Lunise remained twisted to keep an eye on Leaps. Her eyes glanced quickly to Kaleeth, but not long enough to divert her close watch of the beast behind her.

Leaps turned his head on Meesei's hand and let his mouth fall ajar. He usually communicated where he wanted to be pat by the pack in such a way. The pet-like behaviour did nothing to waver Lunise's uncertain stare.

"You can give him a rub if you like," Janius suggested. "If he didn't like you, you would know it by now."

Curling her lips, Lunise shook her head. "I would rather not," she declared flatly. "Thank you."