THE MEN DRAPED THE LIEUTENANT'S limp form over the back of a cavalry soldier. Two other soldiers stepped forward to guard the exit and prevent the vorks from coming through.

Leseach watched it, then turned back to Sian who lay on a bedroll, staring at the ceiling of thin triangular stalactites. 'How are you feeling?'

'Concerned.'

Leseach leaned over the frowning girl. 'Why?'

Sian extended a hand and pointed at the ceiling. 'What's the likelihood of those ...