Useless dog! Matilda shoots a betrayed look at Cif, resisting the urge to release the weapon and get the hell out of there. It's hot- helplessly hot, especially under the ridiculous amount of layers and frills that she always wears. Thankfully she has her gloves on, or she might struggle to hold onto the weapon. She barely registers Zafika's shout, but when she does--

"I'm already pulling with all of my unbridled force!" Matilda snaps, but she closes her eyes again, relaxing her grip for just a moment--

[Matilda yanks once more as the flash happens]