Snippet #2217726

Correct me if I'm wrong here, but...

At the edge of the forest, Rain and Ral have a brief argument. Rivers' old friend was looking for them in the Forest of the Hunt, but he doesn't trust Rain anymore, and after an angry exchange, she says - to paraphrase - 'Go find him yourself, then!' and he says 'Fine!'

As Ral storms off, Shade runs after him, skidding on the leafy ground, and falls into step next to him. "Ral," he pants, "wait up. If we want to help Rivers..." He drops his voice, so Rain and Neil won't be privy to his words unless they are making a particular effort. "...I hate to say it, but we probably need Rain. I know it's a risk, but that goddamned Keeper collar, well, it's the only thing we know for certain can get Fate out of his head." He pauses for breath. "And even if they don't want to work with you, I do. So unless recent events have made you lose all faith in me..." Another pause, but not for breath. He toys absently with the hem of his sleeve. "...I think we should rescue our friend together."