Empty skies
By Roguefan212000
Mulan belongs to Disney.
I do not own the poem Lost.
The summer moon bathed the garden with its light. It gave this simple place a whimsical quality. The fallen cherry blossoms seemed to glow in the moonlight. A petite young woman carefully stepped around the pink petals. Her small mouth formed a wistful smile, as she slowly approached the family temple. The candles gentle glow welcomed her. She brushed the raven locks from her face and bowed before the stone tablets. Her prayer was interrupted by the sound of footsteps. She listened closely. Her father was normally up and about at this hour, but she did not hear the gentle tap of his cane. She could see the advancing figure s shadow on the temple wall. It was not her father.
"Mulan ", a familiar voice called. She turned to face her late night visitor. It was Li Shang. He did not look like the stern captain that she knew. Shang looked like a child , who was awakened by nightmares. His eyes revealed his broken soul. The sight of him made her heart ache. " What s wrong ," Mulan asked softly. Shang was reluctant to answer . His eyes burned with sorrow and anger. Mulan gently touched his cheek.
" Tell me what is in your heart. People are not made of stone. Emotions are what make us human. Talking about your feelings does not make you weak."
The moonlight revealed his blood stained garments. " Your hurt," she cried. " I will send for the doctor." Shang quickly grabbed her arm. " It is not my blood," he answered. Shang turned away from Mulan. He could not bear to look at her . " I…I killed a man," he whispered.
There are gains for all our losses,
There are balms for all our pain;
But when youth, the dream, departs,
It takes something from our hearts,
And it never comes again.
"What?" It was all Mulan could say. She was starting to feel dizzy. Shang was not a murderer . He was not capable of such things. Mulan finally gained the courage to speak. " It was an accident," she said softly. " I know you would never … "
Shang cut her off. " My sister has been defiled. In my own blind rage, I killed the wrong man." Mulan fought back tears. She knew his sister very well. Miya was a sweet and gentle girl. No one would want to marry her now. An honorable man does not desire spoiled goods. Virginity was the jewel in the crown of every woman. Shang bowed his head in shame. He failed his sister and dishonored his family.
We are stronger, and are better,
Under manhood s sterner reign;
Still we feel that something sweet
Followed youth with flying feet,
And will never come again.
" Somehow, we will set things right", Mulan said hopefully. She did not feel very confident.
" I should never have come here," Shang said bitterly. " I do not want you to be involved in this matter. This happened because of my own negligence."
" You came seeking the help and comfort of a friend," Mulan said firmly. " I want to help you, Shang. Do not shut me out ."
" Nothing can change what I have done," he said darkly. " I am ready to face my punishment."
It was the male code of honor. He would not run from his fate. Shang would accept the consequences with dignity. Sometimes Mulan wanted to curse men and their honor.
"Perhaps, you should speak to the emperor. I know he will help you."
"The rumors of Miya would be spread all over the royal court," he said bitterly. " Chi Fu will see to that. My sister will never be married. It would only bring more shame to my family."
Mulan bit her lip. She glanced at the evening sky. The pale moon seemed angry and unforgiving. She turned to face Shang. He wore an expressionless mask.Shang was cold and beautiful . "I am not afraid to die ," he said calmly. " At least, Miya will live with honor."
Mulan sighed deeply. " She loves you more than honor. Miya would be heartbroken, if you died. Shang , forget your pride and flee from here. Do this for Miya and for me . You are my dearest friend. I can not watch you die."
" Is exile better than death ,"he asked darkly.
" Is honor greater than love ?" Her words had power and conviction. " I can forsake my pride and beg the emperor to spare you."
Mulan bowed her head. She did not want Shang to see her tears. "He will not change the law", Shang said softly. "I do not want you to be part of this. You have a pure and noble soul, Mulan. I want you to remain this way. " I am sorry. I have to go." Mulan watched the darkness devour him. She stood alone, underneath an empty sky. The sky was as empty as heart.
Something beautiful is vanished,
And we sigh for it in vain;
We behold it everywhere,
On the earth and in the air,
But it never comes again.