Four days later, Kai watched from the plaza as the soldiers sent by Gabell arrived at the village. They were experienced men, and their presence allowed everyone to depart with peace of mind. The village was protected.
"It's time," Kai said, adjusting Valira's saddle. The gray mare neighed as Kai gently stroked her.
Lyla approached him. "A month long journey, Kai. Promise me that if you feel your muscles failing, we will stop. I don't care what that merchant says about the sea."
Kai smiled and caressed her cheek, calming her restless gaze. "I promise, Lyla. Besides, with this team, I doubt we'll have to exert ourselves more than necessary against simple bandits."
The group set off, Kai led the way on Valira, Lint guided the carriage, Lyla, Roshia and Nick, the guard who was with Lint, sat in the back sharing stories, and Thorne, Allice, and Mira covered the flanks and the rear. Mira carried her compound bow covered with a cloth, but her hand never strayed far from the grip.
