Everything happened too quickly. The sound of the explosion from the bombs planted by the "snakes" near Reinheld deafened her. And before she could react, a hail of arrows rained down on the group. But they weren't aimed at her, but at the members of the squad standing in the back rows. Turning around, the swordswoman saw a terrible sight: Aldric, riddled with arrows, was breathing heavily and leaning on the banner. Blood was seeping from numerous wounds, and he seemed to be standing with one foot in the grave. Seeing this, memories of events from four years ago flooded the mind of the Deian warrior. Was history repeating itself? Reluctantly admitting this, Reinheld looked around intently, trying to find a way to get the group out of the trap or help them against the archers perched on the cliffs. However, no matter how hard she tried, no ideas came to her. All escape routes were cut off, and she could only helplessly watch what was happening, relying on the talents of her comrades.
Contrary to Reinheld's fears, the squad managed to defeat the enemy, although many members of the group fell under the hail of arrows. Without losing a moment, she rushed to Aldric and put his arm over her shoulder, hoping to provide support instead of the banner he was holding. — Thank you, — the man quietly thanked his beloved. It was hard not to notice that even a simple word was difficult for him to utter. — I... I can barely see. There was no need to repeat it. Reinheld needed only one simple phrase to understand what was happening. She knew from her own experience that the Heckelites had a great passion for poisoned weapons. — Don't strain yourself, you need to conserve your strength, — the swordswoman assured Aldric, after which she turned to the other members of the group, looking for healers.
When the healing was over, it was no longer so painful to look at Aldric. Healing magic worked wonders, and despite the remaining weakness, the leader of the "Iron Hearts" was already able to move and talk more or less normally. Reinheld, nevertheless, still tried to stay close to him, just in case. And although Aldric was already ready to take on his duties, there was no particular need for it — the members of the squad already understood perfectly well what was required of them. Asmund, who was obviously in better condition, temporarily took over the leadership position and interrogated the prisoners. — You're doing a good job, — the Yagensdorfer praised him for his work, — it's good to know that I can rely on you.