[Horatio's hand has found its way to Archie's shoulder closest to him, and he squeezes a bit at the slap on the back. For now, there is no hesitation to his words, and he laughs.]

Just before the new year. [He should be more concerned about his next words, but it doesn't matter right now. Nothing matters except who he's getting to tell this to.] Never even got to see the Atropos. My orders were to report to Plymouth to fit her, but... [He gestures with his free hand to the area around them.] Never made it there.