The first group, composed of women, children, and the injured, departed swiftly, disappearing into the thickening mist of the early day. Amnon lingered only a moment, his arm steady beneath Atalia's weight, his face marked with quiet turmoil. He turned, locking eyes with General Odin and the other commanders one last time.
"Don't worry. We can handle it here," the general assured him, his voice low but firm. "Your family and the others, they need you more now."
A quiet nod was all Amnon gave in reply, but a visible shift passed through him, like a burden lifting. Without another word, he turned and guided Atalia and their daughter southwest, the weight of his duty now focused on the ones dearest to him.
They were making their way across the northern slope of Mount Hainai, a vast, sprawling mountain that stretched across several towns. It was not very tall, but its breadth made it formidable—a natural barrier and a reluctant guide on their journey.
