Their descent began in silence.
Darius went first, moving down like a shadow with quiet and measured steps. He barely made a sound as he took the lead down the narrow trail path that cut along the northern ridge.
Wrye followed next. His steps were heavier, but steady. He didn't bother hiding—he was a wall, not a shadow. He took his place just in front of Auri, keeping a careful eye on their path. One hand rested near a knife on his hip, ready for anything.
Auri came last. He stayed low and alert, ready to give command to the tools he had on his satchel. He was taking the support role, so he had to be ready to act when needed.
Above them, Ambassador Jiang remained on the ridge. His voice came soft and clear through the talisman at Auri's chest.
"Sir Darius—hold. One guard moving left."
Up ahead, a lone bandit walked near a pile of crates, yawning. Before the man could even notice the shift in the air, Darius was already on him.
A short movement. No sound.
