Chapter 16 The Ring-Brooch Summary

After traveling for some distance, Esca and Marcus stop beside a river. Esca conceals the Eagle in a hollow on the riverbank, accessible only from the water. It is completely hidden there. The two ride back to the Dun, arriving just before dawn. They curl up beside the fire as always. A few hours later they take their leave of the village.

When the villagers catch up with them, it is almost evening. The villagers accuse the two of stealing the Eagle, which Marcus denies. The Chieftain searches their belongings and finds nothing. In the process, the bronze ring-brooch on Marcus's purple cloak is loosened. The tribesmen still clamor for their blood, but Dergdian says one of the traders attending the feast must have taken the Eagle.

Marcus and Esca travel on to a village, where Esca feigns illness...