Chapter 40

"End of a Journey"

Wil and Deanna return to the ship with only the memories of Vanta III. Their experiences on the war-driven planet disappeared as the guardians faded into light. Deanna still had the note she found in her pocket. Lily was already at home when her parents arrived Rachel's mother sat on the couch nearby reading a novel. Rachel's mother looks up at the sound of the door swishing open.

"How was your vacation?"

"It was wonderful, relaxing I have never been so happy."

"Well that's what Vanta III does to you. My husband and I went there on our honeymoon."

"I didn't know that."

Lily comes running out of her room and jumps into her father's arms. Wil dropped the luggage at his feet as he caught his daughter in his arms.

"Daddy I missed you so much!"

"We missed you too. Did you have fun with Rachel and her family?"

"Yes mommy we went on picnic's and camping on the holodeck. Rachel's dad even took us swimming in Lake Kataria. The water was so cold but we had so much fun."

"She really has been a wonderful guest. We hope to see her again soon."

"Well summer is here maybe we can go on more camping trips and take Rachel with us. Is that alright with you?"

"Of course it is. She has been a jewel. Rachel and I have to get going we are meeting her father for dinner. I'll see you soon."

Deanna nods and the family head into the master bedroom. Riker places Lily on her feet and they begin to unpack. Lily looks up at her mother and spots the letter coming out of Deanna's pocket.

"Mommy what's that?"

Deanna takes the paper out and looks at Wil.

"I don't know."

Deanna nods and opens the letter.

Dear Friends,

By now you probably don't remember us. As promised Ethan and I have sent you this letter. Take this glitter and sprinkle it on your family. You are now blessed and protected by the Guardians forever.

Thank you for sending us home

The Guardians

"Guardians?"

"Yeah mamma you know those people who protect you. They must have rescued you from danger or they would not have sent that letter and that glitter. I remember my real daddy told me that Guardian's come to those with a pure heart. They are part of the universes elements. They protect all beings. If you ever come across them the one wish you are wishing for will come true. I always thought that was fairy tale? Maybe you went to Vanta to have a honeymoon but you came back with much more."

Lily skips out of the room and Wil and Deanna look at each other.

"What did she mean "Came back with much more?"

"I guess we will have to wait and see."

TBC...Chapter 41