The Shell was psychic; Illyria knows what is to come. When the boy is hit by a van she is there to intercept it and break the demon driver's neck. By the time she gets back the boy is climbing to his feet, his so-called parents amazed by his survival.

"Connor Reilley?"

He nods warily, then steps back as she drops the driver at his feet.

"You and your parents are hunted by demons. There is great danger."

An irritating remnant of the shell's personality prompts her to add eight words: "Come with me if you want to live."

End