Stranger Things Have Happened

Mariah traced a quiet path along the narrow strip of sand that linked Alias Island to the mainland of Boreas- her heart thrumming with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. She and Malico had been warmly welcomed by their older sister Avacyn. And now, as they crossed back to Alias Island, Mariah felt a sense of familiarity wash over her, tinged with the anticipation of reuniting with her other relatives. As they stepped onto the rocky terrain of the island- she bid her siblings farewell, absorbed in the process of reacquainting herself. She couldn't help but marvel at the rugged beauty that surrounded them. Finally beginning to accept that they were really and truly back. The tall peaks, crowned with dense clusters of trees, loomed overhead, casting long shadows in the late afternoon sunlight. The large lake gleaming in the middle of the island, it’s waters reflecting the shifting hues of the sky above. It filled her with excitement- my, nostalgia was a curious thing.

She had been wandering for a while- following the winding path through the rocky terrain when finally caught sight of her mother in the distance. A surge of joy filled Mariah's chest and she quickened her pace, the sound of her footsteps mingling with the gentle crash of waves against the not-so-distant rocky shore. As she drew closer, the familiar scent of family washed over her, carrying with it memories of laughter and love. The crisp ocean air seemed to invigorate her senses, heightening the emotions bubbling within. Without hesitation, Mariah closed the remaining distance between them and wrapped her arms around her mother in a tight embrace. In this moment, nothing else mattered - all she longed for was this closeness with the woman who had raised her with unwavering love and support.

"Mariah Mendacium"