[ Consternation shadows his brow, already creased with exertion. Not physically, but mentally. Should be illegal, he thinks; she really turned the big shiny eyes on him. Looking to him for an answer he has but dislikes having to say for the way he can't actually get to the bottom of anything. Inertness, an ability to uncover secrets... it burns unkindly in his chest. ]

I'm afraid we're a long way from the HIA Club. [ Not underestimating her hopefulness, he tacks on: ] And from New Eridu in general.

[ Part of him thinks better of reaching out to her, instead giving his head a toss towards a tropical outcrop not far from the beach. ]

What do you say we get out of this sun? I've got a few questions for you, if you don't mind. Then I'll open the floor up to you.