By the time dusk fell, Rynere was exhausted. Despite all her protests, Tace wouldn't let them stop.

"If Matthan is this much of a threat we should have gotten rid of him when we had the chance," Kyndran grumbled.

"He's not," Tace said offhandedly.

"Then why can't we stop?" Rynere complained.

"Because we have another problem."

"What is it?"

"We're being followed by something else."

"Something?" Rynere nearly shrieked.

"You know," Tace turned around, "I'd really appreciate it if you didn't do that."

"What thing are you talking about?" Rynere didn't quiet down.

"If you insist upon knowing, just remember that it was you who asked."

"What is it?"

"A couple of kekailas."

"What are those?"

"You don't want to know."

"Yes, I do."

"No, you don't."

"Just tell us," Kyndran said, irritated.

"Don't say I didn't warn you."

"Just tell us!"

"They're brown and furry. And pretty small."

"So what's so dangerous?" Kyndran said annoyedly.

"They've also got lightning-quick reflexes and fangs that are about three inches long. And then there are their claws."

Rynere stared at him.

"Oh, they probably can't do that much damage," Kyndran scoffed. Tace cocked an eyebrow.

"Wouldn't count on it. On one trip Tass nearly died because of them."

"Tass?" Rynere exclaimed.

"Keep it down, please. They hear quite well."

"You're telling me Tass nearly died because one of these things attacked him?"

"They go for the throat. They nearly tore that part to pieces. He's had the scars for years."

"Rynere," Danid said from behind her.

"What?" she started to turn around.

"Don't move, but there's something in the trees right next to you. It's small ...it's eyes are orange ... they're glowing ."

"Nobody make a sound or move an inch," Tace said. "Unless, of course, you want to die."