"Cosmic ray detector."

"Incorrect. The correct answer is Geiger counter. You have three possible failures remaining. Next question. What functions do the spikes on the moloch perform? Name all three."

"Defense. Heat radiation and collection of moisture," typed Turran.

"Correct. Logic. Given five objects and four containers, place all objects into all containers without damaging the containers or objects."

Turran wanted to jump from the chair and throw himself at the door. This was too hard! He tried algebra but there was no solution. He tried some algorithms and gave up. The seconds slipped away, tick, tick, tick, consuming his life, measuring his heartbeat. His father smiled encouragingly but Turran felt nothing but coldness and fear.

In desperation, he typed a question.

"Repeat."

The computer repeated the question.

"Explain."

"I am not permitted to explain further. You have ten seconds."

"Wait."

"An extension of thirty seconds has been granted."

Turran thought of fruit. If he had five apples, and four bags . . . the answer came to him in a flash.

"Place five objects into first container, then place first container into second, third, fourth and fifth containers."

"Correct. Next question. What is the name of..."

Turran's father nodded his head very slightly. The watchers in the control room would not have noticed it, but Turran knew what it meant.

"I have a question?" typed Turran.

"Permission granted. Ask."

"If I am telling the truth, and I tell you I am lying, can you believe me?"