“State your name.”

“Paul Trudits.”

A pause. “We have no record of you,” the computerized voice said. “Please stand by.”

“No record? I’ve been in the system for years.” Paul’s protest elicited no response.

“We will need to determine which Trudits family you belong to,” the voice said at length. “Please answer yes if any of the following statements pertain to you.”

“Okay, but I’m not sure how-”

“I grew up at Briscombe House in Surence, Stuttery.”

“What? No!”

“My aunt was originally from Unteart village in Gauscierry.”

Paul scratched his head. “What is that supposed to mean? I don’t-”

“My father was stationed at Suarkend in Zamastrahar Province during the war.”

“Where the hell are you getting this? I don’t even know what that means!”