The amount of work Horace had to do to pass Snowids' camps was staggering. If it had been him alone, maybe it would have been fine. If he had enough resources, he could explain that he was a merchant. But with Ada and her maid, it was impossible. Every carriage that passed would be searched, including its occupants. Anyone who saw Ada would know who she was, and while she may not get hurt, Horace and his men couldn't be hurt.
Getting information about Snowid's retreat and the Empire pushing across the bridge had made things easier, but it still required careful preparation. He had spent a few days watching and learning, and after feeling confident, they cut through a small forest path, ditching the carriage. There were a few patrols, but they were easily avoided, and once out, they pushed towards the river.
