Epilogue Wings
Epilogue
Wings
Perched on the fortress rampart, the ibis cocked his dark head to peer at the black disc that moments ago had been the sun. A nimbus of light radiated from its edges, as if the sun was waving its golden fingers, reminding the world that it was still there.
Below, the people made a harrowing noise, like the screams of herons in flight. The sight of their dead reminded the ibis of his own flock, their soft bodies broken on the riverbank.
The great Bennu bird perched beside him, tall and solemn. Are you afraid? she asked after a while.
The ibis saw no point in pretending to be brave. Yes-yes. Very much.
Good. Fear sharpens the mind. It encourages us to focus only on what is most vital.
Following his gaze, she bent her long white neck to observe the scene below.
Many stories have ended this day, but another story, perhaps the greatest of them all, has only just begun. And you, sacred one, are part of it.
The ibis’s feathers bristled in confusion. I am one bird. One of millions, all of them the same.
Not true, the Bennu countered. You survived when all your flock perished. You warned me of the jackal when I was but a stranger. You entered willingly into peril and found enlightenment. You are not just one bird. You are singular. And now, you will stay with me until the end.
The ibis felt a surge of pride. Perhaps despite his wrinkled head and jumbled tail feathers, he was meant for something special.
Besides, the Bennu bird added, launching into the air, her blue wings bright in the darkness, You gave me the bigger fish.
The ibis hurried to follow, stretching to catch the updraft and soar after his strange new friend. And as the wind—warm and fragrant—filled his wings, he thought that perhaps he liked a bit of adventure after all.