Well past midnight, a warm glow seeps through the windows of the mayor's home. Felicity waits patiently inside, having already prepared dinner.
When Elizabeth and Lleuad arrive, their footsteps heavy with the weight of shared burdens, Felicity greets them with quiet strength, her eyes a warm wellspring of comfort. She leads them to the dining room, where the soft glow of fire dust lamps creates a cozy atmosphere, and seats them gently, as if cradling them in her care. Before she can retreat to the kitchen to distribute dinner, Elizabeth's hand closes around hers like a lifeline, pleading for her mother's presence.
Felicity, understanding her daughter's unspoken words, sits beside her, her expression a mask of compassion.
Elizabeth reveals the petrified Grimm heart, unable to hold back her tears.
Felicity's heart fills with grief as she comprehends the depth of her daughter's sorrow: Anne is not coming back. She wraps her arms around Elizabeth, holding her close as they both surrender to the rawness of their grief.
As the night wears on, Elizabeth begins to recount the tragic events that have unfolded: how Anne's life ended and Lleuad's instrumental role in protecting their town from unimaginable darkness. The rest of the night is spent lost in memories of Anne, sleep forgotten as they reminisce about their beloved friend, leaving the untouched dinner to gather dust like forgotten dreams.
— — —
In the early morning stillness, when the town has yet to wake, Elizabeth and Felicity stand on the train station platform, bidding farewell to Lleuad. As a parting gift, the mayor hands him one of her husband's trench coats to replace his now tattered one.
The train's whistle pierces the air, and with a gentle hiss, it departs, leaving behind only the echoes of their whispered goodbyes.
Elizabeth's gaze follows the departing train, her expression thoughtful as she stares into the distance. "The past few days have felt like a fairy tale," she muses aloud. "Even Lleuad felt like a character out of legends."
"Which character?" Felicity asks while waving goodbye at the train.
"The White Prince," Elizabeth replies without hesitation.
Felicity turns towards her daughter with a raised eyebrow and a hint of surprise on her face. "From the bedtime story?" she inquires.
Elizabeth nods slowly, a gentle smile softening her features as memories flood back. "Yes... When I saw him fight, his appearance was so close to the characters' description," she says, her voice filled with wonder. "There were also times in our conversations when I saw profound sorrow in his eyes, as if he's all alone in this world... He resembles him so much..."
The train's sounds fade into the background as Elizabeth's words hang in the air. After a brief silence, her voice softens further, transforming into a tender and soothing melody, as if singing a lullaby to her child.
"My little prince, my little prince,
Do not let darkness claim your heart.
Remember that even in the darkness of night, the moon casts its silvery glow.
Recall the lives you've touched, the smiles you've shared, and the hearts you've mended.
Let their embers warm your heart, giving strength when there is none.
Think of those who supported you through your travels,
Their strength and courage will lighten your burden, giving you the will to stand again.
Think of your mother and father, who cared for you in youth,
Their love will forever remain, carried on by wisdom they imparted upon you.
And think of those who need you now,
Don't let darkness take their only salvation from evil's sway.
My little prince, my little prince,
When darkness overwhelms you, remember: you are not alone."
— — —
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