"Exactly," she consented. It was precisely what she meant. She'd rather the dog be angry with her for a few days than to die, even if there was the possibility that he'd be returned here. She didn't want to contemplate such a fate. Not for such a dear companion.

His smile may have been playful, but the look in his eyes was one she recognized immediately for what it was. It was cunning, the same glint that flickered in Zevran's eyes when he was ready to play and win, when he would draw his blades and saunter up to a target who never stood a chance. And that was exactly what she wanted.

She shrugged. "I'll take my chances. I'm not afraid of a challenge," she said, reaching over to take her glass and finish off what was left of her drink. "Like you said, it'll be fun."