They negotiated the narrow track down to the mirror bridge without any further attacks, the slower pace allowing the horses to catch their breath. Then the crossing began. The surface was hot and the horses didn't like it, especially when a second older alegoyle began to dive bomb the travellers. Cassia was still in the lead, the bay mare galloping as fast as she had ever run now. As the Enclave finally drew near Orietta had chance for one glance back. The sight that met her eyes was one she would remember for the rest of her life. Sensing its prey might escape the alegoyle had finally struck, its claws gripping her husband's shoulders and pulling him off the rearing Paramal. Asanka had time to scream ''Go!'' but there was no need for Cassia certainly wasn't stopping. Her eyes blinded by tears a sobbing Orietta heard the rush of a second alegoyle, then silence when she expected to feel its claws. She barely had time to wonder why when Cassia's legs seemed to give and the horse stumbled. A numbness came into her own mind which she did not understand. All she could think of was Asanka. Then the world went black.