He arrived as he did the first time they met, in his gaseous form.  As he approached the hide away that the crew had chosen in a very remote area of space, Ether noticed something.  Aqua's ship actually looked as if it had deteriorated further since the battle.  Nodding to himself, Ether figured that the nature of that symbiotic relationship was quite profound, to the point of the one not being able to survive without the other.<br/><br/><em><strong>"I see your vessel is on the mend.  When you were called away, I was joined by several other unique individuals with power like that of which we posses.  Abilities to do amazing things."</strong></em>With that ever present stare that bore into your depths, Ether pondered his next words carefully.<strong><em>"To say that I have an unnatural obsession with this 'Galactus,' the very one that may have destroyed my world, may be a bit understated.  The hopes and fears of my people rest upon me and my duty to rid the multiverse of his presence is a burden I would like to shed.  The ones I have met seem interested also in this ones downfall.  I simply wanted to secure the knowledge that you will be able to be free of this place in case I fail."</em></strong><br/><br/>Ether became silent at that point as he materialized into flesh and blood.  With a shudder, he became solid and his eyes simply became just that much more unnerving.  Passing his hand across his brow and his eyes closing in time, Ether let out a deep breath and returned his gaze to her.  The first contact of their two peoples was greatly celebrated by his race.  If he was responsible for her inadequate protection thus leading to her end...  Well, lets just say that would not make anyone feel well at ease.<br/><br/><strong><em>"I will do what I can to keep you safe.  I must, however, meet this challenge, even if it means that I neglect our new friendship."</em></strong>He still sent his thoughts at her.  Speaking just seemed so out of place in this era without a home world to call your own.  His body did not seem to be more than a handful of years at best, possibly early adulthood or late adolescent.  His long flowing hair was white in this iteration as well, and his skin ashen, even sickly looking.<br/><br/>With his last sentiments given, he stood and phased back into a state of etherealness and extended a hand to make contact.<strong><em>"I hope to see you again."</em></strong>