Different Worlds

Chapter 25

I'm very sad to say this will be the last chapter. I have loved writing this and giving people entertainment and feelings and all the good stuff that comes with a great story, but all good things must come to an end. You guys have been amazing with your support and your comments and motivation. I only hope to write an original novel someday and have that type of support. You all make me a better writer. I know I put these cheesy messages into every fic I write, but it's so true. Hope to see most of you on my next writing adventure. Much love.

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Regina's POV

"By the decree of Her Majesty, we announce the crowning of a new leader—our new queen, Snow White of the Enchanted Forest."

Trumpets sound all around us and the crowd cheers at the mention of their new queen. Snow's cheeks flush as I gently set the crown upon her head, tapping each shoulder with my staff. The young girl looks up at me, her soft eyes showing a flicker of apprehension. I smile at her before helping her stand, placing my hand on the small of her back to calm her.

"You will make a great ruler, Snow. This is what you always dreamed; this is what you were born to do," I reassure her.

I glance over to Emma beside us, dressed in a swan-white dress illuminated with thousands of crystals. The slight glow from our magic enhances the shine. She looks beautiful as always, though I much prefer her in pants and a leather vest, her hair in a ponytail or curled loosely down her back unlike the twisted braid she is donning now.

Snow steps up to the platform and I take a step back, sliding my hand into Emma's and giving it a soft squeeze. She gives me a quick smile then faces her eyes forward, ever the respectful princess. She seems rather pale today, and worry settles upon me at the realization. She has been a bit nauseous as well, perhaps anxiety from staying at the castle too long?

Alas, our one week we had planned turned into a month, then 6 more, then a full year. There was lots of preparation to be done to hand the crown off to Snow and Emma understood that. I even made sure to find time to spend in the forest right outside the castle walls to give her a sense of calm. It seemed to help, but now she has become less like her normal self and more of going through the motions. I make a mental note to talk with her tonight after the celebration before turning my attention onto the festivities once more.

"With Regina's guidance and your support, I hope and believe I can make a wonderful queen. Alongside Prince James, who I am set to marry, I will tend to every need and concern that arises with grace and acceptance." Snow curtsies, her soft white, feathered dress fluffing away from her body as she does so.

The crowd claps and then bows before the orchestra starts up again, enticing them out onto the dance floor. Snow turns to us, her eyes glowing with happiness and her cheeks as rosy as if she had been out in the cold. She hugs us both tightly, a small hiccup escaping her throat as she is overcome with emotion.

"You both have helped me so much, even after all I have done. I truly do not deserve the honor of ruling this kingdom..."

"Snow." I firmly grasp the girl's chin and tilt her head up. "I would not have left you with such a role if I believed you would neglect it. You must be confident in yourself in order to succeed in leading this kingdom. Emma and I love you very much—you will do well."

Snow nods, regaining her confidence with my speech. "I will rule in the way you would have, Moth—Regina."

I smile and squeeze her hands within mine. "Mother will do just fine, Snow. I am honored to have a daughter such as you." I motion to her newest beau standing by the food table, patiently waiting for a dance. "Now go enjoy the night with your prince. You can begin your duties tomorrow."