Lawrence looked at Holo and started softly sobbing.
Holo turned back after hearing her companion that she has fallen in love with break into tears.
She saw his face, and her eyes widened.
It was of complete sadness and depression.
"What is the matter?"
"I-I.."
"I don't want you to leave Holo… I-" He still couldn't admit it. He shook his head, and Holo then cut him off when he was going to finish.
"I was afraid of this very thing happening. I was afraid of me having too much fun with you. And it has happened..."
They were at the entrance to Yoitsu, the trees very close to them. It was already snowing, the snow crystals glistening like tears.
Holo turned back to look at the giant wolves.
She wanted to see them, but she didn't want to leave Lawrence and her two children.
Muri…
Yue…
Inty…
Paro...
She turned again, and looked at Lawrence. Tears were streaming down his cheeks.
It was just like the nightmare she had. She was at a crossroads, choosing between her beloved companion and a new family or long lost friends
However, no matter what, she wanted to run to her new family. She knew what might happen, just like the nightmare, but continued to do so anyway.
She ran towards Lawrence and her children
Lawrence smiled, and opened his arms wide.
Holo was getting so close to Lawrence, and was afraid the nightmare would happen.
She closed her eyes, and continued into his embrace.
Holo felt Lawrence's touch.
She opened her eyes, and saw Lawrence smiling.
He wasn't a pile of bones, his coat an only memory.
Holo was in Lawrence's arms, without regret. He was still alive.
The wolves cocked their heads, and seemed to smile for a moment when Lawrence looked at them.
One began to speak, in a low and raspy voice, like that of an old and tired god.
"The love between both of you is a force that bonds beyond time. Time will flow past lifetimes, but your love will be forever. Lawrence will be granted the gift of immortality."
Holo recognized that voice.
She whispered to Lawrence, "That is Muri."
"My own competition is giving me infinite time to spend with you. I guess he acknowledges that we can't be separated."
"However, this gift comes at a cost. You will have to give up your previous life, and leave being a merchant. You will no longer be entirely human, and will not be accepted by others so well. You will have to stay here with us."
"Very well, I accept the price. Anything for my dear Holo, she is worth more than anything. She is worth plenty more than even the finest and largest amount of Lumione gold coins. The profit of this deal is unimaginably huge compared to the loss."
Holo was surprised for a moment, but then remembered how softhearted Lawrence was.
"You are such a softhearted idiot."
She leaned back, but then Lawrence lowered his head and nuzzled his nose against hers.
They pressed noses, then passionately kissed in front of long lost friends and family.
"I love you…"
"I love you too, you fool."