Drinking down about half of his coffee, Mark continued.

"Speaking of Illya? Worthwhile bloke to get to know. He has a thick shell to get through, but take my word, it's worth the effort."

"Not doubting you, but how so?"

"He's what might Gran would call a Renaissance man. Well-educated with an active interest in a wide array of things - I've lost count of the number of languages he speaks. I got to chat with him quite a bit when he helped me move into my new flat. Has a wicked sense of humor as well."