"Egg hatches into larva, then becomes an adult insect. It takes a year, yet only adorns a few nights of moonlight. It's often said that life is unfulfilling, but compared to other myriad creatures in this world, we are already quite fortunate."
Sui Yi spoke softly. The woman, however, laughed, "Fulfillment or not has never been related to the length of time. The summer cicada doesn't know of winter but is aware of death. The sea turtle, burdened by a giant stone, stays in place for a thousand years without moving. Many things, like people drinking water, only they know if it's hot or cold..."
Sui Yi turned to look at her.
"But people who drink alone often must not find their hearts at ease."
A heart that is not at ease, yet able to see through life's years so clearly, how lonely must this person be?
The woman's smile slightly constrained, watching Sui Yi, as fireflies fluttered between them, emitting specks of light.
She spoke.
