“Several years ago, one of the specialties I was studying was tracking. These days most tracking is done on computers, but I was interested in the actual physical tracking process. I researched and found that without doubt the place to get the best training was with the Shadow Wolves unit of Native American trackers in Arizona. Homeland Security offered the course, but the training was done purely by the Indians. I was on my way the next week. I’d been in training almost a month when I ran across Margaret on a trail in the desert. We liked each other right away. Who wouldn’t like Margaret? She worked at an animal clinic on an island in the Caribbean, but she told me she came back to the Shadow Wolves every year for a tracking refresher session. I’d never seen anyone as good at tracking as Margaret, not even the Native American instructors.” She smiled. “I learned an enormous amount from her in a short time. When she was tracking, she seemed to be part of the earth, part of the forest, part of all the animals around her. Like I said, we became good friends. She was actually the first friend I’d really ever had. I was always too busy working, searching for answers, trying to be the best.” She looked down into the fire. “I watched her, she…fascinated me. I couldn’t help but try to take everything about her apart to see how it ticked. It’s what I do with everything.” She moistened her lips. “And before I left, I managed to do that with Margaret. Though I think that she let me do it because she trusted me.” She made a face. “Or maybe she was just as lonely as I was.” She glanced at Korgan. “I’m not just meandering. I’m getting to what you need to know.”

“Surprisingly, I’m not feeling impatient any longer. You’re giving me a picture of the way you think and the person you are that may be valuable to me later.” He tilted his head. “Plus a tale of Native Americans and trackers and two friends finding each other. I’m actually finding it rather touching. And what else do I have to do tonight?”

“I don’t want you to be touched. No one has to feel sorry for me. I’m just going for understanding.” She added wryly, “Which I’m probably not going to get from you in the next few minutes.”

“Ah, the meandering is done?” His faint smile faded. “Your entire story was revolving about your friend Margaret. I’d guess you’re not finished. What else do I need to know about her?”