Opheira walked with a number of the maidens of Hratha Vorith. Each of them led a mount, and I recognized at least Jauna.

"You weren't planning on abandoning your partners, were you?" Opheira demanded. "They aren't a Banthir you can just take milk from and leave to wander the plains. Until they release you, they would be most distressed to be left behind."

I remembered what Opheira had said about being abandoned, and I'd rather take the great feline with me than take a urine bath from the big cat, so with a smile I just scratched behind Jauna's ears.

"I didn't want to assume the gift was permanent." I...