Falco followed Thoronmir toward the prisoner, who was sitting with his back to the wall by the gate where Gorby and Anson stood guard.
Falowik and Uien went back into the manse.
Falowik said, "You said the stones say more than what we've found. Do you think we'll find it here? And what think you of Eswen's words of sacrifice?"
"She senses as do I, my love."
"Sacrifice to what god or demon?"
"I know not."
"Let's see if we can turn up any clues here."
Uien halted and looked up.
"What is it, Uien?"
"Listen!"
Out of the north came the harsh sound of many birds. Crows. They came fast, flying low, filling the sky like a cloud of storm. Their cawing filled the air to maddening. Falowik and Uien covered their ears. The crows circled and winged about above the manse for several moments, then flew back into the north.
"That is ill news," Uien said. "Someone has power over birds to use them as messengers, and is fearless enough to send them openly."
"All the more reason to find what lies hidden in this place. And I still want a spade!"
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