"That which does not suffer itself to be named made a host for Nirvahara when it passed through the Gateway of Sundraprisha. I would never have existed otherwise. I'm lucky I still exist now, it was a literal gift from the gods, or specifically Anpw, Judge of the Dead, in gratitude for helping Nirvahara save the universe." Harriet frowns. "I don't know whether it was costly. I…guess maybe a Harriet who hadn't played host to Nirvahara might be happier? In some ways? But it's not worth thinking about."

Zoë. A pang of regret suddenly strikes her. Zoë must think Harriet disappeared with Nirvahara after all. And Tomrys…