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Even before he had finished speaking, half a dozen chattering children and one quiet but happy one came running into the clearing and rushed off to get food and drink.
Hard on their heels, Waterstone appeared by the firesite and walked purposefully over to Tarkyn. “We have trouble brewing. Remember how you set up the relays of woodfolk so we could keep in touch with everyone?”
Tarkyn nodded.
“We have just received a mindmessage from some of our woodfolk near the encampment. Stormaway went for a walk in the forest to make contact with them. They have brought in huge hunting dogs…”
“Bloodhounds,” supplied Tarkyn.
Waterstone frowned. “How did you know that?”
Tarkyn grimaced. “Lord Tolward mentioned a rumour that they might be bringing them in. I forgot all about it. Sorry. I should
