“Oh I wouldn't speak so soon, deary,” a familiar voice beckoned from behind her.
Looking up the princess found the same old woman from the forest now staring down on her.
“What? Oh, why are you here?” Catherine groaned at the unexpected viewer. “It’s bad enough I have failed. Must my last moments be spent with you of all people?”
“Oh, come now. These aren't your last moments, child,” she said with a warm smile. “I’ll admit you look a bit green around the gills, but I’d definitely say you got yer wish.”
“What?” Catherine cried at the old woman, as she felt the heat begin to spread from her face across the rest of her body. “You speak in riddles.”
“No riddles here, deary. You wished for strength and that’s what yer gonna get. After all, what’s stronger than… "