Johannes and Evelyn waited near the rear vehicles with Marcus beside them, while the civilians they had brought from southern Grefort stayed close to the convoy.
The three agents looked relaxed at first glance, but their attention kept moving across the gates, guards, rooftops, and open approaches.
The civilians were less subtle. Most remained within a few steps of the vehicles as if the convoy were the last familiar thing they had.
Some carried hurriedly packed bags while others had nothing beyond the clothes they wore. Several had bandaged hands or arms, and nearly everyone looked exhausted from the trip and the days that came before it.
One middle-aged man leaned on a makeshift cane. Nearby, a woman kept hold of her daughter's wrist while watching the walls, soldiers, and unfamiliar streets.
"Mama, where are we?"
The girl looked up at her mother and waited.
"Somewhere safe," the woman said, brushing a hand across her cheek. "Stay close to me for now."
