The journey east began almost immediately after the final preparations were completed. There was no grand farewell and no reason to make the departure more difficult than it already was. Ka'z simply exchanged a few final words with those remaining behind before turning toward the eastern path with his companions.
Za'r stood near the entrance with Kong'gong and Lan'ka, watching him carefully as he walked away. Lady Zira, Tu'ka, Tong'a and the others remained farther behind, their expressions subdued as they watched the group disappear into the distance.
Ka'z never turned around and his steps remained steady, his attention fixed on the road ahead as the members of his team followed behind him with their weapons, supplies and the battle ax wrapped securely across his back.
