Thanks Pixis!  I like the idea of taking pre-existing mythological characters and using them as characters - just as you yourself have done (e.g. abatwas, homonculi, etc).  I've got a few more ideas for different "occupations" these Helpers might serve in.  The nice thing about the vignette structure is that it gives me the freedom to add chapters whenever I want at any time without having to care too much about an overarching plot.