[Mithadan]

Khelek and Veritas sat with Mithadan on the foredeck. Mithadan was sweating as if from great exertion while Veritas and Khelek sat calmly with slightly amused looks on their faces.

"You must learn to send your thoughts selectively, so that no others but the intended person can receive them," said Khelek. "Otherwise, you might as well be shouting out your secrets in the midst of a crowd. Perhaps the best way to do this is by attempting to shut out my thoughts while Veritas sends hers to you. Let's attempt this."

The three sat still and silent. Mithadan concentrated on receiving only Veritas' thoughts to the exclusion of all others. Then he heard two voices in his head saying simultaneously, "Your hair is a mess." "You need a bath."

Mithadan growled at the Elves who well nigh collapsed in laughter. "Didn't work?" gasped Khelek. "Let's try again. And concentrate less. There is no need to be so tense unless someone is attempting to penetrate your mind without leave."

Mithadan took a breath, then attempted to clear his mind. He envisioned a wall between himself and Khelek and an open tunnel between he and Veritas. This time, he heard but one voice, "He's right, you do need a bath, Man."

Mithadan smiled and jumped up. "It worked," he cried. Then he turned to face Veritas with a frown. "Wait a minute..." Veritas' face was a mask of innocence.