I was mesmerized by the struggle. The leopard was trying to change. It looked vaguely womanish.

Come on! One-Eye swore sulphurously. That thing was after you, you know. Sent. Lets move before it gets away.

It had no end of energy, despite Bonegnashers immense strength and savagery. The Taken had destroyed its left shoulder with his teeth.

One-Eye was right. Across the way the Rebel was getting excited. Fighting could break out. Time to make tracks, for both reasons. I grabbed my kit and scooted.

We passed both Stormbringer and Soulcatcher getting back. I gave each a mocking salute, driven by I dont know what tomfool bravado. One, I was sure, initiated the attack. Neither responded.

Reaction did not set in till I was safe atop the pyramid, with the Company, with nothing to do but think about what could have happened. Then I started shaking so bad One-Eye gave me one of my own knockout draughts.

Something visited my dreams. Old friend now. Golden glow and beautiful face. As before, My Faithful need not fear.

There was a hint of light in the east when the drug wore off. I wakened less frightened, but hardly confident. Three times they had tried. Anyone that set on killing me would find a way. No matter what the Lady said.

One-Eye appeared almost immediately. You all right?

Yeah. Fine.

You missed a hell of a show.

I raised an eyebrow.

The Circle and the Taken went at it after your lights went out. Only stopped a little while ago. A little hairy around the edges this time. Bonegnasher and Stormbringer got skragged. Looks like they did it to each other. Come here. I want to show you something.

Grumbling, I followed him. How bad did the Rebel get hurt?

You hear different stories. But plenty. At least four of them bought it. He halted at the front edge of the pyramid top, gestured dramatically.

What?

You blind? I got only one eye and I can see better than you?

Give me a hint.

Look for a crucifixion.

Oh. That told, I had no trouble finding the cross planted near Stormbringers command post, Okay. So what?

Thats your friend. The forvalaka.

Mine?

Ours? A delightfully wicked expression crossed his face. End of a long story, Croaker. And a satisfying one. Either way it was, whoever killed Tom-Tom, I lived to see them reach an evil end.

Yeah. To our left Raven and Darling watched the Rebel move up. Their fingers blurred. They were too far for me to catch much. It was like overhearing a conversation in a language with which you have only a formal acquaintance. Goobledegook. Whats eating Raven lately?

What do you mean?

He dont have anything to do with anybody but Darling. Dont even hang around the Captain anymore. Hasnt gotten into a card game since we brought in Feather and Journey. Gets all sour whenever you try to be nice to Darling. Something happen while we were away?