Don't overthink it, Moonguard," Ramuel said, his voice turning cold again. "Now back to what's at hand."
At that exact moment, the hunter walked in.
The man was tall and lean, his skin pale as ash, his eyes sharp and watchful. A long scar ran from his temple down to his jaw. He carried the smell of steel and smoke, like someone who lived closer to danger than to comfort.
"You called for me, my lord?" he said, bowing slightly.
"Nayeg," Ramuel said. "These two are heading into the Shadow Vale. You'll take them as far as the edge and keep them alive until they reach the outer boundary. After that, they're on their own."
Nayeg's eyes flicked toward Lara and Kael. His gaze lingered on Lara a moment longer than she liked. "Mortals," he said quietly. "You're sending mortals through the Vale?"
"Do as you're told," Ramuel said sharply. "They have their reasons. And you have your orders."
