportunity, the ones who stole our recent findings will be like rats being lured to their deaths with a block of cheese, yet unaware they are walking into a den of hungry cats."

"Interesting analogy," I spoke taking in his sly smirk at the idea that this would be easy. "But how exactly are you going to make this look legit?"

"I have requested Asisu to help," Ryan stated.

"Really? What can she do?" I raised an eyebrow a little surprised he had already met her.

"Well, she has the looks and grace that will prove to be a very helpful distraction," Ryan explained. "On top of that, she appears able to read ancient Egyptian text and is knowledgeable in the history of many artifacts which will only provide us more help in other areas while my men focus on the task at hand."

"Great now even Ryan's got a thing for her," I thought feeling a headache coming in as I did everything in my power not to face palm on the spot. "Why is this damn family so trusting!?"

"I keep telling you Ryan you should just marry Asisu and make her my sister!" Carol interrupted making me want to gag at her ridiculous suggestion. "I mean it's clear you find her very attractive! So I know it will totally work!" spoke Carol as Ryan seemed to laugh off her silly idea.

"Oh please." He stated drawing Carol into his lap crushing her in a tight embrace that made her whine as she struggled fruitlessly to free herself from his grasp. "Why would I need a wife when I have the cutest sister in the world!?"

"Ryan! Not in front of Cassie!" Carol cried as I stared at the two of them with a dull look on my face wondering how the two of them could even be related sometimes.

"Oh please don't mind me; I'm just the unrelated 3rd wheel who's an observer for fun," I spoke knowing full well how normal this was even back when we were still kids. Truth be told Ryan was always very protective and loving to Carol that many who didn't know them assume they had a thing going on, that is until people realized they were actually related, which only made the rumors that much more irritating.

Looking back, I still recall how awkward it was to try to describe the relationship the two of them had when people would go around trying to be nosey. Though I never told them anything important it didn't stop the stories that would spread considering Ryan never bothered with any of the other girls in our school. To me, I'd always seen Ryan as a super overprotective brother with a sister complex, but others saw it as border lining possessiveness. But for whatever reason, I never really fed too much into the rumors considering most of them were just jealous of Carol anyway, and if that's how the siblings showed their love and care for one another who was I to pass any judgment.

"Hey guys hate to cut the reunion short but I'm going to turn in and call it a day," I spoke getting up from my seat and heading towards the door doing my best to suppress the yawn at my lips. "I'll see you two later."

"Wait Cassie don't leave me like this!" Carol cried out still trying to get out of her brother's arms, but failing as he started to tickle her into fits of uncontrollable laughter. "Help me!" She cried with her face turning red from laughter and embarrassment.

"But why when it looks so fun!" I laughed as I went out the door only to hear her calling me traitor as the door closed behind me followed by more laughter.

"It's good to see they haven't changed." I giggled as I made my way down the hall towards my room only to find to my own surprise how quiet everything suddenly was the moment I made it to the door of my room.

"Looks like everyone must have gone to bed early as well." I thought as I looked up at the clock only to see it was just about 8pm. Despite everything that has happened I was glad Carol's family was able to get some sleep including Rody. Poor guy, with all the thefts and murders, he was already starting to look like hell up until Ryan and his father decided to arrive with Ryan taking the load off his shoulders, which was a good thing considering the guy had literally been on the brink of collapsing from all the work and stress he'd been under.

"Well might as well lead by example," I muttered as I made my way to my room, changing into something more comfortable before finally settling down for the night.

"I'll need to buy a new phone with I get the chance," I muttered realizing I had been without it for some time, which didn't bother me too much considering I didn't have anyone who really called me. But it saddened me to think that I'd lost a lot of photos I'd never get back. Particularly old ones of my little brother and I back when I was still living with my parents.

I took a deep breath as I closed my eyes and attempted to fall asleep which had proved to be very difficult for some time after than freaky dream, but much to my own relief came easily this time mostly because my body just couldn't push itself any further as I sunk deeply into the soft covers of the plush warm bed that felt like heaven. Yet the moment of bliss quickly shattered the moment I suddenly heard something hiss within the quiet confines of my room.

"Snake!" My mind shouted as my shot up carefully looking around to see where the noise had come from, let alone how the thing may have gotten into my room. Upon hearing another hiss right under my pillow I felt myself shoot off the bed so fast that my back slammed hard into the wall as I stared at my bed in fear while feeling my heart race. As I edged carefully back towards the bed before tossing the pillow to the side where I was sure I had heard the sound but found nothing underneath.

"You're losing it again Cassandra!" I muttered to myself as I slapped my cheeks sighing at my stupidity. "You gotta get it together!"

As I snatched the pillow from off the floor and placed it back onto the bed as I prepared to raise the blankets to get back into them I noticed something odd moving under the blankets. Feeling myself begin to shake with what little courage I had left I quickly ripped the blankets off the bed before stepping back to see my bed covered in a nest of hissing cobras that hadn't been there before.

"Carol! Ryan!" I yelled as I kept myself away from the bed of snakes while making my way towards the door to get the hell out of this room of death. However before I could reach for the door, I noticed something from the corner of my eye standing in the shadows, as I turned to get a better look at it I noticed the figure's eyes flash with a familiar eerie glow before sinister laughter cackled around the room causing me to tear my door open and nope the hell out of there.

"What the hell is going on here?!" I thought as bolted through the halls trying to make sense of what I just saw again. "Don't tell me that thing's been following me!"

"Carol! Ryan!" I called out trying to get anyone's attention as I raced to where I knew Ryan's room was and busted down his door in my desperate panic.

"Ryan! You gotta-!?" I found the words die in my mouth the moment I rushed inside however I didn't find a sleep-deprived Ryan or any of his belongings. No, upon stepping into what I knew was Ryan's room I found myself standing before a group full of people dressed in formal wear with an atmosphere so alive and noisy I should have heard it from across the mansion, and yet nothing here made any sense in this moment. If anything I was the one that felt out of place.

