"That you are an alien, with magical powers, and that he was sending you to me to do what you have just done. That you have sympathies to reds and might eventually be persuaded to supply us with additional planets or a good place on this one to put reds whose homes are no longer welcoming to them."

He nods. "Sounds about right. Is there anything you think I should know, or that you would like?"

"I expect Aitim to be a useful guide and recommend him to you. I have no needs so urgent they would be best addressed with alien magic, but thank you for the offer."

He nods. "Then I think this is probably all, yes?"

"Yes. Have a lovely day."

He sees himself out and calls Aitim.

"Hello?"

"Hello. I just talked to Governor Avalor, she should be feeling much better now."

"I am so glad to hear it. What can I do for you?"

"I believe after this I was to go to Orvara but I understand planes are not yet flying?"

"Bought you a ticket on one tomorrow but it's emergency business only today, they've only got one runway cleared and they have to de-ice everything."

"I understand. Where should I meet you?"

"To retrieve me," she clarifies.

"I can take the train in towards the capital and be there in two hours, or we could try to meet halfway."

"I'll run."

"That works too."

"Okay. I'll see you soon."

He hangs up and runs.

He takes the train towards the capital.

And when they arrive he spots Aitim—

—and the butterfly flutters her wings in agitation. "That's him," she whispers.

Butterfly can go find Sadai.

She lands on his palm.

And he very gently and delicately strokes her wings with a finger.

"Thank you."

He nods. "You're welcome. I want to eventually give that—more than that—to everyone."