[0000] "Oh, father!" she sobs. "You're still young; you should have many years ahead of you! Oh, I wish I could help you, Father!"
[0001] "Do you really mean that?" a soft voice asks.
[0002] Rosella looks up but sees no one. "Who's speaking to me?"
[0003] "I am," the voice says. "Look in the magic mirror."
[0004] Rosella sees an image in the mirror. "Wh-who are you?" she queries.
[0005] "I am the fairy, Genesta. In my land of Tamir there is a remarkable tree. This tiny tree needs one hundred years to bear a single fruit."
[0006] "But, this is no ordinary fruit; for if a person were to eat it, they would find that good health and well-being would be theirs for many years."
[0007] Rosella is much heartened by this news!
"Where is the land of Tamir?"
[0008] Genesta smiles. "Tamir is very far away. But with my magic, I can bring you here."
[0009] Rosella senses that there is more to the story. "But, I suppose there are some problems?"
[0010] Again, Genesta smiles. "Yes, you are correct, Rosella. If you are willing to come to Tamir I will explain the situation."
[0011] "However, once I bring you here, I can't send you back; you will have to help me first."
[0012] Confused, Rosella says, "I don't know! What if I can't help you; or find the tree?"
[0013] Genesta pleads, "You must decide NOW, Rosella. My powers are growing weaker by the minute."
[0014] Now, the fairy is but a faint glimmer, and her voice barely audible. "If you care for your father, say `yes' now!..." And suddenly she's gone.
[0015] "YES!!"