"What the hell is going on here!?" I called out seeing that no one was even paying attention to me, let alone looking my way. "Who are you, people?! What are you doing here?!" I yelled as I tried to grab one of them close by only to find my hands just went right through them, just like before.

"Oh, shit!?" I thought while I stared at my hand in horror. "Not this again!" I looked around frantically as I tried to make sense of everything that was playing out in front of me as I found myself preparing for the worse until I spotted a familiar face standing at the center of the crowd.

"Ryan!" I called out pushing myself through the crowd which for some reason felt like I was walking through a flood of water as I tried to make my way over to him.

"Ryan!" I called again not sure if he could hear me. "Over here!"

I saw him look my way with a smile, as I seemed to smile back almost glad he could at least see me. That is until I noticed something dangerous hovering just above him causing me to gasp. "RYAN LOOK OUT!" I yelled as I watched a sword suddenly fall straight through the air before it fell right on top of Ryan.

"NO! RYAN!" I cried out as people around me started to scream and scramble around frantically as I pushed my way through until I finally made it before the horrible scene in front of me.

"Oh my God Ryan!" I screamed as tears filled my eyes seeing Ryan impaled by the fallen sword choking on his blood as he looked helplessly at me. I tried my best to help him, but it didn't take long to see the life leave his eyes while I freaked out wanting more than anything to just wake up from whatever fucked up nightmare this was. That is until I heard what sounded like Carol's wailed cry as I turned and I saw the blond hair of Carol running up the stairs upon seeing her brother dead on the floor, forcing me to take off after her.

"Carol wait! Come back!" I called out to her as I chased her through many doors trying to catch up until I saw her entered into a room with double doors which thankfully weren't locked when I pushed myself through them.

"Carol!" I cried feeling my blood pumping a mile a minute only for time to abruptly stop all around me the moment I saw Carol's father lying dead on the floor.

"No! Why is this happening!?" I thought feeling myself become frantic as I wasn't even sure what to do anymore. "Why am I being forced to see this!? What's going on!" I cried as I suddenly heard a hiss coming from Carol's father where I noticed a cobra appear from underneath his neckline before wrapping around his neck while flashing its angry fangs right at me.

"Please if this is a dream, someone please wake me up!" I cried backing up as I tried to make my way to the door. However, I found myself tripping on something I didn't notice had been lying on the floor causing me to fall right on top of it. Only the moment I realized what, or better yet who it was I just couldn't take it anymore.

"No, No, NO! PLEASE NO!" I cried out as I looked to see Carol lying dead right next to me even though I knew it was impossible when I had just seen her come into this room alive a second ago.

"Carol!" I grabbed her trying to shake her out of it. "Oh please not you too! Carol!"

Her head fell back with a limp just before a cobra slithered from under her blouse from between her breasts as he bared its angry fangs at me trying to take a bite.

"Fuck!" I cursed as I managed to dodge the attack before pushing myself away from Carol's body as I went straight for the door only this time the door refused to open.

"What the hell!?" I cried as I started to frantically bang my body against the door trying to force it open. "Who the fuck locked the door!?"

As I banged against the surface of the door like my life depended on it, I looked back at the situation behind me to find I was completely surrounded by the deadly serpents that seemed to hiss in a way you'd think they were laughing at my futile attempts to escape. With no explanation, with no clear reason as to why this was even happening I felt so helpless as I found myself crying out of anger as I took in the horrifying scene before me with the people I've come to care for like family lying dead at my feet with the possibility that I too would suffer the same cruel fate.

"What do you want!?" I cried out as the serpents hissed baring their angry fangs as I kicked and stomped angrily at them not planning to go down without a fight.

"You think I'm scared of you!" I challenged grabbing whatever I could get my hands on to hold the serpents at bay as the frustration only seemed to build this desire to get this over with.

"You think I'm scared of death?!" I challenged as I smashed the heads of one of the cobras feeling the soft mush under my boot. "You got another thing coming if you think it'll be that easy to kill me!"

Without warning as in a final attempt, the serpents suddenly launched themselves at me wrapping around wherever they could as I started to feel the painful bites of their fangs piercing my skin in every direction while I struggled to throw them off.

"NOO!" I cried starting to feel the burning pain become more unbearable as my body started to go numb. "Get off me!...I..I-I cant-!" I found myself tearing up as my world began to spin out of my control with nothing but the haze of burning pain and darkness begin the take over me as I felt my body fall yet never hit the ground as my world seemed to darken with every passing second as I felt the venom pulse through my body making it hard to focus on anything but my rapid heartbeat that felt as painful as a heart attack.

"Please…" I managed to speak as I noticed the same black figure with glaring eyes begin to approach me looking almost like the angel of death. But there was nothing comforting about this presence as I noticed it begin to reach for me almost preparing to finish me off in my venerable state. My mind raced trying to find a way out of this hopeless situation; with much to my own surprise with the last ounce of strength I could muster I raised my head and screamed.

"STOP IT!" I yelled as I shot up from my bed tackling the presence I felt next to me to the ground as I stared down at a wide-eyed Carol looking at me with both shock and concern.

"C-Cassie…?" she spoke looking very startled as makeup scattered itself around the floor of the room from what I assumed she dropped while I was ready to rip her head off.

"Carol…?" I spoke not really sure what to say at the moment, as I pushed myself off her and helped her to her feet being careful not to scare her more than I already did. "I'm sorry, I was having a pretty bad nightmare." I tried to explain while Carol laughed nervously doing her best to pick up the fallen items at her feet.

"It's alright! I figured I'd come and start your hair and make-up for the ball tonight early but, I think I'll let you sleep a little longer," spoke Carol as she quickly scurried out of my room before closing my door. "Sorry to disturb you!"

"Shit." I thought the moment I heard the door close leaving me alone in darkness once more. "Now she probably thinks I'm crazy."

Running my face through my palms, I looked at the door almost in relief to see that my friend was okay, and that I had managed to pull myself from that dream, but sleep was defiantly the last thing I wanted to do at the moment as I felt myself become wary of this room after my experience that by all means shouldn't have been real.

