I'm sorry I couldn't protect you the way I should have.
Elphaba rose to her feet after placing the white rose.
"You know she wouldn't have been happy outside of Oz," Glinda said.
The green woman nodded. "I know."
"Morrible's dead, and the Wizard has disappeared. It isn't much of an Oz anymore," Fiyero said. "Who knows what this place will come to?"
Elphaba turned to Glinda, and took her hands in her own. "Watch over her."
"I will. She won't be alone."
Elphaba looked at the headstone one last time, and a small smile crossed her face.
See you on the other side.
The green witch left, followed by the scarecrow. The blonde lingered for a few more moments, then departed as well, leaving the ex-guard alone. He only stared at the headstone, and the inscription hewn into it.
NESSAROSE THROPP
Forever in our hearts
Oliver stared at the headstone a few moments longer, then raised his rifle and fired, the shots echoing through the lonely forest. His last tribute and farewell to his beloved Nessarose. Oliver too left the scene, and only the slight wind stayed with the witch to keep her company.
Oz was convinced this time that the Wicked Witch of the East was indeed dead. Their celebrations continued as though they had never been stopped, and with the Ozma regime back in power, everything was right once more, though a rumor was spreading underground. No one really said anything, for they didn't know it was true, but the doubt of safety lingered in the back of their minds. Yes, a rumor was circulating throughout Oz.
Two nights ago, on the full moon, the grave keeper of Oz had been going along his usual path through the forest when he had noticed something unusual. What he saw supposedly made him insane, though everyone claimed he had been insane before.
The witch's grave had been dug up, and her body was gone. A single white rose had been planted in the ground beside her headstone, and was flourishing, while the surrounding grass was withered in death.
And beside the open grave, a man made of tin, entangled in a web of vines.
Of course, it was only a rumor...
Hope you all enjoyed this series! I am planning a sequel if anyone is interested. Thanks to all who read and reviewed, I heart you all!
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