Exton

Rowan had just finished helping Star in the shower and braiding her long silver-blonde tresses when Alise knocks and peeks her head in the door.

“Are you ready for this?” She asks, smiling.

Star nods and motions Alise in. She sits on the bed and grins at the serious looks on the childrens faces. She lays Ruarc on the bed in front of her so the little ones can see and greet their new cousin. They stand in a row, holding onto the edge of the bed, eyes wide and little mouths perfect 'O's'.

Erik hands Mera to Star who started squirming when the group came in. She wanted to see what was going on and who was here to see her brother. She squeals with joy when she sees Gracie.

The children watch as Ruarcs eyes start to switch colors, not as fast as Stars do on occasion, but noticeable enough. Alise picks up on Taras thoughts.... Like Tante Star....

Thoughts and images were swirling in Tomas' mind and he was almost bouncing in excitement. Stoney clarifies for Alise... Tomas thinks he and Ruarc need a dragon... not a small one like Chloes, but a big one like Tante Rainas...

Alise stifles a laugh and takes Stars hand, “I think we are going to have our hands full with these two...”


Sometime later a sylph taps on the door and gives Star a note, informing the group that an early supper is ready and will be served in the Solarium.

“Ohh, how perfect...” says Alise.

Star hesitates, “I havent walked that far yet.” She stands and Laila helps her into a robe. Erik offers to carry her which makes her laugh and shake her head. “I might need to lean on you though...” and the group makes its way down the hall, Mya flying ahead.

Pandora gasps softly when she sees the room, “How beautiful...”

The glass enclosed room is softly lit by a winters late afternoon sun and several candles on the table. An arrangement of blue and white flowers grace the center of a heavy wooden table. Three high chairs for the older children and to one side on the floor is a soft thick blanket, sprinkled with toys for Mera and Gracie to enjoy. There is even a small setting of matching china for Mya next to Stars.

The meal is served and the conversation ebbs and flows, the love and affection this gathering of women have for one another very apparent. Rowan tells Alise she will look at Tomas' back before Stoney arrives to get him and will make a solution for him, similar to the one she used for Alises back when she was injured.

Alise nods, “Merci, Rowan. What would we do without you?” She looks to Star who has gone silent. Alise follows her gaze to one of the large windows where Erik is holding Ruarc, looking out at the grounds.

Stars eyes have gone pink, a slight smile plays at the corners of her mouth. She is taking in every detail, wondering if when she gets to her drawing things if she can capture this moment on paper. Wondering if there was any way to express to Erik how much she loved him and their son.

Alise and Pandora share a glance, both understanding exactly how Star feels.

After a few moments, Alise laughs softly, drawing Stars attention back to the gathering. “You know if Raina were here she would say you are 'whipped'.”

Smiling Star agrees, “She would say something like that.”

As the light begins to fade, Alise looks over to Mera and Gracie, both haven fallen asleep on the floor, toys scattered around them. Star is looking very tired and Rowan suggests a rest for her, this has been the most activity she has had since Ruarcs arrival.

“But I dont want to go back to my room. Its so pretty here.” Star protests.

As if she had given a command, the table is pushed back, and a recliner brought in and placed near the windows for Star. As Rowan helps her get settled, the table is quickly and efficiently cleared, candles replaced with fresh ones and several comfortable chairs are brought in and placed near Stars.

Erik brings Ruarc to her and places him in her arms. She looks up at him, “I am going to get spoiled staying here.”

“Its nothing you dont deserve. Rest for a bit. I'm sure we will have more visitors later.” Erik pulls a light blanket over his loved ones.

Star nods and snuggles into the recliner with Ruarc. With the happy sounds of her friends visiting and children playing she is soon dozing....