The Ghost of You

Chapter 10: The End

Grandma gathered the team, her expression serious yet resolute. "We need to prepare for what lies ahead," she declared, her voice steady. "This is no ordinary mission, and I need each of you to be fully committed."

With a sense of anticipation in the air, Grandma proposed something unexpected. "I need you all to strip naked," she instructed. "I will be writing ancient texts on your bodies. These symbols will serve as both protection and empowerment during our journey."

Lingling was the first to step forward, her heart racing with a mixture of anxiety and trust. As she removed her clothing, Grandma took a deep breath, focusing her energy. She dipped a fine brush into the shimmering gold ink, its luster promising strength and clarity. With careful precision, she began to inscribe intricate symbols along Lingling's skin, each stroke resonating with ancient power.

Lingling felt a warmth spread through her, as if the ink was infusing her with energy, linking her to the very essence of her ancestors. She closed her eyes, embracing the moment, the quiet strength of her lineage flowing through her.

Next came Milk, who stood beside Lingling, her expression a mix of determination and vulnerability. Grandma switched to the deep red ink, a color that signified courage and resilience. As Grandma traced the symbols onto Milk's skin, the ink seemed to glow, wrapping around her like a protective embrace. Each symbol pulsed with energy, empowering Milk for the challenges ahead.

Finally, it was Love's turn. She took a deep breath, steeling herself as she too was painted with the vibrant red ink. Grandma's movements were deliberate and practiced, each stroke a reminder of the strength that lay within them all. The ink sank into Love's skin, igniting a fire in her spirit, pushing away any lingering doubts.

Once the inscriptions were complete, Grandma stepped back to admire her work. "You are now more than just yourselves," she said, her eyes glimmering with pride. "You carry the strength of those who came before you, and together, you will face whatever challenges await."

With renewed resolve, the three of them stood side by side, ready to embrace their destinies, each symbol on their skin a testament to their commitment and bravery. The atmosphere in the room was charged with a mix of anticipation and anxiety.

Orm and Ira watched from the side, their expressions reflecting a blend of admiration and concern. Orm's heart raced as she took in the sight of Lingling, Milk, and Love standing united, but worry gnawed at her insides. Despite the promises they had made the night before—that this would be their last day together and that they would face whatever came their way—Orms couldn't shake the unsettling thought of losing Lingling.

"Do you think they're ready?" Ira asked softly, her gaze fixed on the trio. Despite the guilt that lingered in her heart, she felt a flicker of hope seeing them prepare for the trial ahead.

"I hope so," Orm replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "But what if it's not enough? What if—" She cut herself off, unable to voice the fear that clung to her thoughts like a shadow.

Ira turned to Orm, her expression softening. "You have to believe in them, just as they believe in you. Lingling is strong, and she's not facing this alone. They're all in this together."

Orm nodded but remained unconvinced. The thought of Lingling stepping into the unknown, facing challenges that could tear them apart, made her chest tighten. "I just...I can't shake the feeling that we're running out of time. We have so little left to be together, and what if..."

Ira placed a reassuring hand on Orm's shoulder, grounding her. "You need to focus on the love you share, not the fear of losing it. Whatever happens, you have to hold onto those memories, the moments that matter. And if things don't go as planned, you'll find a way to be together again."