The early morning sun shone down on a scene just inside the gates of Iron Town. The villagers were already busy at work rebuilding the forge while others were disposing of the remnants of their town's intruders. But these were not the only events taking place.
"Leaving us so soon, Rin?" Lady Eboshi inquired of the young woman mounted on a horse and prepared to leave through the gates.
"I'm afraid so, milady." Rin replied. "You've been so kind to me, and I promise to return the favor someday. But to do so, I must make something of myself, and as much as I'd love to stay, I can't do that here. I hope that you will forgive me."
"There's no need to apologize." Lady Eboshi smiled. "And I do wish you the best of luck wherever you go. Sayonara."
The great gates of the Iron Town were opened and Rin waved farewell as she left. Outside the gates were San, Ashitaka, and Yakul, waiting to escort her safely past the dangers of the forest.
The journey was quiet for the most part, with only the occasional 'are you alright?' and mumbled response being exchanged. At the edge of the forest, the wolves caught up to them and insisted that San not travel with them any farther, glaring and briefly growling at the other young woman. Rin only answered their threats by gently stroking the new, deep, but healing cut on her cheek.
"I will see you later then, Ashitaka?" San asked as she climbed onto her brother's back.
"Of course." He nodded as San and her brothers turned and left.
As soon as the others were gone, Rin spoke up.
"I can't thank you enough for all that you've done for me." she said. "If there really is anything that I can do for you-"
"You have done more than enough." Ashitaka quieted her. "And I have all that I need, so do not think that you need to repay me for anything."
"Very well, then" Rin's voice carried a hint of coy cunning to it. "But I will leave you with this riddle of mine…"
"Riddle?" Ashitaka halted Yakul in his tracks, but Rin continued on, a broad, all-knowing grin upon her face.
"The human that is not, and the wolf who is not wolf will give way to the one who is neither and both. A child of the forest, yet an ally to man, Bakemono-hime shall bring peace to this land…"
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This is the Epilogue. Where would you like to go next?
