Authors Note: Thanks again for all the lovely reviews. This is the last chapter but there will be a short afterword. Hope you have enjoyed reading as much as I have written this story. Yes it has taken a long time but here is now the end. Happy Reading!!

Haku returned to his office and watched the two figures from his balcony. He had to keep a neutral relationship with Chihiro so not to arouse suspicion otherwise could have been accused of influencing her decision and then most certainly would never see her again.

He was shocked when he saw her again in his office. Although the idea of seeing Chihiro again had always been a fantasy he never really expected to see her and now he had to say goodbye…again. He remembered the day almost nine years ago when he was told he could not leave to find Chihiro because he would be a reminder of the Spirit World.

The girls were approaching the river and Haku retrieved back into his office.

Haku hadn't expected to have become the new manager of the Onsen. Yubaba was certainly in no position to run the place and business had to continue in order for the God's to return. It was only meant to be for a short while as he had been planning to leave. The magic in this place was tainted with a darkness which he wanted to escape but only realised since taking on the Onsen that it was because of Yubaba. No Face was the example of this, turning into that monster. Greed was the underlying tone but now it was a place of relaxation and fairness on both the customers and the staff.

Curiosity got the better of him and he looked back out of the window. The girls had gone. Chihiro had gone. Forever.

Haku looked up at the sky and recalled the conversation he had with Chihiro on whether we shared the same sky.

A knock came from the door and he knew it was Goro.
He straightened up. He was still in charge of the Onsen and he had to accept Chihiro's decision on leaving the Spirit World.
"Is everything alright Goro?" as he watched his assistant amble in.
"Everything is absolutely fine. The Onsen has been continuing like nothing has happened."
Haku nodded.
"Is everything alright with you…" Goro started, eyeing Haku. "…master?"
"Everything is fine." Haku replied knowing Goro was looking out for him but being nosey at the same time.
Goro gave him a disbelieving look.

"We have a boat coming from the East tomorrow. Make sure the suites are ready." Haku ordered, slightly irritated by Goro.
"Right away." Goro turned to leave. "Oh, I almost forgot. There is someone looking for work downstairs and is waiting in the visitor lounge. Is now not a good time for you?"
Haku sighed. Life was still continuing. "No I will be down in a few minutes."
Goro nodded and left.

Haku took one more look outside by the river. It was now starting to get dark and the evening meal would soon be taking place. That meant Haku greeting his current customers and making sure all their needs were being met.

Chihiro's image flashed in his mind.

He passed down the highly decorated corridors and down the marble staircase until he was at the door of the visitors lounge. He, too, had to give work to anyone who asks but he was able to decide for what duration. Taking a deep breath he turned the handle and entered the room with the presence of an owner.

Haku scanned the room and saw his new applicant standing by the fire, back turned to him.

Turning around the person looked up. "Please may I have some work?" Chihiro smiled.

xThe Endx