Kael's silver eyes narrowed as his Predator's Instincts picked up the faint clatter of wooden wheels just beyond the quarry's entrance.
A cluster of heavy carts stood gathered near the mine's outer perimeter, their frames sagging under the weight of stolen goods. Crates were stacked haphazardly, some already broken open with glittering ore spilling out.
Muffled cries came from one of the carts near the back.
Kael's enhanced vision caught the silhouettes of women visible through the wooden slats, their wrists bound with rough rope. Some were sobbing quietly. Others had gone completely silent, faces pale with shock.
His jaw tightened immediately, the pulse of his bloodline flaring hot with anger that threatened to consume his usual cold control.
He raised one hand sharply, his voice dropping low but carrying absolute authority. "Ten riders. Guard those carts. Get the women back to the village. Move fast."
