The stronghold gates loomed black against the evening sky as the Kane alliance closed the last mile.
Nora raised her hand and the line slowed. "Hold here. Blake, check the side paths. Drew, count the wall guards. Kids stay behind the second rank. Victory matters but protection comes first."
Blake rode up beside her. "Side paths clear for now. We can push the gates or wait for full dark."
Drew reported from the left. "Wall guards number about twenty. More inside for sure. Nora, your call on the balance."
Nora looked at the twins. "Lily, Tim, hard limit. You stay back until I say. Packs hold the rear. We do not risk the next generation for speed."
Lily answered from her spot. "Colors show the gates weak on the left hinge. But I stay put."
Tim added, "Voices inside sound rushed. They kn
