The fire at the center of the camp crackled softly, casting long shadows across the ground. The flames licked at the wood with a hypnotic sound, but I barely noticed.
I sat beside Kael, as usual, going over the strategy for the coming days. Or at least, that was what we were supposed to be doing.
"The reports say Lucian has reinforced surveillance at the borders of his territory," Kael said, his deep voice breaking the silence. "He’s not stupid. He knows we’ll attack soon."
I nodded slowly, staring into the flames.
"They’ve also fortified the main roads," he continued. "Most likely, they’ll try to block access to the resources we need."
"Then we’ll find another route," I replied automatically.
Kael remained silent for a moment. I could feel his gaze fixed on me.
"Do you have somethi
