The drifting mist around them seemed to grow quieter, as though listening.
"It is neither death nor disappearance," she added calmly. "It is simply completion."
Lavayla's chest felt unexpectedly tight.
Only now did she understand why Shalika had smiled that way earlier.
This was not merely an inheritance.
It was a farewell prepared long in advance.
Shalika looked at them both with peaceful acceptance.
"I have guarded this place for longer than either of you can imagine," she said softly. "Watching seasons pass without change… waiting for someone the space would finally acknowledge."
Her eyes shone faintly.
"It seems, that moment will soon arrive."
"Still, let me continue my explanation. I have told you about the space origin and the meaning of a successor. Oh right, one last thing, I do not know how the space chooses its successors so do not be surprised if when the time arrives, there are some occurrences. Do not be surprised or worried."
