The Bond Between Clotho and Lachesis

The partnership of the two bald doctors, who work together to serve the Purpose.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Long Partnership

Two as One Working Together Clotho and Lachesis have been partners for millennia. They cut life-cords together, always in perfect sync. Their auras overlap, and they communicate without words. Mutual Respect They respect each other's judgment. When they disagree, they discuss until they reach a consensus. Their partnership is based on trust. A Shared Purpose They serve the Purpose together. They are not individuals but a team. Their bond is essential to their function.

Facing a Crisis

Under Pressure The Threat of Atropos Atropos's actions threaten the balance between Purpose and Random. Clotho and Lachesis are forced to intervene, something they rarely do. They are anxious and uncertain. Drafting Ralph and Lois They recruit Ralph and Lois to stop Ed Deepneau. It is a desperate measure, but they have no other choice. They trust the Short-Timers to do what they cannot. A Moment of Doubt When Ralph demands a promise to protect Natalie, Clotho and Lachesis hesitate. They are not sure they can deliver. But they agree, and the pact is sealed.

The Handshake

A New Experience Shaking Hands After the Civic Center explosion, Ralph shakes hands with Clotho and Lachesis. It is the first time they have ever done this. They are surprised by the warmth of human contact. A Gift of Aura Ralph's aura passes into their hands, a gift of his essence. They are moved by the experience. They have never felt anything like it. A Lasting Bond The handshake creates a bond between them. They will remember Ralph long after he is gone. Their partnership is enriched by the encounter.

Throughout the novel

October 1993

Friday evening, October 8, 1993