Little stars began to form.

It was almost as if she'd opened her eyes and gone from complete darkness to light. Except the stars were too detailed, appearing to be lightning contained in small doses. But as soon as she blinked, they were gone.

Her friends voices pierced through her haze, dragging the strange stars with them. She was supposed to be in the moment, enjoying an outing out with her friends after so long.

"That's absolute bs!" Dandy yelled at what was supposed to be her partner Carol but they all knew how 30 seconds went.

Carol snorted, her deep black eyes swirling with annoyance but, ultimately, enjoyment. "Who hears clown that makes take-aways and doesn't think McDonald's?"

They all burst out in laughter even Hallo who hadn't even caught it the first time. But why wouldn't they? The sky was a brilliant orange, the setting sun lighting up the few dotting clouds.

It had been months that felt like years since they've last seen each other but you know how it goes. Friend groups break down once they transition from high school to the real world. Only a few keep together and fewer still actually see each other. That had been Hallo's group.

Carol, Dandy and Nicci had all began their courses at various universities. As predicted, the transition was brutal as nothing really prepared you for the harshness that was university. Lyssa and Liz had gone the other way, working. Trying to experience life so that it may give them a hint of what they wanted to do.

In retrospect, Hallo knew she had it easy. She had long forgo the idea of becoming a pediatrician (the stress of trying to maintain such high marks had been ridiculous) and now was busy with her final course in teaching. Beginning next month she'd start work at a private foundation school in Aeolus to gain experience which would hopefully let her achieve her dream.

But Hallo was as good as reasoning with herself as she was lying. She didn't want to admit the real reason that was holding her back, the reason her dream of teaching abroad was one hesitant step ahead.

After 30 seconds had finished (Nicci deciding the prize was free food the next time we met up) they all sprang about the playground. Being around each other always brought out the children within.

Hallo's legs dangled as she sat on the swings, staring up at the sky. She wondered what he was doing at that very moment, with who. Where. He had changed so much in the weeks she got to know him, she couldn't imagine what he looked like now.

Almost as if sensing it, distant thunder rolled over Aeolus.

"Miss Hallo Morrigan."

Authors Note
Wednesday, 7/12/22, was when I started this journey and you're joining me today! One last time, one last book. The end of tetralogy. Are you excited?