I turned wordlessly away, fumbling to open the door. When I glanced back over my shoulder, Sawtooth had already vanished. I let out a breath, feeling sick to my stomach with emotions that I could not name--or perhaps, simply did not want to recognize.

My mistress was fast asleep in bed, much as I had expected.

It took a long time before I was able to do the same.

The sharkpony Princess returned a few days later...