The sun slowly sank toward the horizon. Andrew lay prone behind a low, unremarkable ridge and remained still. He was waiting for full darkness to fall, because only then would it be easier to move.

From his position, he could barely see the town gate and most of the settlement beyond it.

It was deathly silent, with not a single sound to be heard. Thin smoke still lingered over one corner of the town, as if the fires there had only just burned out.

Andrew's heart was as still as his gaze, calm