"The wear and tear of winter freezes is worth observing," he says. So yes, he's interested. No matter where the rest of the world goes, the promise of something archaeological to look forward to will help. "Highest summer would be best, and it means more time to acquire the appropriate equipment, as well as safer nights with no risk of a freeze."

The equipment thing? That's not a knock on Strange, but on Alucard himself. He has never felt so underprepared for this kind of work in his life, and while it might not show, he feels it keenly. Really, a stick to measure and not much else? Embarrassing.

"At any rate," Alucard continues, eyes going down to the page to ensure that he's satisfied with the sketch in his hand. "This is a good first study. Certainly enough data to work from."