"Then you cannot be where people truly need protecting." Lena spoke only after turning the mission over twice in her mind. "The main body of the migrating creatures is moving along the outskirts of Reuben Province.
"We only need to protect the people from the stragglers, correct? Why not take a small detachment with you while the majority stays here?"
He was already leaning toward the tactic, yet the weight of the mission still sat hard on his chest. Another team of fifty knights was stationed along the perimeter of the main migration path, and that worried him almost as much as the creatures did.
If they crossed paths, questions would follow. Questions meant delays. Delays meant risk.
"Since I can jump to you instantly, why not let me act as your scout. I am your safest choice," Lena offered.
Joji's expression tightened. It was not that he doubted her. That was the worst part of it. He remembered how ruthless Fourteen had been, and the memory made his refusal firmer.
