They reached the highland settlement before dawn.
The path narrowed into stone ledges carved between cliffs, and mist clung to the lower valleys in a thick gray layer. The settlement itself did not resemble a village at first glance. It looked like an extension of the rock face, with structures built directly into the mountain wall. Windows were narrow and shuttered. No banners flew. No lights burned openly.
“This place has no name,” the third path leader said as they approached the concealed gate. “It survives by not existing.”
Kael studied the perimeter without speaking. He counted watch points and noted the pattern of movement along the ridgeline. The defenses were practical rather than ornamental.
A guard stepped forward from behind a recessed stone panel.“You bring trouble,” the g
