A/N — Just FYI, this drabble describes a death scene. It's at the end of a long and happy life but it's still emotional and pretty sad, so please proceed with caution if that's something you are sensitive to.

It wasn't so bad—dying.

She'd led a long, full life as queen to her people—mother to her children—partner to her husband. But the time had come—the end was near.

And she was ready—almost.

She'd said her farewells to her children, given them her love and blessings. She'd made her peace, knowing she'd lived the best life possible—had given it her all. But she was tired. Everything hurt and simply breathing had become a chore.

She just had one more farewell and then she could finally rest.

Blinking slowly, she found the warm hazel eyes of her beloved—he who had been by her side through good times and bad for so long—her helpmate and life partner.

"Mateo?" she rasped.

"Yes mi amor?" his hands fluttering over her as he began to fuss. "What do you need? Should I go get—"

"Shhh– I'm fine querido. Could you— would you please help me sit up so we can sit together one more time?"

"Of course."

Elena was struck anew by the gentleness with which her husband treated her as he helped her up, arranging the pillows behind her back. His gentleness was one of the first things she remembered noticing about him so long ago. He hadn't changed one bit.

And for that, she was glad.

Mateo slid onto the bed and took her into his arms, letting her lean her head on his chest. Elena breathed in his scent and smiled as he softly stroked her wispy white hair—his presence was still the most soothing she knew.

"Mateo, promise me something."

"Hmm?"

"Promise me that you will continue on—that you will find happiness and joy when I'm gone."

He became very still and his arms tightened around her slightly, but he swallowed and said slowly, "I—I can't imagine such a thing—happiness without you in my life, but—I will certainly try. For you, mi amor." His voice caught on the last word and he pressed a kiss to her hair.

Elena sighed and smiled, her vision blurring slightly as she said, "It's not so bad, you know, death is just our next great adventure. Someday, querido, we will meet again and we will take on this adventure like we always have—together."

"That—that is a comforting thought, actually."

"Good," she paused thoughtfully before continuing, "Thank you. For staying by my side all these years."

"Of course, I promised a long time ago that I would always be here for you, Elena, no matter what. And that promise stands," Mateo said, his voice thick with emotion as a single teardrop trickled down his cheek and fell onto hers.

As her eyelids grew heavy, her breathing became labored, but she whispered, "I love you, mi querido. I'll be waiting for you on the other side."

"As I love you and will look forward to that day. Always."

Content, Elena smiled, allowing herself to relax into the arms of her love as her eyes drifted shut.

And the Queen of Avalor breathed her final breath, finding true rest at last.