As a beta and an impeccable house guest, it shouldn't have surprised Biffy that Randolph fell instep with him and then half a pace behind. Daine had never stood much on ceremony in this home and rather broken Biffy of the habit in the process but he had also had quite a lot of time to adjust to the new paradigm. Hoping to reassure him, Biffy reached back and took Randolph's hand.

But Daine, the cheeky girl, also didn't stand on ceremony when she smiled at them behind her teacup, enunciating the word with so much casualness that it only became more pert.

"And a good evening to you," Biffy said. "I suppose introductions are in order, then. Randolph, this is Miss Veralidaine Sarrasri, Daine. Daine, this is Professor Randolph Lyall. He may be joining our household." The last part was spoken with a clear hopefulness.