A Two-Pronged Plan

Seeing her uncle Kars suddenly appear, Sonea stepped back while shielding Mia.

"Uncle-sama, how did you find us here?"

In response to his niece's question, her uncle answered irritably.

"You ask how? Did you really think I wouldn't figure it out?"

"You suddenly joined the enemy, then came back claiming you'd really been a decoy to gather information on them. Did you think I'd believe that? Don't make a fool of me!"

While listening to Kars, Sonea stole a glance at the tethered horse. She had considered putting Mia on it and helping her escape, but then noises came from behind as well. Soldiers appeared and seized Mia by the arms.

"You there, let that woman go!"

Sonea shouted, and Mia tried to wrench herself free, but the soldier holding her struck her and knocked her unconscious.

"You!"

Sonea glared at the soldier who had struck Mia, but he paid her no heed and hoisted Mia up like a piece of luggage. Two more soldiers seized Sonea by the arms, leaving her unable to move...