"Time, something so intangible and mysterious. I recall it as clear as day when I was just heading over to high school, but to think time would take it all from me. Time just flows gently but like a big river, it submerges all memories and takes them all away along with the waves." A heavy sigh that seemed to contain the vicissitudes of life resounded through the quiet hospital ward.
Kranos gazed through the ward's clear window; there he could see his children and his grandchildren. His aged face seemed to contain an imperceptible smile. After living for several decades, he had now reached the age of ninety, quite a fulfilling age to die, but he was unwilling; he felt incomplete.
He was regrettably aware that he was nearing the end of his life. It's said that when you're near death, you'll feel your soul slowly leaving your body, and he was able to sense that feeling right now.
He muttered, "So it is that time," as he slowly raised his shaky, elderly hand. Although his body was weak, he could manage to do this much. Something that looked like an antique clock, as small as his palm, rested on his palm.
"If what the legends say is true, this would give me the ability to control time in my next life," he sighed. Although he didn't fully believe this, there was nothing he could do about it, he was already about to die. He might as well just have a little hope before he left this world.
He stared at it for a few moments before he closed his eyes, his breathing slowed down vividly, beginning to fade, and he placed the watch on his heart. Although he wasn't fully hopeful, he couldn't help but make a wish, an old man's dying wish.
The moment he placed the watch on his heart, it stopped beating.
Beep…
The machine measuring his pulse turned into a straight line, alerting his family members outside.
"Dad!"
"Grandpa!"
Panicked voices rang out from outside the room, "Doctor! My father is not breathing!!! Please do something, anything!"
The doctor that had just rushed after the emergency button was pressed rushed into the room to check Kranos's vitals; after a few moments, he sighed deeply and replied, "There is nothing more we can do. I'm sorry... He's gone."
"No!" Kranos's first son groaned in pain as he stared at his father's lifeless body that was slowly turning cold. After a long silence, he sighed, then bowed solemnly, ignoring the cries of his siblings, wife, and children. he bowed and said, "I wish you a safe journey in your next life."
What nobody noticed was a slight vanishing trace of golden light where Kranos previously placed his hand; the antique watch was nowhere to be seen!