Thomas took a deep breath and spread the charcoal-drawn parchment completely flat, his finger drawing several heavy circles on it.
"The entire structure of this underground workshop is like a target, divided into four concentric zones from the outside in."
He pointed to the largest, outermost circle.
"The first layer, the outermost one, consists of the abandoned mine shafts and transport tunnels you just came through. The terrain is complex, designed as a maze to confuse intruders. Even though Hector has diverted some of his forces, he still has two full squads stationed on this level. Add in the hidden sentries and roving patrols, and that's at least fifty men. If we don't…"
"They're cleared."
Kael's flat voice cut short his long-winded explanation.
The words caught in Thomas's throat. He stared, wide-eyed, at Kael as if he were looking at a madman. "What did you say?"