"And yet it felt so real…" I spoke as I hugged myself feeling myself shiver "Why did it feel so real?"

I felt myself wanting to cry as I threw the blankets back onto the bed and made my way into the bathroom to wash my face only to find myself limping as I felt a strange pain on my ankle I hadn't felt before.

"What the-?" I thought as I propped my foot on the toilet to examine it closely, only what I found only seemed to cause me more distress as I noticed the two puncture marks on my ankle that only seemed to resemble bite marks. Bite marks I recall only happened within that dream.

X-TIME SKIP-X

"I'm telling you, Carol, this is some Freddy Kruger shit!" I tried to explain as she did her best to fix my hair for the Ball everyone seemed to be buzzing about. "I know this sounds crazy, but how do you explain the bite!" I spoke pointing to my foot.

"To be honest it looks like you just bumped into something Cassie," spoke Carol as she tried to look at it again. "I mean you do have a habit of getting yourself hurt. Plus you could have just caught the corner of something and not realized it until now."

"Carol I'm pretty sure I didn't knock into anything that has two puncture marks around here," I stated sarcastically. "I know I'm not crazy Carol, what I saw was real and now with this, I'm freaking out here!"

"Alright, alright well let's say something did bite you." Carol began. "If you were really bitten by a cobra why are you still alright, I mean a real cobra would have killed you much less put you in the hospital. It might be safe to say it was a spider than a snake."

"Or maybe it wasn't meant to kill me," I stated which caused Carol to look confused.

"If it wasn't meant to kill you, then what was its purpose?" questioned Carol as she did the last finishing touches to my hair.

"I think this was a warning Carol," I spoke with all seriousness. "After all this isn't the only dream I've been having lately that I've seen come to pass. This has happened to me before, like with those guys we found dead in the tomb." I admitted feeling her brush on my hair suddenly stop. "Carol…I think there more going on here that we don't understand."

"What do you-" Carol found herself about to ask until someone barged into the room cutting our tense conversation short.

"Miss Carol, Jimmy is waiting for you downstairs!" Asisu stated looking between Carol and I while looking flawless as usual. "He states he would be escorting you to the ball tonight."

"Escort?" I smiled about to crack a joke, but Carol covered my mouth before I could say anything and thanked Asisu, before telling her that she would be down to meet with him shortly. As Asisu left giving me a gentle smile, the moment I knew she was gone I turned around at Carol a little surprised she'd keep something this big from me.

"And here I thought you were going with me tonight!" I grinned smiling like the cat that caught the canary. "But looks like Jimmy already beat me to it. The sly dog! Finally making his move!"

"It's not like that Cassie!" She tried to deny as her face busted in a huge red mess of embarrassment.

"Sure it is!" I teased as I almost couldn't believe it myself. "Just wait till Ryan hears the news, can't wait to see what scary big brother gonna do to the poor guy!"

"You better not say anything Cassie! We're just going to the ball!" warned Carol as I shook my head wondering if she even knows who her big brother is.

"Carol this is Ryan we're talking about here," I spoke giving her a knowing look. "When has anyone in this household ever been able to keep secrets from him? Chances are he's going to find out on his own."

"Just put on the damn dress." She pouted unable to combat my response as I victoriously slipped on the elegant black dress as I struggled to get the zipper from behind before giving Carol my back and shooting her a pleading look.

"Um...a little help?"

X-TIME SKIP-X

After Carol and Jimmy took off, I had originally planned to catch a ride with Rody who had planned on going himself, but at the last minute he was called away to take care of some other business and I was left stranded without a ride.

"Well isn't this just peachy…" I muttered glancing at myself in the mirror wondering if this was a little too much despite the fact that it did look pretty good. "Feel kind of bad getting all dolled up for nothing, but I guess I could use this as an excuse to ditch the party," I spoke with positive optimism as I turned preparing to make my way back to my room to change into some comfortable sweats and binge watch one of my favorite shows when my body suddenly collided with another. Much to my own dismay, it turned out to be Ryan who was not only looking as sharp as ever but also appeared a little surprised to still see me hanging around the mansion.

"Cassandra, what are you still doing here?" He spoke looking a little confused before checking out his watch. " I had heard Carol had already left and figured you'd be going with her."

"It's amazing how much he keeps tabs on her already!" I thought as I picked my brain quickly trying to come up with something that might sound believable.

"I heard she got picked up by a friend who needed help with her outfit since I was still finishing up with mine, I told her to go ahead and I'd catch up with her." I smiled trying to hide the fact that Jimmy was the one who actually came for Carol. "I was supposed to catch a ride with Rody but he got called away to the office."

"I take it you're trying to ditch now aren't you?" he spoke in an almost knowing tone, which made me wonder if he knew me better than I gave him credit for.

"No…I was planning to be fashionably late." I lied which I wasn't surprised he saw right through as he took a deep breath before grabbing ahold of my arm and dragging me along with him outside to his parked convertible.

"Oh, there'll be no need for that." Ryan spoke as he opened the door of his convertible while lighting one of his favorite cigarettes before taking a puff. "Though I find it odd that Carol didn't invite you to tag along knowing you'd probably be without a ride, but I'll be sure to ask her at the ball, till then you can be my escort for the evening."

"You really don't have to do this you know," I spoke knowing the jig was up. "I can always ditch the party and you can tell Carol I caught a bug or something?"

"And miss out on a chance to see you dolled up and miserable?" Ryan spoke with a genuine laugh, "Come now Cassie, if I must endure an entire night of pointless chatter, at least having you there will provide some form of personal entertainment for me."

"I'm so glad my misery could be so amusing to you," I spoke sarcastically as I stepped into his vehicle being careful not to get the dress caught on the door as he slammed it shut before making his way over to his side and bringing the engine to life.

"You seem a little upset with me," Ryan spoke noticing the pout I was wearing at the idea that he was actually dragging me to the damn ball.

"You know I hate parties, there just not my thing." I spoke knowing I was like an open book to him, which didn't make things any easier on my part.

