The current summary of the ending reads:
"The framing device reveals what happened. When the wild machines worked their miracle in 1477 they did not destroy humanity. Instead they altered history."
Based on the text of the novel, I disagree. The novel tells us that Ash was not a failure, rather she is the product of the secret breeding program to produce a consistent miracle worker.
My take: Using her newfound ability, Ash works a miracle, moving herself and her company -- including Florian/Floria to the present time, where they are peacekeepers for the United Nations. As part of the nearest thing to a world government, that makes the whole world part of "Burgundy". And as Duchess of Burgundy, Floria is able to suppress miracle-working over the entire world. Presumably this will be carried on by her successors -- whoever can "hunt the hart" -- that is, make the mythic hart with a cross in its horns into a real, solid stag that can be killed.
This article is within the scope of WikiProject Novels, an attempt to build a comprehensive and detailed guide to novels, novellas, novelettes and short stories on Wikipedia. If you would like to participate, please visit the project page, where you can join the project and contribute to the general Project discussion to talk over new ideas and suggestions.NovelsWikipedia:WikiProject NovelsTemplate:WikiProject Novelsnovel articles
This article is within the scope of WikiProject Women writers, a collaborative effort to improve the coverage of women writers on Wikipedia. If you would like to participate, please visit the project page, where you can join the discussion and see a list of open tasks.Women writersWikipedia:WikiProject Women writersTemplate:WikiProject Women writersWomen writers articles
.jpg){kind=small}