Then-

"Elowyn."

Her mother appeared again, walking through the crowd as if the light itself opened for her. Her smile was soft, calm... almost too calm.

"Do not fear," her mother said. "All will be well. I am happy here."

Elowyn tried to speak but emotion choked her.

Her mother cupped her cheeks gently.

"You must save Mia. That is why you came... even if you did not know it."

Elowyn nodded quickly, relief and confusion mixing.

Her mother looked over her shoulder at the gathering ...