They had moved as quickly as possible since leaving the burning huts and were pleased with how much ground they covered, but when they reached Halling all were in need of rest. Little houses formed a village on a steep hill overlooking a pleasant green valley. As was typical of the fallen, the houses were spread out, surrounded by trees and they blended well into the environment. A stream flowed through the bottom of the valley. It wasn’t far off dawn when they skirted around the village and climbed far up the southern side of the valley, where they found an old stone hut which didn’t appear to have been used for many years. Milgorry threw his pack into a corner. ‘I’ll go down to the village before it’s completely light,’ he said. ‘Surely you don’t think you’re going alone?’ said Louisa, looking horrified. ‘Nandul could have any number of warriors waiting to catch you the minute you appear. I’ll come with you.’ ‘Oh no, you won’t,’ said Milgorry, frowning.
