Long the wanderer walked the forgotten lands, traveling amidst the ruins of what once was. Wending through winding ways, working wearily to the heart of a ruined civilization. Her feathered cape tattered from uncounted years, but still she carried herself forward.

One day, she reached her destination, and found herself at the edge of a great plaza. At the center lay a broken crown fit for giants and fairy tales, and told a story of an erstwhile ruler.
Writ upon the crown, where none but architects may have ever seen were these words: "Turn your eyes to the heavens, and there shall you find me, Emperor, presiding over all. Let everyone know, love me and fear me, for in all of time there will be none greater than I"

Sadness came upon her, as she gazed at these words. The weariness of what was, and the hope for what could have been crashed together. She turned away from what was left of the monolith, and carried on, her work not yet finished. On the far side of the plaza, nearly forgotten amongst the decay, lay a small placard from ancient time.

"Look to me, and do not despair. In your
darkest times I shall always illuminate for you the way forward."

The wanderer paused, and then resumed her march. Working her way out and away from the city. Into the dusk she trudged, and eventually gave up for the night. She thought of the statue, and though the day's adventure had worn itself heavily upon her mind, she would not despair. She thought of the placard, and looked towards the night sky.

And up there in the great sea of stars shone her hope. A tear and a smile came to her face, "Maybe the next one" she said to herself. And soon she fell asleep, excited for the days to come.

Happy Birthday Mumei
-O