"I am an exemplar of performance under pressure," he says airily, his stick clicking against the floor as he goes over to the sofa. "But if you'd like to distract me, you're welcome to try."

Despite his best efforts at delicacy, he sits down a bit more heavily than he'd like. Percy really is doing better than he has been, but it turns out he really is lacking in some of his old finesse. With time - and archery practice - it might come back. "I'd ask what you have in mind, but I assume it'd ruin the surprise."