"I suppose this is our farewell then."

"It is," the shepherd boy said. "Thank you for accompanying me in my journey. I got to learn a lot of things because of you."

"You're welcome," the raven answered, then asked another question.

"Are you... really not going to regret this choice?"

"I believe I wont."

The boy smiled a warm smile.

The raven fluttered its wings.

He only had less than a minute left.

"Ah, before you go. I suppose I'll tell you my answer."

"Your answer to what?"

"Your question, child. I recall you asking me if a guardian of death also fears death itself when we first met."

"Ah, I remember. I did."

The raven nodded.

"Well, I finally found the answer. Would you like to know?"

"I would," the boy said.

The raven cocked its head.

"My answer is yes.

Yes, I do fear death.

But more than anything... More than that...
I feel more afraid of being alone.

Perhaps that is the reason why I gave you a chance for eternal life."

The boy blinked. Then, he made a grin.

"Goodbye, Mr. Cuckoo."

"Goodnight, child."