-Carter- I had to admit, it was good to be back with my family. All of us, gathered around the table, enjoying our meal and each other’s company, teasing and joking as we always did. The family had certainly grown, with children now filling the space, and it was a beautiful sight before me as I glanced down the long table. In hindsight, I realized I shouldn’t have hidden away, but perhaps I wouldn’t have found my way back if I hadn’t taken the time to understand the new me. “So, what exactly happened on The Sea Islands? We still haven’t heard the full story,” Laelia inquired, holding her daughter and attempting to feed her. “Well, we went there to search the islands and speak to Catla.” “And?” “The queen was acting very strange from the start. She seemed eager to get us off the islan

