Southwards

In the darkness of the night, we were separated from each other, each taking our own path. Despite sharing the same goals and battles, our paths diverged. To make the most of our time, we dispersed to seek support and strength before regrouping.

Although I was reluctant to part ways with my companions, I knew it was the right decision. A pang of sadness hit me as I watched them disappear into the night. The night grew colder and I could feel the chill breeze through my fur coat. The moon overhead provided the only light to guide me on my journey, but I was uncertain of my destination.

I plotted my course based on the words of my master. He had once told me that no matter where I was, if I headed south, I would eventually reach our ancestral home on the hill. His words were cryptic but I followed his advice and set out on a fixed route toward the south without deviation. As I walked alone in the darkness, a mix of determination and apprehension filled me.

Walking along the dry earth and grassy path, I was completely alone. No animals or people in sight, just me, a slight backache and a strong wind. I didn't know how many more mornings I could go on like this. All I knew was that I was doing it for my friends and for myself. So I forced myself to walk further than I had ever walked before and to run faster than I had ever thought possible.

After walking for about three hours, fatigue and thirst overtook me. No matter how hard I tried to motivate myself, my body wouldn't let me.

I was aware that I was heading up a hill, but it was quite long. Going around it would have been a waste of time, so I stayed on my path and continued upwards. From the top, it would be easier for me to see toward the south and get my bearings.

The road seemed endless. My mouth was dry and I was sweating despite the cold air. The wind picked up and my lack of sleep was taking its toll. Once again, I realized how difficult it was to be a panda. Everyone loved me for my fluffiness, but that same fluffiness made situations like this all the more challenging.

I had never felt this tired when I was in action. As I trudged up the hill alone with my thoughts, I wondered what I would do when I reached the top. What kind of speech would I give to my ancestors?

As I continued up the hill, doubts began to creep into my mind. How could I convince the entire clan on my own? "Maybe they'll come if I beg," I thought to myself. "Or perhaps I should bring them a gift."

I realized I was talking to myself and couldn't help but laugh. "Great," I thought. "Now I'm talking to myself."

I shielded my hands against the incoming winds, but it was difficult to see with my eyes squinted. I took slow steps forward, unable to see what lay ahead. How much further could I go like this? It had been nearly five hours and I still hadn't found a path. Frustration grew within me and in a fit of anger, I made a rash decision to speed up.

It was a big mistake. My foot caught on a rock I couldn't see and I lost control. The wind pushed me strongly and I lost my balance, tumbling down the hill. I rolled uncontrollably, the rocks I hit causing nothing but pain.

As I tumbled, dizziness overtook me and I was upside down many times. Eventually, I managed to stop. But I was covered in dust and my back pain had doubled. Just when I thought my misfortune couldn't get any worse, I found myself in an unfamiliar place. Below the hill was a village that I hadn't seen before. It wasn't far and I could easily reach it on foot.

When I finally reached the village, which was larger than it had appeared from a distance, I was completely drained. There weren't many people around as it was night and the houses were few and far between. I decided to find somewhere to sleep so that I could ask for directions in the morning. But first, I needed to find something to drink.

As I ventured further into the village, I encountered an old man. Despite the late hour and the fact that most people were asleep, he was standing outside looking at the stars. When he saw me, I thought he might panic at the sight of a dusty stranger appearing suddenly in the night. But he remained calm and approached me with slow steps. He didn't seem hostile. Instead, he asked me in a friendly manner:

"What are you doing here at this hour, you fluffy creature?"

In response to the old man's question, I replied calmly. "I'll take that as a compliment. And if you have any water to spare, I would be very grateful."

"It would be a shame not to give water to someone in need," the old man said. "Especially a talking creature." He handed me a full water bottle that he had with him.

"Here you go, panda," he said kindly.

I didn't know who the old man was, but he seemed kind. After I finished drinking the water, I handed the bottle back to him. "Thank you," I said gratefully.

The old man asked me the same question again. "Why did you say you came here?"

I replied, hoping that he might have some information that could help me. "I'm looking for my lineage."

I knew that it was important to protect my privacy and not reveal too much about myself or my ancestry. But at the same time, it seemed unwise to continue on my journey without knowing the way.

So I had to be prepared for anything.