33 Myla and I walk through the maze for hours, talking about all sorts of topics and nothing at all. Being with her is a jolt of color in an otherwise grey life. It’s close to midnight before we part. Although the hour is late, there’s no way I can sleep. Fortunately, it happens that Lady Babylon is just starting work at the Echo Vortex. She said I could visit any time during her shift. Hands down, Lady Babylon is one of my favorite thrax. Even though I last met her at the ripe old age of eight, she made a lasting impression. I look forward to the visit immensely. Which brings me to the present moment. I stand outside a large round tent made of black tapestry that’s woven through with images of concentric circles. The round pattern is the emblem of Transfer Central—the folks who manage

