Footsteps splashed through the mud behind them, hurried and uneven.
Karon turned first. Trafalgar followed a heartbeat later as an elven captain came into view, cloak torn at the hem, rain plastering silver hair to his face. He didn't bother with formalities. Whatever he carried was too heavy for that.
"My lord," the elf said, breath tight. "I bring urgent news."
Karon's eyes narrowed. "Speak."
"It's your fifth brother," the captain continued. "His position is failing. He's sent an emergency request for support."
Karon didn't raise his voice, but something sharpened in it instantly. "Where?"
"The eastern sector," the captain answered. "Near the broken ridge."
Karon's jaw tightened. "And the situation?"
The elf hesitated for half a second too long, then chose honesty.
"It's bad," he said. "Very bad. More than half of his unit has already been wiped out. They're still holding—for now—but if this continues, they won't last much longer."
