"That... I know that too," Avery replies, so quietly that Scorpius automatically squats down to hear him better. He stares at the soldier, an ugly plastic toy whose feet look twisted as if someone had melted them away. "But I come in peace, even if that sounds strange. Your father came to my house this morning to interrogate us, and I swear to you that I - Yes, Mum, I'm talking to myself. I'm practising for my interview with Professor Nygaard. Do you need anything from me?"