there was an echo, far and faint

Ellara smiled as she watched Bigs dart around, his excitement infectious as he chased the butterfly through the rain. The sight of the tiny dog dancing and leaping brought a laugh to her lips, and she joined in the frolicking, splashing in the puddles alongside Atreyu.

As the rain began to ease, Ellara listened intently to Atreyu's explanation, her heart softening at the depth of emotion in her new friend's voice. She had never heard of the Summerlands or the mother-spirit Kiska before, but the conviction in Atreyu's words and the joy on her face made Ellara pause. She couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the belief that brought such solace to Atreyu. Though Ellara herself wasn't sure what lay beyond, the idea that Atreyu's loved ones had found peace was a comforting thought.

Ellara pondered the significance of the double rainbow, realizing that there were many mysteries in life she didn't fully understand. Perhaps there was some truth to Atreyu's belief, or perhaps it was simply a beautiful story that brought comfort in times of grief. Either way, it was clear that this moment was deeply meaningful to Atreyu, and Ellara felt honored to have shared it with her. She knew that supporting her friend's belief was more important than her own uncertainties.

With a gentle smile, Ellara moved closer to Atreyu, her pink eyes soft with understanding. "I'm glad they made it home, Atreyu," she said sincerely. "It's a beautiful thought, and I hope it brings you peace." She glanced up at the fading rainbows, their colors still vibrant against the darkening sky. "I am sure they're looking down on you right now, proud and happy." Ellara's voice was filled with warmth and acceptance, her own heart lightened by the possibility.

Ellara’s smile wavered slightly as she thought back to her own past, memories of her parents’ deaths surfacing. She had been so young when it happened, too young to fully understand the loss at the time. The separation from most of her family had left her feeling adrift for years. She often wondered if they were somewhere safe and happy, just like Atreyu believed her family to be in the Summerlands. The thought brought a bittersweet comfort to her heart.

Turning her gaze back to Atreyu, Ellara saw a kindred spirit. The pain of losing family was something they both shared, and it created an unspoken bond between them. Ellara wondered if Atreyu, like her, had a small circle of loved ones left. She felt a deep urge to offer her friendship and support, to make sure Atreyu never felt alone in her grief.

"Atreyu," Ellara began softly, her voice tinged with the emotion of her own memories, "I lost my parents when I was very young, and I’ve been separated from most of my family since then. I know how it feels to carry that weight, to wonder where they are and if they're at peace. But I want you to know, you have me now. We can be strong for each other."

She moved closer, water dripping down her latte pink and mocha brown coat as her expression filled with empathy. "I'll be here for you, through everything. We can share our burdens and our joys. We’re friends now." Ellara's eyes shone with determination and warmth, her heart open and genuine.