He wouldn't argue that the boy's heart was in the right place, but sometimes that wasn't enough. If Jason charged forth without a plan, he would only end up in the same situation as the rest. There was even a chance his inexperience would drag down others and possibly cost them their lives.
Sometimes good intentions hurt more than the helped.
Jason cast a torn look in the direction of the rest. Frustration warred with the knowledge that Caden was right.
Upon seeing the helpless, grief-stricken expression that followed, Caden relented.
At least the boy had gotten one thing right. The hardest aspect of a warrior to judge was their willingness to put their lives on the line for those they fought next to.
Jason only needed a little guidance and honing to one day be a worthy warrior.
For now, it was Caden's job to make sure he made it to that point.
"Take a few warriors and additional mounts with you," Caden instructed. "Several torches wouldn't hurt either."
If nothing else, they could use the smoke as a screen until they were closer to camp.
"We'll go with you," Buck said, raising a hand.
Witt stood next to him, showing no objections.
Jason's face showed relief as he sent them a grateful nod.
Caden dismounted, holding his reins out to Buck. "Here take Nell and round up a few more mounts."
Buck took the reins from him and leapt into the saddle before reaching down a hand for Witt, lifting the other man up.
Caden started for Chirron and his disciple as they prepared to move Eva. Chirron straightened, stepping into his path.
"Get out of my way." Caden's rumble was quiet.
"I'd like to ask you the same thing you did him. Where do you think you're going?"
"My place is with her."
Chirron's expression was sympathetic but implacable. "We both know it isn't."
It took effort not to grab Chirron by the throat and squeeze. To watch the life drain from his face.
Van's posture was protective as he moved up to Chirron's side. "Listen to him, Caden. He's the best chance your lady has."
Which was the only reason Chirron wasn't already dead. Caden didn't like to be told what to do in the best of times. Less so when Eva was lying so still and defenseless.
"You can do nothing for her here. Go. Do what you do best. That's how you help her right now," Chirron said, his gaze reflecting understanding.
Caden didn't move for long moments. An act Van read as hostile. His stance widened as he lowered his center of gravity, his features hardening.
Caden unclenched his jaw, his hands uncurling from the fists they'd formed. "Very well."
Van's stance eased as Caden turned on his heel.
Gawain met him in a few steps. "Are you sure leaving this place is wise?"
"Not at all," Caden answered.
"The Kyren aren't going to like it," Gawain informed him, shooting a significant look Ajari's way as if to say they wouldn't be the only ones.
Not Caden's problem. For them to live, they had to leave the valley.
