"It's my pleasure, Bethany. Butterball is fine--and eating everything in sight. I've tried to give him some attention, when Potato and Buttons permit me." Those names will never not make her sigh a little, but she's almost resigned to them now. Almost.

Aleron's news prompts a smile and agreeable nod from her, eager to see animals not blighted or bred for war. Mabari will always come first in her heart, but the innocence of lambs is a rare thing. "Tomorrow it is, then. I'll ensure that Garahel is left in suitable company. He will not interfere."