Exton

Laila has fashioned a nest of pillows on the floor for the little girls and Stoney has built a fire in the fireplace. Gracie and Mera are content to rest close to each other, cooing and softly babbling at one another. Lobo has found her way to the Manse and takes a spot near the girls and the warm fire.

Alise takes in every person in the room from her spot in one of the leather chairs.

Chiot, in her quiet way, Star has touched the lives of all of us... her and Laila are as close as sisters, she took care of me and the babies when they were born, she is Eriks beloved, foster mother to Keons precious one... surely any gods or goddess would not take her when so many love her...

Pulling her out of the chair and into his arms Stoney sends, I dont know Chaton, there are no easy answers....

Raina can feel the hurt and worry rolling off Erik and Alise in waves. She takes a deep breath and tries to block it. Her own emotions are close to the surface and coupled with everything else she can feel its beginning to get overwhelming.

Raina pulls Erik closer to the fire, “He needs to stay warm, he was a little early... and does he have a name?”

Tannr sits on the arm of the chair Erik has sat in and runs a large calloused hand over the small head. “He needs a good strong name, a warriors name...'

Nodding Erik answers, “He does.. but Star and I hadnt decided yet...."

The group falls silent again, the only sound the soft crackling of the fire.

Several minutes pass and Rowan finally enters the room. Erik stands and asks “How is Star? Is she all right? Can I see her?”

Rowan looks around at the family assembled and takes a deep breath. “Erik, we need to talk..”