Kai opened his eyes before the rest of the camp showed any signs of life. He sat up slowly, feeling the cold early morning air seep into his bones. Beside him, Lyla slept with an expression of peace that contrasted violently with the tension he felt vibrating in the air.
He stood up and walked toward the edge of the wagon circle, sensing a powerful presence.
[ SYSTEM MESSAGE ]
Enemy detected.
Type: Human.
Approximate Threat Level: B.
Distance: In front of you.
"They're here," Kai whispered.
"And they haven't bothered to hide their trail this time," Allice said as she approached his side. "I've counted at least a hundred horses. The Silver Crows have emptied their nests, Kai. They've gathered every mercenary, deserter, and criminal roaming these lands. They know that if we cross that border, their chance to rob us and avenge the humiliation of the pass and the Sun Bridge will be over."
