Once Anita's column had vanished completely from sight, Morgana and Jaenor resumed their journey through the winding forest paths. The oppressive silence that had settled over the woods during the army's passage gradually gave way to the natural sounds of wildlife, though both travellers remained alert for any sign of pursuit.
"You're worried about them," Morgana observed, noting the tension in Jaenor's shoulders as they picked their way through the underbrush.
"Of course I am," he replied, pausing to check their bearings against the position of the sun.
"But Darian is there to protect them. He may serve as my knight, but his skills extend far beyond personal protection. He's one of the finest tactical minds I've ever encountered, and his loyalty to our cause runs deeper than the roots of these ancient trees," Morgana said.
Jaenor nodded, though concern still flickered in his eyes.
He may be strong, but he can't protect them all. There were a lot of things to consider.