"Yet you look quite stunning tonight even with that spiteful pout, it would be a shame not to show you off on my arm," Ryan spoke with a sly smile. "Then again you have always been far too modest for your own good."

"Oh, stop!" I laughed giving him a light shove as I felt the blood rush to my cheeks at his compliment. "I don't look that great Ryan!"

He laughed as he took another hit of his cigarette blowing the smoke out the open window on his side. "I'm serious, even though you hardly liked to dress up I think it suits you quite well, you should do it more often."

"Easier said than done," I spoke dreadfully. "I mean I've been in the military for so long I still rely on Carol to do my hair and make-up." I spoke fiddling with my fingers. "Truth is I don't think I know how to be a girl anymore, things like that just never mattered until I got older, and by then I had already missed out on so much."

"True," Ryan spoke. "Yet even you can admit you can't remain a tomboy forever. You'll learn as you go, and even if you're what we call a late bloomer the truth is you're not really missing out on much, so I encourage you to take your time and grow into yourself. Rushing into something you're not ready for will hurt you more in the long run especially when there no way to turn back and start over."

"I take it this coming from your experience?" I asked wondering if Ryan has already fooled around, though I wouldn't' be surprised if he was a little experienced with the way women seem to act and drool around him, even at work.

"Perhaps, but my experience as a man is nothing like a woman's, we are simply two very different creatures. And that my dear is part of the overall journey you have to explore to discover yourself." Ryan explained being very genuine with his words. "Tonight is simply another stage in your overall transformation from girl to woman."

"So being a show pony tonight supposed to teach me what it means to be a woman?" I muttered looking down at my impressive bust line. "Well don't I feel so glamorous."

Ryan rolled his eyes as he pinched my cheek lightly at my mellow dramatics as he turned to park the convertible before an expensive-looking gala where I recall Carol stating the ball would be located.

"Say what you will Cassie, but as of tonight your my show pony so try not to make a little ass out of yourself." He joked giving me a little wink. "I'll give you a reward later if you managed to behave."

"Oh screw you!" I laughed trying my best to control the butterflies I feel fluttering in my gut as Ryan came over to my side opening my door and holding out his arm to take. Through and through Ryan was a true gentleman, he was the man all the guys wanted to be and all the girls wanted to be with as I knew more than anything how fortunate I was to be here at his side when many women would have killed to have me replaced. But even with that in mind I knew better than to assume more than what I was given or shown when it came to Ryan. Because deep down, to Ryan I was only a friend, but to me at least in secret he meant something much more.

Even now I can't say when the feelings first started, but when I finally noticed I had feeling for him I knew I had to keep them buried. Even now I never once let them get in the way of our friendship, and I was kind of proud of that. Even as kids I had seen enough tragedies to know what happened between Ryan and other girls who wanted something more from him than just friendship, and I didn't want to lose Ryan as a friend over some silly emotions knowing I was already very close to both him and Carol. For a long time that was good enough. But even now he still managed to get my blood pumping without even trying, even though I knew I shouldn't entertain the idea. But being away from him for so long didn't change how I felt about him or what he did for be back then, in fact, I had forgotten how intense these feelings of mine were until this very moment where I found myself crushing for him all over again. His kindness was addicting, attractive, and overall dangerous to my well-being.

"He's just being nice, like he always has before," I told myself as I took his arm in mine with a gentle smile as we walked up the stairs towards the ball together in a moment that brought me both joy and misery for these childish feelings of mine that I'd never admit out loud.

"Are you ready?" he asked just as we were about to enter through the doors of the great hall.

"Ready when you are," I spoke holding his arm firmly as we walked in together, being greeted by all who knew Ryan as I did my part to act as pleasant and mature despite how rusty I felt being among the cream of the crop.

"You're doing quite well." Ryan complimented. "I almost surprised you haven't cursed yet."

"Really Ryan even I know a thing or two about rubbing elbows with the finest," I stated watching other women give me the ugliest looks for even breathing the same air as Ryan let alone holding his arm. "Though I can't say I miss it much, being surrounded around nothing but fakes has always made me the outsider at social events."

"Then it's a good thing you have me as company." Ryan whispered in my ear causing me to blush a scarlet red as he lead me through the sea of guests eager to introduce themselves.

"Oh God, why does he have to say it like that!?" I internally screamed at myself while keeping my hormones at bay and my face professional despite my burning cheeks.

"At least you find my company tolerable; most guys I know are either scared of me or just want to get into my pants." I spoke trying to get rid of the blush I was sure was still staining my cheeks.

"Oh, you're so young," Ryan spoke almost laughing at my response. "Cassandra believe me when I say there is nothing wrong with you if anything you just need to find the right man who can show you the joys of what it means to be a woman. Someone who can help you see more than what you see in yourself. Surely you have been in love with someone at some point?"

I looked him briefly in the eye before looking sadly back to the floor almost scared that I'd give myself away by accident. "Yeah…but nothing ever came out of it."

"Why is that?" he asked curiously.

"It's complicating," I spoke.

"Considering the person I'm talking about is really you." I thought bitterly knowing I'm getting love advice from someone whom I'm already in love with.

"Then find someone who feels for you that same way you feel for that person, just because it wasn't meant to be doesn't make it the end," Ryan spoke sounding pretty sure of himself. "Believe me you're still young and who knows you might just be happier with someone you never imagined you could stand."

"But what if I don't feel the same way for that person the way he feels for me wouldn't that just make me cruel?" I asked.

"You'll never know if you don't let anyone in, finding the right person is all about taking risks," Ryan spoke. "But if you always afraid of being hurt then you'll never know for sure."

"You seem awfully concerned about me, makes me wonder if you've had this heart to heart with Carol as well?" I asked seeing his face grow sour at the mere mention of Carol's non-existent dating life.

"Carol is far too innocent for this topic of conversation." He explained sounding pretty serious as we made our way towards the ballroom.

