The battle appeared to be over. This was good, now Zato could return to Mary. With luck, she was still asleep. It was remarkable that she had not awoken from his carrying her earlier. He stepped into the room where he left her, hearing the clicking of talons on wood as Swiftbeak passed.<br/><br/>The old man opened the door.<br/>"Mary?" he called softly.<br/>"Are you awake?"