Riley ran after Brian, Mitsuko close on his heels. As they reached the courtyard, they saw Brian raise a hand to the sky. A riderless osprey touched the ground next to him and he jumped on its back.
“Damn,” Riley said as Brian launched into the sky and headed west. “I need a bird.”
“Lord Mefano.” Mitsuko spoke to a man standing nearby who was directing the activities of the sky-folk. “We must fly immediately; it is an emergency. Riley needs a bird.”
Lord Mefano raised his hand. “Take Maala,” he said to Riley as a blue heron landed near them. “She will carry you.”
“Thank you.” Riley gripped his hand. “I look forward to speaking with you when there is more time.”
Riley mounted the giant bird and felt the rush of wind against his face as the ground fell away below him. Looking back, he s
