[HLV] Last Of The Lanterns

Manami smiled down at Tanako as she helped the child up the hill that overlooked the village. After everything that happened, this had to be done. Tanako gave Manami a wide and bright smile, something that had surprised the older woman since she had just lost the only family that she had left not so long ago. Manami gave her a saddened smile, surprised at how strong this girl was. Tanako raced away from her hand, standing at the top as she watched the scattered glowing orbs fly from the village.

“Mana-chan, do you think that those lanterns will help the others get to the other side?” Tanako asked.

Manami blinked, she looked down at the lanterns in her hands and gave a soft smile. “You know, I really do Tana-chan.” At hearing this, Tanako turned around to face her.

“But how do they do that?” Tanako asked.

“You see, these lanterns are like the guiding lights for the spirits of those who have died. They follow these lights until they see the light of the afterworld.” Manami looked up at the sky. The stars were still shining bright despite the smoke that continued to rise from their village. “And for those who passed on already, it’s a way for them to know that we are still safe and are thinking about them.”

Tanako walked over to Manami and grabbed the singed sleeve of her kimono. “Who is your lantern for Mana-chan?” the child asked.

Manami looked down at her. “My mother, Tana-chan.”

“You lost your mama too?” the child asked. Manami nodded. “When did she leave you?” Tanako asked.

“When I was 15. She got really really sick after my birthday and just...passed on.” Manami’s eyes saddened as she thought about her mothers death.

Tanako gave her sleeve another tug. “We should let the lanterns go now!” She chirped. Manami looked at her and laughed. This child’s perpetual energy and well needed cheer was refreshing to have around after such a grueling thing. Though it did make her wonder if the girl was putting on a brave front.

Manami moved closer to the edge of the hill and handed Tanako her lantern. “On the count of three.. 1. 2..3~!” Manami smiled as she tossed her lantern up. Tanako did the same, laughing when the lanterns were tossed and turned by the wind, dancing their way up past the heavens.

Manami smiled as she held the young girl close, watching the lanterns make their journey upwards. “Mana-chan?” the girl asked.

“Yes, Tanako?” Manami looked at the child .

“Do you think I’m going to be okay at the orphanage?”

Manami blinked at the sudden question. “Of course I do, the orphanage is very nice.” Manami knelt down and placed her hands on his shoulders, tilting her up by the chin so that she could look her in the eyes. She could see that she was crying. Manami gave her a reassuring smile and wiped her tears away. “Tanako, you’re a strong girl, you will be fine at the orphanage.”

“Can you...can you come visit me?” she asked. Manami nodded.

“Every chance I get.” Manami held up her pinky. Tanako giggled gently and wrapped her pinky around hers. “I promise to visit you. Do you promise to be strong for me?”

Tanako nodded. “I promise.”

Smiling, Manami stood back up and took her by her hand. “It’s getting late, how about tonight I treat you to a home cooked meal and you can spend the night with me. Tomorrow, I’ll take you to the orphanage.” She could see Tanako’s eyes light up.

“Thanks Mana-chan!”