Once confined to a constellation in the heavens as a punishment for her vanity, Cassiopeia returns to Earth, holding delicate palm fronds, symbols of triumph and eternal life. She lounges on her royal purple throne, hand-carved of gold, wearing a majestic teal ball gown embellished with feathers from exotic birds and intricate embroidery. Wary of tempting fate with a hand-held mirror, she avoids staring at her own reflection. Yet there is no doubt in her mind that her beauty outshines the Nereids, just like the pale yellow metallic thread which glows like clusters of fireflies in the dark, a brilliant reminder of the stars that once shone for her.

Susan Redington Bobby