The lightning caught Richtofen's attention. He marked his place in his book with a thumb, then sat up and regarded the man with a quick up-and-down look. A smile blossomed on his face that was one part "friendly," one part intrigued.

"Und what a vibrant one you are, too!" he said. "Now, now, calm down a bit. The doctor will only answer questions if he is not being threatened with imminent bodily harm."