It took us most of the morning to track along the edge of the Scorched Grove to the south until we found the frog-shaped rock.

Morning broke in the usual way, with my crowing piercing the peaceful curtain of calm that hung over the Tenders headquarters. The sun was shining brightly in anticipation of the day.

We left Odwald and Riffin in Susan’s care, less out of choice and more because they were reluctant to tag along now they had seen the chaos we could cause on a simple shopping trip.

We set off for Alderheart the next morning, heavily laden with food supplied by Crispin’s mother. She seemed distraught to see him leave so soon, and wept openly as she held him tight and said goodbye to her brave boy.

“Aha, I knew it,” said Crispin. “You’re the bird!”

Julius bowed his head and nodded reluctantly.