"Rafek-the Ninnites will take you down in a heartbeat. The courtyard is crawling with them," said Silufe.
"I have to go. It may be the only chance we have at him while he's alone and unprotected. And he killed my wolves, Silufe. You know I cannot let that go." Rafek threw on a heavy cloak and crept back out to the secret entrance.
He had to wait only a few minutes before the assassins gathered in the center of the yard to light their rations of shirrir. When their backs were turned from the wind, Rafek moved shadowlike out of the rocks and down the trail.
And Q'Tarin, who had bitten every hand that had tried to restrain him, trotted silently behind.