Chapter 353 Time is running out (Sheena, Jeanne, & Joanna)
Castle of Elyndra
Queen's Chamber — Afternoon
The air in the room was fragrant with the scent of lavender and balsam, creating a calming atmosphere amidst the emotional tension. The white curtains fluttered gently in the evening breeze, enhancing the beauty of the scenery outside. Beyond them, the sky of Elyndra was starting to turn golden, signaling the sunset; yet for Jeanne, time felt as if it were slipping away much faster than it should. Like sand flowing through her fingers, each passing second weighed heavier on her heart, as if the world outside continued its journey while she remained trapped in this moment heavy with sorrow.
She stood before the intricately carved wooden door, gripping Joanna's slightly trembling hand tightly. Her smile felt faded, but behind it lay an unspoken love, a promise to be a source of strength when others began to falter in facing this grief.
"Sister Jeanne..." Joanna whispered, "Mother seems weaker today than yesterday, doesn't she?"
Jeanne nodded slowly. "But she will surely be happy to see us. Come on."
As if understanding the worries between them, the wind greeted them softly, whispering hope that their presence could bring a little light amidst the darkness that loomed. She pushed the door open gently; the hinges creaked softly.
Inside, Sheena lay on the ornate royal bed adorned with white sheets embroidered with violet flowers — the symbol of the Elyndra family. Once radiant, Sheena's golden hair had now turned white and fell weakly over the pillow. Her skin was pale like alabaster, and her breathing was slow yet labored. In the suffocating silence, Jean felt each heartbeat of her mother, who had once been her lifeline, now resonating like a bell of sorrow.
Beside the bed, the flower vase that Joanna replenished daily still stood. Today, Joanna had chosen freesia flowers — symbolizing courage and hope. However, in that stillness, the fresh scent of the flowers seemed to blend with a profound sadness, underscoring the reality that every hope sometimes carries a painful weight.
Jeanne and Joanna stepped inside.
"Mother..." Joanna softly called.