Withered trees welcomed spring, and the monsters scattered.
The forest gradually revived, while the glowing silhouettes formed from the souls of the Deerfolk slowly faded away.
Arata did not know whether those silhouettes had fallen asleep in the forest again or vanished for good.
But one person might leave this place forever—leave the homeland he had watched over his entire life.
"Were you planning to leave without a word?"
"At least say goodbye to him before you go."
The sudden question made the boy hiding behind Giant Tree flinch. He immediately raised his head toward the voice and saw a young man standing quietly on the other side of Giant Tree.
"You can actually see me?"
The surprised reply slipped out.
But he soon regained his composure.
Only when he noticed the solemn expression on the other man's face did he quickly amend his words:
"..."
Perhaps, once the forest truly regained its former prosperity and his heart's mission was fulfilled, he would choose to enter the cycle of reincarnation. Then, as a living being once more, he could enjoy another wonderful summer encounter with the forest and his companions here.
"As a descendant of those humans, I've failed him."
The forest had ultimately accepted this restless soul that should have gone to the Land of the Dead to be reincarnated. But what mattered most was his own choice.
"Being able to see you again that summer was already the greatest miracle of my life."
Watching his old friend gradually vanish before his eyes, Young Deer Man suddenly rushed past Arata and reached for the fading human boy.
"Thank you, Lord Onmyoji."
"If you have time someday, Lord Onmyoji, you're welcome to visit us here."
"Once everything settles down, my strength will be yours to command whenever you need it."