The Eastern Ridge, a group of mountains that ran from the coast, all the way up to just east of Aleria and Suriax and farther north, could prove the best option. If they could make it to the caves, they would have cover, possibly enough to hold out for reinforcements. But the ridge was not without its dangers. To get to the protective cover of the caves, one must pass through thick, bramble-filled forests, rough terrain, the howling foothills known for strong, cold winds coming off the mountains and the occasional rockslide. It was not an ideal place to lead a group of ill-dressed women and children, but it was their best option.
The scenery for most of the first day was pleasant, and Kern found himself fall into an almost meditative state of awareness. Grass and acorns crunched underfoot
