The sky was red that night. Not from the setting sun, but from the burning of distant villages. The wind carried the scent of ash and the low crackle of fires still hungry for more.
Hine found Mavuika at the edge of the Sacred Flame's altar. The great pyre blazed high, but its warmth felt cold to her.
"You are really going to do it" Hine said, her voice trembling.
Mavuika turned to face her. Even in the glow of the fire, Hine could see the exhaustion in her sister's eyes. "If I do not, Natlan will fall. There will be nothing left for anyone to save."
Tears blurred Hine's vision. "Five hundred years, Mavuika. You will be gone for five hundred years. I will be dust long before you return."
Mavuika stepped forward and placed a warm hand on her cheek. "That is why I need you to live. To keep our people's spirit alive until the day I return."
Hine shook her head. "No. That is not enough. I will find you again. Somehow. Even if I have to chase you across time itself."
Mavuika smiled sadly. "You cannot outrun time, little sister."
"Then I will fold it," Hine said. She took a piece of paper from her satchel and began to shape it, her fingers working with practiced care. When she was done, a small paper frog sat in her palm.
"If I cannot be there when you return, this will. Keep it close, and remember that I never stopped looking for you."
Mavuika took the frog and held it as if it were made of gold. "I will remember."
The flame roared higher, casting long shadows. Hine wanted to say more, but the moment was gone. The ritual began. And as the Sacred Flame swallowed Mavuika's form, Hine stood frozen, clutching the memory of her sister and the promise that would define the rest of her life.