The cavalry crashed into the clearing with the subtlety of an avalanche, snow flying in all directions as twenty mounted soldiers burst from the tree line. Captain Dubal's voice boomed across the battlefield before the last hoofbeat had faded:
"Surround the beast! Maintain distance! Do not let it escape!"
The soldiers moved with practiced efficiency, forming a wide circle with crossbows and spears trained on the volcanic drake. None were foolish enough to believe their weapons could seriously harm such a creature, but they could provide distraction, perhaps create an opening for their betters to exploit.
Amilia alighted beside Svara with ethereal grace that made it seem as though gravity was merely a suggestion she chose to follow. Her expression mixed exasperation with relief as she took in his battered condition, torn clothing, minor burns, the slight tremor in his hands that spoke of muscles pushed beyond their normal limits.
