"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step!" Having finally shaken off his pessimism, Simon Stone stood atop the mountain and shouted, his voice echoing with resolve and vulnerability.
Simon Stone took a step forward and set out on his journey.
With almost no preparation, and ignoring Birdie's worries, he departed.
Perhaps this strong urge to act was itself driven by a lingering sense of pessimism. It carried a tragic feeling, like 'The cold wind sweeps over the River Yi, the hero leaves and does not return.'
He kept saying words to lift their spirits—ostensibly for Birdie, but truly for himself.
Would he really be able to reach the Crescent Star Cave smoothly on this journey?
Did he really have any confidence in his heart?
The world unfolding before him was full of surprises, far beyond what a single volume of Journey to the West could ever explain.
But to just stay here, unable to advance or retreat—how could Simon Stone ever be content?
Just as Birdie had predicted, there were wolves in this desolate land.
Before long, Simon Stone found himself trapped atop a dead tree in the barren wasteland.
He curled up, trembling, while hungry wolves prowled below.
The ferocious animals circled the withered trunk, scratching at the bark with their claws, drool dripping from their jaws.
Their howls struck Simon Stone's chest like heavy blows from a hammer.
His heart raced with fear.
If he slipped, the wolves would devour him to the bone.
Perched on that dead tree, Simon Stone felt as if he were walking a tightrope—his tree-climbing skills were sharp, yet every moment felt like he could fall.
For a brief instant, Simon Stone regretted his decision; doubt crept in.
Maybe he shouldn't have rushed into this... but what use was regret now?
For three days, Birdie ran back and forth, bringing him bitter wild fruits and, even if it was only a couple drops, precious water.
In Birdie's dark, beady eyes, Simon Stone saw exhaustion—yet she still forced a smile.
His heart ached, and Simon Stone said softly, "Birdie, I'm sorry."
He no longer called her Mountain Sparrow, nor Magpie, nor Canary. From now on, she was simply Birdie.
And so, her name became Birdie, as if it were destined.
"Sorry? For what?"
"I shouldn't have dragged you into this journey."
"What are you saying? Didn't you promise to become immortal and marry me? Thinking of going back on your word? I'll peck you to death!" Birdie flared up and lunged at Simon Stone.
Simon Stone dodged in a panic, but his laughter rang out, so bright that even the wolves below were bewildered.
Her words warmed him to his core. Here, he was not alone.
On the third day, the famished wolves finally gave up and left. Birdie led Simon Stone at top speed to an oasis—he was saved once more.