"The rats, hmm?"

There was a long, thoughtful pause. Eventually, blessedly, Valya stepped away from Rinley's neck. She spoke in what she thought was a reassuring way.

"I see. You and the rats shouldn't concern yourselves with this any more. I'll handle everything. Just forget all about it."

Valya was terrible at reassurance. Oblivious to this, she changed the topic. She'd finally noticed the unusual fashion choices of her visitors. Eyes flicked between Rinley and Naomi. Valya's mind searched (in vain) for some rational explanation.

"Rinley, why are you dressed as a vampire? You should be careful with outfits like that. Some of this town's other undead could take serious offence.

And are those princess pyjamas? Bold choice. I'd have thought you'd be cold. But then, I don't feel the cold any more. Maybe I'm misremembering."