[ She knows those minutes are likely to hours for the Dog, so Lirael is very appreciative of the honor. Once the Dog is free and half her face is slimy, Lirael leans back, half squatting and half sitting. ]

And I keep telling you, I'm not worthy of such attentions.

[ She takes a moment to give her loyal friend a longing look, almost as she feared she would be gone by the time she blinked. ]

The currents of Death have strange destinations, don't they?