I have been used to preserve the Old Fairy’s remaining eye and tooth—ugh! Such foul work! Why have I been turned to such a purpose when the Old Fairy does nothing with her powers but torment the innocent?

Now I am only too happy to break free from the crystal jars, and to be poured into a basin so that the princess can see her beloved Prince Rainbow appear. This is the last time they will speak to one another, for he is about to be banished, and once he is gone, the Sun will be seen no more.

There is no light brighter than the last light, and I am seeing it. Moreover, I am feeling it. Their love is changing me forever, and from here on out, it is this love that I will preserve!

The Preserving Water in Fairer-than-a-Fairy, Yellow Fairy Book. Illustration by H.J. Ford