The prisoner does as Ari commands, holding their hands up and stepping backwards slowly. Still, they don't appear at all afraid, their brown eyes twinkling and something like a smile tugging at their lips.

"My God, it worked. I knew it would. Well, I didn't know for certain, but I was giving myself an 80 percent chance of success. Cam told me I was being cocky, but if anything, the estimate was conservative. And here you are!

"Lieutenant Tayrey, it is a pleasure to see you again. Now, would you please shut the door and sit down so I can explain?"