The Departure

Death had already claimed her. She was its prisoner. She wanted freedom and only he could grant her that. However, in doing so, he would be letting her go.

"I never believed that I would see you once more before we part," her voice weak and broken by sorrow.

"You must be a good mortal," he whimpered.

"You must take care of yourself!" she pleaded.

He was heart-broken. They would never see one another again. Her lifetime was over. He had many years to suffer ahead.

"She's already gone,"

The words were sharper than any blade. They made him dream of death more than the bluntest of weapons against the weakest of victims. His heart pounded violently.

Ning Choi-san rested his head against the collapsing wall. He held his sobs. His tears were sealed behind a sorrow too great for their existence. His breathing was erratic.

Her little black urn was all that was left of her. He would even have to part from it.

The grey overcast sky was solemn. As Nip Siu-sihn's soul was finally at peace Ning Choi-san's heart ached. He stared at the place where he buried her remains. The smoke from the joss sticks burned his eyes. They fought to awaken the tears he had done so well to hold back.

He prayed for her soul as Yin Chik-ha watched him. The Taoist had been a great comrade and a better friend. He wanted to thank him but his throat stung. He would fall into tears if he dared to speak. He couldn't even try.

She might have re-incarnated. She could be with her new family and her new life already. She deserved peace after her years of imprisonment by the Tree Demoness. He wanted the best for her. He couldn't help but feel cheated, however. If she had re-incarnated then her memories would already be gone.

There would be nothing left of his beloved Nip Siu-sihn.

Ning Choi-san, feeling as though his soul had also departed, hid away his emotions. He rose to his feet and stepped away to the side. He couldn't look at where she lay anymore.

The undergrowth crunched quietly. Yin Chik-ha approached him slowly. He was silent. He knew better than to offer any words of condolence. It wasn't the time for that yet. Grief had first to come in its entirety before sympathy should be shared.

"I wonder if Siu-sihn has re-incarnated as a mortal yet," he murmured quietly.

Author's Note: I wanted to add a little bit more detail to their parting. The movie is one of the best that I've ever laid eyes on! Yes, the movie was made in 1987 but you won't find many movies as good. Perhaps that has a lot to do with the director and producer. Oh well, I best stop being distracted, eh? I couldn't find the category for this movie. If there is one then please direct me. Thank you for reading my work. I hope that you've enjoyed this tale. Please accept my apology if you find yourself unsatisfied with my work.

Part of the Revival Collection.