so long and goodnight

Vervain

even the darkest night
will end

Vai can only nod mutely at the confirmation. It fits, she supposes; life, for all of its wonders, is still impeccably cruel at times. Sometimes especially at the end. "So this is it, then," she whispers, and then, "I am glad that it was you." Reaching into her pocket, she withdraws a handkerchief smelling of rose petals and lavender, reaching up to gently dab at his cheeks.

"No, sweetie," she says with a smile that, while wobbly, is nonetheless filled with conviction. "It's okay to be sad, but don't you ever be sorry. None of this is your fault." Whether he believes it or not. "I am proud of you - proud of all my children. If it really is time to go, then at least I can go knowing that all of you are alright."

and the sun
will rise