“So, it is just me who isn’t allowed to eat people, now?” Sphix asked quietly, more focused on her own reflection. Chantinelle had been right; the dress did look good on her. She smiled, showing her teeth. Too bad she didn’t have more outfits like this.

When the sphinx had got enough of the mirror, she slammed the door shut and stalked to look at the jewellery. She fingered one of the objects, then put it back down.

“Just so you know”, she said, not looking at Ellie, “I would offer you something in return, but, alas, I don’t have any fresh meat right now. But if I did, I just might share some of it."