Okay, well, he did feel bad that Lyra felt bad. Avery hesitated a moment, and then unfolded himself and sat next to her on the bed, putting one arm across her back. "It's not a bad thing," he said, trying to be sympathetic and gentle. "It just is. There's so much weird and wonderful in the world. Makes sense to seek it out." She looked like she needed a hug, and hopefully she wouldn't push him off the bed as he kissed the top of her shoulder and rested his head close to hers. "Will you take me with you, when you get there?"