Filling the grid by trusting the numbered clues will work almost everywhere. In a couple of cases though, such trust would be misplaced. For these exceptions, the setter has (elsewhere in the grid) provided pointers to point out what needs to be done. Stare at the grid, squinting if necessary, to find the pointers.

Once you've figured out what needs to be done, you can also fill in the first two blanks below (indicated by question marks). The third blank is supplied by Nina.

The conversation that follows might be an example of another ?????? ?????? exchange, this one taking place between ???????.

"Please 17 the 15!"

"Please be 16!"

"Hmph! 1d!?"