“I’m always interested in the longer version,” Strange says; and it is, actually, the truth. For all his brusque impatience in professional matters and a tendency to want to get to the point already, he is, still, curious about the pieces that cobble people together. The ways they tick, and understanding why.

Wong and the Ancient One had worked on drumming that particular patience into him, a willingness to listen and pay attention. It’s not always about you, Stephen.

“So you support more radical reform? I didn’t realise you for a rebel, Orlov.” His voice is light enough to make it a gentle prod; under the guise of faint humour.