They finally mounted the last rise and turned to take in the view from the knoll they now commanded—the highest point within sight upon the Northern Plains. Behind them, King Alahun’s band of mounted pursuers was plain to see.
“Well, we’ve made it to the high ground,” Galen said. “But, alas, that alone will not be enough to save us. We must ready ourselves for battle.” He surveyed the distance between the knoll and the approaching army. “I give them until morning to reach us, so we have just that long to prepare.”
“Galen,” Tiryon growled. “What do ye make o’ those figures in the front?”
Galen paused, looking more closely, and then exhaled with a tight jaw. “Nonshokai. With Ayuka just behind.” He closed his eyes, drawing in a deep breath. “We have more to prepare for than I thought.”
*
