SHE STOPS DANCING, but I continue to clap. “Dance, love!” I shout. “Don’t give up!”
Looking at Puru, she raises the goblet and announces, “My power . . .”
I stop clapping.
“. . . will be to save mortals from dreaming away their days. When people are forgetful, I’ll bring them a color, a song, a scent, a face. I will especially help those whose end is near. I will be the goddess of awareness and of uncertainty.”
She tilts the chalice and drinks. I see her swallow. She staggers as the drink runs through her, but my protecting wind keeps her from falling.
I am reeling myself. Kezi is safe. She comes into my arms—
But doesn’t stay. Hannu dances to us and takes her hand. They dance into the aisles of tablets. I clasp Arduk’s hand. We dance too, with Ursag joining in, then Puru, not holding anyone’s hand, but following us in time with the rhythm of our feet, singing, “Fate . . . may . . . be . . . thwarted. Happy outcome. Glad fate. Fortunate Akka.”