"This version of you has been asleep too long already. Hear what I have to say, at least a little, then decide," she said. "Oh, Paul, I am glad I came here. The others want to see you too, but they are so busy—there is still so much to do. But when you are healthy we will visit them all."
"I don't think I'll be able to travel terribly soon, at least not far."
She shook her head and smiled again. "Your friends are closer than you think."
"What friends? You keep saying that." He searched his still-fuzzy memory. "Do you mean Niles?"
The woman called Martine laughed. "I am certain this Niles is a fine person—but no. You have the most wonderful friends imaginable, friends who have suffered at your side and who have triumphed against all odds, in large part because of your heroism."
"Then why can't I remember them?"
"Because, Paul—dear, brave Paul—you haven't met them yet. But you will."