Serena and her tutor, Ricardus, communicate through classical metaphors, referencing shared stories for concise, cryptic messages. This style resembles the Tamarian language from Star Trek: The Next Generation (episode “Darmok”), where meaning is conveyed through cultural allegories such as “Darmok and Jalad at Tanagra”, symbolising cooperation.
To allay her tutor’s fears when he finds her and the Saxon alone in an old hillfort, Serena quotes Ovid’s Metamorphoses: “Peleus and Thetis, on Mount Pelion.” The phrase implies she is there voluntarily for romantic reasons. When Ricardus looks puzzled, she adds, “Thetis, radiant in the caves of Chiron.” Recognising the reference, Ricardus responds, “Achilles, the seed planted?” Serena, blushing, avoids answering.
Later, Serena uses the same allegoric style to send a message to Ricardus during a battle: “Caesar at Alesia, his legion with open arms.” This phrase recalls a passage from the Gallic Wars, where Caesar lured the enemy into a trap by appearing vulnerable. Ricardus immediately understands the ploy and acts accordingly. A similar metaphor is used in the Star Trek episode: “Uzani, his army with fists open.” meaning to lure the enemy towards you by spreading your forces.
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