[ The teal haroomba (nicknamed Herbert, because someone had thought to call their rover Herbie) seems alarmed, and immediately backpedals to hide behind Sturmhond’s legs. Of course, he can ably speak French – Sturmhond had ensured he could speak the native languages of everyone in the rover, as well as English – so he’s quick to respond. ]

Oui, Monsieur! Je suis votre ami!

[ Sturmhond rolls his eyes. ]

Yes. So stop hiding, and come out. He won’t hurt you. Will you, Henri?

[ Herbert peeps out warily, clearly not convinced. Sturmhond’s attention has diverted back to Athos, though. ]

Did you say ten? I didn’t realise you found such enjoyment in overachieving. We only needed to make the one, you know.