Hector was needed by Priam and his advisors before I could have him. I watched them lead my husband to the court , where they would talk of the trip's success.

I was not allowed.

I stood watching till they were no longer in my sight.

Then quietly turned to go to our chambers.

The hall was close to empty by now. All but for a few servents and myself.

And Cassandra.

She stood by a column , still as death itself , her violet robes matched her eyes. Since the day I met her I found those eyes haunting. She never seemed to look at you , but through you.

Today she met my brown eyes. Speaking softly , "Andromache."

Glancing around the large room , had no one else heard her speak? When I turned back to her she was no longer there. But coming towards me with the grace of the Gods. As if she were floating instead of walking. Her silk robes never rippeled once.

"Cassandra , I did not know you would be here. How are your headaches?" I asked her , trying my best to be polite.

Though I lived under the same roof as her , we hardly knew one another.

"My headaches?" she smiled , saying the words more to herself then anyone in the room.

Calling Cassandra odd would not cover her behavior.

"You're well then? Well enough to come greet Hector?" I offered.

Cassandra smiled at me again , her eyes darkened , sending bumps up my neck and arms. "You see it when you look in his eyes."

Wishing to leave the room more then anything. I did not pull my eyes from her though , but held her frightening gaze. "What is it that I see?"

Cassandra leaned close to my face , her hair brushing my cheek. Placing her lips aside my ear , "His pain , the fighting has been taking a toll on my brother. I know you see it in his eyes. You see it on his body , I've watched you , Andromache. Your not the only one who hears his screams at night."

At that she pulled away from me.

I watched her slowly walk from the hall , two veiled women followed her out. Where she would no doubt pray at the temple as she did every day.

Taking a shaken breath , I smoothed the soft silk I wore.

Ready to go to my room.

What difference did it make if she could see the tolls of war on her brother? But hear his screams? Her chambers were on the other side of the palace. How could she hear them if Priam didn't? His chambers were inbetween and he slept just fine.

"Andromache!"

I jumped at the voice , not my name being shouted.

Hecuba.

Seeing the Queen come my way , her dark blue robes looking like a oncoming storm.

I'd rather face the storm.

Pulling a smile from inside myself , "Yes my Queen?"

She came to a stop in front of me.

Looking me over without any reservations , "Tonight there will be a feast in honor of Prince Hector."

No surprise there.

I dipped my head , "I'll be sure to tell him."

Hecuba nodded , then added , "Make yourself presentable dear."

Make myself presentable.

Wishing to speak my mind , but that would lead to a execution , I spoke calmly , "Yes my Queen."