The Watcher approached Glad with a question.
You have taught me much. Connection. Love. Purpose. But one thing remains unclear.
"What's that?"
How to let go. When your time comes—when you must leave—how will you do it?
Glad considered the question seriously.
"I don't know. I've never died before."
But you've watched others. Anino. Humans you loved. You've seen letting go.
"Yes. And what I learned is: it's not about the leaving. It's about what you leave behind. Love. Memory. Impact. Those continue."
Even after you're gone?
"Especially after you're gone. That's the point."
The Watcher absorbed this.
I have eternity. I will watch many leave. But if what you say is true—
"They're never really gone. They're in us. In what they built. In who they loved."
Then I will carry them. Always.
"That's all any of us can do."
They sat together in the garden, ancient being and ancient creature, contemplating eternity.
Not afraid.
Just present.
Together.