Quietly, they passed through the rest of the museum, so much fuel for his own work. Until now, he had mainly mimicked others but possibly he might create something new, going forward. More to the point, excitement built within him at the prospect of trying. Such novelty—there was nothing he must achieve. Being with Qalu meant freedom he had never known before. Only his personal choices and preferences mattered. Once they viewed all the exhibits—and he returned to a few favorites—it was time to go home.

“Aevi must be missing us,” she noted.

“I have never been missed.”

“That likely isn’t true. I’m sure your friend on Barath is wondering how you are and if you’re well. Have you sent any—oh. Right. You don’t remember.”

She had probably been wondering if he’d messaged Zylar, but he had no recollection of doing so. If I did, it must have been during that lost half cycle. But it wasn’t too late.

“Do you think I could contact Barath when we get back?”

“Of course. The distance precludes direct contact and there will be a delay in the response, but I’ll set up a private account for you on the extranet. I’m sorry, I never meant for you to be cut off from your friends.”

“It’s not your fault. I’ve been quite occupied getting acclimated to my new circumstances, but now that things have settled, I should reach out.”

Six spans have passed. By now, the Choosing would be over. Zylar and Beryl would have received their ruling, one way or another.

“Understood. Let’s go home.”

Just as when she’d said “our domicile,” Qalu’s use of the word “home” had a peculiar impact on Helix. His whole body quivered, a softer echo of when they had twined their head tendrils together. Tension swirled away as he followed her back down the ramp, several levels, all the way to the ground. Outside, the light was already waning. He recalled that she had mentioned long darktides, and the shadows on the ground grew longer with their every stride.

“I’d like to show you how to summon transport. May I touch your wrist unit?” Qalu waited for Helix’s assent before reaching out. Even then, she didn’t graze his flesh, only manipulated the display. “This is the icon. I’m keying the number of passengers and the address. Then tap this to send.”

“Simple,” Helix said. “I will remember how it’s done.”