A straightforward enough question, but Tadhg takes a few moments to consider it. "The simple answer is yes," he says at last, "and like many simple answers, it's not entirely accurate."

Springing this particular ability of his on her as a surprise may appeal as a grand, dramatic gesture, but he knows from past experience that a little advance warning is usually a better idea. "I seem to recall telling you that púca are shapeshifters, yes?"