As the sun begins to wake, Charming’s Horse neighs loudly, waking him. He sits up and rubs his eyes, pushing the animal skins hes covered with.
“Guess we getter get a move on girl.” he says aloud patting the Horse, he loads up his animal skins and makes sure the fire is out and then is on his way. He digs his heel into his horses’ flank, forcing her into a run. They don’t stop until reaching the gates of King Daynes castle.
Leaping off his Horse, Charming rushes into the courtyard. He stops dead in his tracks when he sees Sno lying in the glass coffin, motionless.
His heart seems to stop. His breath catches in his chest. He feels a large lump in his throat. He slowly approaches her casket and falls to the ground in anguish, erupting in tears.
“I’m too late..” he sobs “She’s gone.. and I’m too late..” his voice is filled with despair.
He sits up and wipes the tears from his face.
“I have to hold you one last time, I have to say goodbye.” he says drawing closer to the casket.
He gazes lovingly at Sno. She is so beautiful, clutching a bouquet of flowers. He picks her up, gently cradling her motionless body in his arms. Tears fall from his eyes and land on her cheek, she doesn't even flinch. He grimaces and attempts to stifle his sobs. He lifts her face to his for one last kiss.
He watches her, hoping for a miracle, but there’s no change.
Hopelessness overtakes him and, he falls to the ground, clutching Sno’s motionless body.
If I could, I would trade places with you my love…” he whispers to her sweetly. “And if it were truly my choice, I would have you as my Queen..I love you..” he trails off. Tears fall freely from his eyes, grief overtaking him.
“I love you too Charming..” Sno replies sleepily.
Charming jerks up his head and looks at Sno, who gazes at him affectionately. He can’t believe his eyes.
“You’re alright? Sno? You’re alright!” Charming exclaims, smiling wide.”My Sno, I thought I had lost you forever…” he confides.
Sno smiles and brings her hand to cups his face lovingly. He sets her on her feet and she pulls him into a hug.
“You saved me Charming. Without you, I would have been lost forever.” she whispers sweetly.
The king has been informed of Charming’s arrival and rushes from the castle. He is accompanied by Marian. Regina trails slowly behind them. She is bitter, knowing Charming’s arrival only confirms that her plan is thwarted.
“Sno! My daughter! You’re alive! You’re awake! You’re alright!” he says, gathering her into a tight embrace.
Regina speaks softly, faking concern,”Why Sno, we never thought you would awaken..”
“I bet you didn’t..” Sno replies glaring at Regina.
Esther comes running out into the courtyard.
“Sno! Your Majesty Sno! Princess! You’re safe! You’re alive! Charming arrived in time!” she calls loudly as she runs to hug her.
“Yes Esther, I am alright. Everything is as it should be.” Sno says smiling She is unaware Esther was the one who truly saved her.
“Come come! Let’s go inside! We must celebrate! I will make a lamb! Come on everyone!” Esther chimes excitedly.
In the excitement, no one has noticed that Regina has slipped away. She stands, alone, in her study. She peers briefly into her mirror, before looking away.
“It failed! I FAILED!” she yells loudly. She doesn’t fear being overheard. With everyone celebrating upstairs, there is no one present to witness her anger.
She begins to ramble, trying to justify her anger.
Who is to blame for this!? Esther? If Esther had not told the King, he would never have had the foresight to send for Charming. The King? By sending that message, he encouraged the boy to hurry to Sno’s aid. Charming? Without the message, Charming would not have arrived in time!”
“I have to construct a new plan. A plan no one can know about..”