The camp erupted into chaos the moment Wei Liang's group rode back into view, Garrow sprinting toward them before they'd even dismounted.
"Feng Yao's missing," Garrow said, breathless. "Went to gather water an hour ago. Never came back."
Wei Liang's blood ran cold instantly. "Search parties. Now."
"Already moving," Wei Dong called from across the camp, directing Brigh and two of the newly rescued relatives toward the treeline. "Found signs of a struggle near the stream. Drag marks leading northeast."
Xu's voice came sharp and urgent through Wei Liang. "If Yin took him directly, this changes everything. The tandem technique requires both of you."
"He wouldn't kill him," Wei Liang said, forcing calm into his voice despite the panic building. "Not if he needs him for something."
They tr
