Then the mass began to quiver again and Hawklan felt the beginning of the dreadful noise curling into his mind. But this time, as it grew, it changed. It was the same and yet different in some way that he could not identify. The hatred that filled it was in some way being sated, and filled with a deep, satisfied, lethargy. The quivering ceased but the noise continued like a loathsome lullaby.
Andawyr tapped him and nodded towards the birds. As he looked, he saw their eyes were slowly closing. Quickly he looked again at the route he must take should the Alphraan need him.
Then all the eyes were closed and Hawklan waited expectantly.
‘The hold is tenuous,’ said the Alphraan, very softly. ‘And taxes us greatly. Strike now, Hawklan. The rest of you be silent and still.’
Before the voice ha
