Epilogue
The STRANGER is back in Tomahna, minus the NECKLACE, which has been given back to YEESHA ATRUS comes out of the kitchen, carrying a book.
ATRUS: My friend... it seems I'm always thanking you.
STRANGER (under her breath): Ah, you've noticed as well?
ATRUS: Yeesha's alright... she really is a strong little girl, but she's going to need time. She loved Achenar... and Sirrus, very much.
STRANGER: I can't help noticing that you don't seem all that upset about your sons' deaths, Atrus.
ATRUS: (Shrugs) Eh, well... I never liked them all that much anyway. And I've still got my daughter. Now that the boys are gone, we'll have far more money to spend on her!
STRANGER (somewhat nonplussed): Well, I'm glad you're taking it so philosophically. Where is Yeesha, anyway?
ATRUS: Catherine has taken her to Tay for a few days.
STRANGER: (Perks up) Tay? That incredibly cool tree place I saw in Riven? (ATRUS nods.) There isn't any chance of going back to Riven next time, is there?
ATRUS gives her a Look.
ATRUS (gently): Riven is gone, my friend. Learn to let go.
STRANGER (crestfallen): Yeah, I know... I was just kind of hoping.
ATRUS: Well, you never know what will happen. I'm sure you'll be back here again for more adventures later on...
STRANGER: (Sighs) Much as I hate to admit it, you're probably right. As long as it doesn't involve Never-Never Land there again, that's all I ask.
ATRUS: Well, I'll do my best. But I can't be sure what will happen – my father's still out there, after all...
STRANGER: (Shudders) Don't. If he comes back I am not getting involved, understand?
ATRUS: (Smiles knowingly) Of course not, my friend. (He turns and walks back into the kitchen, grinning to himself.)
The ending has not yet been written...
