Whispered words melted into little vixen's mental possession. Slightly uneasy, far away, and barely a whisper . . .

"You are stronger than even Emblem or I have the courage to let on . . . possibly stronger than even myself or he. Find some way to bring back Shifter, she is of an increasing value to these lands and I would like you to see to it that any who might be able to bring her back will. Even if it must be forced. Watch over these lands and learn from the earth itself. Mortals and immortals alike can only teach you so much, the rest is up to you. Take care to do only good . . . "

The voice shifted, as if afraid and confused . . . somewhere his own flesh quivered in response. For a chill swept through him, and he grew tired.

"I must leave you now, for how long I am not sure, but there are others you may reach. I ask that you do not reach out to my daughter, Characteristics of the Unknown in the near future. It is for your own safety, but her mate should have already learned the ability of mental proceedings, and his mind is stable and safe. Take care, Raven. You are extremely valuable to these lands . . . do not fall to the wrong side. Whether either side knows it or not yet."

And then he was gone, his entire focus upon the task at hand. A distance apart, though so close.