The realization settled over Raze like a suffocating shroud of ice. There was only one path left for the group, and it was a narrow, treacherous one. If they attempted to flee back through the Noble Land's borders now, they would be hunted like wounded animals until every single one of them was silenced. Idore was many things, but he was never negligent. He would not squander this golden opportunity to ensure the Dark Magus never drew another breath.
The fact that Turbin, the Emperor's most lethal shadow, had been unleashed even while the group was already buckling under the weight of the golems and the air fleet was proof enough. There was no retreating to the outskirts, and there was no path to victory today. That left only one destination: Pagna.
Even though Raze knew it was the logical choice, a deep, gnawing hesitation held him back.
