He looked around, scanning the terrain. The air blew sharply and coldly, with the snow drifting down making the ground damp. Sparse trees dotted the slopes, and beyond that lay open ground stretching toward the horizon.
It was like a war ground waiting to be written in blood.
His eyes narrowed, and his voice dropped lower. "Also, make sure to guard the water body. If it's poisoned, we'll be completely screwed."
Riley's cold mask shifted. For a brief second, something faint flickered in his eyes.
It was like a new respect. He turned to Kael and gave a small nod. "I was about to suggest that."
Martina listened closely. Her eyes lingered on Riley, then on Kael. She turned her head and looked at the long line of soldiers gathering behind them.
Five thousand men and women, tired but hardened, waiting for orders. The weight pressed on her shoulders like an iron chain.
