The Archipelago

The Reunion in Drussi

Arrival at the Home

Natalie approached the large glass doors of her mother's residence, which slid open with a soft hiss. The interior was a marvel of modern design: clean lines, minimalist furniture, and walls adorned with interactive screens showcasing serene landscapes and calming colors. A gentle, ambient light filled the space, creating an atmosphere of peace and luxury.

Natalie's mother, Elena, appeared in the living room, her face lighting up with relief and joy as she saw her daughter. She wore a tailored, smart-fabric dress that adjusted to her body temperature and seamlessly blended with the room's décor.

Elena: "Natalie! You're here!" She rushed forward, arms open. "I've missed you so much."

Natalie embraced her mother briefly, her own emotions a turbulent storm. She pulled back, her eyes red and haunted.

Natalie's grief turned into frustration and anger. She paced the room, her voice rising in distress.

Natalie: "You don't understand, Mother! Everything fell apart. My whole world was destroyed, and I was powerless to stop it. You're living here, in this beautiful, advanced world, while I was left to suffer."

Elena: (reaching out tentatively) "I know this must be so hard for you. Please, let me help you. I can't undo what happened, but I can offer you a fresh start."

Natalie: (pulling away) "A fresh start? What good is that? You don't get it, do you? I'm broken. Everything I've loved is gone. This life—" She gestured around at the sleek, sterile room. "—this life you've built here means nothing to me right now."

Elena's eyes were filled with sorrow, but she remained calm, her voice steady.

Elena: "I want to help you rebuild your life, Natalie. I've managed to establish myself here, and I want to offer you the same opportunity. How about opening a shop here in Drussi? You could start anew, find some solace in your work."

Natalie's expression softened slightly, but her pain was evident. She looked around the room, taking in the advanced technology and modern comforts, feeling a pang of longing and resentment.

The Offer

Natalie: (hesitant) "You really think I can just pick up the pieces like that? What's the point? Everything I loved is gone."

Elena: "It's not about forgetting, it's about finding a way to move forward. Your talents could bring something beautiful to Drussi. It could be a way to channel your grief into something positive."

Natalie sighed, the weight of her sorrow heavy on her shoulders. Her eyes met her mother's, and she saw the genuine concern and love there.

Natalie: "Maybe. Maybe a new beginning could help. But know this—my ultimate goal is to avenge Arthur's death. I won't rest until Alesia pays for what she's done."

Elena: "I understand. I'll support you in whatever way I can. But for now, let's focus on this opportunity. It could be the first step in reclaiming some peace in your life."

Planning the Future

Natalie sat down at a sleek, holographic desk in Elena's home, her fingers tracing the cool surface. A digital interface displayed various options for opening a shop in Drussi, with potential locations and business plans. The advanced technology was both awe-inspiring and a stark reminder of her current state of disconnection.

Natalie: "Alright, let's do this. I'll start planning. Maybe this new chapter can help me heal, at least a little."

Elena: "That's the spirit. We'll work on it together."