Gus liked to make an entrance. It was late when we reached the court, but there were more people than usual wandering the grounds at that hour. Since I could no longer hide us with a glamour, he decided to make the most of it. He blew out puffs of smoke and small flames as he circled the grounds, drawing the attention of everyone there.
“Showoff,” I called, and he snorted in reply.
He landed at the top of the grounds and set me down near the door. It wasn’t until I stood in front of him that I realized this might be the last time I saw him. Our job was done, and I no longer had my goddess stone to call him.
“Don’t be a stranger, okay?” I said hoarsely.
He extended his head and nudged me playfully, knocking me over. Laughing, I patted his snout. “I’ll see you around.”
I backed up to gi
