Hoshor Plains on the forefinger of an alderman

She rushes forward to embrace him, a few stumbling steps, and then stops in her tracks. Composes herself. This is not the child she once nursed; this is a man grown, a proud Melonii. It would be inappropriate and ill-fitting to show him the kind of affection one would show a pup. Instead, she smiles and gives a shaky nod.

It is so good to see you again, my son, she says fervently, tail swishing behind her. It's been so long. . . She thought of her meeting with Midar, suddenly, and it sends bells ringing through her mind. Are you with Midar? Do you know that there are other Melonii, here?