Welcome Home

The walk from Ashen to Elysium seemed longer than Ikigai remembered. Perhaps it was the cloud hanging over her mother that slowed the pale princess's pace. There was no apprehension in the young woman, however. Though her stomach was in knots, they were the knots of anticipation. Would she perform well in her new position? Gods, she hoped so. Poe was an afterthought. Really, her marriage was second fiddle to being asked to be the ambassador for Elysium.

As they walked, Ikigai stayed close to her mother, taking and giving comfort as it would likely be the last time that they were together for a while. Venom had to tend to her pack and Iki had to take the reins of her new life and build a strong foundation upon which to grow. She would make her mother and Ashen proud. Of this, she was certain. The snow and obsidian fae would do whatever was necessary to make both Ashen and Elysium greater than they had been before. She wasn't sure how yet, but it would come in time.

The trio crossed the land bridge with Deimos taking up the rear. Iki swore that she could feel his eyes upon her, but thought nothing of it. Of course he'd be looking at them. He was walking behind them. The man couldn't stare at the ground the whole time. The familiar face of Manea soon greeted them and the marbled eyes of the woman watched as the siblings embraced upon being reunited. The corners of Iki's maw and eyes lifted at the sight.

They were led within Elysium proper where Manea had a comfortable little meeting place set up. Tanuki pulled the small cart with Ikigai's meager belongings and the young fae stepped aside to help her canine companion remove himself from the harness. Once that was finished, Tanuki and Willa stayed together while Iki, Venom and Deimos moved into the heated space. The plum colored brute asked for a moment alone with his sister and Ikigai nodded. Of course he'd want a moment with her after being apart for so long. Moving to one of the various furs, Iki seated herself, hoping that her mother would sit beside her. She cast glances here and there, wondering when and if Poe would arrive.

"Ikigai"