"There isn't enough time to begin to explain, and it isn't a topic that can stand to be shortened." But she would tell him all the same if those other conditions could be met. "What I do know is that if you, for once listen to what I am saying then we inevitably walk the path together. Take care of yours, and come to me. By that time I should be able to explain it appropriately." Her head tilted and, again, there was that hint of herself. "Besides, I doubt Alain will let me cast him out for his own good, so I'll need to put you two back together as well."

That wasn't to say she wouldn't give it a fair try but of all people to travel with she imagined Alain was the most stubborn, the most unmovable. It was an endearing quality.