Thin Veil
I walked the line between life and death. An ill-fated gamble from my youth left me not quite on the mortal plane and not able to move beyond. I have seen hundreds if not thousands pass from one life to the next before me, but I was never free to join them in their transcendence.
I used to be bitter, but as the years passed I became resigned to my fate. I was a guid–a beacon that lit the way to the next life. I had earned this fate, so I found some way to turn purgatory into penance. Surely, I would yet earn something for my pains?
As the years streamed by I’d nearly forgotten I came from somewhere other than this intermediary plane. My days were routine, and I was happy to provide assistance to whoever asked anything of me. I no longer thought of another life, but one day everything changed.
As I returned from escorting the newest group to the next life when an ethereal beauty approached me. Her voice was magical and her skin was silk on my rough calloused hand.
“You have paid your toll countless times over,” she said. “When the next group arrives to cross the barrier will lift and you can join them.”
The feelings of longing I once had bubbled slowly to the surface, but I was content. I took her hand and kissed it in thanks.
“I am glad my efforts have been recognized, and I am happy to continue,” I said. “This place is my home now, and those crossing need a guide. Allow me to remain.”
She kissed my weathered forhead and bowed her head.
“You may continue, but you can come and go as you wish. Collect and guide those who must cross,” she said. “No longer bound merely to this world.”
I was no longer bound, because I chose to stay. I would make use of my freedom and continue to light the way for others.
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