Arven hadn’t had a thorough look round the museum, at least not lately, and could not recall seeing a stuffed phoenix — but wasn’t very enchanted by the prospect anyway. Phoenixes were said to be the epitome of life, bright-eyed and blazing. He’d never seen one before, either living or dead, and so was a little disappointed that Operine hadn’t taken his half-suggestion seriously.

He nodded in agreement. ”It certainly lends us hope. But beyond that…” he shrugged one brawny shoulder. ”I am rather at a loss.”