After centuries in Anino-form, the Watcher had become... more.
Not just shape—essence. It had absorbed so much love, so much connection, that its ancient nature had fundamentally shifted.
I am no longer what I was, it announced.
"What are you now?"
*I am... us. All of you. The love you've shown me has become part of me. I cannot separate anymore.
"That's beautiful."
*It is strange. But... good strange.
Gahom nodded beside it. *I feel it too. Changing. Becoming.
"You're both becoming more. That's what love does."
The Watcher purred—a sound now completely natural.
*Then I will keep becoming.
"Forever?"
"Forever."