Aiden cursed under his breath. Time was running out, and doubling back would only increase the risk of being caught. Breaking through was dangerous, but it was their only viable option.
"We go through them," he decided. "Myne, thin their numbers. Everyone else, protect Joran's family. No mistakes."
Myne's lips curled into a feral grin. "Gladly."
She melted into the shadows, her presence vanishing completely. Moments later, muffled cries echoed from the direction of the patrol, followed by the unmistakable sound of bodies hitting the ground. When Myne reappeared, her daggers glistened with blood.
"They're distracted," she said. "But not for long. Move."
The group surged forward, weaving through the dense underbrush. The soldiers were disoriented, some scrambling to regroup while others lay sprawled on the forest floor, clutching at the unnatural wounds inflicted by Myne's shadowmancy. Aiden didn't spare them a glance as he led his team past the chaos.
