The woman's smile faded, and she looked at me with a serious expression. My name is Ariana, she said. And I have been the Guardian of the Balance for many lifetimes.
I nodded, intrigued. What do you mean by many lifetimes? I asked.
Ariana sighed. I mean that I have lived many lives, she said. I have been reborn again and again, each time taking on the role of the Guardian.
I stared at her, amazed. Why? I asked. Why would you do that?
Ariana's eyes clouded over, and she looked away. I did it for love, she said. I did it to be with the one I loved.
I sensed a deep sadness in her, and I reached out to touch her arm. What happened? I asked gently.
Ariana looked at me, her eyes filled with tears. He died, she said. My love died, and I was left alone. So I made a deal with the gods. I would serve them as the Guardian, and in return, I would be reborn again and again, until my love was reborn as well.
I felt a pang of sorrow for her. And has your love been reborn? I asked.
Ariana nodded. Yes, she said. He has been reborn, and I have found him again. But our love is forbidden. We are not allowed to be together.
I frowned, unsure of what to say. Why not? I asked.
Ariana smiled sadly. Because I am the Guardian, she said. And he is the God of Life.