Jue’s unit reached the first shield line and drove the defenders back several paces. The bridge narrowed between two stone posts, leaving little room for the fighters to spread out. Han braced at the entrance and called for the second row to hold.
The last supply cart was still crossing. Its driver kept one hand on the reins and one on the wooden brake. A guard walked beside the wheel, guiding it over the gaps between the stones.
Oren had taken the high trail. He sent a guide to the next junction, following the written fallback plan instead of joining the melee. The guide raised a white strip so the families behind him could see where to turn.
Yan intercepted two riders before they reached the carts. Blood Ignition gave him its full force as its personal life cost turned into renewed years and vigor. He used the surge to close the gap, disarm the first man, and shove him off the bridge stones toward the guarded side of the road.
The first rider landed on his back and lost his breath. Yan pulled him by the collar out of the cart lane and handed his reins to a defender. The second rider wheeled around, trying to get behind the stretcher. Yan crossed the gap in a single burst and took the spear from his hand.
