IGNATIUS NEVER USUALLY SLEPT ON the eve of battle but the warmth Cat created soothed him into a lull. A firm hand on his shoulder made him jerk awake, body reacting instantly, and he flipped Cat onto the ground behind him.

'Peace, Ignatius,' said an amused voice. 'It's Cat's turn to shield.'

The dim light from the lamp Sabyn offered showed the faint smile he wore when he handed the torch over before disappearing in the dark. Behind Ignatius, Cat muttered as she ...