winner when playing games with my siblings, despite my puny physique. For once, I felt defeated.
After a few kilometers, Mother started to slow down. She was losing her fight against death.
It rested on her shoulders, dragging her down. She buckled down, her blood cascading down her
side and forming a dark pool of blood on the grubby ground. Smiling tightly, she outstretched
her paw. I held it hesitantly, feeling dry of emotion. “Mystère, I know having nobody to guide
you to your future will be burdensome. But remember, the Gobi Desert offers many opportunities
for gaining experience. Dear, don’t be afraid to explore new places. Be aware of the dangers too.
The Gobi desert is an inexplicably intricate but undeniably true riddle of life. A mystery, just
like you,” she said her words full of tranquility. “Please promise me one thing though. I want
you to look for your siblings after you grow older. Give up the search only after you find them or
you find out about their…” Mother broke off, not wanting to mention the dreaded word, “Do not
live your life with guilt. It was I who abandoned them, not you. Now, I shall die burdened with
culpability. Please don’t pay the price for something you couldn’t have changed. I’ll forever be
with you, watching from the sky…” she trailed off, her breathing getting lighter. Her countenance
was angelic as she breathed out her last sentence. “I love you.”
The Gobi Desert has taught me many things during these years. I grew more courageous,
stronger and cautious as I battled my way through the hardships of life. I starved, fell from
cliffs and was nearly killed there. But I also saw my first rain and met my first love there. I now
understand the true meaning of endurance and pure joy. When I look up at the sky at night,
there is a unique star that I always see. It twinkles slightly brighter than the rest. Mother hasn’t
forgotten to look after me after all. And I haven’t forgotten my promise as well. I haven’t given up
hope. I’m still searching for my siblings.
