"Aye, I kennit," says Susan, who's all too familiar with the phenomenon of doors appearing in the air to lead elsewhere.

(other worlds than these)

But it's the way the talking mouse addresses her that causes a visible flicker of surprise and a sudden dawning realization, and she sets her letter aside to get to her feet and return his bow with a deep curtsey and a bright, warm smile.

"We're well-met, I hope," she tells him. "I'm Susan Delgado, late of Hambry in Mejis, and I'll answer yer questions as best I can."