The Childlike Empress: It was the only way to get in touch with an earthling.
Atreyu: But I didn't get in touch with an earthling!
The Childlike Empress: Yes, you did. He has suffered with you. He went through everything you went through; and now, he has come here with you. He is very close... listening to every word, we say.
Bastian: [as he is reading, Bastian can't believe it] *What*?