Summary

Thomas wakes up in the forest as Michal tells him they missed the gathering. Thomas asks Michal about the Kentucky Derby as he considers for the first time that both worlds might be real. Michal thinks he is crazy for asking, and instead explains that the forest world is home to a million people and death only exists in the black forest. The first human Tanis and his wife Miruim had a large number of children that created many separate tribes. While they all celebrate the Gathering every night, once a year, every tribe comes together for the Great Gathering which is in 53 days. Thomas asks about the Kentucky Derby again and Michal (not wanting him to go to the black forest where the leader Teeleh would have the answer) tells him Joy Flyer won. Michal takes Thomas to a building...