Despite the relatively pleasant weather, a violet bolt of lightning strikes a clearing not too far off from the main city, the peal of its thunder rolling for some time around the surrounding hills before dying off.
Several minutes pass before a group of people can be seen emerging from the trees; some walking, some skipping, some chattering excitedly, some chiding. But happiness and laughter is the bond that binds the mood of the group. Happiness and love both, for they are one large family, and today they have the rare opportunity to have fun together.
Thomas walks with his wives, one on each arm. Tirush's clawed hand is entwined in his own, and Regina holds his other arm close to her chest. Aegis skips along merrily, singing out of tune on purpose, while Aurora swims in the air behind her, laughing, trying to keep up. Ferra walks behind her father and mothers, and Lucida slides along beside her, talking ninety miles an hour about the history of the region they just emerged in to Lilrava, Kioshi and Sun-Mi.
Beside them, Partha and Gemmi are giggling as they ride on the back of the steward of the family---Antoinette the Saintaur, in her quadruped form, her silver hair and brilliant armor glittering, walks proudly with the two small children on her back.
"Antoinette, sweetheart, you didn't have to come in your armor," Regina says. "You could have waited until we returned home."
"She is honor-bound in her duty. Let others see her, and watch on in awe," Tirush says, smiling at the Saintaur.
"I thank you, my Lady," Antoinette says, blushing. "I hope that I bring honor to the family by being here."
"Thank you so much for deciding to come, Antoinette," Aurum says, reaching over and taking her hand as they walk. "We really wanted to spend time with you, after you were gone for so long."
"And thanks for carrying us. It made the trip here a little less scary," Partha says, her voice quiet despite her smile.
"Yeah! Dis is fun!" Gemmi says.
Antoinette beams her brilliant smile. "Of course, you are always welcome! I will carry you wherever you want to go, always." She gently flutters her pair of center wings, patting the children on her back with them and making the two laugh. "And I missed everyone dearly, lady Aurum. I do not want to be apart from you like that again."
Tirush leans over, her voice a whisper. "You were right, Danthe. The children adore her, and it is little wonder why. She is kind, gentle, and beautiful. And she is a fine warrior."
"Yes, she is, in every sense," Thomas deadpans.
"I'm sure you don't mind her strategically placed armor," Regina says, narrowing her eyes and looking over.
"Hey, I don't see YOU dressing like thaAAOOW!" Thomas jumps. "Hey! Let's wait a bit before pinching, right? Maybe after lunch, at least?"
"Just testing your reflexes, sweetheart," Regina says, smiling and looking forward.
Tirush leans in, close to Thomas' ear. "I shall wear as much or as little as you desire, my Danthe. And I will defend your tenders against all who dare challenge my claim of them." She leans in and gives his ear a long smooch.
Aegis, having stopped and watched them for a few minutes, shakes her head and continues skipping.
"I hope I'm never that weird," she mumbles.