"How very American," Anatoly remarked mildly, choosing to ignore the mention of children. "To focus on strategy and war rather than the beauty in the pieces and patterns. It is no surprise to me there are few great American chess players."

He paused, giving Lionel the sort of smile he used to give to the press back in the early days before Bangkok and Merano - something warm and friendly that did not reach his eyes. "I would be happy to play a game."