"When do you ever plan on having 'the talk' with her, I mean she can't stay single forever?" I asked a little curious as to how protective Ryan was going to be should Jimmy ever have the nerve to tell Carol how he feels, let alone come clean with her family.

"I suppose when she's ready to date." He stated sounding solemn, almost like he was dreading for the day to come.

"And what age would that be?" I asked finding myself giggling at the response I knew was coming.

"40." He stated with a straight face, as I felt my eyes widen and jaw drop at the fact he looked absolutely serious in his response.

"Thank god he's not my brother!" I thought as we entered into the ballroom arm in arm taking in the scenery that for a moment made my blood run cold as I took in the eerily familiar scene I had seen once before. With the same decorations and the same formal-looking group of people I was sure without a doubt I was standing in the ball, I'd watch Ryan die.

"No…" I thought with dread as I felt myself begin to shake. "This place is just like in my dream, so does this mean-!?." I thought to myself in panic, just before I felt Ryan pull me to the side gently before cupping my face in concern at the look of terror in my eyes before he pulled me into a comforting embrace. Once I realized what was going on I felt myself begin to relax as I felt my anxiety quickly replace itself with warmth and embarrassment.

"Are you okay now?" Ryan spoke sounding very concerned, almost like he hadn't expected such a reaction and now sounded guilty for forcing me into something that probably made me uncomfortable. "We can turn back if you want, and I can take you back to the mansion."

I shook my head knowing full well he wouldn't understand what I was going through, to him I was having an anxiety attack, but this was much more than that. Tonight if what I saw in that dream was true, I'd watch 3 people I care about die at this party. Looking at Ryan who held me so carefully and treated me more kindly than I had ever received from anyone aside from Carol, I could not leave him to his fate if it meant there was a chance I could save him. And maybe even save the others.

"No, No I'm fine," I told him. "I was just caught off guard a little."

"Are you sure, you don't have to be here with me if you don't want to," Ryan spoke trying to give me a way out. But I shook my head as I wrapped my arm around his once more.

"Trust me; I'm more comfortable knowing you here with me," I told him as I told myself I wouldn't leave his side until I was sure he'd be safe.

"Very well." Ryan smiled as we descended down a set of stairs that split the 1st and 2nd floor of the huge ballroom that displayed the artifacts on the second floor while people danced and mingled on the 1st. On our way down Ryan motioned towards something on the second floor as I looked to see Asisu working her magic as she seemed to charm the guest around her, for the most part even though she looked the same as we always did, I found it hard believe she was still glowing with a radiance that none at the party could hope to match.

"She seems to be doing her job quite well," Ryan stated looking very pleased with her performance.

"She sure knows how to draw in a crowd." I agreed before gripping his arm tighter which caused him to look down at me. "Ryan, are you sure everything is going to be okay? Do you think this will really work?"

I felt him pat my head as I looked up to see him smile as he drew me closer like some form of assurance. "I promise all will go well." He stated calmly. "For now let us enjoy this festive evening while we still can, while we worry about the other things much later."

His voice was smooth and inviting as ever as I felt myself nod in agreement and followed him down the steps towards the 1st floor noticing Asisu spotting us from her place as she waved at me while I nodded at her in return. Yet while I was distracted by how Asisu knew I was there I realized too late where Ryan was taking me as we approached the dance floor causing my anxiety to shoot up as I felt myself dig my heels into the ground making Ryan look at little too amused by my resistance.

"I can't dance," I stated shooting him a knowing glare as I felt myself blush in embarrassment. "Please don't take me out there to embarrass the both of us."

"You are just like Carol," Ryan stated almost laughing. "You can step on my feet all you like, just allow me to lead and I'll get us through the dance." He whispered in my ear as he brought me to the floor with the other couples taking my right hand in his and laying my left hand on his shoulder as I felt his free hand against my back. For the most part, my face must have been on fire the entire time as we moved among the other couples with Ryan loving every moment of it as he never seemed to stop telling me how adorable I looked while I tried to slam my heel into his toes, yet he'd move out of the way with such grace causing me to stumble like a complete idiot.

"Flow with me Cassie, not against me," Ryan stated in a calm smooth voice that seemed to match the exotic look that made the girls in our school go wild for him for years. "Let me take control and I promise you'll do fine, just continue to follow my lead and loosen up."

I did as he told me almost afraid to focus on anything but his eyes as I kept my gaze to the ceiling while trying not to look at the floor or at him.

"So when do you think Carol will arrive?" I asked trying to distract myself from this overwhelming situation as Ryan seemed to contemplate the same question while we moved in almost perfect sync.

"I don't know." He admitted. "I heard from Mari before we left that she had left with that Jimmy boy. Though there's no doubt they should have already arrived to the party well before we did. Yet I do find it strange that I have yet to see them." He spoke sounding suspicious and dare I saw displeased.

"Oh shit." I thought realizing my error. "I may have just accidentally blown the love birds cover!"

"Well, maybe they are somewhere at the party?" I suggested trying to ease Ryan's suspicions and hopefully cover for the two I prayed were having a good time and not the naughty kind. "It is a big place after all and with all these people, we probably missed them on the way in."

"Perhaps." Ryan agreed as he continued to focus on the dance as he twirled me around. "But I'll be checking with the security to ensure what time they signed in, otherwise I'll have to have a talk with that boy. ALONE."

"Oh Damn!" I thought "Jimmy is so dead!"

As the music began to come to a close, Ryan tilted me back enough to where I found myself staring at the ceiling just as I caught the look in his eyes. I felt the warmth of that feeling that was so strong it was like staring right into the sun, but it was so intense I found myself looking away only that's when I noticed an arm holding something right above us. Only did I realize the moment the hand released the hilt of the sword did the moment in my dream come flashing before my eyes causing me to react almost instinctively as the sword fell heading straight down to land right on top of Ryan.

"Ryan!" I called as I shoved him hard away from myself putting just enough space between us for the blade to embed itself into the floor impaling the shirt of my dress as the two of us looked at each other before looking back up to where the sword had come from causing everyone around us to freak out at what could have been a terrible sight to see.

