WE ALL MADE AN EFFORT to shake the serious mood off. Elena closed the circle, signalling the end of training. Yanking off my boots, I tossed them to the side and helped Sian spread a blanket. We laid the food Hiranes had packed out over the blanket, and everyone grabbed a plate. Sito suddenly looked more interested.

'Food?' Came the loud, hopeful thought.

Sian gave him a look. 'You ate just the other day, and I know that'll satisfy you for at least another ...