Alchemist

by Terry Reid

  The smile disappeared from her face. “I wasn’t laughing at that. I was laughing at...never mind.”

  “Regardless.” Her father said, wearily. “The next time something happens in Marrich or on Earth, or wherever, and you feel the pull to go, do not.”

  Terry’s smile returned. “You know, I think I’m quite happy to stick around here for a while.” Adventure and death was the last thing on her mind after the events of recent weeks.

  Her father’s stern expression cracked, forming into a warm smile. “Good.” He cuddled her and for the first time in nearly ten years Terrifallo felt as if she were truly home.