"No good ones. We could station a couple of the gang to heave rocks down."
"That's probably as good as anything."
A shadowy figure approached, climbing down the terraces from above. Chahda whispered, "Dog Meat come. I go see what he finds out."
Below, the fire was burning more brightly, and Rick could see several persons bringing wood. Apparently there was to be a large bonfire. He groaned softly. That meant light to make their task harder.
Chahda consulted with his friend for a few moments, then rejoined Rick and Scotty. Angel, Pilipil, and Balaban were grouped at the rear of the terrace, waiting for instructions.
"Dog Meat know which hut Tony is in. Has two guards. Nangolat gone somewhere."
"Why are they building up the fire?" Rick asked.
"Not know. I think better we move. We climb down. Dog Meat will take us to Tony. We cut him loose and fight our way back."
Suddenly they stiffened as a rhythmic metallic clanging sound floated up to them.
Angel Manotok moved to their side. "Ifugao music," he whispered. "I've heard it before. The instruments are tinaklings, like pans, suspended from human jawbones. They're getting ready for some kind of ceremony down there."