"A sword!?" someone yelled from the crowd that seemed to cower around us in fear. "Where did it come from!?"

"People on the second floor please be careful!" I heard another voice yell. But I looked at Ryan and shook my head as he looked at me curiously as he pulled the sword from the ground to free my dress and helped me to my feet.

"Are you alright Cassandra?" Ryan asked but I shook my head knowing full well what could have happened, almost happened.

"It wasn't an accident," I stated as calmly as I could "I saw someone's arm holding that sword above us, that sword was meant for you," I told Ryan as he nodded at what I told him before bursting right into action.

"Contact the police and have security lock this place down!" He called out with a voice that thundered with great authority. "No one gets in or out, check everyone!" he ordered as Security went to work sealing off all the entrances as guests and employees looked around confused and concerned at what was going on.

Ryan came to me passing me a key to what looked like an office.

"What is this for?" I asked feeling confused if not a little embarrassed.

"That's a key to my office, my father should still be there taking care of some paperwork," Ryan spoke as I pointed in the direction I should go on the second floor. "Do me a favor and see if you can find Carol," he stated as he looked around appearing uneasy but how fast this seemed to escalate.

"But-" I began before he cut me off.

"Please Cassie, find Carol and take her with you to my office, tell my father what just happened and wait for me there."

"Alright," I spoke as I turned and hurried up the stairs sparing Ryan a final glance as he disappeared into the crowd with his men while I searched around trying to spot Carol in among the crowd. Though part of me was hoping she did manage to get into the party before the lockdown. As I pushed my way through I heard my name being called from the far corner as I noticed Carol and Jimmy looking confused as I rushed to her and took a hold of her arm as I dragged her in the direction where Ryan instructed me to go, with Jimmy following closely behind.

"Cassie what's going on!? What's happening?" cried Carol, as I continued to pull her with me as we passed the 2nd-floor were I noticed Asisu standing calmly among the artifacts only instead of a smile she gave me before, she looked angry like I did something wrong.

"What's her problem?" I thought as I decided to just ignore her and rushed Carol down into the hall that seemed a lot quieter as I took a moment to catch my breath.

"Cassie please tell me what's going on, you're scaring me!" Carol cried as I looked at Carol and Jimmy who already appeared to be on edge.

"Someone just tried to kill Ryan," I stated bluntly causing Carol's hands to go to her mouth in shock before she got close gripping my arm.

"Please tell me he's okay!?" Carol cried looking almost distraught. "Is he hurt?"

"He's fine." I spoke comforting.

"Wait happened?" Jimmy asked as he held Carol from behind to try and steady her.

"A sword fell from the ceiling and almost impaled Ryan. I pushed him out of the way while we were dancing; thankfully both of us are okay."

"Sounds like an accident." Stated Jimmy.

"Would have been had I not seen the hand that was holding the sword right over his head," I stated firmly causing their eyes to widen.

"You think it's the same people who Ryan was planning on capturing?" asked Carol as she started following me to Ryan's office just as we got to his door.

"Maybe, but Ryan wants us to stay with your dad in his office. Said it be safer." I stated as I turned the key and pushed open the door. Only the room was dark and dare I say eerily quiet.

"Odd, I thought he said your dad would still be in here working?" I stated as I felt around the wall for a light switch before I flicked it ON, only to hear Carol erupt in a terrible scream as she fell to her knees with Jimmy trying to pull her away from the scene that stood before us.

"Oh my God…" I looked on petrified as I saw Carol's father lying dead on the ground with a cobra wrapped around his neck and a paper stabbed into his back with a dagger written in blood. Even with what I was seeing, all I could hear was Carol screaming as the sound of more footsteps made their way to us at a fast pace, that before I knew what was going on I was being pulled away from the scene and loaded into someone's car with Carol who was now clutching Jimmy looking completely destroyed as she cried for her father, the head of the Reed family taken far too soon in such a deplorable way.

X-TIME SKIP-X

The funeral was a sad sight to see for everyone, it was particularly heartbreaking for Mrs. Reed and Carol who seemed to be the most inconsolable out of the family, as Rody and Ryan did their best to remain strong for the family despite the loss of their family head it was no surprise that Ryan would not shoulder the family business and inherit all the his father created, despite the fact he too had come close to losing his life.

But despite the fact that Ryan had been spared, part of me couldn't help but blame myself for not saving Mr. Rido in time. I had seen his death in my dream, and yet I was powerless to change his fate which made me feel just as responsible even though I knew I shouldn't think that way.

And yet…I couldn't figure out why my heart seemed to hurt so much.

Everyone seemed to morn differently once everything was over and done with. Jimmy stayed with Carol letting me know he'd watch over her, while Rody and Mrs. Reed chose to take some time away from the mansion to get away from painful reminders. Mari the nanny stayed quietly working in the kitchen tidying up here and there while holding a gloomy atmosphere around her that just didn't suit her, and Ryan…well he just never came out of his office which left me wandering the mansion with no place to go. The sudden change of the mansion's energy was tainted with the feelings of sadness and despair, yet even as this heavy fog seemed to dampen the once vibrant and happy household, it was Asisu who didn't seem at all affected by the loss as she hummed to herself fixing the assortment of fresh flowers she picked from the garden while removing the dead ones like she didn't have a care in the world.

"She makes me sick." I thought bitterly wondering just what exactly got her smiling so damn much knowing someone we all cared for just died yesterday.

"You seem to be in a chipper mood than usual," I stated causing her to jump at little in surprise at my sudden appearance. "I almost envy you, considering the fact that someone just died yesterday."

"I apologize," she stated trying not to meet my hard gaze. "I didn't know Mr. Rido too well. I did not mean to offend."

"We all deal with loses in our own way," I spoke walking around her as I carefully studied her movements wanting to see her slip. To give me a clue that what I believe isn't wrong, I wanted to see her true colors and I was getting tired of waiting.

