As soon as they arrived to Avalon, Marguerite announced, "I am going to take a bath, a long one. And then a nap, even longer."
John responded flirtatiously, "I'd love to join you for both."
Marguerite smiled, "That would be perfect. I think we've earned a moment just for the two of us."
John leaned in and kissed her. It was a sweet kiss, yet carried out with a civility mindful of the others around them.
Isabelle, observing the scene, commented, "Such display of affection is so middle class."
Without missing a beat, John replied, "A true gentleman always reminds his lady why she fell in love with him."
Marguerite smiled at her husband, "Well, I must say, this gentleman does his job quite well."
"It's my most important job, after all."
Marguerite, with a final look at her family, said, "See you later, children." She gently took John's hand as they left together, both anticipating some well-deserved relaxation.
Isabelle, watching her parents leave, turned to her siblings with amusement and admiration and declared, "One day when I grow up, I want a marriage just like that."
William offered a thoughtful nod, showing he too admired their parents' relationship, even if he didn't verbalize it.
However, before he could further dwell on it, Abigail caught him for a conversation, shifting his attention away from the moment.
"I must extend my deepest admiration and respect to you, William. For your acts of bravery, for your unwavering spirit, and for your remarkable resilience. You've conducted yourself as a true hero. It is a rare heart that shows compassion for even the smallest of lives and risks their own to save them."
"Thank you, Abigail. It was the right thing to do. I believe every life, no matter how small, holds value."
She stopped, looking deeply into his eyes and said, "Now, I am certain you are walking the right path."
William offered a teasing reply, "On the other hand, Abigail, we should never be too certain about anything. People can disappoint at the last moment."
"They can, but you won't. I trust your parents to keep you in order."
"Who will keep them? And better yet, who will keep you?"
Abigail smiled knowingly. "Ah, the guardians need no keeping, for we are guided by the balance of the world itself. I have the wisdom of the ages and the land to keep me steady."
William remarked, "We're not very modest, are we?"
"Modesty is the jewel of the cautious, William. But when you've lived as long as I have, you'll find that a dash of confidence can be quite becoming."
William couldn't help but smile at her response, recognizing the truth in her words. "I'll have to remember that when I'm as wise and all-knowing as you."
He had to admit to himself, as much as he disagreed with Abigail on many issues, one thing was for certain. The old lady had spirit.
After a delightful afternoon spent together, Marguerite and John found themselves in the cozy outdoor lounge under the stars, following a light dinner. Abigail had decided to gather everyone there that evening, and they were the first to arrive. This special spot was filled with plush cushions, making it the perfect place to relax. Pillars wrapped in ivy supported canopies that fluttered gently in the evening breeze, while lanterns hung around, casting a warm, inviting glow.
After them, the first to appear was Juliette, her hair loose and tousled, dressed in a white dress adorned with floral details and puffy short sleeves.
"Come here, my darling." Marguerite invited her warmly.
Juliette settled herself between her parents, and Marguerite lovingly stroked her hair, admiring both her appearances and the spirit. The twins possessed eyes in the shade between hazel and amber, a trait Marguerite affectionately referred to as the Roxton eyes and the curls in a few shades lighter than her own.
When she wasn't outrunning the boys, besting them at their own games, Juliette was this adorable little girl with a very sweet disposition. She never uttered a mean word to anyone. Her presence was uplifting, bringing a sense of joy and positivity to those around her. This aspect of Juliette reminded Marguerite so much of John.
"What's on your mind, sweetie?" Marguerite asked, noticing Juliette's thoughtful gaze.
"I miss my pony… And Archie," Juliette said, referencing their loyal Scottish Shepherd. "And my bunny rabbits... And the little ducklings we rescued in the spring. And Mr. Paws, of course. Oh, and Tilly the tortoise. I wonder how they're all doing without us."
While Isabelle loved playing with dolls, dollhouses, castles, and having tea parties, Juliette had her pets, an entire little kingdom of animals.
