“What news?” she cried shrilly. “We sent them home!” said Bracken. “I cast a forgetting spell on them first.” “Did it work?” said Rose sharply. “Yes,” said Bracken. “Are you sure? Are you absolutely sure?” Bracken hesitated. “I think so. It seemed that way! But Rose, there are lights beyond the pass! Human lights!” Rose took in a breath through closed teeth. “Come with me,” she commanded and swept back through the pass. She scanned the valley. “Blast. Blast and stink it.” “It’s a village, isn’t it?” said Bracken. Rose nodded grimly. “Go home now, both of you. Right this minute.” “Aren’t you coming?” asked Bracken. “I have an errand to do,” said Rose. “Go back. I’ll be there soon.” “What if we just wait here?” said Nettle. “Go home!” said Rose in a terrible voice. So they did. On the Commons, the Gathering Fire glowed. Seven black hats and seven sets of bony knees were ringed around it on log benches. Even Great-Aunt Iris was there, huddled with the rest.
