33. Coda

Bob arrives at Misty Falls after gaining ANEC's approval to leave the simulation, and visits Theresa's home to fulfill his promise to help her learn about both their worlds. The chapter serves as a coda to the larger narrative, showing the aftermath of the conflict and Bob's reunion with an old friend.

Bob exits the transit station near Misty Falls with newfound freedom under ANEC's dispensation. He travels by stream to the town and locates the Sykorski family home, a large Roman-style courtyard house. Upon arrival, Belinda answers the door and lets him in. While waiting, two young badgers greet Bob—recently sentient creatures still in early stages of development. Theresa emerges, visibly aged since their last meeting, and settles into a chair with help from Belinda and Bob. Theresa makes a cryptic reference to the Bawbes causing disruption in the region, hinting at Bob's involvement. Bob tells her he has come to grant her wish: to learn more about her world and his. The chapter ends with this reunion and implicit promise of knowledge-sharing between them.