"I am."
"Why?"
The tongues twitched in amusement. "Our well-known curiosity. Humans fascinate me—and I have traveled with you before, Ranger Esteban Tarlac. Do you not recognize me?"
Tarlac looked more closely at his visitor, and nodded. "Longclaw, isn't it? You were reported dead, shortly after that trip. I'm glad it wasn't true. But why not show yourself before?"
"What you were doing was clear; to interfere would not be proper. I came out only to greet you and wish you well."
"I appreciate it. After last night, I can use a little normality. Uh, the Traiti know now that you're intelligent. I told them."
"Unfortunate." Longclaw gestured a laugh. "I have rather enjoyed frightening those who came here thinking me a wild animal or worse. I believe I have a reputation as a ghost derybach."
Tarlac chuckled. "Sorry I spoiled your fun. Maybe I'll see you again later, but right now I have to get moving."
"Go with your gods, Ranger." With that, Longclaw rose and was gone, a flash of white vanishing into the trees.
Tarlac rose more slowly, buried his coals, and went through his morning routine. Longclaw's visit had brought him back fully to the present, and he was anxious to get back to the clanhome and finish the Ordeal.