"How's everything going with your brother? Heard any news or new information about his location?" I stated before stopping in front of her looking her dead in the eye. "Have you even been looking for your brother?"

The mention of her brother made her pause as she seemed to be in pain. But still refusing to look me in the eye as she shook her head, from the corner of her cheek I noticed a tear fall from her eye as I tried to determine if it was genuine or really good acting. "No, I'm afraid I may not be able to find him." She looked at me with a sadden expression I could almost believe was sincere. "But I still have hope; and yet I feel I've done all that I can."

I closed my eyes and took a deep breathe wondering what I was doing as I started to feel like a complete jerk for picking on her. "Forgive me," I spoke. "I didn't mean to sound so harsh."

"You and the Reeds have been going through a lot lately." Asisu spoke "I do not hold a grudge when everyone for the most part have made me feel welcomed and at home."

I watched her hands as she went back to fixing the flowers in the vases before a single question came into my mind that I couldn't help but ask.

"What is he like?" I asked as Asisu looked at me unsure of what I had asked.

"Your brother," I clarified. "What was he like?"

Asisu seemed to ponder for a moment before smiling as if recalling something precious in her memories as she gently caressed the flowers she held. If I was an artist she'd make a good model for a portrait at his moment holding such a lovely expression that looked tender and genuine.

"He is strong and brave, the most intelligent than anyone had ever seen. Handsome however can be a bit of a brat when he doesn't get what he wants." She laughed at the last part. "So hopeless without me, so lost. In truth, he is the light of my world, my purpose for being, my precious little brother."

I smiled a little at the last part as she made me think of my brother as well. Kind of sucks considering he hadn't crossed my thoughts until just now, though I suppose it just got easier missing him every day.

"And what of you Miss Cassandra? Do you have any siblings?" asked Asisu.

"I do," I admitted. "A younger brother as well."

"Do you see him often?" she asked smiling, but frowned when I shook my head.

"I left home when he was still pretty young right before I joined the military, and I haven't seen him since."

"Why did you leave?" she asked while placing another flower in the place of a dead one.

"My parents and I had our disagreements, and we could not come to a compromise," I spoke carefully not wanting to tell her too much of my personal life. "My father forced me to make a choice that would change my life and, in the end I chose myself."

"I'm sorry to hear that," she spoke looking almost sad but being careful not so show it. "Do you miss him, your brother I mean?"

"Every day." I spoke as she nodded.

"It's ironic isn't it how things turn out the way that they do?" Asisu spoke almost like she was having an internal struggle with herself, maybe even with her current situation, but who really knew. "It makes you feel almost helpless, almost like you can't fight fate. Feels almost cruel to be torn away from the people care about."

"Shit happens," I stated plainly. "But not everything is decided by fate alone. Just as I'll one day get to see my younger brother, you too will get to see yours as well, you just gotta keep believing yah know."

"Indeed." She agreed as she took a flower from the vase and tucked it in my hair catching me by surprise.

"It looks lovely on you." she smiled gently causing me to smile as well.

"Thanks," I stated before I made my way back towards the hall stopping just at the threshold.

"Asisu…" I spoke calmly as I looked back to see her staring at me curiously.

"Yes?"

"Take care of the Reeds," I told her looking very serious. "And they will take care of you, they're good people, so please be mindful of that."

"Yes." She nodded her head with what I could assume was an 'I will' before I continued down the hall preparing to venture into the Reed's library to help me pass the time. My journey, however, took me down the hall to a double set of doors that were normally closed. As I approached I looked inside to see Ryan sitting before a desk smoking his cigar and drinking a heavy glass of expensive whiskey as he seemed to contemplate his next move. Feeling my gaze he looked up at me as I felt startled by the look he gave me but thankfully he didn't seem angry when he called me out.

"Come in Cassandra, I know you there." He spoke sounding calm yet still appearing like a man trying to hold it all together.

"Busted." I thought as I pushed open the door to find the office in a complete mess with notes all over the floor and Ryan looking more troubled than usual.

"I didn't mean to disturb you," I stated figuring this wasn't the best time. "I was just here to borrow a book but I can come back later."

"No, it's fine." He spoke, his words slurred but still understandable. "Grab whatever you like."

I approached the bookcase like a cautious animal skimming through the binds and titles before picking out a few I felt would be interesting to read.

"How is Carol and the others fairing?" Ryan stated as I looked to him before looking back down at the books in my hand.

"Carol caught at cold from what Mari had told me, but Jimmy is helping her get better. Rody is taking care of your mother outside the estate, and I'm more or less on standby in case anyone needs anything."

"I apologize," spoke Ryan as he seemed to frown even harder than usual. "This is not how I would have liked our reunion to unfold. However, I am grateful to you none the less."

"There's no need-" I spoke knowing what he was fixing to say but he cut me off anyway.

"No, I'm serious," Ryan stated as he rose from his seat and came towards me. "Had it not been for you, our family would have been holding two services instead of one. You saved my life Cassandra and for that you have my gratitude."

"You'd do the same thing for me right?" I smiled. "We're like family, after all, even though we're not really related."

"You will always be a part of this family." Ryan smiled.

"Thank you," I spoke before I turned and was prepared to take my leave as I noticed Ryan's plans for the Valley.

"Construction of the Valley?" I read as Ryan hummed in agreement lighting up another cigarette.

"Do you still plan on continuing the excavation?" I spoke in shock. "Despite everything that has happened?"

"Yes," Ryan stated as I saw what looked like vengeful fire in his eyes. "Nothing will stop me from finishing my father's project, and I will make sure to find the ones responsible for my father's murder and I will ensure they pay for their transgressions."

"This is insane, listen to yourself Ryan; you almost lost your life because of all this!" I pleaded. "Vengeance won't make things right, but you mustn't continue with his project. Let it go before you and your family end up losing any more than you already have!"

"Do not tell me what to do!" he stated grabbing me firmly which caused me to drop the books in my hand at the surprise of his outburst. "I am the head of this family and I will decide what is best from now on! Do I make myself clear!"