Marguerite wrapped an arm around her and said, "Mr. Paws has probably taken over the entire house by now. And Tilly, well, you know how she loves her leisurely afternoons in the sun. I'm sure they miss you just as much, but they're happy and waiting for our return."
John gently reassured her, "You'll see them very soon. But let's not rush. I'm certain you're all going to miss the Lost World once we're home, along with the friends we've made here. So, let's make the most of the time we have left in the best way we can."
Juliette simply nodded and snuggled closer to Marguerite. In response, Marguerite wrapped her arms tighter, holding her close, a silent promise of safety and love.
With Isabelle, there was no doubt, she was a mini version of her mother, and Marguerite often thought that if she had had the chance to grow up with her family, surrounded by love and abundance, she would have been just like Isabelle. But as for Juliette, Marguerite sometimes couldn't believe that a woman like her could have given birth to such a kind, dear, sweet, and adorable girl.
Isabelle appeared and asked, "What are you all up to?"
Marguerite, with a welcoming smile, answered, "Cuddling, come join us."
Isabelle paused to consider the invitation, then shrugged lightly, "Nah, I'm good."
But John lifted her onto his lap, nonetheless. "You are our little rascal, you know that?" He asked affectionately.
Isabelle gently stroked her hand over his chin and said, "Daddy, your beard is scratchy."
John replied, "I wanted to shave it, but your mother wouldn't let me."
Isabelle looked at her mother, who responded, "I find it very attractive. Every woman loves a kiss that tickles a bit."
Isabelle countered with, "Children love silky kisses."
Marguerite playfully replied, "Well, my dear, in this very rare case, wife's preference takes precedence. But don't worry, I'll make sure you get plenty of silky kisses, too."
Then William appeared, elegantly dressed in beige shorts and a crisp white shirt, with his fringe neatly slicked back.
Marguerite asked, "Don't you look handsome? Who did you get all dressed up for?"
William casually replied, "Abigail invited us to gather here tonight. It sounded formal, so…"
Isabelle said, "Mother's asking if you maybe got dressed up for Thalia, but she won't ask directly."
Marguerite looked at her daughter and said, "I see you're becoming quite the detective."
"But she's not wrong, is she?" William asked as he sat down between Juliette and his father.
"Sorry Mum, sometimes you are just too obvious." Isabelle added with a cheeky tone.
Marguerite, with a feigned air of dignity, declared, "I'm not participating in this conversation."
John, coming to her aid with a smile, added, "Kids, be nice to your mother."
Marguerite, holding Juliette close in her embrace, remarked softly, "At least I know this daughter will never be rude to me."
"I could never be rude to you. I love you too much." She replied innocently.
Marguerite's heart melted. "Aaaw, my darling, isn't that the sweetest thing I've ever heard? I love you, too." She enveloped Juliette in an even tighter hug, crowning her heartfelt declaration with a tender kiss.
Not long after, the others arrived. The Malones joined the Roxtons, along with Summerlee and Thalia. Abigail remained standing so she could address everyone.
She began her speech.
"Tonight, we gather to celebrate our extraordinary circumstances and shared adventures. I want to acknowledge the bravery and selflessness of William and Thalia. Their recent journey to save a toddler troglodyte was a testament to the kind of courage and heart that defines the best of us. In light of their adventure, we delved into some research, poring over ancient texts and old Zanga tales. What we've found confirms our suspicion. The seasons on this Plateau indeed change, but on a scale much larger than the one in the outside world. Here they last for decades, sometimes even centuries. This discovery opens up new avenues for us to explore and understand the mystical nature of this world.
This knowledge not only deepens our understanding of the Plateau but also serves as a reminder of our place within it. Like the changing seasons, we too undergo transformations, evolving and growing with each passing experience. It is our duty and privilege to respect and protect not only this land but also the ever-changing essence of ourselves, just as Thalia and William have done."
