****
My father good-naturedly treated everyone of us to a noon-time lunch of korvu, a flatbread pie similar to pizza, piled high with local cheeses, vegetables, and meat. I sat next to him at an outside banquet table encircled by my friends, who sat on satin pillows. They all ate too fast and talked with their mouths full. Tiny glittering balls encircled each chest that the younger children clutched, adding surreal movement and bright colors to what was really a peaceful meal.
I knew I should treasure this moment of relative quiet before a possibly stormy future, but couldn't relax for some reason. I turned to Dad. "So you think Mom will be up to the ceremony tonight? I'm a little nervous about the mission. Well, actually, all of us are."
"And understandably so. Everyone is concerned." Dad's dark eyes studied me for a second. "Your mother assures me she'll be there."
I slipped my arms around his waist in a hug that he returned. Resting my cheek on his chest, I heard the steady beat of his heart. "I'll miss you two."
"And we'll miss you." He kissed the top of my head before releasing me. "But you've been chosen for a reason, and we respect that choice. Your mother and I will handle Ionian affairs while you're gone."
Feeling no better, I sat back and reached for my korvu. After taking a bite, I chewed thoughtfully while my gaze traveled the length of the table. I took note of Julie's dimples, Katie's dark eyes, and Kyle's tousled hair before shifting my focus to Jeremy. He gifted me with a decidedly gapped grin, thanks to the recent loss of a front tooth, and I couldn't help but smile back. How I'd miss taking care of them.
Taking care of them? I tensed at that thought, which exploded from my subconscious.
"Oh no!" I couldn't believe this hadn't crossed my mind before now. "Who's going to watch the rest of the kids while we're gone?"
My father chuckled. "You're not to worry. At Jor's request, Dostinya and Corele have arranged for them to stay together at—what do you call it?—Goodpringle's for now. Several Sairon and Ionian couples have expressed interest in caring for them there, and our architects have big plans for renovating the space."
At Jor's request. I sagged with relief and gratitude. Trust him to think of that not-so-small detail.
"They're delightful children, by the way. Once your mother is fully herself again, we'll help, too."
My concerns for my mother must have shown on my face.
"Ceedrill is so much better today, Alli. She actually had a blush on her cheeks when I left her moments ago. Our Sunsanean has worked her magic once again. And speaking of Tirafalen, I see that she and Rocc have arrived."