The next morning, the trainees set up three carts in Pinehook’s lower yard. The relay marker had been moved beyond the lantern’s range. Pell stood by the inland flag, Sela held the alternate baton, and Oren watched the route board from the road.
The carts carried sacks, folded blankets, and two empty stretchers. The supply team checked each wheel before the drill. Tew walked the upper path with a message tube, and two guards took places at the ford markers.
“Keep the center lane clear for the clinic cart,” the medic said. “If someone falls, we don’t stack wagons behind him.”
Oren moved one cone back from the lane. The drivers practiced turning around it while the route captains checked the signal from each side of the yard.
Yan took the attacker’s position near the ridge. He started a modest Blood Ignition surge. The art’s cost became added life and vigor, and he enjoyed the force that came with it. The trainees would have to act before he reached the yard.
Wei raised a red cloth. “The north signal is false. Move the carts.”
Pell lifted the inland flag. The first two carts turned toward the marked trail. Sela sent Tew along the upper path with the change for the rear wagon.
