She opened her phone and dialed a number, then greeted the woman and asked to speak to Gwenyth. "Hi Gwen, it's Miriam. Is it still all right if I come stay with you for a while?"

"Sure, cuz. Stay as long as you want, we're looking forward to seeing you."

"I have some traveling companions along with me. A new acolyte, she's in some danger, but she has these two big DOGS with her. I know how you feel about their kind."

"Are they necessary?"

"They protect her with their lives, and she needs them."

There was a pause. "FINE, but they better be on their best behavior. There's a...