His eyes jerked open instantly, and he drew his breath sharply in horror. His slid a hand down to where Faraday’s hands were clasped loosely about his waist. She was heavy against his back, fully asleep, and unaware of the danger. “Faraday!” he whispered fiercely. She stirred. “Faraday…” “Mmm?” “Whatever happens next, take my lead. Do you hear me? Take my lead!” “But—” “Where’s the lizard?” “Against my back. Why?” “Make sure your cloak is covering him, and pray to the gods he doesn’t move!” “But—” Faraday broke off as she saw what was circling down from the sky. “Oh, dear gods!” she whispered. Drago’s hand tightened briefly about hers. “Just follow my lead, Faraday, please.” There was no time to say more. Belaguez sighed and halted, stopped by the dozen or so Hawkchilds now crouched in a semi-circle across the snow-swept path. Belaguez’s head drooped, his eyes closed, and he was asleep within a heartbeat. The central Hawkchild, a small, black-eyed boy, took several hops forward and spoke with whispery accusation.
