-233- [Return from a Long Absence]

[impure_tale]

[The sound of happy barking in the background.]

It would seem that I took an unexpected leave of absence. My apologies to everyone I did not speak to beforehand, and it is my sincerest hopes that I did not give you a fright.

To the many new arrivals that have come in the time I have been gone: Welcome, and enjoy your stay.

To all others: Happy New Year? 

Comments

[keeps_a_cool_head]

Your animal eats...walks?

[brb checking to make sure his translator microbes are working properly]

[impure_tale]

Just an expression. What I mean to say is that it's what she desires.

[keeps_a_cool_head]

Is she carnivorous?

[impure_tale]

Mostly. Dogs tend to eat meats but I understand the odd introduction of a vegetable or two can be good for them.

[keeps_a_cool_head]

Vicious?

[impure_tale]

Only when threatened.

[keeps_a_cool_head]

And what do you consider threatening, Marquis de Sade?

[impure_tale]

Physical violence toward her or myself.

[keeps_a_cool_head]

Very wise.


I will sleep better knowing she is just next door.

[impure_tale]

She's actually quite friendly. Perhaps you'll meet her very soon. She accompanies me most places.

[keeps_a_cool_head]

I'll make a point of it.

Tell me; what special skills does she possess? Besides her usefulness as a guard.

[impure_tale]

She's very fast and can catch thrown objects mid-air. She also knows how to fetch help if I am in need of a doctor.

[keeps_a_cool_head]

What a clever, useful creature.