Ambush on the Mountain Pass

Ahead of them, the mountain pass narrowed suddenly, forcing them into a straight line along a jagged trail bordered by towering crags and dense, brooding pines. The air was cold and thin as low heavy mists pooled up from the ground in otherworldly wisps. Markos rode near the center, his golden eyes scanned the darkening horizon even as thoughts of his heritage and the price of the forthcoming sacrifice churned in his mind. Sintija was quiet against Markos's chest as they rode together. Vladimars rode behind Markos, his staff clutched tightly as if drawing strength from its familiar weight, while Caelyn and Iliana trailed a few paces behind, voices murmuring low concerns about the unknown dangers ahead.