His words earned solemn nods from his subordinates.
Eldric rubbed at his chin thoughtfully. "It should ease the weight, maybe even double our speed. At least then, we'll reach the river crossing within weeks, not months."
Then Lumberling spoke, his tone steady but carrying a weight that made the fire crackle seem louder.
"Tomorrow, you and your soldiers will move ahead with the people. My group will stay behind."
Roland's head snapped up. "Stay behind? Why would you slow yourself when…"
Krivex interrupted smoothly, his voice cutting through the air like a blade. "Because we've already spotted movement. Our golden eagles sighted soldiers trailing us. They're a day away, maybe less."
A heavy silence fell.
Derrek's fist clenched on his knee. "So they've found us."
