Author's Note: Well, I decided to give "The Star Gazer" another try. Although this chapter isn't very long, it's building up to Angel's return to Earth. Hopefully Chapter Three will be a bit more exciting than previous chapters. Nonetheless, reviews are greatly appreciated!

Oh, and a big thanks to UnnamedElement and angel718 for the encoraging reviews. Happy reading!

Chapter Two

The Request

"Enter, my child."

He'd expected to hear a booming voice calling loudly over the sound of rampant thunder. He was prepared to plead his case through trembling lips and a quivering voice. Instead, he felt immediately comforted upon hearing the voice. It was soft and gentle, calming and serene.

He moved toward the sound of it, unable to determine a physical shape or form before him. He was unsure where to look, but he evenly stated his request: "I want to go back."

"Ah, today is your day, is it?"

"Yes."

"Why today, Angel?"

"A friend. A friend is in trouble."

"And you feel you can help?"

"I can try. I have to try."

"I see."

He glanced around him, still trying to locate the source of the voice. He couldn't find it, though he could feel it. It was in him. It was all around him. It was in him and all around him. He breathed in deeply, feeling a deep sense of tranquility. He allowed the serenity to wash over him, longing to get a response from the voice. The sound of it was like music in his ears…the most beautiful music he'd ever heard.

"Well you must return then," the voice finally acquiesced.

"Thank you," he replied gratefully, almost in a whisper.

"You'll depart as soon as the sun rises."

He nodded silently. "Thank you," he said again.

"You won't have much time, Angel. You must use your twenty-four hours wisely."

"Yes." He wondered if his friends would be able to see him, to know he was with them.

"Only if you want them to." The voice answered before he could even ask. He'd forgotten The Great One was omniscient. "They can only see you if you want them to see you."

He smiled tenderly, his eyes sparkling more brightly than the glow of the stars. Collins. He would be able to talk to Collins, to feel Collins' firm grasp on his hand again. His excitement spilled out through the tears that filled his eyes and slid down his cheeks. "Thank you," he repeated. "Thank you so much."

"Go Angel," the voice encouraged softly. "Enjoy the day."

He moved away from the voice; slowly at first, but then faster and faster, dancing joyfully under the night sky as he went. He'd never imagined the opportunity to go back. He hadn't allowed himself to remember Earth in so long that he'd almost forgotten what home looked like. Well, he'd soon remember. He would cherish every moment of the day, and never allow himself to forget again.

He felt a warm sensation engulf him as the new day dawned. It wouldn't be long now. He would soon see Collins standing before him, arms outstretched. He smiled as he glanced up into the heavens. "I'm ready," he said. "Ready to go home."