"I look forward to it," Irina replied with a smile. She found her hostess very pleasant to be around, which wouldn't necessarily stop her from trying to take advantage of her, but certainly made it more pleasant.<br/><br/>She nodded as Malsika spoke about the dogs and replied, "Yes, I've heard them howling quite a lot. I wonder what has them riled. My husband always said that dogs knew more than humans about certain things..." It was said in genuine innocence, merely as a way to direct the conversation the the foibles of canines and husbands, both of which Lydia regarded in pretty much the same way -- useful, but usually more trouble than they were worth  -- though her persona as Irina had a somewhat higher opinion of men.<br/><br/>She jumped as she heard the gunshot. "Perhaps that was it... I hope no one was hurt..."