Furiosa hums thoughtfully. "I have to admit, shadow monsters aren't normal seasonal events for any place I've heard of. I want to understand, but understanding isn't as important as outlasting."

"It doesn't matter much right now whether it's something being done out of spite. We can worry about all that once we're sure we can survive. But if I did see Hazel around, I'd love to ask her."

"In the meantime, whatever you need from me, you've got it. But on the off-chance I don't make it until the portals thaw, would you mind checking on my world? Or sending someone else you trust? They...should be fine without me, but just in case."