Blackfeather Woods In the valley of the shadows.

Soft chatter filled the woodlands, followed by the melodic howl of Anselm's last remaining tie to this world. Could he even call Etienne a friend -- what was he, besides cruel, to the boy born of sea and sandstone?

He moved reluctantly towards the source, slowing as he saw Etienne stand alongside a figure. At first his heart bladed with a softer cousin to jealousy -- but realizing the figure was one he knew, Anselm turned aside.

Vhat is it? He asked of them both, doing his best to disguise the lingering pain from his injuries.