Horcecow,
Glad you liked "Gateways."
But not everyone has read "Hosts." You mention something critical and surprising that happens in "Hosts," so you should add a spoiler alert on your post to warn folks.
M
Reading is freedom.
The mind soars, no earthly cares,
no limitations.
A Maggers Haiku, 2005
Years ago my mother used to say to me... "In this world, Elwood, you can be oh so smart or oh so pleasant."
Well, for years I was smart.
I recommend pleasant.
You may quote me.
Elwood P. Dowd