Ariel reached to rub Rukeewei's upper arm. "No need to be nervous, dear. We're both out our depth with all this 'spy' business, I think."

"There are similarities with the books," Sabine said. "It is not as exciting, though. Just strict. I would not like needing to act like Saras does."

"Sabine's right," Karl added. "I have never had to meet the man personally but everyone at home is beholden to his policies on keeping things a secret. No one arrives or leaves without Saras knowing where they've been and where they're going. I understand the need, it's just feels a little patronising at times."

"Hmhm." Sabine smiled. "I wonder if he knows we are here?" She asked rhetorically, while looking sideways at Meesei.

Karl spoke up again. "Rukeewei, Ariel, I know this is a change of subject, but you mentioned earlier about finding schooling for your children. What are the school houses like here? Do they get along with the other children there?"