Kane counted seven figures blocking the road before anyone spoke a word.
"Nobody moves," he said, low, raising a hand to halt the group behind him.
The figures wore no colors, no faction markings, standing in a loose line across the path with a stillness that unsettled Kane more than any armed formation had since the war began. No blades drawn. No visible threat posture at all. Just waiting.
"That's not Concord," Ottilie said quietly, scanning them. "I don't recognize the discipline. They're not even breathing hard, and we've been closing distance for the last mile."
Lira had gone rigid beside Talyn, her face draining of color.
"Lira," Kane said. "You know something."
"I've seen the way they stand before," Lira said, voice tight. "In old texts. Not people who serve willingly. People
