The eastern post rang twice before dawn, bringing Hajin onto the wall beside Hans while the cleared basin remained empty.
Eight riders approached across the eastern rise, wearing scout leathers over narrow strips of ash-mirrored plate.
Juna watched from the raised western bank, keeping every Wing closed while Loccy guarded the northern road bend.
Orin's survey lines covered the withdrawal lane behind twelve shield recruits, though the forward field showed only eight horses.
"Uriel counted thirty-six," Hans said, keeping the bell keeper below the parapet, "these eight want us looking at them."
The scouts stopped beyond bow range, spreading until every rider had a separate view of the post.
One raised a white command baton, signaling the Sixth defenders to abandon the barrier before their formation advanced.
"Turn back beyond the field marker," Hans called, lifting his spear above the wall, "cross it armed and we answer the attack."
