He smiled at the boy’s enthusiasm, remembering when Flea had been that full of energy and life. Although, Flea’s outlook had improved and Kerrick hoped Flea’d continue to make progress.

After Danny left, Kerrick lay by the fire mulling over all the information he’d learned today. They had a number of assets—Death Lily toxin to counteract the dead soldiers, Noak and Fydelia’s warriors, Flea’s magic, and now a cure for the plague. But where was Ryne’s army? Had Ryne truly fallen for Cellina’s distraction at the Healer’s Guild? And was Zila dead, or had she survived Tohon’s chest wound? They’d have to wait until Tohon was defeated...again. Otherwise, they’d—

Kerrick shot up. Zila had been in Alga. Cellina had to have crossed the Nine Mountains to kidnap her. Easy to do since only a few Algan patrols guarded the passes. Plus the fighting had been contained to Pomyt and Vyg Realms so the threat level was low. Would Tohon send troops across the Nine Mountains to travel east and then cross back over the Milligreen Pass? A long journey, but that would drop them in right behind Ryne’s army. And with the Skeleton King creeping up from the south, Ryne would be caught between both forces. A perfect strategy.

He’d warn Ryne, but they needed every man here to protect the patients. The prince might have already come to the same conclusions based on the last message Odd had sent. Perhaps that was why Ryne hadn’t dispatched anyone south to protect the infirmary.

Too many questions without answers circled. Kerrick would tell Odd his suspicions in the morning. Avry remained his priority.

* * *

“And just when you think it can’t get any worse...” Odd rubbed a hand over his face. “We’re sitting ducks here. We’re going to evacuate. I’ve been scouting for another location.”

Impressed, Kerrick agreed. “East?”

“I’d rather not say just in case...” Odd gestured.

“He’s too polite to say in case we’re captured,” Quain said.

Odd ignored Quain. “I’m sure you’ll find us regardless of the direction. Good luck.” He shook Kerrick’s hand and retreated into the cave.

“Considering he wanted to murder you yesterday, I’d say that was progress,” Loren said.

“I’m feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.” Quain hugged himself.

“Are the saddlebags packed?” Kerrick asked.

Flea cinched one of Coffee’s tight. “Just about. How are we doubling up?”

“You and me on Hux, the monkeys on Coffee and Belen on Tea. After we rescue Avry, you can ride with Belen.”

“Good to hear you have more confidence than Odd,” Belen said.

“Of course he does! He’s Weed Boy, ghost of the forest,” Quain said.

Belen sighed. Flea chuckled. Kerrick just shook his head. It would be an interesting trip.