Lion Head Mesa Crows will hang pine boughs at your window,

invades...

A noise ruptured the stillness of the night.

Raimo was awake. He was not often awake in the late hours, but today had been more lackluster - the heat had been dangerous, and Tavina had petitioned more breaks for him so that he did not fall ill again. Thus, he had more energy to burn despite the late hour.

The cry was long and high-strung. It reminded him of the mourning songs during the queen's funeral; drawn to it, Raimo soon found himself face to face with his companion.

He did not get nearer, and tried to study her in the dark for signs of physical injury - but instead he only found the smell of death, and grew more concerned.