William and Thalia exchanged glances, and William could see in her eyes that she approved how he looked this evening. She was also wearing a dress herself, that suited her beautifully, a departure from her usual Amazon outfit.
Abigail continued, "I also must commend our lovely girls, Isabelle and Juliette, who were very well-behaved and obedient while their parents and brother were away. They demonstrated remarkable poise and maturity. Not once did they succumb to panic or tears. They even helped me plant some new species of roses we discovered in the jungle. They treated each plant with the kind of tenderness and respect that would make any gardener proud."
"Well, aren't you wonderful children?" Marguerite asked, her voice laced with pride.
"We like to think so." Isabelle replied with her usual wit.
Abigail turned her gaze to Annie and Tommy. "I mustn't forget my beloved grandchildren who have proven themselves to be the most wonderful hosts. Your willingness to share your toys, your games, and even your favorite hiding spots in the garden has truly touched my heart. For that I thank you."
"We will extend that welcome when you come to visit us next year at Avebury." Juliette promised, her voice as gentle as the evening breeze.
As Abigail concluded her speech, everyone was left a bit quieter, more reflective than before. Glances and smiles were exchanged as the night went on. Even the kids looked impressed, or at least as impressed as kids can look when adults are talking. They all knew, without having to say it, that this was one of those rare, perfect nights that would be remembered forever.
The following morning, William felt a touch of sadness as he watched Thalia pack her belongings, preparing to leave. She first bid farewell to her father, brother, sister, and Veronica. Then William walked her to the gate, wrestling with the words he wanted to say.
"Do you really have to go?" He finally asked.
Thalia smiled, a soft melancholy in her gaze. "I've stayed longer than I intended. There are responsibilities waiting for me back home."
"It won't be the same without you," William confessed.
"Sounds like I'm going to be missed." Thalia replied, her response carrying a light tease.
"Of course you are. I already miss you," William said, the words slipping out with a sincerity that surprised even him.
Thalia smiled warmly. "You were a wonderful companion. I'm going to miss you too, and I hope we see each other again."
She offered him her hand, and he accepted it, though he was slightly disappointed, having hoped for a warmer farewell.
"Don't forget me, William Roxton."
"I'll never forget you." He promised.
With those final words hanging between them, Thalia turned away, stepping through the gate.
William started making his way back, and halfway there, his father was waiting for him. Seeing John, William managed a smile, though smiling was far from his mind right now. John looked at him and nodded, a silent gesture for William to look behind. Initially, William didn't catch on, but then he felt a gentle tap on his shoulder. Turning around, he found Thalia standing there. She leaned in and softly kissed him on the cheek. Then she swiftly turned, disappearing as quickly as she had appeared.
Facing his father again, William's smile was radiant. He ran to John and jumped into his arms who caught him effortlessly. William wrapped his arms around his father's neck, silently sharing his overwhelming joy. John offered his support, without uttering a single word. He understood that this was his son's first romantic experience, marking a pivotal chapter in his young life.
Embraced, they returned together to the central area where the others waited for them. Marguerite's face lit up when she saw them, as she too had come to understand the significance of a first crush. After all, what's an adventure without a touch of romance? She knew this better than anyone. Four years living in the wilderness and slowly falling in love with John Roxton was the highlight of her life up to that point. After that, many other highlights followed, but it all began in the Lost World while they were adventuring together.
Marguerite recognized much of herself in William, but there was also a significant part of John within him. She observed this with deep appreciation. John Roxton was the most adorable man she had ever met, and naturally, she hoped their son would grow up to be just like him. Kind, gentle, compassionate, with an unwavering sense of justice and a steadfast bravery that didn't falter in the face of danger. She hoped for William, and indeed all her children, to chase life with the same fervor and courage, to embrace the world's wonders with open arms. Whether their paths led through external discoveries or internal quests, she wished them the bravery to pursue these with all their might. And if those adventures included tales of romance intertwined with the thrill of exploration, then so be it, for love was the most thrilling journey of all.
THE END