Lotus had thought her last meeting with Sesshomaru would be in Heisei 11, the year before what humans called the New Millennium.
The Spirit Clan existed as the pillars of heaven and earth, their lives intimately bound to the workings of the world. The more vitality the world possessed, and the longer its future endured, the longer they lived. Conversely, if the world was soon to perish, they, too, would soon pass away.
Before the Celestial Palace, the Silver-Haired Girl quietly watched the demon before her. His face was as cold and stern as ever, with only a hint of softness in his eyes. It was a gentleness others rarely witnessed, yet it was the side of him she saw most often.
"Is it almost time?" asked his low, steady voice.
"Yes." The girl smiled faintly, as radiant as ever. "Perhaps this will be our last meeting."
It was strange. They belonged to the Demon and Spirit Clans, yet their friendship had endured for so long, and neither had ever crossed that line, as though by unspoken agreement. Everyone marveled at it, including Jaken, who had followed Sesshomaru for years. To the two of them, however, it had come naturally.
"How much longer?" he asked.
"Not long," she said. "If we meet again... perhaps I will no longer be myself."
The rebirth of the Spirit Clan resembled human reincarnation, yet differed from it. Apart from certain memories passed down through every generation, most were inherited at random. This was especially true of memories tied to emotion. Even if a few memories of former lovers or friends happened to survive, rebirth would erase the feelings associated with them.
"Has he gone?" Sanae asked softly, watching Lotus with concern.
"Yes." Lotus nodded, gently embraced Sanae, and leaned against her in weariness.
Over