Things were beginning to calm down.  Lyra's powers were starting to lose their effect on Toby, allowing him to regain control of his form.  He slowly returned to his human form and crouched next to the still unconscious Artemis.  He had to collect himself; he was fully aware of what he felt while under the Sorrow's effect.  It was something he hadn't felt for a long time, and it was not something he was anxious to relive.  He stared at his friend, thankful that she hadn't seen the monster he'd become.  To him, nothing else mattered right now...  He shakily reached out his hand to brush her cheek, or some such romantic gesture, but he lacked fortitude, partly because turning into the monster drained him, physically and mentally.  He was also partially afraid; he barely knew her.  Was a simple touch too forward?  He didn't want to find out.  He performed a visual check for signs of life (yes, her chest was rising and falling, meaning that she was at least breathing).

He whispered the words, "I'm sorry," and, still half crouched, slinked his way out of the mall.