Not a surprising ending. This series tried to maintain a certain level of believability and coolheadedness throughout the story, and this kind of ending continued that line truthfully. Even when Balsa asked that question neither of them really expected any other outcome. It was more like a way of telling Chagum that nothing really changed between them emotionally and it was all like it used to be, even if they won't see each others (ever) again.

Well, it also looked like Tanda still should keep waiting. Balsa definitely will get back to him once she has finished her business in her original home land.