09/02/2026
The stream sounded peaceful and calm. If you looked closely, you would see a little stone sleeping quietly.
"Oh, hey, Ms. Geraldine. How's your day today?" asked a yellow tortoise, careful to avoid the rushing water.
The stone answered, "I feel good today. And you?"
"We are the same type of creature, you know," the tortoise said.
"I know," the stone replied. "We are tough on the outside."
"And soft on the inside."
Ms. Geraldine paused. "No one has ever said that to me before."
"Bye, Ms. Geraldine. You have a good soul."
Ms. Geraldine watched Mr. Mul walk away, carrying his heavy shell as usual. She felt a deep sadness. She knew that the only soul she cared for—and the only one who truly knew her—was moving on to the next chapter of his life.
As days passed, she looked at the stars, the sun, the moon, and the clouds. She wondered how Mr. Mul was doing, and how long she would exist in this world.
To be continued...