It has been 6 years since Tall last saw his family.   Tall's wife, Monkey in the Clouds, is safe and with friends (including at least one follower of Oghma, god of knowledge) in an undisclosed and apparently confidential location. She wants to talk with Tall, but is committed to a commission that will last to the end of the winter. She will contact Kesian when her commission has ended. She also revealed that their daughter has taken the new name Wild Shadow.   Shortly thereafter, Kesian received a sending from Augen: "Surprise, former student. Tall's wife is wintering here in this secret monastery as a research assistant, along with their daughter. They are both safe."