Welcome to Gaia! ::

"Sounds like a plan," Earendil agreed.

They found a place to eat where some of the merchants had come together to offer everyone a bit of everything, and then spent the afternoon trying out the various games. From time to time they joined up with others of their group, though everyone always seemed to be in a rush to go off to something else.

By the time they returned to the castle, very late at night, even Earendil was so tired that his feet were dragging. They all headed straight to bed, and only the next morning, when they woke, did they bother to wash up.

They stayed another week, but at last, Roydon announced that the Zephyr was ready to leave, provisions stocked and everything.

At that moment, there was a knock at the door. It wasn't Earendil this time, but Elros and Alena. The two of them were packed and ready to go, and each of them carried one bag - the rest of their things had been sent ahead to the ship already.

"Lin?" Alena called through the door. "Are you ready?"

Alena and Elros chuckled at Miyuki's enthusiastic greeting.

"Good morning," Alena replied warmly, her eyes sparkling brightly. Then, switching to the language that was more comfortable for her, she said, "You seem very excited this morning. Are you eager to return to your home?"

Alena looked at Elros curiously. "Helen?"

Elros shrugged. "I have not met him," he replied. "I don't know."

He looked at Lin. "Prince Earendil asked us to check on you," he told her, explaining why it was they who were knocking on her door instead of Earendil. "Her Majesty wished one final consultation with him before leaving, so he is already downstairs with all of his things."

Alena's eyes lightened in understanding. "I see," she said warmly. "Perhaps someday we will have the chance to meet some of your siblings. I would be honoured."

Elros smiled at Lin. "Would you like any help with your bags?" he offered, holding out one hand.

Elros chuckled softly, his icy blue eyes warm. "Sometimes it seems as if she is always running," he said in an amused tone.

Alena giggled. "Children are all the same, generation after generation. They are indeed filled with life and energy. It is enough to put us all to shame."

"Come, Lin," Elros said, turning back to Lin. "Prince Earendil will be waiting for you, I'm certain."

Aerin and Caranthir were also present, and when the others appeared, both of them smiled widely at them.

"It seems the day has finally arrived," Aerin said quietly, sadness in her eyes despite her warm smile. She reached her hands out to Alena, who took them and clasped them tightly. "You who have been the only mother I have ever known ..."

Alena smiled back, then stepped forward and hugged the queen gently. "Your mother would be proud to see you where you are today," she said softly. "I am."

Earendil put one hand on Lin and Miyuki's shoulders. "I told Aethos-sola we would meet him here and go to the ship with him," he told them. "I hope you don't mind."