Through the receding waters

'Goodbye'

It had been a while since Cale had arrived to this world.

Many days had passed, and he knew more and more about the world that he landed in through Hong'er who was enthusiastic about sharing more information.

This place had gods as well, though not the same as his world since mortals could ascend apparently (although he did not know the specific information on how they could ascend to heaven).

The place they were currently residing in was an unnamed mountain near the kingdom of Xianle. Cale had some helpers build the house, although he did not know why they decided to help (the only thing he did was give them food because they looked pitiful and give them advice), but he was quite happy with the outcome.

It was only a few months and Cale had pampered Hong'er very much, the child had somehow reminded him of the children way back home.

Although he had taken in the child maybe due to his own selfishness, he had truly cared for the younger and had done his best to treat Hong'er very well.

Their bond was strong, they were like family... or so he thought.

Maybe Hong'er had really thought him as a 'bad person', had seen him for what he really is, a trash, despised him enough to leave him.

<---->

Few days ago

Even though Hong'er was wary at first, the child had warmed up to him as they interacted over the past few days.

Cale had not known why Hong'er seemed afraid of revealing his eye, specifically his right eye. He was not persistent in uncovering what was hidden inside the bandages, after all, he too had hidden many things.

It was that day, the day when he made the mistake of taking Hong'er out with him to buy food since they had run out. (Hong'er was surprised by his never ending supply of money which definitely didn't come from the a certain god)

Hong'er is a mature child, someone that doesn't need to be watched over at all times. Cale had thought it would be boring for the child to follow him and allowed the other to go and see the street vendors and maybe buy something with his pocket money, since he trusted that Hong'er wouldn't wander far.

He wasn't gone that long, but maybe he should have arrived sooner...

When Cale had returned, the child was beaten until he was bloodied and bruised by other children his own age, the adults didn't do anything but watch.

'Monster', they called Hong'er.

It was only later did Cale find out what really happened.

Apparently, the other children went up to him and was curious about what was under his bandage, of course Hong'er had resisted which led to them forcing the bandage off.

What was under the bandage was revealed to be a red eye. Then, he was beaten, the adults allowed it to happen, they had actually wanted that to happen.

Cale had never felt so angry before, Hong'er was still a child! Even if he were to be grown up, it would still not make a difference.

What sin did a young child commit?

He ignored the stares of disgust and fear, the hushed whispers and words of harsh meaning, carrying Hong'er back to their mountain house.

That night, he had comforted Hong'er.

'Don't let what others tell you get to you, they are just talking nonsense. If they ever do something to you, slap them in the back twice as hard'

'Come on, you can't starve yourself, eat. You know what? I think I quite like your eye, isn't it my hair red as well? We all have our unique features'

Hong'er looked at Cale as if he was seeing someone in him, he started avoiding him.

It was as if whatever relationship they had built up over the past few days had collapsed.

Then came Hong'er's departure, it wasn't a surprise but Cale felt a pang of sadness in his heart since Hong'er had not said a word of 'goodbye'.

Maybe it was for the best.