Srikandi (For Hire) - English Version

Shadows of Departure - 1.3

Listen to this music while reading:
Kimigakuretamono - Secret Base

The sun dipped below the horizon, allowing shades of orange and purple to envelop the sky. Nadia sat by the window, gazing outside with hope. Each time the soft rays of sunlight faded, the anxiety within her grew stronger. She rested her head against the glass, letting the chill touch her cheek. Outside, the wind whispered, reminding her of the journey they had traveled.

Kiana lay in the hospital bed, an island of sorrow in the midst of a retreating sea of hope. Nadia shifted her attention to her sister, her eyes full of sincerity, as if wanting to absorb every second of Kiana's presence. Once again, she prayed for a miracle to come their way, that this illness would no longer steal their happiness.

The next chemotherapy session awaited, and Nadia knew it might be tougher this time. She recalled Kiana's smile, her little strength in facing uncertainty with courage. Nadia decided to share her spirit with her sister. She pulled out a storybook, filled with tales that used to make Kiana laugh. With a gentle voice, Nadia began to read, hoping that the words could reach Kiana's struggling soul.

"When the storm comes, we can choose to hide or sail into it," Nadia said, infusing hope into her words. She felt a wave of emotion, nostalgia for the cheerful times when Kiana would respond with laughter, filling their world with joy. Each page she read brought back precious memories, filling the empty spaces between them.

In the midst of her reading, Kiana opened her eyes, slightly waking from her reverie. In a raspy voice, she whispered, "Sis, I want to go to the park."

Nadia was taken aback, reminded of their promise to enjoy time outdoors. Although it seemed impossible in their current condition, Nadia was determined to make that little dream come true. She took Kiana's hand and held it tightly. "Later we'll go, Kiana. We will enjoy the fresh air together. I promise."

With those words, she tried to reignite the spirit that was beginning to dim. In her journey, Nadia gathered all the strength she had left. She would fight, not just for Kiana, but for both of them. Against the obstacles and to create space for hope.

Alan Watts once said, "Life is like dancing; you cannot think about the steps. You have to enjoy it." And at that moment, Nadia felt life vibrating in every heartbeat. She wanted to step forward confidently, to live each moment with sincerity.

Taking a deep breath, Nadia allowed herself to feel the love flowing within her. Every second with Kiana was an invaluable treasure, and she promised to cherish it. She would not give up; she would create beauty within the sorrow, and find a way even through the darkness.

A new hope began to bloom, spreading light, albeit faint. In a world full of uncertainty, Nadia knew that within their hearts, there was a light that would never fade. They would sail together, facing the storms of life with courage and love.

"Humans must love their lives, and that is the only reason to live." — Alan Watts