“Contact! Incoming—north ridge!"
The shout snapped through the fog like lightning.
Elara's head shot up as flares exploded above the treetops. Crimson fire rained across the sky, followed by the unmistakable *whoomp* of oil caches igniting.
The caravan halted. Soldiers drew blades, scrambling into formation. Chaos bloomed.
“Elara!" Arden skidded toward her, hair singed at the tips. “We're under attack. Come with me!"
“Where's the command tent?"
“Gone. First volley hit it straight on."
She grabbed her satchel and followed him, dodging flaming debris and scattered crates.
Then she saw him.
Kael.
Pinned beneath a collapsed watchtower.
Splintered beams crushed one side of his body, helmet askew, blood trickling down his temple. He didn't move.
Elara didn't hesitate.
“Get me that l
