Our features etched with expectation and resolve, we gathered around the dim glow of a flickering lamp as the first rays of morning peaked over the horizon.
Ava had her finger tracing the route back to our hometown on the map that was spread out in front of us. We can't afford any diversion, she said, her voice resolutely conviction-filled. "Every second that is lost is a risk we cannot take."
Ethan gave us an agreement nod and looked about at the shadows moving. He said, "We have to be prepared for anything," his voice tinged with desperation. "When they see an opening, our adversaries won't think twice about striking."
Cole moved agitatedly, as though our assignment were weighing heavily on him. Concerned, he said, "But what about Liora?" "Every day she has been inquiring about her mo
