Same disclaimer. This is a reposting of the initial story posted on a Mulan fanfic site back in 1999-2000. After debating whether to change this part,I have decided to stick with my intent to do a repost only with minor edits. I have regrets that I did not make this longer.
Epilogue
Chapter 4
Cherries were ripening on the cherry tree in the Fa courtyard. Mulan listlessly picked and placed them into a basket on her arm.
Grandmother Fa watched her from the safety of the home. She noted that Mulan had become quieter over the last few months. It was evident to the adults at home that Mulan's hope in her Captain had been fading over the past few months. But after today, it was clear that Mulan had to move on. Her fellow officers had paid the visit and told her the news of Captain Li's impending engagement. Mulan had graciously offered her thanks and had sent off the men with food and presents in tow, but when they had left, Mulan had withdrawn to the garden once more.
Later that evening, when Mulan had retired, Grandmother Fa consulted her son and daughter-in-law. "I think it's time to take a trip north to see your younger brother, Son." Grandmother Fa feigned fatigue, "The heat here is very taxing."
They looked at her with concern. She shook her head, "I am tired, but I think that with Mulan's help, the journey will be easy."
Grandmother Fa saw understanding in both their eyes. Fa Zhou nodded, "Mulan needs some freedom to move about. This will also cheer her. When will you leave?"
Grandmother Fa nodded, "the moon will be brightest in two days and the Chans will be travelling that way. We should leave then."
Together they looked out at the rooms on the other side of the courtyard where
Mulan's darkened room stood. And they grieved for Mulan in silence.
~