The chamber went silent except for the hiss of the torch. Vesk stood at the threshold, soldiers filling the passage behind him, blocking the only way out.
"You followed us the entire time," Doran said.
"I followed the logic," Vesk responded. "You wouldn't run south unless you had a reason to. Blood markings gave me the reason."
Talven's sword came up, hand shaking. "Stay back."
"Twelve against five," Vesk said, unbothered. "One of whom just finished a vow that's left him weaker than he realizes. Put the sword down before someone gets hurt over nothing."
"You're the one who burned this kingdom," Gad said, stepping forward despite Mira's hand grabbing for his sleeve. "You don't get to talk about hurt."
"I'm not here to relive old battles." Vesk's eyes moved to Bellan, still crouched ne
