When the hunt finally began they took the phoenix with them. For luck, they said.
And when they needed to escape from harm he lifted them high into the air. It hurt, but they were safe.
And when they were wounded, as they were many times, he shed his tears for them. It drained him, but they healed.
And when the sky grew dark, and they feared for their lives, he burnt himself too soon. It took all his energy, but they could see and were comforted.
And when they had won, and his life was spent, they buried him.