Chapter 27 The winds across the Annapurna Ridge grew colder and stronger by the day.

Even within the secluded valley it was becoming clear that the route down the mountain would soon be impassable for long months.

It was a sense that every living being in these mountains could not help but feel the claustrophobia of an inevitable

and difficult winter. Within the small cootie of the sadu, three forms sat stock still and struggled

to banish such thoughts from their minds as they focused their mental powers on meditation.

The howl of the wind faded into nothingness in their ears, partly through focus,

partly through long repetition. Suddenly, a shrill sound that was unfamiliar to their ears

cried out from the corner of the room. Rashaan opened his eyes in irritation and turd to glance

at the small pile of possessions his younger student kept in the corner of the

cuti. The man called, Two, leapt to his feet and pulled apart his pack hurriedly, producing

a small device no bigger than the palm of his hand. A high-pitched cries it gave out wavered,

like a signal being tuned in from afar. But to the young man the warning that the instrument gave

him was as clear as day. The expression on his face said that it was not good news.

What is it? his fellow student asked, astounded.

It's an alarm, too, said gravely. Someone is coming. What are you talking about? One snapped.

Let him speak, Roshan said quietly.

The young man looked around the room sheepishly. When I was on my way up the pass, I didn't know

what I would find or how long I would be here, but I was fairly sure I'd have to take the same narrow path back out again,

and I wanted to avoid any surprises.

I left a number of radio beacons, strategically placed. The young man hesitated as he gathered

his thoughts. I built small devices that emit a radio pulse when disturbed. That's what you're

hearing through this receiver. It lets me know that someone is on their way up through the pass.

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