THE MONASTERY GATE was as weak as Finn surmised, the timbers splintering after three strong kicks from Finn's boot. Using his spear as a wedge, he ripped and tore the rotted wood away until there was a large enough hole to pass through. After ducking and looking, he went first, leaping nimbly through the gap. Cnan followed, more readily and eagerly than she had anticipated, and Yasper came close on her heels.