19. Daughter

The world defies logic. Colors kaleidoscope through a bed of tears. A voice—muted, urgent—breaches the numb exterior.

"Only way… still get in… wish…"

It's the last word that kindles clarity. Hope.

And the barest hesitation. "No."

"He'd never leave the cave, Jasmine, I swear—"

"No."

"...risky, but he can save—"

"Of course he can!" Her chin lifts; wobbles despite herself. "But at what cost? Your safety? All Agrabah's, if that monster goes free? I couldn't live with myself, and Baba… He couldn't either."

When the tears fall, so does the last of her grace.