Chapter Text
I still remember the day they came. I was but a small child when it happened, but it still stays fresh in my mind; such like the morning dew that coated the forest green.
…If I hadn’t wandered off from my father that day, would I still have ended up here? I look around the chambers I was given, the stone walls cold and unfeeling compared to the welcoming air of the Enchanted Forest.
Kanade! Don’t wander off too far, girl!
I won’t!
My father’s voice still rang in my ears, the sound of my name on his lips haunting me. I wish I just…listened.
The river was shimmering azure, the water fairies playing and slacking off as they carried the droplets with an air of laxity. The sight in itself was calming. I crouched near the stream, setting my sights on my next crystal to add to my collection.
I reached, and reached…
…and I never got to take that rock that day.
“Kanade,” a young voice sniffled through the doorway. “I…I had a scary dream.”
“A dream?” I tilted my head.
“Mm-hmm,” he nodded, clutching a small plush that had a likening to a bunny closer to his body. “Can you tell me more stories? I can’t sleep..”
“Yes, I can.”
As he climbed onto the bed next to me, he met my eyes now. He was the only one brave enough to look at me so confidently. Like I was his friend.
“Kanade?”
“Yes?”
“Can you tell me the story about the Enchanted Forest again? Mama and Papa won’t tell me, and you’re the only one who will.” His tiny mouth sinked into a frown.
I don’t know why I put my hopes into this child.
“Of course I will,” I offered him a soft smile.
He’s just like all of his predecessors—not only in appearance, but the insatiable tenacity that has made their kingdom so strong as well.
“Once upon a time…”
But when I look into his big, hopeful eyes…I see someone who could change things.
Perhaps I will get to complete my crystal collection soon.