"Removing the Shard increases its sensitivity, which allows you to better communicate across distances," Xishen says, assuming a tone of pure practicality. "These things will always be easier between those that share a Legacy, though... like we do."

That sits for a moment, and then she moves on.

"The truth is, I don't know what capabilities the enemy may have. For those that are still alive... they've had years to learn and adapt. Maybe it was only possible to get a brief message through."

Whatever Ciel is trying to imply, Xishen is certainly not taking the bait.