Every now and then I turn my head back to watch them as they draw in the energy of the woodland. It is my hope that at least one of them will become as connected with nature itself as I have in my years among Taviora.

As we stop at the northernmost edge of the forest to discuss where we were to venture to first, I turn to view the three of them in full, my lilac eyes flicking to Vortigern first. A gentle smile brightens my fiery features as he speaks and it is with excitement in my voice that I respond. ”Certainly, Vortigern! We will take the long route so that we may see many things on our journey.” My gaze moves to that of the other two so that they may offer their input just as well, my head cocking to the side as Tzadkiel voices his opinion now.

A befuddled expression befalls me as my eyes drift away from the boy and toward the plateaus in the distance. A rush of spring wind blows through the trees, bringing my attention back to them just as Scarlett agrees upon what seems to be a unanimous decision. ”I have never been within the canyons of the Angels but as long as Taviora and Diveen are allies then I assume that we will be welcome.” I am hesitant, only because I know very little of other packs and their workings, but if there is Angel blood amongst us then who are they to say ‘no’?

I shake off the slightest bit of worry that remains, seeing as we have nearly the entire forest to tread through before we get to Diveen, and continue on in the direction of the pack. My pace is kept at a leisurely walk as we move along, the songs of the birds above adding a soundtrack to our little adventure. It is when I hear the barking of a coyote that I stop and swish my tail, signaling the children to listen closely. I turn now to face them, my body crouching low as my voice leaves in calm tones. ”Do you know what that is calling from the distance?” I question them, curious to see if any one of them know the answer. I await for any of them to answer before speaking once more. ”It is imperative to decipher the sounds of the creatures around you so that you may determine whether it is friend or foe. But be wary either way. Just because the coyote fears the wolf does not mean it cannot have a spurt of bravery every now and then.” I speak matter-of-factly before pivoting back around and continuing onward. My eyes and ears remain alert as I keep watch for said coyote – who knows if it will try to make an easy meal of one of my followers this day.

We round a small boulder a few moments later and a cluster of berries present themselves to us all for another chance at educating. ”For any of you who are thinking about learning the art of healing then this is your chance. Are the berries here known as poisonous or non-poisonous? Take a close look at their leaves and their color.” I ask of them once more, urging someone to spark up an answer if they had heard of such before today.

We were halfway to Diveen by know and there was so much more I could show them of the woodland. Perhaps on the way back they could learn a bit more.