I looked at Ryan for the very first time scared of who he had become. The fear in my eyes must have had some kind of effect on him as he let me go before bending over to retrieve the books I had dropped before placing them back in my hands. "Forgive me Cassie, but I think I need to be alone now. Please continue to look over Carol and my family."

"Ryan…"I spoke afraid I might have upset him for being too nosey, for not understanding how important this was to his family. But he smiled as he silently closed the door.

"Don't worry, everything is still fine between us." He smiled. "I…I just feel like I need more time."

And like other things the door shut completely between us putting a barrier between us as Ryan chose to shoulder his misery and pain alone, and I stood stupidly on the other side feeling completely hopeless as I didn't want him to deal with it all alone. But the reality was I wasn't the one who could break his walls; I knew that from the very start even without having to confess it. No matter how much I cared for him I just wasn't that person.

No matter how much it hurt me, I could never be that selfish.

X-TIME SKIP-X

After reading threw a couple of books for what felt like hours, I went to the kitchen to grab something to eat but ended up bumping into Jimmy who held of tray of soup which I assumed was for Carol.

"How is the princess fairing?" I asked as he seemed to smile at the joke.

"She's doing better," he stated before looking at me. "She's been asking about you. Why haven't you come by to see her?"

The question was curious and innocent enough, but the weight behind it made me wonder if I had hurt her by choosing to give her some space.

"I didn't want to intrude," I admitted. "Getting sick and losing her father, felt like something she'd come to me when she was ready. Plus I didn't want to ruin your thunder since you seem to have everything under control. Speaking of which did you by chance get a little closer?"

Seeing Jimmy blushed only confirmed my answer as I smiled almost proud of the kid as I slapped a hand on his shoulder causing him to flinch in pain.

"My man!" I laughed. "Talk about finally growing a pair and really coming into your own! I'm so proud of you!"

"Will you shut up!" Jimmy put a hand to my lips as all I seemed to do is giggle. "We haven't told anyone yet so we're waiting until the time is better to make it official!" he whispered looking around to make sure we were still alone.

"Quite bold there Jimmy" I stated raising a brow. "How long do you think it will take Ryan to figure it out? Think he'll hire a hit on you, or do you think he'll take care of it himself?"

"Not long if you go blabbing it out everywhere!" Jimmy spoke dragging me to Carol's room. "I'm practically risking my life just trying to date her!"

"Least you got to second base!" I spoke as Jimmy knocked me upside the head and pushed me in Carol's room.

"Cassie what the hell!" Carol spoke as I fell hard onto the floor cursing Jimmy with every fiber of my being, "I've been wondering where you ran off too!"

"Sorry, Carol I figured you wanted some space," I spoke before looking at Jimmy sending him the finger from across the room. "Besides you did have your knight and shining armor here to keep you nice and comfy."

She looked at me in shock before glaring at Jimmy. "You told her?! Jimmy!"

I laughed while he tried to explain that I had basically figured it out while the two bickered. Looking at them now I could already picture them married as they practically looked cute together.

"Now if only Ryan would loosen the leash and let Carol grow up a little I bet she'd take things more seriously instead of being so spoiled by everyone." I thought as I reached over to pick up one of the fallen books I had from the floor but noticed something long and black go underneath the bed which made me get up as I cautiously approached while carefully looking around Carol's bed. Carol who had just gotten done bickering with Jimmy noticed my odd behavior and was looking at me a little questionably as I carefully picked the blanket up taking a glance down from under the bed to see nothing was there.

"What's wrong Cassie?" Carol asked while sipping some soup as I looked at her appearing uneasy but still trying to convince myself it was all in my head as I rose back to my feet scratching my head.

"Sorry…I thought I saw something go under your bed." I spoke looking at her. "But I guess I'm just seeing things."

"What did it look like?" Jimmy asked as he took a bite of Carol's bread, but I shook my head not really sure myself.

"I don't know. But for a moment I thought it was a snake or something." I got back on my feet preparing to head back to my seat before I noticed the look on Carol's face as she shakenly put down her spoon before looking at me in an almost worried expression.

"Cassie…" She spoke trying to keep her voice steady. "My foot….T-there's something wrapping around my foot!"

Upon hearing her say that I quickly ripped the blankets off her form knocking the bowl of soup from her lap as it crashed hard onto the ground before we found what appeared to be a cobra curling itself tightly around Carol's ankle hissing angrily at us.

"Oh shit Carol!" I screamed, just as Carol cried for Jimmy to get it off her.

"Carol don't panic!" Jimmy cried but the moment Carol started freaking out the snake was quick to bite into her ankle causing her to scream as the two of us realized this just went from bad to worse.

"Carol!" we both cried as Jimmy leaped into action using a shoe to knock the poisonous serpent away, while I quickly used the book I still had in my hand to smash the thing before it had a chance to getaway.

"Cursed son of a bitch!" I cussed as I turned my attention to Jimmy when I was sure the damn thing was as good as dead. Jimmy did his best to try to suck the poison from her ankle but I pulled him away learning from my training that wasn't a good idea.

"What do you think you're doing!" Jimmy yelled at me. "She needs help!"

"Doing that will only make it worse! She needs a doctor and with some ant-venom now!" I yelled at him as just as Ryan came racing inside with the others not far behind upon hearing all the commotion.

"What's going on here?!" Ryan spoke angrily upon seeing his sister in pain with the two of us in an absolute panic.

"Carol was been bitten by a cobra that somehow got in her room!" I cried pointing to the dead cobra that was still smashed under the book I had earlier, "We need to get her to the hospital now!"

Not needing to be told twice Ryan gathered his sister in his arms before racing down the stairs with everyone flowing suite. Within a matter of moments, the Reed household was once again thrown in complete chaos with the risk of losing another member of their family. This was, by all means, a nightmare, only for some reason, I couldn't seem to wake up from it this time.

"Please Carol!" I prayed as I held her close to me in the back seat with Jimmy at her feet, and Ryan racing like the devil was at his tail lights against time itself.

"Please Carol, please be okay!"