Torches flared along the second ridge as the first wave of shadows tested the Kane line.
Nora stood at the center post and called out clear. "Hold the left. Blake, pull two men to the gap. Drew, watch the trees. Kids stay on the signal line. Safe roles only."
Blake moved fast. "Gap covered. Scouts ready when you give the word."
Drew checked the far end. "Trees quiet for now. Nora, we need numbers on the enemy. I take a team at first light."
Lily sat with the signal flags. "Mom, colors show five shapes still near the base. They pull back slow."
Tim listened hard. "Voices say they count our torches. They want to know how many we have."
Nora nodded. "Good. Keep reporting. That is your job. Safe and close."
The ridge held through the early hours. Temporary camp fires burned low behind t
