Iron Mountain Adepts

As they approached the clearing, Arran studied the others in the group, searching for signs that something might be wrong. Yet hard as he looked, all he saw in the novices' faces was relief at the prospect of handing over Snowcloud's protection to more powerful mages.

The only person whose face did not relax was the recruit Arran had faced in Hillfort.

During the past few days, the dark-haired recruit had been quiet but stolid, seeming neither fearful nor anxious. Now, however, a hint of tension appeared in his eyes, as if something about the situation caused him concern.

The change was a subtle one, but it immediately set Arran on edge.

Although he showed no outward signs of worry, his muscles tensed and his hand moved toward his sword. If trouble appeared, he was as prepared as he could be, ready to spring into action in an instant.

Right before they reached the clearing, he caught Snowcloud's eye and briefly shook his head.