Ryn turned his head, eyes narrowing slightly. He trusted Arthur's instincts by now. Before he could ask further, hurried footsteps echoed from the front.
The scouts returned.
They were breathless.
"Captain!" one shouted, struggling to steady his voice. "Enemy group ahead!"
The squad stopped immediately.
"How many?" the captain asked.
"Seven ogres."
A tense silence followed, but the scout continued.
"Three… second class."
The words struck like a hammer.
Several explorers froze. One cursed under his breath. Even the veterans showed visible shock.
One second class ogre was already a nightmare to handle. Three of them together meant overwhelming pressure, especially with supporting first class ogres.
Fear crept into the group.
But the captain did not allow it to settle.
"Check your gear," he ordered calmly. "Potions ready. Weapons steady. Stay sharp."
