CHAPTER 53 opens with a sense of warmth and light-heartedness as Mor stays the night, adding a touch of whimsy to an otherwise quiet moment. She has painted playful stick figures on the wall near the storeroom door—three women with long, flowing hair, humorously resembling herself, and three winged males depicted in a self-important manner. Every time the protagonist sees these figures, they can’t help but laugh, appreciating the humor and creativity that Mor has brought into the space. There’s a comforting sense of camaraderie between them, even though Mor is preparing to leave the next morning. As she walks to the edge of the no-winnowing shield, the protagonist waves a final farewell, their emotions mixed with the sudden absence of someone who had so effortlessly brightened their world.

After Mor vanishes, the protagonist is left alone to contemplate the serene landscape. The once-untouched snow is beginning to melt, revealing small patches of green grass, a sign that spring is quietly making its way through the frozen landscape. This subtle shift in nature represents a broader metaphor for change—how even the coldest and most desolate of times can eventually yield to warmth and growth. The sight of these thawing fields stirs a deep sense of hope in the protagonist, symbolizing the possibility of renewal and transformation that life itself offers. Despite the difficulty of imagining snow and ice giving way to vibrant wildflowers and lush meadows, the sight of grass beginning to peek through is a quiet reminder that change is inevitable, and with it comes the potential for a new chapter.

In a fleeting moment of tranquility, the protagonist envisions themselves running freely through the meadow, embracing the warmth of summer that will soon arrive. They imagine the feeling of soft grass beneath their feet and the joy of splashing through the small streams that will form as the snow continues to melt. The thought of indulging in wild, fat berries and witnessing the sun setting over the mountains adds to the idyllic picture. This dream leads them to a vision of returning to Velaris, where they hope to immerse themselves in the vibrant artists’ quarter. There, they could learn from the talented creators around them, stepping into shops and galleries to absorb everything they have to offer. The protagonist’s dream isn’t simply about becoming an artist, though—it’s about teaching others. They imagine one day opening their own shop, not to sell their creations, but to offer guidance to others who are also broken, who are learning to heal, and who need support as they work to find their identity in the face of pain. It’s a vision of nurturing growth, both within themselves and others, a dream built on the desire to help those who have walked through similar struggles. This dream of teaching and helping others provides a sense of purpose that is deeply fulfilling, a purpose rooted in love, connection, and the healing power of art.

As this vision plays out in their mind, the protagonist feels a growing sense of clarity. They see themselves returning to a life filled with meaning, where each day is dedicated to personal growth and helping others. Despite the challenges and pain they have faced, there is a sense of peace in knowing that they are not alone in their struggles, and that healing is possible. The dream of finding fulfillment through teaching and nurturing others becomes a guiding light, helping the protagonist navigate through their own journey of self-discovery. The idea of going home at the end of each day, tired yet content, offers a vision of a balanced life—one in which they can grow and help others, finding joy in the simple act of living authentically and with purpose. This vision, though still a dream, holds a deep sense of promise, a promise that one day, they can create a life where both their own healing and the healing of others are intertwined.