The four spirits met at a waterfall.
Earth arrived first, rolling awkwardly over stone and grass.
Fire came next, leaving little sparks behind every time it bounced.
Wind descended in circles, spinning too quickly and bumping gently into Earth.
Water rose from the pool below the falls, dripping light as it floated upward.
For a moment, the four orbs stared at one another.
Then Fire bounced.
Wind bounced back.
Earth bounced once more heavily.
Water pulsed with quiet delight.
Then all four collided gently in midair and spun apart.
They did not need words.
They had always been separate.
Yet the moment they met, it felt as though separation had only been waiting for reunion.
...
The women watching the vision felt the golden radiance intensify.
Memory entered them.
Not fully.
But enough.
Marie gasped and clutched the carpet beneath her.
Kaia bent forward, one hand at her chest.
Sylra's eyes widened in silent shock.
Marina covered her mouth as tears finally spilled.
