[A.B.A will take stiffening over running away. The fact that Shoka doesn't take off as soon as she rests her massive body means more to her than she'll ever know, nothing is scarier than the sight of someone walking away. But no, most of them have been so good about staying put... She doesn't need leashes, she doesn't need chains...

She told Paracelsus she would try... No more confinement... Perhaps practicing with her new friends will help her ease into that idea. They listen so, so well.]

I was worried... Worried I wouldn't find anyone who'd want to work alongside me...

[She lies her head next to Shoka, looking up at her from an angle. Perhaps to get more on her level, but also because she's exhausted.]

I know you admire me for my superiority... [Uh...huh.] ...but the truth is I'm...scared. Terrified. I've always had my husband by my side...for years now, I can't stand the thought of being alone again. I did miss you...dearly. I enjoy your company... And now...I can experience it more...